10 Best Anime That Defined Each Decade

Anime is constantly changing, always pushing its own boundaries, and each new decade brings a distinct shift in style. What was once groundbreaking quickly becomes a fond memory. Earlier anime, with its raw, hand-drawn look, felt energetic and experimental – you could sense the artists were passionately working things out. When digital coloring became common, the animation became smoother, but some of that original, adventurous spirit was lost.

Every era has a defining focus. In the 70s, anime favored heroic characters; the 80s embraced stories of rebellion; and the 90s explored characters going to therapy. The 2000s were filled with complex stories and sad characters, while the 2010s made emotionally manipulative plots a key artistic element. Now, in the 2020s, anime largely focuses on trauma, then politics, and finally, impressive visuals. This constant imbalance is what makes anime so engaging – it always pushes boundaries, overanalyzes, and sometimes tries too hard, and that very imperfection is part of its appeal.

10. 2010s: Attack on Titan (2013)

Attack on Titan dramatically changed the world of anime, raising the bar for exciting action, compelling stories, and immersive worlds. Its intense story of humans battling giant, humanoid Titans kept viewers on the edge of their seats globally. The incredible animation from studios Wit and MAPPA, combined with Hiroyuki Sawano’s powerful music, made Attack on Titan a truly unforgettable series. Beyond the action, the show sparked important discussions about freedom, injustice, and the horrors of war, solidifying its place as one of the most important anime of the 2010s.

9. 2000s: Death Note (2006)

Death Note dramatically changed the world of anime thrillers, drawing viewers in with the gripping mental battle between Light Yagami and L. Their constant pursuit of each other turned every episode into a fascinating game of strategy. Light’s transformation into an arrogant and morally flawed character made him one of the most compelling protagonists in anime, and L’s unique intelligence perfectly challenged him.

Death Note was remarkable for exploring complex ideas about right and wrong, who holds power, and the blurry boundary between heroes and villains. Its intense, thrilling atmosphere and clever writing attracted older viewers and introduced many to the world of anime. Thanks to the stunning animation by Madhouse and the skilled direction of Tetsurō Araki, it became one of the defining anime series of the 2000s.

8. 1990s: Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)

As a huge anime fan, I can tell you that Neon Genesis Evangelion completely changed the game for mecha shows. It wasn’t just about robots fighting – though the battles were amazing! – it really dug deep into the characters’ feelings, exploring things like depression, loneliness, and what it means to be human. Hideaki Anno was so brave in how he told the story, and he wasn’t afraid to break all the usual anime rules, which is a big reason why Evangelion became such a massive cultural hit.

The show tackled complex themes with stunning animation and a memorable score. While its thought-provoking and open-ended finale divided audiences, it established the series as a true artistic achievement. Evangelion went on to inspire numerous anime and filmmakers, securing its legacy as a landmark work of the 1990s.

7. 1980s: Akira (1988)

Akira is a hugely influential anime movie that revolutionized animation and how stories were told, essentially creating the cyberpunk genre as we know it. Its depiction of a futuristic, troubled Neo-Tokyo was incredibly detailed and beautifully animated, and still looks amazing. The film powerfully explores themes of power, corruption, and the risks of science going too far, which continues to connect with viewers.

Katsuhiro Otomo’s film Akira, based on his manga, dramatically boosted anime’s popularity around the world. It was one of the first anime to be widely praised in Western countries, showing audiences that anime could tell complex and serious stories. You can still see its impact today in many science fiction movies and shows, including The Matrix and Stranger Things.

6. 1970s: Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)

Mobile Suit Gundam changed the world of giant robot shows by making robots feel more realistic. Previous shows often portrayed robots as unstoppable forces, but Gundam showed them as complicated machines used in tough, believable battles. The series went beyond just robot fights, exploring themes like politics, social inequality, and the grim realities of war.

Yoshiyuki Tomino’s work with Gundam essentially created the modern mecha anime genre and launched a hugely popular franchise that still resonates with fans today. In Japan, Gundam became a cultural sensation, fueled by its elaborate model kits and complex, engaging storylines that captivated audiences around the world.

5. 1960s: Astro Boy

Often considered the foundation of modern anime, Astro Boy set the standard for both its look and storytelling, influencing the art form for many years. Created by Osamu Tezuka, the series tells the story of a robot boy who feels and acts like a human. Its focus on what it means to be human, combined with themes of technology and kindness, was innovative and connected with viewers of all ages.

The show was incredibly important for the development of anime, popularizing ongoing stories and helping anime reach audiences around the world. Osamu Tezuka’s unique style inspired countless artists, leading to him being called the “God of Manga.” It’s fair to say that without Astro Boy, anime might have evolved very differently.

4. 1950s: Hakujaden (1958)

I still get chills thinking about Hakujaden – it was a total game-changer! As the very first full-length color anime movie, it really showed everyone what this medium could do. It’s based on a beautiful old Chinese story about love and sacrifice, and honestly, the art was stunning and the emotions were so powerful. It wasn’t just entertainment; it proved anime could be a truly serious and moving way to tell stories, and it opened the door for all the amazing anime films we have today.

The release of Hakujaden was instrumental in launching Toei Animation, a studio now considered a legend in the anime world. The film also significantly boosted the popularity of Japanese animation around the globe, especially in China, where it remains culturally influential today.

3. 1940s: Momotaro (1945)

Often hailed as Japan’s first feature-length animated film, Momotaro: Sacred Sailors was made during World War II. The Japanese government commissioned it as a way to encourage national pride. Even though it was created for propaganda purposes, the film was notable for its advanced animation and storytelling, which captured the spirit of Japanese culture at the time.

This film is incredibly important in the history of Japanese animation, essentially launching the industry as we know it. Though its story contains elements that some find troubling, Momotaro: Sacred Sailors is still a captivating look at the beginnings of anime.

2. 1930s: Chikara to Onna no Yo no Naka (1933)

Chikara to Onna no Yo no Naka (meaning Within the World of Power and Women) is one of the oldest known Japanese animated films. This short movie explored topics like love and what was expected of people in society, giving viewers a look at life in Japan during the 1930s.

While often remembered for what came after, this anime demonstrated the power of the medium to explore difficult subjects and heartfelt feelings. It’s important historically because it helped advance both the art and the stories told in Japanese animation.

1. 1920s: Namakura Gatana (1917)

Dating back to the very beginning of anime, Namakura Gatana is a hugely important piece of animation history. This short, funny story about a samurai trying out a rusty sword perfectly captures the feel of early Japanese animation. Its simple humor and style were a reflection of the culture at the time. Namakura Gatana marks the start of an art form that would eventually become popular all over the world.

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2026-01-28 20:22