markdown # 10 Great Anime Turning 20 Years Old in 2025

2005 stood out as an exceptional year in the realm of anime, providing a diverse array of series that catered to a wide range of emotions and preferences. Ranging from enigmatic narratives exploring the boundary between life and death to heartwarming stories about youthful romance and personal growth, 2005 was a testament to the creativity and ingenuity within anime. Fans found themselves laughing, tearing up, and on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each new episode.

Looking back over the years, each series and movie has left an indelible mark on fans’ hearts. These anime were more than just entertainment; they sparked thought, evoked emotion, and even provoked introspection about our own lives. As these timeless classics reach their 20th anniversary in 2025, long-time fans might find themselves reminiscing about their youth. However, this milestone is the perfect opportunity to revisit these cherished gems and celebrate them all over again. For those new to the scene, this could be an excellent moment to delve deeper into these 10 outstanding anime classics from 2005 and discover what made them so iconic.

Mushi-Shi

If you’re a fan of peaceful anime, don’t miss out on Yuki Urushibara’s “Mushi-Shi”. This series follows the journey of Ginko, a Mushi Expert, as he traverses Japan, investigating enigmatic organisms and offering aid to those impacted by them. Unlike many others, Ginko views these creatures not as good or evil, but merely as beings trying to exist.

The show, Mushi-Shi, is admired for its stunningly scenic and dreamlike visual aesthetic. Fans are captivated by its sensitive storyline that skillfully interweaves the beauty of nature with human experiences. What sets Mushi-Shi apart is the absence of major battles or high-octane action sequences. Instead, each episode presents a fresh tale, blending fantasy with genuine human emotions. This unique approach results in a profound exploration of understanding our world and its inhabitants, which continues to endear it to viewers even twenty years after its debut, making it one of the most cherished relaxing anime series.

Eureka Seven

If you’re a fan of mecha, romance, and growing-up tales, you’ll adore the 2005 series Eureka Seven. The narrative revolves around Renton Thurston, a teenager yearning for excitement. However, his ordinary life takes an unexpected twist when a mysterious girl named Eureka and a colossal robot named Nirvash burst into his world. They subsequently unite with a band of rebels seeking freedom, making Renton’s existence anything but mundane.

Eureka Seven is distinctive for its masterful blend of action-packed battles, moving romantic storylines, and profound explorations of life and self. The animation is lively, the characters are enduring, and the soundtrack enhances every moment. Consequently, despite being over 20 years old, the world of Eureka Seven continues to captivate fans, its status as a groundbreaking mecha romance preserved through various film sequels.

Honey and Clover

Honey and Clover is an emotionally resonant anime series that evokes a sense of familiar, comforting nostalgia. It chronicles the lives of five art students as they experience the highs and lows of college existence, young romance, and self-discovery. The narrative primarily focuses on Yuta Takemoto, a second-year student grappling with life’s uncertainties, but his journey is marked by laughter, tears, and indelible moments shared with friends.

The reason why Honey and Clover stands out is because it resonates so deeply. It captures the essence of experiences like unrequited love, self-doubt, and the search for one’s purpose in life, making these themes feel genuine and heartfelt. Moreover, the watercolor-style animation lends a gentle, dreamy ambiance that mirrors the story’s tone perfectly. For those who have ever grappled with feelings of being lost or uncertain about life, Honey and Clover serves as an enduring testament that maturity is a complex journey filled with messiness, beauty, and moments worth cherishing.

Hell Girl

Unlike other anime on this list, “Hell Girl” presents a distinctly eerie and somber perspective on the world of vengeance. The series revolves around a web platform where individuals can condemn their foes to the underworld by simply entering their names. Yet, there’s a twist: those who utilize the site will themselves end up in hell upon their demise.

For two decades, the anime “Hell Girl” has been enthralling viewers, particularly those who appreciate horror and psychological suspense. It offers a unique take on vengeance and the hidden costs associated with it. The eerie narrative keeps audiences hooked, compelling them to watch episode after episode due to its chilling animation, intriguing characters, and unfolding tales of terror.

Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid

2005’s Full Metal Panac! The Second Raid delves deeper into the personal histories of its characters. This series focuses on Sousuke, a soldier assigned to protect a high school girl named Kaname. But as they encounter formidable adversaries, the stakes become more dire and intense.

Despite being renowned for its distinctive blend of genres, the series consistently injects a touch of humor into high-tension scenarios. It offers intense robot battles, side-splitting jokes, and poignant scenes that delve into the characters’ personal struggles, both internal and interpersonal. The animation is smooth and vibrant, immersing anime enthusiasts in a whirlwind of emotions, making them feel as if they’re on a roller coaster ride, even after twenty years.

Immortal Grand Prix

In a fresh twist on sports-themed narratives, the “Immortal Grand Prix” combines adrenaline-pumping mecha racing with strategic teamwork. This captivating anime, set in 2048, focuses on team Satomi as they participate in the Immortal Grand Prix, a fierce competition between robotics teams piloting massive humanoid robots. What sets this mecha series apart from others is its departure from the conventional shonen narrative style.

This high-octane show captivates audiences with its thrilling races, but it delves deeper into the internal conflicts of the characters. It highlights their self-doubt, arrogance, and quest for personal growth. Fans of car racing, robot battles, martial arts, or even pop music from the 2000s would find themselves drawn to this anime. As fans reminisce, they recognize this series as a labor of love by creators who were genuinely passionate about these genres.

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – The Laughing Man

With excitement building for the latest installment of “Ghost in the Shell,” let’s take a trip down memory lane. In the year 2030, “The Laughing Man” is a tale about an enigmatic hacker who wreaks havoc through cyber-terrorism without leaving any evidence behind. However, six years after his initial activities, fresh leads surface, prompting the top-tier cybercrime unit Section 9 to step in and tackle the case.

In the realm of advanced technology and enigma, this addition to the authentic Ghost in the Shell universe is distinguished by its innovative plot blended with conspiracies, action, politics, and numerous other elements. The mind-bending plot twists leave viewers in suspense until the very end. Consequently, the movie’s flawless narrative has solidified its status as a cult favorite among aficionados of espionage and mystery.

Gintama: Jump Festa 2005

Initially, before Gintama achieved its legendary status as an anime, there was a trial episode, Jump Festa 2005, that was released to determine if the manga could translate well into an animated series. This OVA captured the spirit of Gintama, captivating viewers for years to come by presenting them with a feudal Japan governed by aliens. In this setting, characters such as Gintoki, Shinpachi, and the alien girl Kagura live their lives amidst the unusual combination of samurai culture and extraterrestrial rule.

The OVA titled “Gintama: Jump Festa 2005” was initially screened at the 2005 Anime Tour during Jump Festa. This OVA features a collection of comical vignettes reminiscent of the popular series, Gintama. While it’s not essential viewing as many of its contents are later recapped in the anime series, it holds significance since it marked the debut of Gintama in animated form. Therefore, it merits recognition for its historical value within the realm of anime.

Fullmetal Alchemist: The Conqueror of Shamballa

In simpler terms, “The Conqueror of Shamballa”, the concluding movie of the “Fullmetal Alchemist” anime series, follows Edward and Alphonse as they strive to reunite. This film differs from the manga since it presents a unique and thrilling narrative twist. Set in post-World War I Germany, this story combines alchemy with real-world history, featuring elements like Nazi ideology and an obsession with the occult.

Audience members find delight in fresh perspectives on their beloved characters, accompanied by a compelling plotline that keeps viewers captivated. This production offers a full spectrum of feelings, intense battles, and animation, making it a definite treat for those who have followed the series. Even fans of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood can find enjoyment in the short film as an intriguing departure from the original storyline.

Air: The Motion Picture

In 2005, the poignant and moving film titled “Air” was released. This movie narrates a tender tale about Yukito, a wanderer who dislikes people, and Misuzu, a girl who suffers mysterious physical symptoms whenever she develops feelings for someone. Yet, they eventually become exceptions to each other’s norms.

In the process of their deepening bond, Yukata uncovers Misuzu’s ties to a sorrowful past. Now, he must decide whether to carry on his lonely path or face the age-old curse responsible for generations of pain. For those seeking an emotionally resonant romance, Air is a classic love story of heartache and mourning that promises to move its audience to tears.

2025-02-05 23:10