Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime from the 2000s to the 2010s

Pocket Monsters

[Official] Anime “Pokémon” Episode 1: “Pokémon! I Choose You!” (Anipoke Selection)

It feels like the Pokémon franchise, which began as a Nintendo game, became a social phenomenon in large part thanks to the anime that started airing in 1997.

The story of the protagonist, Satoshi (Ash), journeying with his partner Pikachu to become a Pokémon Master sparked a spirit of adventure in many children.

The encounters with unique Pokémon, the heated battles, and the bonds with friends are the kind of elements that stir the heart no matter the era.

With each new game release, the anime weaves in fresh elements, and at times looks back on the past—storytelling made possible by its long-running history, which is a big part of its appeal.

Revolutionary Girl Utena

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening

Revolutionary Girl Utena, which aired in 1997, is a work that depicts the struggles of a girl named Utena Tenjou, who admires princes and wishes to become one herself.

Beyond its experimental direction and avant-garde visual expression, it drew attention for exploring universal and profound themes such as adolescent turmoil, sexuality, and questioning established values.

Perhaps the greatest appeal of the series lies in the human drama woven by its distinctive characters, including the protagonist Utena and Anthy.

Even those who found it hard to understand at the time may discover new insights when they revisit it as adults.

Fruits Basket

Ritsuko Okazaki - For Fruits Basket

Based on the manga by Natsuki Takaya, Fruits Basket is a work whose popularity is clear from the fact that it was adapted into an anime in 2001 and then remade in 2019.

The story follows the protagonist Tohru Honda, who ends up living in the home of her classmate Yuki Sohma due to an unexpected turn of events, and gradually learns the secrets of the Sohma family through their daily life.

The unique characters themed around the Chinese zodiac, as well as the way each one confronts their personal struggles, are key points of interest.

Its touching portrayal of family bonds and personal growth resonated with a wide audience and earned broad support.

Hell Teacher Nūbē

Hell Teacher Nūbē Official PV Teaser 1

The anime Hell Teacher Nūbē is a horror-comedy set in an elementary school that aired in 1996.

The protagonist, Meisuke Nueno, is a clumsy, easygoing teacher on the surface, but in reality he’s the most powerful psychic, endowed with the power of an oni.

He exorcises the yokai and evil spirits that attack his students using the “Oni Hand” in his left arm.

It’s compelling to see the distinctive characters deepen their bonds through the troubles caused by these yokai and spirits.

The depictions that convey the terror of the supernatural, combined with moments of humor and tears, create a dynamic rhythm in the story that captivated viewers’ hearts.

Detective Conan

[Official] Detective Conan “Roller Coaster Murder Case” | Season 1, Episode 1

Detective Conan is a mystery anime about Shinichi Kudo, a high school detective who is forced into a child’s body by a mysterious organization and solves numerous difficult cases as elementary schooler Conan Edogawa.

Since its debut in 1996, it has been loved by audiences of all ages as a nationally beloved series.

In addition to its authentic mystery elements with intricate tricks, its distinctive characters are a major draw, and the story’s shifts from comedic to serious keep viewers engrossed.

Not only the TV anime but also the feature films attract attention, giving the impression of a franchise whose momentum shows no sign of slowing.

Magic Knight Rayearth

[Episodes 1–3 Pack] Magic Knight Rayearth: “Legendary Magic Knights Activate,” “Presea, Creator of the Silent Forest,” and “The Mysterious Handsome Swordsman, Ferio” (1994)

The anime Magic Knight Rayearth is a fantasy series based on CLAMP’s manga.

It depicts three girls who are summoned to an alternate world called Cephiro and set out on a journey as Magic Knights to save it from crisis.

Set in a realm of swords and sorcery, the story’s appeal lies in how the girls fight and grow.

Another highlight is the beautiful artwork characteristic of CLAMP’s works; the delicate designs further accentuate the worldbuilding.

Along with its theme song, “Yuzurenai Negai” (Unyielding Wish), it’s a title that has surely left its mark on anime history.

Dragon Ball GT

[Official] Dragon Ball GT Episode 1: "Mysterious DB Appears!! Goku Turns Into a Child!?"

Dragon Ball GT, which began airing in 1996, is the sequel to the anime Dragon Ball Z that had been broadcast up to that point.

Since the original manga’s story ends with Dragon Ball Z, people were also interested in what new developments would unfold from there.

The series follows Son Goku, who has been turned back into a child, as he embarks on a space-traveling adventure with his granddaughter Pan and Trunks.

This adventure-centric storyline evokes the early days of the original series.

With encounters with unique characters on various planets, the show offers appeal beyond just the battles.