[Nostalgic] A roundup of popular anime series broadcast in the 1980s
Looking back, the 1980s feel like a time when Japanese animation techniques advanced rapidly.That’s how many popular series appeared during that era!I’m sure some of you rushed home from school and glued yourselves to the TV.In this article, we’ll be introducing some nostalgic anime that aired in the ’80s.In recent years, more classic anime have become available on YouTube and subscription streaming platforms.If you find something you want to rewatch or try for the first time, be sure to look it up!
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[Nostalgic] A roundup of popular anime series broadcast in the 1980s (11–20)
Sherlock Holmes
This work is based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective stories, Sherlock Holmes.
It aired from 1984 to 1985.
While the character names and setting follow the original, it’s memorable for depicting the characters as anthropomorphic dogs.
For those who watched the anime, many probably think “this is what Holmes looks like” first and foremost.
Its appeal lies in a catchy storyline where Holmes and his companions foil Professor Moriarty’s misdeeds.
Armored Trooper VOTOMS
This work depicts the protagonist, Chirico Cuvie, who is drawn into the various motives and conspiracies within a century-long war that splits the galaxy in two.
Its hard-edged, war-focused setting is striking, and a major point is that the robots that appear are consistently portrayed as nothing more than weapons.
The story of a protagonist who serves as a soldier gradually reclaiming his humanity is also a crucial element that draws you into the world.
It’s a hard-boiled anime that differs greatly from robot anime up to that point.
Cat’s Eye
Cat’s Eye is one of Tsukasa Hojo’s signature works.
It was adapted into an anime in 1983, and I imagine those who watched it at the time were captivated by its sexy characters.
As the success of Lupin the Third Part III from the same era shows, works themed around phantom thieves were very popular then, which may be why the anime became such a big hit.
But even more impactful, I think, was the music.
That catchy theme song that sticks in your ears perfectly reflects the spirit of the times.
Kinnikuman
Kinnikuman, a professional wrestling manga that represents Japan.
Back then, many people probably collected Kinkeshi figures.
The anime adaptation of Kinnikuman in 1983 rode the manga’s momentum, seized the hearts of children at the time, and sparked a huge boom.
Kinnikuman might have been a bit goofy at times, but when it came down to it, he always delivered—he was so cool.
There were plenty of special move names that just made you want to say them out loud.
Which Superhuman would be your oshi, as we’d say these days?
Lupin the 3rd Part III
This is the third television series depicting the exploits of Lupin III, the grandson of the gentleman thief Arsène Lupin.
It aired from 1984 to 1985.
In this series, Lupin III wears a pink jacket, and the other characters’ outfits are also characterized by brighter color schemes.
Lupin the Third Part III was produced with a back-to-the-origins concept, resulting in a work with a distinctly hard-boiled atmosphere.
Of course, it still firmly retains the elements seen up to that point, such as comedy and hard-boiled action!
Pro Golfer Saru
The sports manga Pro Golfer Saru by Fujiko Fujio A, which gained popularity for its off-the-wall ideas.
These days, it’s common for sports manga to feature almost supernatural developments, but back then that wasn’t really a thing—and this work is said to have greatly broadened the scope of the genre.
The anime was also very popular, and many people still have the distinctive world of the animated Pro Golfer Saru burned into their memories.
If you like unconventional sports series like Inazuma Eleven or The Prince of Tennis, this is a must-see!
[Nostalgic] A roundup of popular anime series broadcast in the 1980s (21–30)
Charge! Men’s Private School
This is an anime based on Akira Miyashita’s manga that aired starting in 1988.
It depicts the friendship and battles of delinquent boys from all over the country who undergo Spartan training at Otokojuku, highlighting its raw power and wildly over-the-top content.
With elements like Minmei Publishing—a fictitious publisher—and the school’s famously peculiar classes, there’s a lot that piques interest.
The characters’ unique personalities and lines, as well as the signature Otokojuku gags, have been parodied in later works, making it a series that could be called a legend passed down through the years.