Calling all thirty-somethings! Nostalgic anime (based on the 1990s)
Anime, a cultural treasure Japan has long been proud of and beloved for many years.
It’s not unusual for massive hits to emerge every year, and sometimes we see booms that come to symbolize an era.
Perhaps some of you even started something new because you were inspired by anime.
In this article, we’re highlighting classic anime that people in their 30s will likely find nostalgic!
Our focus spans the 1990s, with picks from the late ’80s through the mid-2000s.
Some of these titles are available on YouTube, so take your time and enjoy watching them.
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Calling all thirty-somethings! Nostalgic Anime Memories (1990s-based) (21–30)
Revolutionary Girl Utena
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.
Fushigi Yûgi
The anime Fushigi Yûgi tells the story of Miaka Yūki, the protagonist who is drawn into a book set in ancient China called The Universe of the Four Gods, where she carves out her destiny as the Priestess of Suzaku.
Its unique world, reminiscent of ancient China, and the plot that sweeps her up in the duties of a priestess are especially compelling.
The interactions with a cast of distinctive characters are another highlight, and viewers are drawn in by the romances that unfold.
While featuring themes like the Four Symbols and the Twenty-Eight Mansions of ancient China, it also incorporates elements of the Five Phases theory and Nansō Satomi Hakkenden, so many people may have learned these terms through the series.
Calling all thirty-somethings! Nostalgic anime (1990s-based) (31–40)
Dragon Ball GT
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.
Fullmetal Alchemist
A pioneering work of dark fantasy is Fullmetal Alchemist.
Because it was adapted into anime twice due to its immense popularity, people may be divided over which version they’re more familiar with.
The first series, titled Fullmetal Alchemist like the original manga, aired starting in 2004 and weaves in an original storyline.
The second series, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, aired starting in 2009 and stays faithful to the source material.
Comparing these two versions is another way to enjoy the franchise.
Atashin'chi
Atashin’chi is a slice-of-life anime that began airing in 2002.
Its story depicts relatable family moments and heartwarming everyday life.
Even if you’ve never watched it, you might still recognize the protagonist’s mother, who leaves a strong visual impression.
If you’re looking to relax while watching an anime, definitely give it a try.
And if you like it, check out the movie version as well.
It features a larger-scale story that differs from the TV series.
Magic Knight Rayearth
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 QUEST - The Adventure of Dai -
It’s a manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump based on the world and setting of the game Dragon Quest.
The anime aired from 1991 to 1992 and has continued to be beloved not only in Japan but around the world.
A key point of interest was how battles in Dragon Quest were depicted, bringing realism to game systems whose movements had previously been unclear.
A new anime adaptation was produced in 2020, and combined with the work’s high quality, it drew significant attention.