Masterpiece anime that Heisei-born people feel nostalgic about

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.

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.

D·N·A² ~That Someone’s Something I Lost Somewhere~

Trivia about DNA²: Aitsu no Aitsu I Lost Somewhere

The anime “D·N·A²: Dokoka de Nakushita Aitsu no Aitsu” is based on Masakazu Katsura’s manga and aired in 1994.

It has a strong sci-fi storyline in which Karin Aoi, a DNA operator, travels from the future to modify the DNA of the protagonist, Junta Momonari.

Despite its sci-fi elements, it also unfolds as a romantic comedy, and that contrast drew attention.

It’s also remembered for detailed tidbits, such as having theme songs performed by L’Arc~en~Ciel and Sharan Q just before their big break.

China’s Number One!

[Episodes 1–3] True Cooking Master Boy Limited-Time Streaming [Official Anime]

Cooking Master Boy depicts Mao, a young chef and the protagonist, as he travels across China, growing through a series of culinary duels with his rivals.

As a cooking anime focused specifically on Chinese cuisine, it offered viewers the joy of discovering new dishes.

Its appeal lies not only in its inventive culinary ideas but also in its distinctive cast of characters—like martial artist–type figures who create delicate dishes, a contrast that adds excitement to the story.

The blend of passion for cooking and action-like cooking scenes draws you deeply into its unique world.