The 1990s are often hailed as the golden era of anime, a time when Japanese pop culture connected with international audiences and paved the way for the massive success the medium enjoys today.
This period introduced anime to Western viewers long before streaming services became common, turning it into a global phenomenon. Unique animation styles combined with memorable soundtracks created a special appeal for many series.
While giants like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and Neon Genesis Evangelion remain immortal, many other captivating 90s shows never gained widespread global recognition. As modern technology advances, these underrated gems risk fading from fans’ memories.
Here are 7 quality 90s anime you should revisit:
7. Orphen
Orphen is a classic late 90s fantasy series that didn’t get the recognition it deserved, especially compared to Record of Lodoss War. Based on Yoshinobu Akita’s light novel, it aired two seasons in the 90s.
The story follows Krilancelo, a young sorcerer. Six years after a major accident at the Tower of Fang magic school turned the sorceress Azalie into a giant dragon, she was abandoned by the Tower. Krilancelo, the only one who cares, renounces his real name and calls himself Orphen, embarking on a quest to restore Azalie.
6. Slayers
Slayers’ popularity has waned over time, but for hardcore anime fans, it remains one of the best fantasy shonen series. It perfectly blends comedy, action, and adventure with timeless story elements.
The plot follows Lina Inverse, a powerful sorceress who travels the world stealing treasure from bandits. When she prepares to raid a new group, swordsman Gourry Gabriev mistakes her for being in trouble. Innocently trying to help, he fights the bandits and decides to escort Lina to the city of Atlas. Their reluctant partnership sparks a chaotic yet thrilling adventure.
5. Crest of the Stars
Even today, Crest of the Stars is considered one of the most underrated sci-fi action series, praised for its world-building, character development, and emotionally rich story.
Set in a distant future, the genetically enhanced Abh Empire dominates space with advanced technology, threatening humanity. To resist, humans form the Four Nations Alliance. The story centers on Jinto Linn, a young man living among the Abh nobility. He quickly becomes involved in conflict alongside his friend and Abh princess, Lafiel Abriel.
4. Now and Then, Here and There
This original 1999 sci-fi fantasy series is one of the darkest and most haunting of the decade, pushing emotional boundaries while exploring themes of war and tragedy.
The story follows Shuu (Shuuzo Matsutani), a regular boy passionate about kendo, who meets a blue-haired girl named Lala-Ru wearing a strange pendant. When trying to befriend her, Shuu witnesses a woman and two snake-like machines trying to capture Lala-Ru. Driven by justice, Shuu attempts to save her but is transported to a barren, war-torn desert world. Despite the harsh trials of war, torture, and hunger, Shuu remains compassionate and determined to protect Lala-Ru.
3. The File of Young Kindaichi
If you enjoy Detective Conan, you’ll likely appreciate this late 90s detective series, adapted by the studio behind One Piece and Dragon Ball. Though it never gained global fame, The File of Young Kindaichi was once regarded as one of the best long-running crime dramas of its time, even spawning a 2014 sequel season that failed to attract a wider audience.
The story follows Hajime Kindaichi, a seemingly ordinary high school student who is actually the grandson of Japan’s greatest detective. Alongside his close friend Miyuki Nanase and Inspector Isamu Kenmochi, Hajime solves mysterious cases across remote islands, eerie towns, and dangerous lands.
2. His and Her Circumstances (Kareshi Kanojo no Jijou)
This romantic comedy aired only one season in 1998 but became one of the most beloved shōjo series with huge potential. His and Her Circumstances is deeper and more complex than it seems, exploring smart characters wrestling with insecurity, jealousy, and personal issues.
Directed by Hideaki Anno (famous for Neon Genesis Evangelion), its animation style stands out from typical classic shōjo anime. The story follows Yukino Miyazawa, a beautiful and top-performing student who loves being the center of attention.
Her rival Souichiro Arima, always the top student, irritates her. After finally scoring higher than him on midterms, she’s surprised when he congratulates her. Questioning her superficial lifestyle, Yukino gradually understands Souichiro, who openly shows his feelings for her.
1. Serial Experiments Lain
This award-winning psychological horror anime is considered one of the most thought-provoking and haunting series ever made. With just 13 episodes, the original anime blurs the line between reality and virtual worlds, exploring profound themes about the digital age.
The story centers on Lain Iwakura, a shy 14-year-old girl. She and other female students receive a disturbing email from classmate Chisa Yomoda, who recently committed suicide. After opening it, Lain is transported into the Wired, a virtual communication world, where she faces one terrifying mystery after another.