Summary
Anime achieved success by exploringa diversity of genres that stand out both for their stylized visuals and the depth of their stories. Through this, in the 90s, a series of anime deeply impacted pop culture by establishing the cliches of contemporary genres as they presented themselves as pioneers.
The ’90s anime with the best storiesoffer narratives that go beyond the classic hero’s journey. In addition to innovating in their proposals, they aim to connect with the audience through deep and complex narratives, divided into so many layers that they continue to be debated, thus gaining the status of lasting works.
Becoming a teacher for the wrong reasons,Great Teacher Onizukais one of the ’90s anime with the best story. The plot follows Eikichi Onizuka, a former delinquent who decides to become a teacher to win over schoolgirls. However, by getting involved with education and falling in love with the field, he becomes determined to become the best teacher in Japan.
Each episode focuses on a student’s story, with the hero acting as a mentor to solve real problems. Addressing real issues makes its story powerful and relatable, and itmixes in humor without overdoing the melancholy.
Searching for his father,Hunter x Hunterpresents one ofthe best stories in ’90s anime.The story follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who wants to become a Hunter to find his father. Thus, the character embarks on a journey of growth and surprising twists, resulting in a transformation that is more than physical, but also internal.
The anime stands out with its journey that goes beyond the classic hero narrative, where moral dilemmas are present as well as its world-building, which, in addition to being rich, has its own mythology. Additionally,Hunter x Hunterstands out with its memorable arcs, where growth becomes slow as its characters advance in their quest.
With a group ofyoung magical warriors fighting evil,Sailor Moonis one of the biggest ’90s anime with the best story. Featuring Usagi, a socially awkward girl with poor grades, she becomes the heroineSailor Moonafter meeting Luna, a magical cat. Along with her friends, they seek to protect Princess Serenity from evil forces.
Although it follows the classic monster-of-the-week formula, each episode builds its narrative into a deeper mythology that directly impacts the plot. The work also innovates by putting a shoujo, typically aimed at girls, at the top, mixing everyday drama with big battles. Thus,Sailor Moonestablishes itself as one of the best anime.
In its slow genre shift,Trigunis one of the ’90s anime with the best stories. By presenting a provocative and comedic protagonist, its plot becomes darker as Vash reveals more about his past. Facing elaborate battles, the anime adopts a more serious and thoughtful tone through the dilemmas presented by its characters.
The ’90s anime explores the protagonist’s relationship amid danger, as he is unwilling to take anyone’s life, not even his enemies, due to his strict philosophy. Thus, Vash becomes one of the most tragic protagonists in anime, considering the violent context in which he finds himself and his past with multiple layers of suffering.
Blendinghistorical drama and shonen action,Rurouni Kenshinis one of the ’90s anime with the best story. It follows Kenshin Himura, a legendary assassin who vows never to take another life. The story explores a character finding strength in doing good and staying true to it when his dark past returns.
The central theme elevates the work above others, as the protagonist’s search for redemption reflects in other characters. This deepens the narrative, discouraging revenge and framing it as destructive, encouraging kindness instead. This stands as the bravest message given the anime’s chaotic universe.
In a brutal universe,Berserkpresents one of the best stories in ’90s anime. The story follows Guts, the black swordsman seeking revenge against the Band of the Hawk. The anime builds its characters slowly, exploring their past and relationships before reaching thepeak of their adventure marked by lossand trauma.
The tragic relationship between Guts and Griffith sets the anime apart, representing two sides of a coin driven by survival and ambition. Alongside this dynamic, the dense and powerful mythology makes the anime compelling, increasing tension as viewers await its conclusion.
The protagonist’s sacrifice makesYu Yu Hakushoone of the ’90s anime with the best story. The plot follows Yusuke, who dies after saving a child from a car accident.Returning as a ghost detective,he embarks on a journey for purpose while building important relationships.
Yu Yu Hakushomasterfully explores its universe and characters, becoming one of the era’s biggest shonen and influencing many contemporary works. The standout arc is Dark Tournament, where big battles serve as the backdrop for physical and emotional exploration connecting with audiences.
Even with standalone episodes,Cowboy Bebopis one of the ’90s anime with the best story. Mixing genres and styles, it establishes itself as a masterpiece by skillfully exploring its characters, weaving isolated events into a deep tapestry culminating in a powerful, memorable ending.
Each character is haunted by their past, and their search for happiness makes the journey special. The anime focuses on internal struggles instead of big battles with invincible villains. Its beauty lies in delving into these minds, prompting viewers to reflect on and understand their conflicts.
Avoiding easy answers,Serial Experiments Laindelivers one of the best stories in ’90s anime. The story follows Lain Iwakura, who begins visiting a site called Wired after a classmate’s suicide. The character enters a journey of self-discovery andgrowth in a plot wrapped in mysteryand unique approach.
Its non-linear structure challenges viewers to piece together the narrative’s mystery. With chaotic, dark editing, it dives into deep dilemmas. As Lain splits into versions of herself, the anime deeply examines her psyche, caught between real and digital worlds.
With humanity on the brink of extinction,Neon Genesis Evangelionis the ’90s anime with the best story. The plot follows Shinji Ikari, a lonely teenager called by his father to pilot Evangelion Unit-01 against angels. By deconstructing the mecha genre, the anime became one of the most analyzed and debated since its release, influencing pop culture.
Its story splits into two threads, one focused on big mecha battles and the other on emotional depth. The highlight is its ending, which despite budget issues, became iconic through artistic brilliance, offering an abstract therapy for the protagonist, solidifying it as one of the greatest anime.
