The Most Popular Old-school Anime, Ranked

Choose the old-school anime you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 23, 2024 06:46
Old-school anime holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, serving as a cornerstone for today's animated storytelling marvels. These classics paved the way for various genres and styles that continue to influence modern animation. Yet, determining which of these groundbreaking series resonates most with audiences today can be a complex endeavor. By participating in rankings, fans contribute to a collective appreciation of these timeless works, providing insights that are valuable for both new and veteran enthusiasts of the genre. This voting-driven ranking not only highlights the enduring popularity of certain titles but also sparks discussions and deeper engagement within the community.

What Is the Most Popular Old-school Anime?

  1. 1
    53
    votes

    Dragon Ball Z

    A groundbreaking anime series that follows the adventures of Goku and his friends as they protect Earth from various threats.
    • Original run: 1989–1996
    • Creator: Akira Toriyama
  2. 2
    28
    votes

    Neon Genesis Evangelion

    A genre-defining mecha anime that explores complex themes of psychology, philosophy, and religion.
    • Original run: 1995–1996
    • Creator: Hideaki Anno
  3. 3
    27
    votes

    Sailor Moon

    A beloved magical girl anime that follows Usagi Tsukino and her friends, who transform into the Sailor Scouts to battle against evil forces.
    • Original run: 1992–1997
    • Creator: Naoko Takeuchi
  4. 4
    16
    votes

    Akira

    A landmark in the cyberpunk genre, this anime film set in a dystopian Tokyo is known for its detailed animation and deep themes.
    • Release year: 1988
    • Director: Katsuhiro Otomo
  5. 5
    12
    votes

    Cowboy Bebop

    A space Western that follows the adventures of a group of bounty hunters traveling in their spaceship, the Bebop.
    • Original run: 1998–1999
    • Creator: Shinichirō Watanabe
  6. 6
    4
    votes

    Mobile Suit Gundam

    A revolutionary mecha anime that introduced the concept of realistic robots used in warfare, setting the standard for the genre.
    • Original run: 1979–1980
    • Creator: Yoshiyuki Tomino
  7. 7
    4
    votes

    Saint Seiya

    A fantasy anime that follows a group of warriors known as Saints, who fight wearing armors powered by the constellations to protect the Greek goddess Athena.
    • Original run: 1986–1989
    • Creator: Masami Kurumada
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Slam Dunk

    A sports anime that has significantly influenced basketball popularity in Japan, it follows the story of a high school basketball team.
    • Original run: 1993–1996
    • Creator: Takehiko Inoue
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Rurouni Kenshin

    Set in the early Meiji period, this anime follows the wanderings of a former assassin who vows never to kill again.
    • Original run: 1996–1998
    • Creator: Nobuhiro Watsuki
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Yu Yu Hakusho

    A classic shonen anime that follows Yusuke Urameshi, a delinquent who becomes a Spirit Detective after his death and resurrection.
    • Original run: 1992–1995
    • Creator: Yoshihiro Togashi

Missing your favorite old-school anime?

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular old-school anime. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or old-school anime is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1892 views
  • 144 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each old-school anime once every 24 hours. The rank of each old-school anime is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Old-school Anime

Dragon Ball Z
Rank #1 for the most popular old-school anime: Dragon Ball Z (Source)
Old-school anime holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. These shows laid the groundwork for the vibrant world of anime we see today. They introduced unique art styles, compelling stories, and memorable characters. Their influence persists in modern anime, shaping genres and inspiring new creators.

In the early days, anime was hand-drawn. This labor-intensive process gave each frame a unique touch. Artists poured their skills into every detail, making the animation feel alive. The color palettes were often bright and bold, catching the eye and enhancing the storytelling.

Storytelling in old-school anime was diverse. Some shows focused on epic adventures, taking viewers on journeys through fantastical worlds. Others explored the complexities of human emotions and relationships. These narratives resonated with audiences, drawing them into the characters' lives and struggles.

Characters in these shows were iconic. Heroes were brave and determined, often overcoming great odds. Villains were complex, sometimes evoking sympathy despite their actions. Side characters added depth to the stories, each with their own quirks and backstories. These well-rounded characters made the narratives richer and more engaging.

Music played a key role in old-school anime. Opening and closing themes became hits, often performed by popular artists. The soundtracks enhanced the emotional impact of scenes, making them more memorable. Fans still listen to these songs, feeling a wave of nostalgia.

Cultural themes were prevalent in old-school anime. Many shows drew from Japanese folklore, history, and traditions. This gave international viewers a glimpse into Japanese culture, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding. It also added a layer of authenticity to the stories, grounding fantastical elements in real-world contexts.

Merchandise became an integral part of the anime experience. Fans collected action figures, posters, and other memorabilia. These items allowed them to feel closer to their favorite characters and stories. The popularity of merchandise also helped fund the production of more shows, creating a cycle of growth for the industry.

Old-school anime faced challenges. Limited budgets and tight schedules often pushed creators to their limits. Despite these hurdles, they delivered high-quality content that stood the test of time. Their dedication and passion shone through, inspiring future generations of animators and storytellers.

The legacy of old-school anime is undeniable. It paved the way for the diverse and expansive world of modern anime. Its influence can be seen in the art styles, storytelling techniques, and character archetypes of today's shows. Fans continue to celebrate these classics, re-watching episodes and introducing them to new audiences.

In conclusion, old-school anime set the stage for the thriving industry we see today. Its unique art, compelling stories, and memorable characters left a lasting impact. The dedication of its creators ensured that these shows would be cherished for years to come. As we enjoy modern anime, it's important to remember and appreciate the foundations laid by these timeless classics.

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