For manyanimefans, the 90s to late 2000s marked a golden era of animated television, where after-school routines revolved around what aired onCartoon Network. Anime series that ran during this time introduced a generation to new storytelling styles, unforgettable characters, and powerful narratives. Whether it was high-stakes action or imaginative fantasy worlds,these shows often provided many fans with their first taste of anime.
Thanks to streaming platforms, revisiting these titles has become easier than ever. Each series boasts its own distinct animation style, soundtrack, and compelling plots that continue to resonate with fans today. For those who discovered anime through Cartoon Network’s programming,these series provide both a nostalgic experience and a testament to anime’s enduring influence.In fact, their legacy remains strong today, and rewatching these series years later proves they have a timeless appeal.
Set in the lawless seas of Southeast Asia,Black Lagoonfollows Rokuro “Rock” Okajima, a disillusionedJapanese businessman who finds himself abducted and ultimately recruited by a group of modern-day pirates.The Lagoon Company, led by Dutch, Revy, and Benny, takes on mercenary jobs and smuggling operations in the fictional city of Roanapur. With its gritty atmosphere, intense action sequences, and morally gray characters, the series is agripping crime and survival anime.
As the newest anime on the list,Black Lagoonmay not evoke nostalgia for all fans, but it provides a story that can’t be missed. It exploresthemes of identity, survival, and even the loss and reinvention of moral values.It doesn’t shy away from the bleakness of its settings and themes, yet also offers sharp social commentary and complex character dynamics.Black Lagoonis an intense, cynical, and compelling watch that delves into how far people can drift from normalcy when pushed to the edge.
At the Death Weapon Meister Academy, or DWMA for short, students train tohunt evil souls and witches under the guidance of the Grim Reaper, Death, himself.Soul Eatercenters on Maka Albarn and her partner, the scythe weapon Soul. Their goal is to defeat corrupt beings and ultimately transform Soul into a powerful Death Scythe. However, things aren’t as straightforward as they appear, as dark forces brew beneath the surface.
The series is filled with gothic aesthetics, eccentric and unforgettable characters, and exaggerated action. Beyond the flashy fights and Halloween-inspired visuals,Soul Eaterexplores themes of fear, madness, and personal growth.Characters evolve in both power and maturity, leading to satisfying and fulfilling character arcs.While the anime leans into stylized comedy and horror, its emotional depth is crafted with care, making it both entertaining and unexpectedly introspective.
Cowboy Bebop
Set in the year 2071, in a future where humanity has colonized the stars,Cowboy Bebopfollows thecrew of the spaceship Bebop as they chase bounties and attempt to outrun their past.Spike Spiegel, a laid-back ex-hitman with a haunted history, anchors the group alongside Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Edward, and an intelligent corgi named Ein. The series mixes space-western action with noir influences, allowing for episodic storytelling that gradually develops over time.
Cowboy Bebopexplores powerful themesof loneliness, regret, and the weight of memories. The characters drift through life, burdened by unresolved histories, while the show’s melancholic tone enhances the emotional resonance. Paired with a memorable soundtrack and cinematic visuals,Cowboy Bebopremains a masterpiece that is poetic, stylish, and powerful even decades later.
Yu-Gi-Oh!follows Yugi Mutou, a shy high schooler who solves an ancient Egyptian puzzle and becomes the host of a powerful spirit. The series follows Yugi and his friends as they’re drawn intoincreasingly intense duels, often with in-world consequences, involving the popular card game Duel Monsters.From schoolyard tournaments to dimension-spanning conflicts, the show seamlessly blends fantasy, mythology, and competitive strategy into a high-drama adventure.
While the flashy duels and monster designs capture the audience’s imagination,Yu-Gi-Oh!also touches onthemes of friendship, inner strength, and moral responsibility.Yugi’s journey is fueled by self-discovery as he learns to trust his instincts and confront challenges head-on without solely relying on his alter ego. It’s a series that balances striking visuals with sincerity, offering both the thrill of competition and a message about standing up for what’s right.
Naruto
Narutois set in a world filled with hidden villages and powerful ninja clans. The series follows the titular character,Naruto Uzumaki, an energetic outcast with dreams of becoming Hokage.Shunned for being the vessel of the Nine-Tailed Fox spirit, Naruto fights for recognition while forming bonds with his teammates and fellow shinobi. Theanime and manga follow his growthfrom misfit to hero through intense battles, political struggles, and personal challenges.
Narutohas always been a powerful and emotionally resonant anime. With themes of loneliness, perseverance, and identity that give weight to every scene and interaction, the characters gradually evolve, shaped by their personal goals and ambitions. With epic fights and unforgettable moments, the series stands out forits core message that no one is destined to be alone and that paths can lead to purpose.
Inuyasha
After falling into a magical well, modern-day schoolgirlKagome Higurashi is transported to Japan’s feudal era, where she meets Inuyasha, a half-demon.After encountering dark forces, the two embark on a journey to recover the shards of the Shikon Jewel before they fall into the hands of the evil Naraku. Along the way, they meet new allies, including Miroku, the monk, Sango, the demon slayer, and Shippo, a young fox demon.
Inuyashablends folklore, romance, and action into a series that explores themes of redemption, destiny, and love. Beneath the monster battles and unique time-travel mechanics,the narrative’s slow-burn exploration of healing from past wounds and learning to trust creates an unforgettable journey.Paired with its incorporation of mythology and the bond between Inuyasha and Kagome,Inuyashahas become a classicmasterpiece.
Set in Japan’s Meiji era,Rurouni Kenshinfollows Himura Kenshin, a wandering swordsmanwho has vowed never to kill again after a violent past as an assassin.Once known as Hitokiri Battousai during the Japanese Civil War, Kenshin seeks redemption and protects the innocent with a reverse-blade sword, the sakabato.
The heart of the series lies inits thoughtful exploration of atonement and change.Kenshin’s struggle to reconcile his past with his present ideals makes the story stand out beyond the sword fights. With themes of forgiveness, honor, and the cost of violence, the narrative offers insightful commentary on whether true peace is attainable. With its character-driven storytelling and blend of historical drama, the series remains a timeless classic.
Yu Yu Hakushofollows Yusuke Urameshi,a rebellious teenager who unexpectedly dies after saving a child from getting struck.However, he is given a second chance as an Underworld Detective, tasked with protecting the human world from supernatural threats. Alongside his friends, Yusuke battles demons, solves mysteries, and grows into a formidable fighter.
Beyond its intense battles and supernatural elements,Yu Yu Hakushoexplores themes of redemption, friendship, and self-discovery. Yusuke’s journey from delinquent to hero isa reflection of the personal growth he experiences after being granted a second chance.The series examines loyalty and the blurred lines between good and evil, providing depth that keeps fans invested.
Dragon Ball ZfollowsGoku and his friends as they defend Earth against increasingly powerful threatsfrom ruthless alien invaders, deadly androids, and mythical beings. Building on the originalDragon Ball, this series ramps up the stakes with epic battles, intense training arcs, and unforgettable transformations that change the series forever.
Dragon Ball Zis more than just explosive fights; it also explores themes of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance. Goku’s unwavering spirit inspires those around him to push past their limits, while the bonds between characters make every scene worthwhile. With its epic battles and high stakes, the series is acornerstone of shōnen anime and quickly became a worldwide phenomenon that continues to influence generations of fans.
Sailor Moon
Sailor Moonfollows Usagi Tsukino, a clumsy but kind-hearted schoolgirlwho learns she is thereincarnation of the Moon Princess Serenity and that she is destined to protect Earth from dark forces.Alongside a team of Sailor Guardians, Usagi battles villains while uncovering mysteries about her past and the power of the Silver Crystal. The series blends magical girl fantasy with intense action, romance, and friendship.
Sailor Moonexplores themes of teamwork, resilience, and personal growth in a way that resonates with fans across generations. Usagi’s evolution into a confident leaderprovides a satisfying character arc and was a groundbreaking portrayal of female empowerment.This series alone redefined the magical girl genre and inspired countless other works, making it an unforgettable classic.
