20 Best Anime from the 80s You Need To Watch
Watching anime from the 80s feels like diving into a nostalgic pool of storytelling brilliance. It’s a trip back to a time when every frame was hand-drawn and stories were raw and pure. If you haven’t experienced 80s anime, you’re in for a treat. Let me share some of the best with you.
1. ‘Sherlock Hound’
Set in a steampunk version of London, Sherlock Hound offers a fresh twist on the iconic detective tales with anthropomorphic characters. This series captivated audiences with its blend of mystery, adventure, and charming reinterpretations of familiar faces from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s universe.
Moriarty, depicted as a sly wolf, and Hound, our clever canine detective, have a dynamic that’s fun and thrilling. What makes this anime stand out is not just the imaginative setting, but the heart it injects into each tale, allowing new generations to appreciate Sherlock’s deductive prowess in a uniquely animated world.
2. ‘Akira’
Venturing into the cyberpunk streets of Neo-Tokyo, ‘Akira’ is a groundbreaking masterpiece that not only defined a generation but also pushed the boundaries of animation. The intricate details of the dystopian world, coupled with a deep, psychological storyline, made it an instant classic.
Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, the film’s portrayal of societal decay, youth rebellion, and the fear of unchecked scientific advancements resonates deeply. Its influence is undeniable, inspiring numerous other works in both anime and global cinema. For anyone exploring 80s anime, “Akira” is a must-see, encapsulating the era’s ambition and creativity.
3. ‘City Hunter’
Ryo Saeba, the charismatic private detective of ‘City Hunter,’ provided a mix of comedy, action, and drama that kept viewers eagerly tuning in. Set in Tokyo, Ryo’s adventures, often sparked by his attraction to beautiful women, never fail to entertain. However, beneath the comedic surface, the series delves into deeper themes of love, loss, and honor.
The duality of Ryo’s character—playful yet deadly when it matters—establishes “City Hunter” as a versatile narrative. This anime showcased the 80s flair for blending light-hearted moments with intense drama, creating a compelling viewing experience.
4. ‘Saint Seiya’
Diving into the world of myths and constellations, ‘Saint Seiya’ brought together a group of young warriors known as ‘Saints’ who don the mystical Cloths. Their mission? To protect the reincarnated Athena from various evil forces. The series stands out for its grand battles and deep bonds of friendship among the protagonists.
Its captivating mix of Greek mythology and martial arts made it a hit, appealing to viewers who loved action-packed sequences and character-driven stories. “Saint Seiya” remains a testament to the 80s knack for blending myth, fantasy, and heartfelt narratives.
5. ‘Vampire Hunter D’
In a post-apocalyptic future where vampires reign supreme, ‘Vampire Hunter D’ serves a gothic tale that merges horror, science fiction, and romance. The titular character, D, is a dhampir—born of a vampire father and human mother—whose journey is both haunting and poignant.
His internal struggle with his dual nature, combined with the atmospheric settings, makes for a gripping tale. This anime stands out for its mature themes and visually stunning portrayal of a desolate world. It’s a perfect blend of 80s animation style with a timeless story of identity, love, and conflict.
6. ‘Touch’
‘Touch’ is a heartwarming tale of baseball, love, and growing up. Following the lives of twins Kazuya and Tatsuya, and their neighbor Minami, the anime beautifully portrays their journey from childhood to adolescence.
While baseball remains a central theme, it’s the relationships and personal growth of the characters that truly captivate the audience. Through triumphs and heartbreaks, “Touch” delves deep into the essence of youth, making it a cherished classic of the 80s.
7. ‘Gunbuster’
‘Gunbuster’ is an iconic representation of how the 80s brought innovation to the mecha genre. The story follows Noriko Takaya, a young girl striving to be a top pilot, battling her personal insecurities and the looming alien threat. Directed by Hideaki Anno, this anime perfectly encapsulates raw emotions, from the pressure of youthful aspirations to the tragedies of war.
While the larger-than-life robot battles are a spectacle, it’s the deeply human struggles that leave a lasting impression. “Gunbuster” epitomizes the 80s spirit of pushing boundaries, both in animation techniques and narrative depth.
8. ‘Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer’
Taking a different spin from its zany, episodic TV counterpart, ‘Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer’ explores the dreamlike, often surreal aspects of life in Tomobiki. Director Mamoru Oshii’s unique touch is evident, deviating from the series’ usual comedic antics and diving deeper into philosophical musings.
This film isn’t just a side story but a love letter to the characters and fans, weaving a tale that’s both nostalgic and thought-provoking. It demonstrates the flexibility of 80s anime, showing that even a comedic series can produce something beautifully introspective.
9. ‘Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam’
A sequel to the original ‘Mobile Suit Gundam, Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam’ holds its own as a pillar of the mecha genre. Set in a universe ravaged by war, it presents a more complex, darker narrative, focusing on the Newtypes and their struggles. Kamille Bidan, our young pilot, is not just fighting against enemies, but also against the traumas and scars of war.
This series digs deep into the psyche of its characters, making their battles emotionally charged. It’s a perfect reflection of the 80s shift towards more mature storytelling, blending incredible mecha designs with human drama.
10. ‘Igano Kabamaru’
Igano Kabamaru is a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and ninjutsu! Following the misadventures of Kabamaru, a young ninja adjusting to city life after a countryside upbringing, the series is a rollercoaster of laughter and heart. The charm lies in Kabamaru’s naive nature juxtaposed with his exceptional ninja skills.
His interactions, whether it’s with his schoolmates or his rival, offer both comedic and touching moments. It’s a simple yet endearing story that exemplifies the fun and heartwarming side of 80s anime.
11. ‘Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honnêamise’
Venturing into the realm of science fiction, ‘Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honnêamise’ presents an alternative world on the brink of its first manned space flight. The film is not merely about the grandeur of space exploration; it’s a profound introspection on humanity’s aspirations and flaws.
With its intricate world-building and philosophical undertones, the movie stands as a testament to the ambitious storytelling that characterized the 80s anime scene.
12. ‘Tomorrow’s Joe 2’
A continuation of the boxing saga, ‘Tomorrow’s Joe 2’ returns with the spirit and grit that made its predecessor a beloved classic. Joe Yabuki’s journey, filled with trials inside and outside the ring, is portrayed with even more depth and emotion.
The series delves into the brutal realities of the sport and the personal demons that fighters like Joe must confront. It’s a raw, uncompromising look at the world of boxing, solidifying its place among the greats of 80s anime.
13. ‘Ikkoku House’
Set in a quirky boarding house, ‘Ikkoku House’ weaves a tale of love, humor, and everyday life. The story revolves around Yusaku Godai, a college student, and Kyoko Otonashi, the young widow who manages the boarding house. Through comedic misunderstandings and heart-tugging moments, their relationship unfolds against the backdrop of colorful tenants and daily antics.
The series is a perfect blend of romance and slice-of-life, showcasing the 80s’ talent for creating stories that resonate with everyday experiences.
14. ‘Ranma ½’
‘Ranma ½’ is a delightful chaos of martial arts, romance, and magical transformations. Following Ranma Saotome, who turns into a girl when splashed with cold water, the series is a rollercoaster of hilarious situations and budding relationships.
With a cast of characters each bearing their own unique curses, the story never has a dull moment. It encapsulates the playful spirit of 80s anime, blending action with comedy in the most unexpected ways.
15. ‘Macross’
Diving into a universe of mecha, music, and interstellar warfare, ‘Macross’ is a tour de force of 80s animation. The story chronicles the struggles of humanity as they face the alien Zentradi, with the spaceship Macross at the epicenter.
Beyond the impressive mecha battles, the series shines in its portrayal of culture, especially music, as a universal connector. The love triangle among the main characters adds depth, making “Macross” a harmonious blend of action, drama, and romance.
16. ‘Silver Fang’
‘Silver Fang’ is a tale of bravery, camaraderie, and the undying spirit of a dog named Gin. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese wilderness, the anime explores the fierce battles between domesticated dogs and a monstrous bear, Akakabuto.
Gin’s journey from a young pup to a fearless leader is filled with action, emotion, and lessons about the harsh realities of nature. The story is a testament to loyalty and courage, standing out as a unique and powerful narrative in the 80s anime landscape.
17. ‘Dragon Ball & Dragon Ball Z’
The epic saga of ‘Dragon Ball’ and its sequel, Dragon Ball Z, has left an indelible mark on anime history. Following the adventures of Goku, from his mischievous childhood chasing dragon balls to intense battles against formidable foes in adulthood, the series perfectly blends humor, action, and heart.
The transformation of Goku from a naive boy to a universe-saving warrior is nothing short of legendary. With a plethora of memorable characters and iconic battles, this series embodies the energy and innovation of 80s anime.
18. ‘Fist Of The North Star’
In a post-apocalyptic world, ‘Fist of the North Star’ introduces us to Kenshiro, a martial artist with the deadly art of Hokuto Shinken as he searches for his beloved Yuria, Kenshiro battles against various warlords and delivers justice in a land filled with chaos.
The series, known for its intense action and the iconic phrase “You are already dead,” delves deep into themes of love, honor, and survival. Its raw emotion and brutal combat scenes solidify its status as a pinnacle of 80s anime.
19. ‘Legend Of The Galactic Heroes’
Epic in scale and profound in its storytelling, ‘Legend of the Galactic’ Heroes delves into the intricate world of interstellar politics, war, and personal ambitions. The tale of two brilliant leaders, Reinhard von Lohengramm and Yang Wen-li, and their respective paths is a masterclass in character development and world-building.
Beyond the grand space battles, the series delves into philosophical debates about governance, freedom, and human nature, making it a standout narrative that transcends its time.
20. ‘Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind’
Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, ‘Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind’ is a visual and thematic masterpiece. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story follows Nausicaä, a princess and explorer, as she navigates the tensions between warring nations and the toxic jungle.
With its strong environmental and anti-war themes, coupled with Miyazaki’s signature art style, the film is a poetic exploration of humanity’s relationship with nature. It stands not only as a hallmark of 80s anime but also as a timeless tale that resonates with audiences of all ages.
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