Key Highlights from the 2000s Anime Explosion
- The early 2000s are often celebrated as a transformative period for anime, giving rise to numerous iconic series that continue to resonate with fans.
- Nana: This poignant drama explores the intertwined lives of two women named Nana as they navigate love and friendship in the bustling city of Tokyo.
- Mononoke: A gripping horror anime that transports viewers into a surreal, atmospheric world filled with themes of guilt and mystery.
The decade of the 2000s marked a significant evolution in the anime landscape, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling that would leave a lasting impact. It expanded upon the beloved classics of the 90s, introducing series that tug at the heartstrings, deliver adrenaline-fueled action, and serve up brilliant comedy. For audiences today, many of these classic series remain immensely popular, with dedicated fanbases and successful reboots gaining traction in recent years.
Updated December 9, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Reflecting on the 2000s, it’s clear that this decade produced unparalleled gems in the anime world. Few eras have achieved such a remarkable depth of creativity and storytelling. For new fans entering the anime scene, the works from this period offer an ideal entry point due to their accessibility today.
Selection Criteria for Our List
- Only anime that premiered during the 2000s are included, with One Piece being the sole exception due to its limited presence in the 90s.
- Only series are considered; films are excluded.
- While MyAnimeList scores are mentioned, they do not dictate the order of our rankings.
- This list showcases the broad genre diversity within anime, hence rankings are somewhat flexible and not strictly comparative.
28 Afro Samurai
MyAnimeList: 7.36
Featuring Samuel L. Jackson, Afro Samurai is an Emmy-nominated series that chronicles the titular character’s quest for vengeance after witnessing his father’s murder. The narrative intertwines the destiny of Afro Samurai and Justice, the gunslinger, over the coveted Number 1 and Number 2 headbands, which denote the strongest warriors.
Set in a unique fusion of feudal and futuristic Japan, the series mesmerizes viewers with its five action-packed episodes, enhanced by The RZA’s compelling music and striking visuals that exemplify the best of 2000s anime.
27 Bleach
MyAnimeList: 7.96
Bleach stands as one of the most celebrated shonen series of the 2000s, tracing the journey of Ichigo Kurosaki as he acquires the powers of a Soul Reaper. Initially lighthearted, the narrative twists into darker territories when Rukia faces execution, thrusting Ichigo and his allies into a perilous adventure within the Soul Society.
Renowned for exhilarating sword battles and compelling storytelling, Bleach carved its place in anime history with captivating arcs, particularly throughout the Soul Society sequence. Spanning 366 episodes, its sequel released in 2022 further enriched the franchise.
26 Inuyasha
MyAnimeList: 7.87
The beloved Inuyasha has left a lasting impact in the anime realm, with its themes resonating through the sequel Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon. This series features the captivating dynamic between Kagome, a modern-day girl, and Inuyasha, a half-demon from the past, as they quest to recover the shattered shards of the Shikon Jewel. Their journey introduces them to a myriad of characters and formidable foes.
Created by Rumiko Takahashi, Inuyasha skillfully balances humor with dramatic moments, ensuring its characters remain endearing and memorable.
25 The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
MyAnimeList: 7.82 (Season 1)
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya stands as a pivotal entry in anime history, leading to a greater focus on light novel adaptations within the industry. Its catchy ending dance, “Hare Hare Yukai,”became a cultural phenomenon, significantly contributing to the mainstream appeal of otaku culture. Haruhi’s blend of humor, philosophical contemplation, and mystery was groundbreaking at its 2006 debut.
Haruhi’s character is deliberately polarizing, generating mixed reactions, though Kyon notably serves as a relatable male lead. Despite some convoluted storytelling, especially in Season 2’s “Endless Eight”arc, the series remains a landmark in anime.
24 Paranoia Agent
MyAnimeList: 7.66
Directed by the acclaimed Satoshi Kon, Paranoia Agent offers a psychological thriller experience that delves into the complexities of its characters’ minds via a gripping supernatural premise. The narrative revolves around a mysterious assailant who attacks individuals, leaving ripple effects on their lives.
Although the series concludes with impactful storytelling, episode three is particularly noteworthy, often hailed as one of the finest anime episodes of the decade.
23 Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad
MyAnimeList: 8.29
Focusing on the world of music, Beck offers a realistic portrayal of a band striving to make a name for themselves in a challenging industry. It follows Koyuki, a teenager discovering his passion for guitar, detailing the band’s journey as they set ambitious goals.
While the visuals may seem slightly dated, the series’ authenticity and character arcs resonate powerfully, making it a must-watch for music enthusiasts.
22 Naruto & Naruto Shippuden
MyAnimeList: 7.99 (Naruto)
Naruto epitomizes the quintessential shonen anime, chronicling the escapades of a young ninja determined to gain recognition and achieve his dream of becoming Hokage. Throughout his journey, Naruto overcomes challenges and forges deep friendships, all while managing the legacy of the powerful fox spirit within him.
Dominating the anime landscape throughout the 2000s, Naruto remains one of the genre’s most beloved series. Though its sequel aired mostly after 2010, the original series sets the groundwork for some of the best arcs in anime history, blending humor, action, and intricate world-building.
21 Natsume’s Book of Friends
MyAnimeList: 8.30 (Season 1)
Natsume’s Book of Friends has quietly evolved into a beloved series over the years, with its latest season airing in Fall 2024. Although only the first two cours were released in the 2000s, the show transcends this era through its timeless storytelling.
Following Natsume, who inherits a book of youkai names from his grandmother, the series revolves around his empathetic encounters with spirits, as he opts to return their names rather than exploit their powers. This heartwarming narrative is complemented by the charm of Madara, a cute yet formidable youkai companion.
20 Black Lagoon
MyAnimeList: 8.03 (Season 1)
Black Lagoon offers an exhilarating ride through the world of mercenaries, featuring cool characters, enthralling action, and philosophical undercurrents. The plot follows a Japanese businessman who joins a band of pirates after his betrayal by the corporate world, leading him to a thrilling new lifestyle and self-discovery.
This series, produced by Madhouse, is a thrilling escape that delivers varied and captivating action sequences, showcasing the individual strengths of each character, particularly the fierce Revy, a standout of the decade’s female characters.
19 Ouran High School Host Club
MyAnimeList: 8.16
Ouran High School Host Club blends romantic comedy with sharp satire, following the escapades of Haruhi and her host club colleagues. A scholarship student at an elite academy, Haruhi faces hilarity and chaos as she helps pay off a debt by disguising her identity within the club.
The series delights audiences with its comedic revelations about gender roles and rich social conventions, earning its place as one of the most cherished comedies of the era.
18 Air
MyAnimeList: 7.67 (Season 1)
Aria stands out as a serene slice-of-life series, set in the enchanting Neo Venezia, inspired by Venice. Following a group of gondoliers, the narrative meanders through peaceful stories, capturing the beauty of slow living and relationships amidst tranquil moments.
This visually stunning series emphasizes emotional growth and immerses viewers in a therapeutic experience that unfolds gradually, encouraging a pace reminiscent of real life.
17 Noise!
MyAnimeList: 8.35
Baccano! is a unique anime that intertwines multiple timelines across a narrative filled with chaos and eccentric characters. By weaving together diverse story arcs, it presents an unpredictable and engaging storytelling style that challenges traditional narrative expectations.
Initially overwhelming, the pieces gradually fall into place, revealing a rich tapestry of interconnected tales that captivate the imagination and encourage repeated viewings.
16 Azumanga Daioh: The Animation
MyAnimeList: 8.04
Azumanga Daioh is one of the pioneering series within the “cute girls doing cute things”genre, showcasing humor, realism, and emotional depth. The interactions among its diverse characters, from the witty Chiyo to eccentric teachers, captivate viewers while exploring the subtleties of high school life.
Despite its genre, the series avoids falling into clichés, instead offering a cherished experience with well-rounded characters that allow viewers to reminisce about the simplicity of adolescence.
15 Nana
MyAnimeList: 8.56
Derived from Ai Yazawa’s acclaimed manga, Nana intricately details the friendship between two women sharing the same name. As they embark on their new lives in Tokyo, the series tackles challenging themes of ambition, love, and unhealthy relationships within an engaging narrative.
Although it does not encompass the entirety of the manga’s story, Nana remains a powerful poignant drama, offering relatable insights for many young adults navigating similar experiences.
14 Major
MyAnimeList: 8.21 (Season 1)
Major represents a staple of sports anime, spanning six seasons and several OVAs that follow the life of Goro as he evolves from a childhood player to a Major League star. Unlike typical sports narratives focusing only on high school competition, Major illuminates the entire journey of a dedicated athlete.
With heartfelt storytelling that balances ambition and passion, Major remains one of the finest representations of sports in anime, captivating audiences with its relatable blend of triumph and perseverance.
13 Mononoke
MyAnimeList: 8.42
Mononoke transcends standard horror anime through its psychological depth and visual storytelling. It eschews common tropes of jump scares, instead immersing viewers into a world characterized by complex emotions—guilt, rage, and mystery intertwined in an artistically vibrant presentation.
The series is notable for its ability to evoke feelings of dread while exploring grave themes, resulting in an immersive experience that is both haunting and beautifully crafted.
12 Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
MyAnimeList: 8.42 (Season 1)
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a masterclass in storytelling that combines cyberpunk themes with deep philosophical topics. With its dual narrative structure, the series follows the exploits of Major Motoko Kusanagi and her team from Section 9 as they tackle a myriad of cases against enemies like The Laughing Man.
Despite its larger-than-life premise, the series presents gritty realism and complex character explorations, providing a fascinating blend of action and thoughtful storytelling that remains timeless.
11 One Piece
MyAnimeList: 8.72
One Piece has become a monumental force in anime, with over a thousand episodes, many of which aired during the 2000s. This series revolutionized the battle shonen genre, showcasing legendary arcs such as Arlong Park and Enies Lobby that cemented its legacy.
Although begun in 1999, the impactful arcs of One Piece during the 2000s notably shaped the anime landscape, ensuring its status as an all-time classic.
10 Death Note
MyAnimeList: 8.62
With its compelling narrative, Death Note draws viewers into a dark world where Light Yagami discovers a notebook that grants him the power to control life and death. As he endeavors to eradicate crime, he engages in a psychological duel with the brilliant detective L, creating one of the most intriguing cat-and-mouse games in anime history.
The series poses thought-provoking questions about morality and justice, consistently keeping audiences on the edge of their seats, ultimately solidifying its place in anime lore.
9 Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Metascore: 8.70 (Season 1)
Code Geass captivates audiences with its engaging tale of princely revenge. Following Lelouch vi Britannia in a dystopian world, he gains the power of Geass, enabling him to compel obedience. Balancing giant mech confrontations with themes of rebellion, the series marries action with moral complexity.
This rich narrative encapsulates betrayal and redemption while sustaining viewers’ attention through unexpected plot twists and emotional depth, ensuring its legacy as a cornerstone of 2000s anime.
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