Anime Series by Year
Anime is a beloved form of entertainment worldwide, encompassing a wide array of genres and styles. It's impossible to capture the entire history of anime in a single article, but we can explore the evolution of anime series through different eras. Let's take a journey through the decades and revisit some of the most iconic and influential anime series that defined each year.
1960s: The Dawn of Anime
- 1963: Astro Boy - Considered one of the first anime series to achieve global recognition, Astro Boy captured the imaginations of children with its endearing robot protagonist and futuristic themes.
- 1965: Kimba the White Lion - A pioneer of animal protagonists, Kimba the White Lion explored themes of environmentalism and conservation, leaving a lasting impression on the animation landscape.
- 1969: The Little Prince - This adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's classic tale touched hearts with its poignant story of friendship, imagination, and the beauty of the universe.
1970s: Expanding Horizons
- 1972: Mazinger Z - This mecha series sparked a boom in the giant robot genre, inspiring countless spin-offs and sequels.
- 1974: Heidi, Girl of the Alps - A heartwarming story of a young girl's journey to find love and belonging, Heidi remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with viewers of all ages.
- 1978: The Galaxy Express 999 - A philosophical and adventurous space opera, Galaxy Express 999 explored themes of humanity, technology, and the search for meaning.
1980s: The Rise of the Iconic
- 1981: Space Cruiser Yamato - This spacefaring adventure captured the imagination of audiences with its epic story of survival and the fight against an alien threat.
- 1983: Kimba the White Lion (1983) - This sequel to the original Kimba the White Lion continued to explore environmental themes and featured even more action-packed adventures.
- 1986: Dragon Ball - This action-packed series about a young boy's journey to become the strongest warrior in the world, Dragon Ball launched the iconic franchise that continues to be popular today.
1990s: Genre Diversification
- 1992: Sailor Moon - This magical girl series with its empowering female characters and epic battles became a global phenomenon and influenced countless other anime series.
- 1995: Neon Genesis Evangelion - A psychological masterpiece that delved into themes of depression, existentialism, and the nature of humanity, Neon Genesis Evangelion left an indelible mark on the anime landscape.
- 1997: Cowboy Bebop - This critically acclaimed series blended genres like space western, noir, and jazz, crafting a unique and unforgettable experience.
2000s: The Digital Revolution
- 2002: Fullmetal Alchemist - This fantasy adventure series, based on the popular manga, explored themes of alchemy, brotherhood, and the consequences of seeking forbidden knowledge.
- 2006: Code Geass - A thrilling story of rebellion and revolution, Code Geass captivated audiences with its complex characters and thought-provoking themes.
- 2009: Attack on Titan - This dark fantasy series, featuring giant humanoid monsters and a desperate struggle for survival, shook the anime world with its intense action and complex narrative.
2010s: The Rise of Streaming
- 2011: Fate/Zero - A prequel to the Fate/Stay Night franchise, Fate/Zero explored the origins of the Holy Grail War and its impact on the world.
- 2013: Attack on Titan (Season 2) - The second season of Attack on Titan further amplified the tension and action, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
- 2016: Your Name. - This romantic fantasy film, with its captivating story of two strangers who switch bodies, became a global phenomenon and cemented the reputation of director Makoto Shinkai.
2020s: Exploring New Frontiers
- 2020: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - This action-packed series, featuring demons and demon slayers, captivated audiences with its thrilling battles and emotional story.
- 2021: Jujutsu Kaisen - A dark fantasy series about a young boy who enters the world of sorcery, Jujutsu Kaisen impressed viewers with its unique art style and dynamic combat sequences.
- 2022: Chainsaw Man - This dark and gritty action series, featuring a protagonist who can transform into a chainsaw-wielding devil, has quickly become a fan favorite.
This list represents just a small selection of the many amazing anime series released over the years. From classic tales to modern masterpieces, anime continues to evolve and inspire audiences worldwide. With each passing year, new series push the boundaries of storytelling and animation, ensuring that the future of anime remains bright.