The Best Anime of Each Decade: A Journey Through Time

From the early days of anime in the 1960s to the cutting-edge stories of the 2010s, the history of anime is a rich tapestry of exceptional works. Each decade brought its own unique series that resonated with audiences and pushed the boundaries of animation.

1960s: The Early Days

The 1960s marked the beginning of animation as we know it today, with groundbreaking works like Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom) and Speed Racer (Mach GoGoGo). These iconic series introduced the world to the concept of shonen anime and fast-paced action sequences.

1970s: The Golden Age of Militarism and Adventure

The 1970s saw the rise of militarism and adventure in the form of Mobile Suit Gundam and Lupin III. Meanwhile, Space Battleship Yamato captured the hearts of viewers with its space opera themes and action-packed battles. These series set the stage for the next decade's coming of age stories.

1980s: Transforming Stories and Striking Fire

The 1980s brought us some of the most transformative and influential works in anime history. Akir and Dragon Ball Z exemplified the power of action and epic storytelling. Meanwhile, Studio Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro and Castle in the Sky mesmerized audiences with their beautiful visuals and enchanting worlds.

1990s: The Coming of Age and Beyond

The 1990s were all about character development and emotional depth. Neon Genesis Evangelion and Cowboy Bebop are prime examples of well-written and complex stories. Sailor Moon and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba also captured the hearts of viewers with their engaging plotlines and memorable characters.

2000s: Exploring New Worlds and Realities

The 2000s introduced us to the innovative and expansive world of Death Note and the emotional journey of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Spirited Away not only won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature but also became a cultural phenomenon. These series explored new themes and genres, pushing the boundaries of what anime could achieve.

2010s: Stories of the Future and Beyond

The 2010s brought us a blend of action, drama, and fantasy. Attack on Titan and My Hero Academia became cultural phenomena, with their epic storylines and memorable characters. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba stoked the fire of anime's future, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

Conclusion

While these are just a few examples of highly regarded anime from each decade, there are countless other fantastic series and movies that could also be considered among the best. The anime industry is vast and diverse, with a wide range of genres and styles to explore. Each decade brought us a unique set of stories that have left a lasting legacy in the world of animation.

Keywords: anime, best anime, anime history