Essential Highlights
- The 2000s marked a transformative decade for anime, producing numerous legendary series that remain favorites among fans. Below are some must-watch anime from this era:
- Nana – A poignant drama and romance that depicts the friendship between two women sharing the same name as they navigate their complex lives in Tokyo.
- Mononoke – A chilling horror anime that employs a unique visual and audio style to immerse viewers in a haunting world of guilt, rage, and enigma.
Although the early 2000s might feel like a distant memory, the anime landscape from 2000 to 2009 is nothing short of extraordinary. The previous decade laid the groundwork for animation greatness, which the 2000s magnificently continued. This era features emotionally resonant narratives, high-octane action sequences, and humor that truly resonates.
Numerous series from this time still boast avid fanbases, with many enjoying reboots and new installments in recent years. For newcomers to the anime community, the rich variety of exceptional 2000s anime serves as a fantastic entry point.
Updated October 26, 2024 by Mark Sammut: The anime landscape of the 2000s delivered countless classics, with many titles rightfully recognized as some of the finest. Two additional highly regarded series from this era have been included, one of which is set to return with a new season in Fall 2024.
Here’s a summary of the article’s guidelines:
- Only shows that launched in the 2000s are included; hence, titles such as One Piece and GTO are not counted.
- No films will be considered.
- MyAnimeList ratings are provided for reference purposes, but they do not dictate the placement of titles.
- Given the diversity of genres in these shows, rankings are somewhat subjective as direct comparisons are challenging.
25 Afro Samurai
MyAnimeList: 7.36
This Emmy-nominated series, with Samuel L. Jackson lending his voice, tells the story of Afro Samurai, whose life spirals after witnessing his father’s murder at the hands of Justice — a gunslinger who possesses the coveted Number 2 headband, while Afro’s father held the Number 1 headband. Those who wear the Number 1 headband are recognized as the greatest warriors, challenged only by bearers of the Number 2 headband.
Set in a visually stunning mix of feudal and futuristic Japan, Afro Samurai goes on an intense journey, facing numerous adversaries while seeking vengeance. Despite being a miniseries with just five episodes, it delivers a powerful punch. Featuring a soundtrack by hip-hop artist The RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan, along with breathtaking artistry, Afro Samurai epitomizes the essence of 2000s anime.
24 Bleach
MyAnimeList: 7.93
Bleach is a beloved shonen anime from the 2000s that chronicles the adventures of Ichigo Kurosaki as he becomes a Soul Reaper. As he acquires new abilities, he learns that many of his friends possess unique powers as well. The series kicks off with a lighter tone but takes a darker path following Rukia’s impending execution, leading Ichigo and his friends on a daring mission to rescue her from the Soul Society — thrusting them into a much larger conflict.
Replete with thrilling action and spectacular swordplay, Bleach is a must-watch for fans of extended action-packed narratives, comprising 366 episodes. The anime made a triumphant return in 2022, expanding upon the manga’s final story arc.
23 Inuyasha
MyAnimeList: 7.86
With the premiere of its sequel series, Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon, and the tidal wave of TikTok tributes to its love triangles, it’s not surprising that Inuyasha stands tall as a quintessential 2000s anime. For fans of shonen and romance alike who’ve missed the original saga, it’s definitely worthwhile to catch up, if only to grasp the many references made today.
This series highlights a diverse cast of characters, with Kagome, a modern-day teenager, and Inuyasha, a half-demon from the Feudal era, as the lead. Their quest to recover the shattered Shikon Jewel leads them to a myriad of friends and formidable foes, most notably the cunning Naraku and his various incarnations.
22 The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
MyAnimeList: 7.82 (Season 1)
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya stands as a significant series, paving the way for more adaptations from light novels instead of manga. The iconic Hare Hare Yukai dance captured widespread attention, and the show played a pivotal role in achieving mainstream recognition for otaku culture alongside Lucky Star, which debuted soon after. The series’ blend of slice-of-life comedy, philosophical inquiry, and mystery was innovative for its time in 2006, even if it appears less original when viewed through a contemporary lens.
Ranking this series is challenging; while Season 1 offers compelling moments amid its convoluted narrative release, Haruhi often comes off as intentionally irritating, particularly with her antics surrounding Mikuru. Nonetheless, Kyon emerges as a captivating protagonist, and several supporting characters exhibit intriguing qualities. Season 2 presents the ambitious but divisive Endless Eight arc, which somewhat disrupts the show’s flow. Additionally, The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya delivers a cinematic masterpiece, but it was released in 2010 and requires an understanding of the preceding seasons for full appreciation.
21 Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad
MyAnimeList: 8.29
While contemporary anime like Bocchi the Rock showcase music-centric narratives, few rival the grounded storytelling of 2004’s Beck. The series focuses on a group of young boys striving to break into the cutthroat music industry, narrated primarily through Koyuki’s eyes, a teenager who finds his passion for the guitar and dives enthusiastically into the music scene.
Beck thoroughly explores the singer’s journey, charting the learning process and the band’s tangible aspirations. Even though the visuals may seem dated at times, the series holds up remarkably well.
20 Naruto & Naruto Shippuden
MyAnimeList: 7.99
Naruto stands as a hallmark of shonen anime, offering everything enthusiasts desire from the genre. The narrative follows Naruto, a mischievous ninja outcast striving for recognition within his village while harboring dreams of becoming Hokage. Along the way, he forges friendships, encounters rivals, and learns of the powerful fox spirit residing within him — a creature that previously assaulted the village.
The entirety of the narrative is split into two segments, with the original Naruto airing from 2002 to 2007, followed by its sequel, Naruto: Shippuden, from 2007 to 2017. The continuation of the saga, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, shifts the focus to the next generation, chronicling the lives of the characters once their initial conflicts are resolved.
19 Natsume’s Book of Friends
MyAnimeList: 8.30 (Season 1)
Natsume’s Book of Friends has been mesmerized in the iyashikei supernatural genre for nearly two decades, with its seventh season scheduled for Fall 2024. While only its initial two cours were released in the 2000s, the series possesses a timeless quality that transcends its era; the flowing seasons feel cohesive despite their release spanning about 15 years.
Natsume inherits a book of youkai names from his grandmother, granting him control over spirits. Rather than exploit this power, he opts to return the names to their rightful owners, provided they seek him out. His journey is accompanied by Madara, a formidable youkai who typically takes on the appearance of a charming cat.
With its stunning visuals, soothing atmosphere, and deeply touching narratives, Natsume’s Book of Friends is remarkable.
18 Black Lagoon
MyAnimeList: 8.03 (Season 1)
Black Lagoon embodies coolness in every aspect — from character design and action to philosophy. Terminator-like anime maids, large-scale brawls, and complex twins with dark pasts contribute to its compelling narrative, making it a classic of the 2000s from Madhouse studio.
The premise revolves around a Japanese businessman who transforms into a mercenary after realizing his former company disregarded him. He joins the crew that once kidnapped him, awakening to a life filled with excitement that unveils both the best and worst parts of himself.
In a way, Black Lagoon serves as an escapist fantasy akin to isekai narratives, albeit with significantly more firearms and a convoluted return journey to Japan. The series is replete with superbly crafted action sequences, each highlighting the diverse skills of the main cast. Notably, Revy captures much of the spotlight and is celebrated as one of the finest female characters of the decade. It is unfortunate that Black Lagoon is limited to two seasons and an OVA.
17 Ouran High School Host Club
MyAnimeList: 8.16
Ouran High School Host Club is a delightful romantic comedy teeming with satire and cliches prevalent in the shojo genre. The series chronicles the escapades of Haruhi and her fellow host club members. As a scholarship student at Ouran Academy, a school catering to affluent students, Haruhi inadvertently shatters an expensive vase belonging to the host club, prompting her to join the club to pay off the debt.
The pilot episode reveals the host club members gradually realizing that Haruhi, despite appearances, is a girl. The ensuing series focuses on their efforts to keep her true identity hidden. The series’ extensive satirical elements are part of what continues to delight fans upon rewatching.
16 Aria
MyAnimeList: 7.67 (Season 1)
While many acclaimed 2000s anime showcased action, the decade produced several serene slice of life masterpieces, with Aria being a prime example. This series, set in a dreamy future inspired by Venice (dubbed Neo Venezia), portrays the tranquil lives of gondoliers as they escort people through serene waterways.
With no haste to reach a conclusion, Aria fosters an immersive, escapist atmosphere. Though it may take some time to engage viewers, the series is a visually stunning and calming experience, with each season improving upon the last as characters develop genuine charm and relationships.
15 Baccano!
MyAnimeList: 8.35
Baccano! is a dizzying, fragmented ride that stands out as one of the best anime of the 2000s, though it’s a challenge to recommend. Barely grazing the surface of Ryogo Narita’s light novel series, the anime unfolds through three intertwined stories set in various timeframes, connected in subtly distinctive ways. The outcome is a chaotically disorganized structure that acts as a commentary on storytelling itself, while delving into extravagant characters embroiled in absurd scenarios.
Initially, Baccano! may be overwhelming. The initial episodes inundate viewers with a slew of characters and information, leading to a feeling of randomness; however, as the narrative progresses, pieces begin to align, rewarding dedicated viewers for their patience.
14 Azumanga Daioh: The Animation
MyAnimeList: 8.04
Regarded as one of the most impactful anime of the early 2000s, Azumanga Daioh effectively defined the “cute girls doing cute things” genre, influencing future shows like Lucky Star and School Rumble. Yet, while it popularized this subgenre, Azumanga Daioh stands apart, offering humor, realism, and nuanced emotions unique to itself. Although many anime have followed in its footsteps, Azumanga Daioh offers a singular experience with no comparable counterparts.
The intricate and timeless characters reject typical tropes, instead presenting a grounded and relatable portrayal. The humor remains effective over time, especially scenes featuring Ayumu, Chiyo, and Sakaki. While primarily a slice-of-life series, Azumanga Daioh skillfully integrates character growth, culminating in a subtly heartfelt finale.
13 Nana
MyAnimeList: 8.56
Based on Ai Yazawa’s manga, Nana delves into the deep friendship formed between two women with the same name who meet while heading to Tokyo and subsequently share an apartment. This setup lays the groundwork for an emotionally charged dynamic. Grounded in reality, the series explores themes like unhealthy relationships and the weight of aspiration—issues that resonate with many young adults.
Unfortunately, the anime does not adapt the complete saga of manga, leaving unresolved threads. Nevertheless, Nana stands among the best 2000s anime, proving to be more impactful than most romance dramas of its time.
12 Mononoke
MyAnimeList: 8.42
Anime and horror don’t often intertwine effectively. Many series create tension but struggle to elicit genuine fear. Yet, Mononoke almost breaches that boundary without resorting to jump scares.
Utilizing a captivating aesthetic and disquieting sound design, Mononoke immerses viewers in a harrowing world rife with guilt, fury, and intrigue. The series crafts a stunning narrative about unsettling emotions and flawed individuals.
11 Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
MyAnimeList: 8.42 (Season 1)
Although often overshadowed by the 1995 film, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex arguably signifies the zenith of its franchise, particularly through its central narrative. This series combines episodic and serial elements, following Motoko Kusanagi and Section 9 as they tackle various cases and societal threats, including noteworthy adversaries like The Laughing Man.
Much like its film predecessor, Stand Alone Complex is packed with cyberpunk themes and profound philosophical questions, weaving an engrossing detective mystery that touches on political tensions. The quality of action, character development, and animation has aged remarkably well.
10 Death Note
MyAnimeList: 8.62
For fans of darker themes, Death Note is an absolute must-see. Chronicling the story of Light Yagami, a high-achieving student and son of a police chief, the tale unfolds after he discovers a mysterious notebook that serves as a Death Note, an object used by shinigami to kill anyone whose name is written within. Light begins utilizing this power to construct a utopian society devoid of crime by penning the names of criminals.
However, his plans face challenge from L, an equally brilliant detective, leading Light down a path marked by a god complex. This struggle intertwined with the mechanics of the Death Note sets the stage for one of anime’s most intricate and renowned mind games. The series delves into profound and mature themes, continuously intriguing viewers about the unfolding events.
9 Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion
Metascore: 8.70 (Season 1)
The world of Code Geass offers a thrilling ride for fans who appreciated Light Yagami’s cunning in Death Note. The central narrative follows Lelouch vi Britannia, an exiled prince, who gains the power of Geass after a fateful encounter with a mysterious girl named C2. This ability allows him to command others to fulfill his desires, setting the stage for a gripping tale of revenge against his royal family following their conquest of Japan using mecha technology.
The series features spectacular mech battles, intricate plots, and countless twists, engaging fans in a ceaseless war of intellect and strategy.
8 Mushi-Hi
MyAnimeList: 8.66
Many anime often blend supernatural elements into realistic settings; however, Mushi-Shi follows its own serene path, bearing strong thematic similarities with Natsume’s Book of Friends. Produced by Artland, Mushi-Shi features Ginko, who wanders through an ancient version of Japan in search of Mushi — spirits coexisting alongside humans that typically remain unnoticed.
Unlike many protagonists, Ginko tends to take a detached approach, often choosing not to interfere with the Mushi. This creative choice, combined with the episodic storytelling and realistic backdrops, lends Mushi-Shi a mesmerizing and surreal ambiance.
7 Fighting Spirit
Metascore: 8.77
From Major to The Prince of Tennis, the 2000s produced a wealth of exemplary sports anime, with Fighting Spirit making a significant impression. This inspiring tale follows Ippo Makunouchi, a bullied teenager who discovers his path to self-confidence through the sport of boxing. His arduous journey is filled with vigorous matches and character-rich episodes that illustrate the charm and depth of his companions, including the comedic Mamoru Takamura.
6 Samurai Champloo
Metascore: 8.51
Infusing modern styles into a reimagined Edo-period setting, Samurai Champloo follows an unexpected trio on their quest to find “the samurai who smells of sunflowers.”The cast includes spirited girl Fuu, brash wanderer Mugen, and traditional ronin Jin. From the same director as Cowboy Bebop, this series features numerous nods to historical events, including mentions of figures like Alexander Cartwright and Hishikawa Moronobu, making it a treat for history enthusiasts. Additionally, the acclaimed soundtrack draws heavily from hip-hop culture, embodying the series’ genre-fusion ethos.
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