Hidden Gems of the 1990s–early 2000s
Anime
A personal curation of lesser-known anime from the 1990s to early 2000s that deserve attention. These titles may have been overshadowed by big hits, but they stand out for unique storytelling, artistic style, or genre innovation. Each includes a short description. This is subjective, meant to explore overlooked gems and celebrate the era’s diversity.
OVA, 1994,
15 eps
Me:-
Author:6
Surreal cyberpunk drama about a humanoid robot searching for humanity.
TV, 1999,
13 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Music, mafia, and mecha collide in a stylish, underrated series.
TV, 1996,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:8
Cleverly balances comedy, romance, and mecha action.
TV, 1994,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Mythology-inspired supernatural action with solid storytelling.
OVA, 1993,
10 eps
Me:-
Author:8
’90s delinquent comedy; two punks wreak havoc in high school with hilarious fights and absurd antics
TV, 2001,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Low-key sci-fi with charming characters and mystery.
Movie, 1996,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:6
Dark fantasy apocalypse with complex characters and striking art.
TV, 2001,
13 eps
Me:-
Author:8
Gender-divided sci-fi world with engaging mecha battles.
TV, 1999,
13 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Space opera with intelligent political drama and rich worldbuilding.
TV, 1999,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:7
A hyper-meta parody of anime tropes; every episode shifts genre, tone, and style in a chaotic, hilarious way.
TV, 1994,
20 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Genre-blending magical girl/fantasy/adventure series.
OVA, 1999,
6 eps
Me:-
Author:5
Captain Harlock reimagined in a more serious, political space opera.
OVA, 1995,
7 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Wacky fantasy with solid adventure and charm.
TV, 1999,
24 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Slice-of-life mixed with sci-fi comedy, surprisingly endearing.
TV, 2002,
45 eps
Me:-
Author:9
High fantasy political intrigue with deep worldbuilding.
TV, 2002,
38 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Ballet-inspired fairy tale with emotional depth and metafictional storytelling.
OVA, 1992,
2 eps
Me:-
Author:5
Supernatural detective story involving occult powers, social themes, and complex characters.
OVA, 1992,
7 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Retro style, epic mecha drama, and a throwback to classic anime aesthetics.
TV, 2001,
13 eps
Me:-
Author:6
Action-comedy with quirky martial arts school hijinks.
TV, 1998,
27 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Longer adaptation expanding on the classic OVA.
Movie, 1998,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:7
Deeper, darker OVA continuation of Nadesico series.
TV, 2000,
25 eps
Me:-
Author:5
Sci-fi mystery with philosophical undertones and strong visuals.
OVA, 1995,
2 eps
Me:-
Author:6
An eclectic mix of mecha, magic, and comedy.
OVA, 1994,
6 eps
Me:-
Author:8
Stylish sci-fi huntress series with a cult fanbase.
TV, 1998,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:4
Emotional short story anthology with quiet depth.
TV, 1995,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Adventure, comedy, and treasure hunting in a unique world.
TV, 1997,
25 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Surreal sci-fi adventure with interesting aesthetics.
TV, 1998,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:7
A vampire detective series mixing horror, mystery, and supernatural noir.
TV, 1998,
24 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Sword-and-sorcery fantasy with magic, humor, and a brooding protagonist.
TV, 1999,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:7
Post-apocalyptic sci-fi with environmental and human themes.
TV, 2003,
13 eps
Me:-
Author:5
Early sci-fi with horror undertones, visually striking.
TV, 1994,
52 eps
Me:-
Author:6
High-fantasy adventure with strong worldbuilding.
OVA, 1996,
6 eps
Me:-
Author:6
Magical girl/fantasy with sophisticated design and surreal narrative.
OVA, 1995,
3 eps
Me:-
Author:5
Early spin-off of Tenchi Muyo! with magical girl fun.
TV, 1994,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:6
Sci-fi comedy about a high schooler whose DNA is altered, leading to bizarre romantic and time-travel situations.
Movie, 1986,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:7
(1986–2000s OVAs) – Female-led sci-fi action series spanning several OVAs.
TV, 1999,
26 eps
Me:-
Author:8
Low-budget mecha with workplace comedy and social commentary.
OVA, 1995,
3 eps
Me:-
Author:8
Crime-action with strong female leads, underrated outside Japan.
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