Anime has been a staple of Japanese entertainment for decades, but its impact extends far beyond the country’s borders. From influencing Western animation to becoming a cultural phenomenon, anime has left an indelible mark on the world. In this list, we’ll count down the top 10 anime that have had a significant impact on the medium, pop culture, and the world.
10. Akira (1988)
Katsuhiro Otomo’s magnum opus, Akira, is a landmark anime film that has influenced countless other works. Set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, the movie follows a young biker gang member who develops psychic powers that threaten the city. Akira’s success worldwide helped establish anime as a viable medium for mature storytelling.
9. Cowboy Bebop (1998)
Shinichiro Watanabe’s space western, Cowboy Bebop, is a masterclass in storytelling, characters, and music. The series follows a group of bounty hunters as they travel through the solar system, taking on various missions. Cowboy Bebop’s blend of genres, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack has made it a beloved classic worldwide.
8. Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters (1998)
Based on the popular trading card game, Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters follows a young boy who becomes embroiled in a world of high-stakes dueling. The anime’s success spawned a global phenomenon, with the trading card game becoming a huge hit. Yu-Gi-Oh!’s impact on the anime industry and pop culture is undeniable.
7. Sailor Moon (1992)
Naoko Takeuchi’s magical girl anime, Sailor Moon, has become a cultural icon. The series follows a group of teenage girls who transform into superheroes to fight against evil forces. Sailor Moon’s influence on the magical girl genre and its impact on female-led anime cannot be overstated.
6. Attack on Titan (2013)
Hajime Isayama’s dark fantasy anime, Attack on Titan, has taken the world by storm. The series follows humanity’s struggle against giant humanoid creatures that threaten their existence. Attack on Titan’s success has helped bring anime into the mainstream, with its dark tone and complex characters appealing to a wide audience.
5. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
Hideaki Anno’s psychological sci-fi anime, Neon Genesis Evangelion, is a groundbreaking series that has influenced countless other works. The series follows a group of teenagers who pilot giant mechs to fight against monstrous beings known as Angels. Evangelion’s complex narrative, characters, and themes have made it a cult classic.
4. The Big Three (One Piece, Naruto, Bleach)
The Big Three, consisting of One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach, have dominated the anime landscape for decades. These series have introduced a generation to action-packed storytelling, memorable characters, and epic battles. Their influence on the anime industry and pop culture is immeasurable.
3. Pokémon (1997)
Satoshi Tajiri’s beloved franchise, Pokémon, has become a global phenomenon. The anime series follows a young trainer named Ash and his Pokémon, Pikachu, as they travel through various regions, battling other trainers and Gym Leaders. Pokémon’s impact on the anime industry, gaming, and pop culture is undeniable.
2. Dragon Ball Z (1989)
Akira Toriyama’s iconic anime, Dragon Ball Z, has had a profound impact on the medium and pop culture. The series follows Goku and his friends as they battle against powerful villains to save the Earth. Dragon Ball Z’s influence on the battle shonen genre, anime tropes, and memes is immense.
1. Astro Boy (1963)
Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy is considered one of the first modern anime series. The show follows a young robot boy with superhuman powers as he fights against evil forces. Astro Boy’s influence on the anime industry, art style, and storytelling is immeasurable. It paved the way for future anime series and remains a beloved classic.
There you have it – the top 10 anime that have had a significant impact on the medium, pop culture, and the world. Do you agree with our list? Let us know in the comments below!