The 2000s era gave fans some of the most innovative anime titles ever! While the big-budget anime series often dominated the popularity ranking, some of these impressive anime were forgotten despite their unique storytelling and themes.
The following list of anime is an example of some of the best works of the decade that have been unfairly overlooked. What makes these series stand out is how modern many of their ideas still feel today. Let us get into the list, then.
7. Wolf’s Rain Delivered One of Anime’s Saddest Journeys
Wolf’s Rain was created by Studio Bones, and it impressively combined post-apocalyptic storytelling with emotional themes, which still continue to resonate with the fans even after all these years.
A still from the anime Wolf’s Rain. | Credit: Bones Inc.
The journey of the characters in the story makes it even more memorable. Apart from that, many fans still praise Yoko Kanno’s soundtrack today.
6. Noein: To Your Other Self Turned Multiverse Sci-Fi Into Pure Emotion
Even before the multiverse-themed stories became popular, Noein provided an alternate reality via Haruka and Yuu. The anime managed to combine a complex science fiction theme with a very deep emotional storyline.
A still from Noein: To Your Other Self | Credit: Studio Satelight
Apart from that, the unique visuals and storyline continue to distinguish it from other similar titles out there. As a result, even after all these years, it feels far more emotionally grounded than other multiverse storylines.
5. Last Exile Made Steampunk Adventure Feel Truly Epic
Last Exile offered impressive airship battles and one of the best steampunk worlds among anime. The journey of Claus and Lavie captured the feeling of a classic adventure anime that today’s modern anime could rarely recreate.
A still from the anime series Last Exile. | Credit: Studio Gonzo
The worldbuilding remains surprisingly immersive even now. Its political conflicts and aerial combat gave the anime a scale that felt genuinely cinematic for its era.
4. Darker than Black Mixed Noir Storytelling With Stylish Superpowers
Darker than Black combined espionage, mystery, and supernatural abilities through Hei and the mysterious Contractors. The anime’s noir-style ambiance set it apart from the typical action anime right away.
Hei from the anime series Darker than Black. | Credit: Studio Bones
Hei remains one of the most awesome protagonists of the 2000s due to his cool personality and moral ambiguity. Overall, the anime managed to combine style with surprisingly tragic character stories.
3. Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit Proved Fantasy Anime Could Feel Grounded
Produced by Production I.G, Moribito centres around the protagonist Balsa protecting Prince Chagum from various dangers linked to an ancient prophecy.
Balsa, the main protagonist from the anime series Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit. | Credit: Production I.G
The uniqueness of this anime lies in its realism. Balsa remains one of anime’s most believable female protagonists, and her relationship with Chagum develops naturally without unnecessary drama.
2. Ergo Proxy Was Too Smart and Ambitious for Its Era
This anime series takes place in the city of Romdo and explores important themes like identity, artificial intelligence, and existential philosophy via Re-l Mayer and Vincent Law.
Re-l Mayer from the cyberpunk anime series Ergo Proxy. | Credit: Manglobe
The anime actually struggled during its original release as the audience probably expected a simpler cyberpunk thriller. However, today, its methodical storytelling, along with the symbolism, feels more relevant than ever.
1. Samurai Champloo Still Feels Cooler Than Most Modern Anime
Samurai Champloo remains a groundbreaking anime to date! Directed by legendary Shinichiro Watanabe, the anime blended samurai action with hip-hop culture, with an unforgettable soundtrack by Nujabes.
Samurai Champloo remains timeless due to its stylish presentation. The chemistry between Mugen, Jin, and Fuu still carries a natural charm that many of today’s anime titles struggle to match, even to this day.
Here is the quick overview of the anime titles we have listed above.
AnimeAnime Rating (IMDb)Where to WatchWolf’s Rain7.9 / 10CrunchyrollNoein: To Your Other Self7.4 / 10Prime VideoLast Exile7.8 / 10CrunchyrollDarker than Black7.7 / 10Not available for streaming in the United States.Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit8.2 / 10HIDIVEErgo Proxy7.9 / 10CrunchyrollSamurai Champloo8.5 / 10Crunchyroll
Here are some of the questions fans may have –
What is the best anime from the 2000s that is the most popular?
Many fans consider Samurai Champloo the standout title because of its soundtrack, visuals, and character chemistry.
Is Ergo Proxy difficult to understand?
Yes, the anime is very philosophical and symbolic, which makes it more complex than many cyberpunk anime.
Which anime in this list should fantasy enthusiasts watch?
It should be Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit without a doubt.
So now the big question – which forgotten 2000s anime do you think deserves a modern comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
