Better experience in portrait mode.
The Best Anime Recommendations of the Last 25 Years

The Best Anime Recommendations of the Last 25 Years

Japanese Anime

kapanlagi
Swipe Up to See the Photos
The Best Anime Recommendations of the Last 25 Years

In the last two and a half decades, anime has evolved from niche entertainment to a global phenomenon that influences pop culture around the world. Every year, a series of new works emerge that challenge the limits of creativity and introduce fresh approaches to storytelling. However, only a few truly leave a deep mark in the hearts of their viewers.

Anime is not just animated entertainment; it has become a medium of artistic expression, a philosophy of life, and a representation of complex human emotions. From themes of friendship, struggle, to existentialism, each great work offers messages that transcend the screen.

Now, in 2026, several titles still stand tall as timeless masterpieces. Here is a list of the best anime from the last 25 years that not only entertain but also shape a new direction for the modern anime world.

Find more news related to anime at Liputan6.com.

<nil>

HAIKYUU!!: Becoming a modern symbol of sports anime with a fiery spirit. The story is about the Karasuno High School volleyball club that struggles to prove itself despite being underestimated by many. The strength of HAIKYUU!! lies in how it showcases hard work, friendship, and an unyielding spirit. Each character receives attention that makes the audience feel their struggles.

<nil>

FRIEREN: BEYOND JOURNEY'S END: Offering a unique perspective on life after victory. Instead of focusing on battles, this anime explores the feelings of the immortal sorceress who reflects on time and memories. With a melancholic tone, Frieren takes the audience on a calm yet touching emotional journey. It teaches that the end of an adventure is merely the beginning of deeper reflection.

<nil>

GURREN LAGANN: Reviving the spirit of classic mecha anime with a hyperactive and spirited style. The story is about humanity's struggle against the limits of logic and fate. Although filled with extraordinary action, this anime also touches on the emotional side of loss and hope. Each scene teaches that the greatest courage is to surpass one's own limits.

<nil>

MONSTER: Naoki Urasawa's work is known as one of the best mystery stories in anime history. The story follows Dr. Tenma, a surgeon whose life changes after saving a boy who later becomes a serial killer. The slow pacing actually builds incredible tension. Each character has complex motivations, and new truths are revealed slowly until the unpredictable ending.

<nil>

HUNTER X HUNTER: Stands out for its vibrant world and characters. Gon's adventure to become a Hunter is not just a story about searching for his father, but a journey to understand the meaning of strength and humanity. This anime expands the horizons of the shonen genre with a dynamic and mysterious world. Each arc brings new challenges that lead the audience to a deeper understanding of ambition and morality.

<nil>

STEINS;GATE: Presents the story of a mad scientist who discovers a way to send messages to the past. However, every small decision changes the course of time with unexpected consequences. Its narrative intelligence keeps the audience guessing the direction of the story. Although complex, this tale remains logical and thrilling until the end.

<nil>

MOB PSYCHO 100: Offers a unique approach to the story of an overpowering protagonist. Instead of focusing on superpowers, this anime explores the inner journey of the character to accept himself. With explosive visuals and a distinctive art style, Mob's story becomes a reflection on the importance of balancing strength and humanity. Its message is simple: being strong means making peace with oneself.

<nil>

ATTACK ON TITAN: Perhaps the most influential anime of the modern era. Beginning with a story of struggle against giants, it evolves into a war drama that questions morality and freedom. Each season brings new tension, showcasing how complex the world and its characters are. It’s no wonder that many viewers are drawn into its emotional intensity.

<nil>

GINTAMA: Initially, GINTAMA appears to be an absurd comedy about aliens invading Edo-era Japan. However, beneath its humor, this anime contains a surprisingly emotional layer. Each joke and parody episode ultimately strengthens the audience's connection with its characters. When GINTAMA turns serious, the shift in tone feels very profound and striking.

<nil>

FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST: BROTHERHOOD: Often referred to as the most perfect anime ever made. The story is about two brothers who try to restore their bodies after a fatal mistake using forbidden alchemy. This anime presents a vibrant fantasy world, full of strong characters with meaningful narrative roles. Its story balances classic shonen adventure with extraordinary moral depth. Come on, read articles about other anime recommendations on Kapanlagi.com. If not now, when, KapanLagi?