The 2000s was a golden era for anime, with an explosion of new titles and an increase in quality that cemented anime’s place as a global cultural phenomenon. From action-packed adventures to heart-wrenching dramas, the 2000s had something for everyone. In this article, we will discuss some of the best anime from the 2000s.
The 10 Best 2000s Anime
If you are a fan of anime and looking for 2000s anime, then here are the 10 best 2000s anime you may like it.
Naruto – 2002
Naruto is an anime series that follows the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of becoming the Hokage of his village, Konohagakure. Naruto was born with the Nine-Tailed Fox inside him, a powerful creature that attacked his village and killed many people, including his parents. As a result, Naruto was mistreated by the villagers, who saw him as the embodiment of evil.
Determined to prove himself and gain the respect of his peers, Naruto joins the ninja academy, where he meets his teammates, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno, and their sensei, Kakashi Hatake. Together, they embark on missions and face various challenges, including battles against other ninja villages, criminal organizations, and powerful enemies.
As the story progresses, Naruto learns more about his past and the history of his village, as well as the true nature of the Nine-Tailed Fox. He also develops close friendships with his teammates and other ninjas, including the legendary Jiraiya and the Hokage Tsunade.
Throughout the series, Naruto faces many hardships and losses but never gives up on his dream of becoming Hokage and protecting his friends and village. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and the true meaning of strength.
Bleach – 2004
Bleach is an anime series that follows the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a high school student with the ability to see ghosts. One day, he encounters a Soul Reaper, a supernatural being who protects the living world from evil spirits called Hollows. During their encounter, Ichigo learns that his family has a history of Soul Reapers, and he inherits their powers.
Ichigo then joins forces with other Soul Reapers, including Rukia Kuchiki, the injured Soul Reaper who gave him her powers, to fight against Hollows and protect the living world. As Ichigo becomes more involved in the world of Soul Reapers, he discovers dark secrets about their organization, including a rebellion and a sinister plot to destroy the balance between the living and dead worlds.
Throughout the series, Ichigo and his friends face powerful enemies, including the Arrancars, a group of Hollows who have gained Soul Reaper powers, and the Quincy, a race of humans who can destroy Hollows. They also encounter other Soul Reapers who have their own agendas and motives.
As the story progresses, Ichigo learns more about his family’s history and the true nature of his powers. He also forms close bonds with his friends and allies, including Rukia, Orihime Inoue, and Uryuu Ishida.
Bleach is known for its epic battles, complex characters, and complex storyline, which delves into themes of death, identity, and morality. The series has captivated audiences around the world and remains a beloved classic in the anime genre.
Fighting Spirit – 2000
Fighting Spirit, also known as Hajime no Ippo, is an anime about the story of Makunouchi Ippo, a shy and timid high school student who is frequently bullied by his classmates. One day, while being beaten up, he is saved by Takamura, a boxer who sees potential in Ippo’s ability to take a punch. Takamura introduces Ippo to the world of boxing, and Ippo becomes determined to pursue it as a career.
Ippo starts training under the guidance of Takamura and coach Kamogawa, and his passion for boxing grows stronger every day. He soon discovers that he has a natural talent for it, and with his unwavering determination, he begins to climb the ranks of the boxing world. Along the way, he faces various challenges, both physical and emotional, and makes new friends and rivals.
As Ippo’s skills improve, he participates in numerous matches, each one more challenging than the last. He battles opponents who are stronger, faster, and more experienced than him, but with each fight, he learns more about himself and his abilities. He also discovers the true meaning of sportsmanship as he learns to respect his opponents and strives to improve himself, regardless of the outcome of the match.
Through his journey, Ippo finds his own fighting spirit, and he becomes an inspiration to those around him. His ultimate goal is to become the champion of the world, but along the way, he realizes that the journey is just as important as the destination.
Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion – 2006
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is a mecha anime set in an alternate universe where the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered a large portion of the world, including Japan, which is now known as Area 11. The story follows Lelouch vi Britannia, a young Britannian prince who was exiled to Japan as a child along with his sister Nunnally. After witnessing the brutality of Britannian rule and the death of his mother, Lelouch becomes determined to overthrow the empire and create a world where his sister can live in peace.
Lelouch gains the power of Geass, a supernatural ability that allows him to control the minds of others. Using his new power, Lelouch takes on the identity of the masked vigilante Zero and leads a rebellion against Britannia, fighting alongside a group of rebels known as the Black Knights. However, Lelouch’s actions have consequences, and he soon finds himself embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue as various factions seek to use him for their own ends.
As Lelouch’s power and influence grow, he must confront the harsh realities of war and face the consequences of his actions. He must also grapple with his inner demons as he struggles to reconcile his desire for justice with his ambition and his love for his friends and family.
The story of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is a thrilling and thought-provoking tale of political intrigue, rebellion, and the price of power. It explores themes of morality, identity, and the nature of authority and features an engaging cast of characters, intense action sequences, and shocking plot twists that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Death Note – 2006
Death Note is a psychological thriller anime that centers around a high school student named Light Yagami, who discovers a supernatural notebook known as the Death Note. The notebook belongs to a shinigami named Ryuk, who dropped it into the human world out of boredom.
Light quickly learns that by writing a person’s name in the Death Note while picturing their face, he can cause that person to die of a heart attack. With the power to kill anyone he wishes, Light decides to use the Death Note to rid the world of criminals and create a utopian society where he can reign as a god.
As Light begins his crusade, he attracts the attention of the police and a mysterious detective known only as “L.” A game of cat and mouse ensues as Light and L engage in a battle of wits, trying to outsmart each other and uncover each other’s true identities.
As the body count rises and Light’s megalomania grows, he finds himself increasingly isolated and paranoid, unable to trust anyone, including his own family and friends. He also attracts the attention of a second Kira, a copycat killer who shares his beliefs but has their own agenda.
The story of Death Note is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of morality, justice, and the nature of power. It raises complex questions about the value of human life and the role of authority in society and features an engaging cast of characters and intense psychological battles that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Afro Samurai – 2007
Afro Samurai is a Japanese anime series that follows the story of a young boy named Afro, who witnessed the brutal murder of his father by a gunslinger named Justice when he was just a child. Seeking revenge, Afro trains as a samurai to become strong enough to challenge Justice and take his revenge.
As Afro grows up, he becomes the best samurai in the land, known for his unrivaled sword skills and deadly accuracy. But Justice has also become more powerful and is now known as the number one samurai, making him even harder to defeat.
Afro embarks on a dangerous journey to find Justice and seek his revenge. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, including his sidekick Ninja Ninja, who is always by his side, and his childhood friend Otsuru, who provides him with the emotional support he needs.
The journey takes Afro through a series of intense battles against other powerful samurais who are also seeking the Number One headband, a coveted item that grants its wearer immense power. The battles are fierce, bloody, and brutal, and Afro often finds himself barely surviving. As Afro gets closer to his final battle with Justice, he discovers that the truth behind his father’s murder is more complicated than he thought.
Gintama – 2006
Gintama is an anime series set in an alternate version of feudal Japan, where aliens known as Amanto have invaded and taken over the country, leading to a cultural and technological revolution. The story follows the adventures of Gintoki Sakata, a former samurai who now works as a freelancer, taking on odd jobs to make a living with his friends Shinpachi Shimura, a teenage boy who wears glasses and dreams of becoming a samurai, and Kagura, a young alien girl with superhuman strength.
As they go about their daily lives in Edo, Gintoki and his friends get embroiled in various comedic and action-packed adventures. From taking on dangerous criminals to helping out people in need, they never seem to have a dull moment.
However, things take a serious turn when an underground organization called the Kiheitai starts causing chaos in the city, led by the enigmatic and dangerous Takasugi Shinsuke, a former comrade of Gintoki during the war against the Amanto. Along with other familiar faces from their past, Gintoki and his friends must come together to stop Takasugi and his plans for revenge, even if it means facing their own painful memories and traumas.
Throughout the series, Gintama balances its comedic moments with heartwarming and emotional character arcs, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life. The anime is known for its pop culture references, meta humor, and fourth-wall-breaking moments, making it a unique and beloved addition to the shonen anime genre.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – 2009
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows the journey of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who try to use alchemy to resurrect their deceased mother, resulting in Edward losing his arm and leg while Alphonse loses his entire body, and his soul is bound to a suit of armor. The brothers join the military to search for the Philosopher’s Stone, hoping to restore their bodies. Along the way, they uncover a conspiracy involving a powerful organization and the origins of alchemy. As they face enemies and allies, the brothers realize the true cost of the Stone and the value of human life.
Gurren Lagann – 2007
Gurren Lagann is a mecha anime that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humans live underground in isolated communities, fearing the dangers of the surface. The story follows a young boy named Simon, who discovers a small drill-shaped object and becomes embroiled in a battle against the tyrannical Spiral King and his army of Beastmen.
With the help of his friend Kamina and the rest of Team Dai-Gurren, Simon pilots the mecha Gurren Lagann and leads a rebellion against the Spiral King’s oppressive regime. As they travel across the surface, they encounter various allies and enemies, including the powerful anti-Spiral forces, who aim to prevent the Spiral King’s defeat and the potential destruction of the universe.
The series explores themes of perseverance, bravery, and the power of the human spirit to overcome impossible odds. With its over-the-top action, colorful cast of characters, and epic battles, Gurren Lagann is a beloved addition to the mecha anime genre.
The Garden Of Sinners – 2007
The Garden of Sinners, also known as Kara no Kyoukai, follows the story of Shiki Ryougi, a young woman who possesses the ability to see death and the lines of mortality on everything in the world. When a series of bizarre murders occur in her city, Shiki is hired by a detective agency to investigate the cases. Alongside her partner, Kokuto Mikiya, they unravel the mysteries surrounding the murders, which lead to a dark and supernatural world. The series explores themes of death and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy as Shiki navigates her powers and the consequences of her actions.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed reading our list of the top 10 best 2000s anime. If you have any suggestions, let us know in the comment section. For more anime-related content, visit Cringez.
