These top 10 Japanese anime lists can be very opinionated, but there are really some top choices that have created an influence all across the globe!
- Princess Mononoke - Hayao Miyazaki is a prominent writer, animator, and film director. His name is often synonymous with the late Walt Disney. He has a keen eye for detail and story, and that’s what made Princess Mononoke such a great anime! Although, it was made in 1997, it still has a huge impact and looks ahead of its time!
- Cowboy Bebop - This series was straight to the point; no realfillers during the series. The animation was on point as well as the characters giving the right level of mystique, punch, and panache. What really made this series shine on a number of levels is the music. The music made by legendary composer, Yoko Kanno, gave the anime the right direction and subtly it needed!
- Pokemon - Beside, being a very unique and kid friendly anime, it is one that has transcended a number of countries. With it’s brilliant and warm feeling, it has captivated many homes across the world. It even transcended gaming, movies as well as merchandising!
- Gundam – The art style of the time as well as the voice acting and storyline made it a fan favorite among teenagers as well as adults. It had a very serious tone in contrast with more light hearted, wacky style animes. This was one that could be enjoyed by mature audiences with deep undertones.
- Sailor Moon – This is another solid series that was intended for a younger teenage girl audience, but guys also watched it. It was well made, and had a real impact on the cosplay (costume playing) world as many girls would dress in their favorite sailor scout outfits!
- Akira - From a more science fiction type of role, this would have to be at the top tier! The fact that an anime could influence pop culture with a worldwide known artist like Kanye West is spectacular. He parodied a scene from the movie in his song “Stronger” back in 2007.
- Digimon - Digital Monsters were becoming really popular with devices like Gigapets and Tamagotchi pets. It served as a great alternative to a series such as Pokemon with a more serious overtone.
- Ghost in the Shell - This still remains a popular series to watch. The complex themes as well as the science fiction makes it a very stand out anime.
- Slayers - The series has had a successful run from the early 90s all the way to 2009-2010.
- Dragon Ball (particularly Dragon Ball Z) - From the countless games that come out yearly, a Hollywood movie as well as costumes, it remains a worldwide phenomena! Both kids and adults love this series!