This is our list of the 13 Best 80s Anime. The 80s was an inaugural decade for anime. Many shows came in this era that set the stage for many shows to come throughout the years. Like how Dragon Ball introduced the world to a new style of action, Grave of the Fireflies started a new genre of drama series. In all forms, it was the 80s that began an era for beautiful shows to come. So, do you feel like going back to that decade again? Then this is the list for you. Thus, without any further ado, here is a list of the 13 Best 80s Anime in no particular order.
Grave of the Fireflies
Let’s begin this list of the 13 Best 80s Anime with one of the most heart-rending anime films of all time- Grave of the Fireflies. This 1988 film tells the story of siblings Seita and Setsuko, who are looking for shelter amid a war crisis in Japan. The struggles of commoners in a war-ridden country are beautifully portrayed in this film. The 80s certainly gave a gem in the form of Grave of the Fireflies.
Dragon Ball Z
The 80s were all about action and drama. And for the people in their middle-age, Dragon Ball Z was another name for the action. Meet Goku and his family of warriors who are looking for seven esteemed Dragon Balls that can grant any wish to the beholder. But this quest also brings many intergalactic villains to earth. Thus, Goku must protect the planet as well as his family from villains like Piccolo and Freeza.
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
Mobile Suit Gundam was a big name in the 20th century. The action anime had multiple reboots and spin-offs that still intrigues fans today. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam follows the story of an intergalactic war that has befallen Earth. Now, soldiers that go by the name of Mobile Suit must take back their lands and defeat these invaders once and for all. If you’re missing the 80s style anime action, then do revisit MSZG.
Captain Tsubasa
The next name on this list of the 13 Best 80s Anime is Captain Tsubasa. This 1983 anime tells the story of the title character, who is the last straw for a losing soccer team. After facing a dipping winning streak, the high school soccer team gets a new captain who is determined to teach these boys a lesson in discipline. This one is a beautiful story of perseverance and hard work that one man does for these players.
Vampire Hunter
The Vampire and Dracula drop was extremely popular during the 80s. While this has not changed a bit even now, the charm of these shows was something else back then. This one tells the story of Abraham Lincoln, whose mother passes away after a vampire attacks them in a lonely street. Thus, this trauma drives him to become a professional Vampire Hunter who vows to eliminate the entire race of these creatures. Do watch this show to witness the 80s style of dark and gritty filmmaking.
Wicked City
The next name on this list of the 13 Best 80s Anime is Wicked City. This one is a science fiction horror show that film that revolves around yet another war between Earth and the Black World. However, after mass destruction and genocide, a peace agreement came into effect. Mayart is the key diplomat who holds the existence of this treaty intact. However, the enemies of peace are looking to kill this demon. The entire plot of Wicked City revolves around the saving of this man.
Dragon Ball
How can we not add Dragon Ball to the list of the 13 Best 80s Anime? The show that is The pioneer of all action Anime must be rewarded with genuine praise and appreciation. Dragon Ball follows Goku and his team of warriors who defend Earth from incoming attacks from alien races. As the story progresses, we learn that Goku is the decedent of the alien race. But his obligations lay with humans now. So, he fights his own people to protect Earth and its residents.
Akira
The next name on this list of the 13 Best 80s Anime is Akira. This 1988 show revolves around Shōtarō Kaneda, who has been a champion of bike racing since childhood. His best friend and companion Tetsuo games a unique ability to foresee future events. What follows is an adventurous quest of these best friends as they challenge the entirety of authorities who are planning and a called war upon the common people.
Gunbuster
Another addition to our list is Gunbuster from the year 1988. Much like other series from this list, this one also follows the story of an intergalactic war between humans and the alien races. This time, the world is battling insect monsters that go by the name of “Space Monsters.” The entire back and forth between the humans and these insects make up for the plot of Gunbuster.
Bubblegum Crisis
Bubblegum Crisis is a 1987 show that got much praise and appreciation when it first came out. The story is set in the year 2032, where humans are still struggling in the aftermath of the Second Great Kanto earthquake. This time, the gap between the rich and the poor has drifted much apart than any other crisis before this. How will Tokyo come out of this crisis? Watch Bubblegum Crisis find out!
My Neighbor Totoro
Anime My Neighbor Totoro is a 1988 film that was once a fan favorite. The story follows a little girl Satsuke and Mei, who is going through a heartbreaking family crisis with an ailing mother. Much like the Black Butler, this show also sees a beautiful bond between these children and a playful spirit called Totoro. Monsters Inc and other similar shows draw inspiration from nowhere but this 80s classic!
Fist Of The North Star
The next name on this list of the 13 Best 80s Anime is Fist Of The North Star. This 1984 show tells the story of the struggling human race that it is persevering to find shelter in their own planet. With a mysterious villain lurking beneath, humans must find a way to eliminate the mistakes of their past. Revealing too much about the show will ruin your watching experience. Thus, it’s upon you to watch this classic and find the mystery yourself.
Ranma 1/2
The last name on this list of the 13 Best 80s Anime is Ranma 1/2. This classic show follows the titular character Ranma Saotome who is struggling with a life-threatening curse. The reason why this is a life or death situation is that he turns into a female almost any moment. Ranma 1/2 is a rather fun and light-hearted watch that is rare from the 80s.
With this, we have come to the conclusion of this list of 13 Best 80s Anime. Which show do you plan on revisiting this month? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment box below. For more such exciting listicles, keep visiting The Anime Daily.
