The 1980s were a pivotal decade for the development ofanime, marking the rise of a very distinct and influential style that eventually grew enough to attract a worldwide audience. What made anime from this era stand out most was how it explored adventures and complex themes in a way that felt fresh and uncommon in Western animation.
These are the anime that laid the groundwork for modern anime by inspiring other creators and drawing in viewers. Despite being decades old, they still hold significant cultural value and storylines that shouldn’t be missed. For longtime fans feeling nostalgic or newcomers wanting to explore the classics, some anime from the 1980s are now available on streaming platforms.
8Angel Cop
Produced by Dast Corporation, an Anime Original Created and Directed by Ichirō Itano
Angel Copis a six-episode OVA series set in a dystopian future, following a specialized police unit tasked with fighting violent terrorism and political corruption. The mini-series follows Angel, a member of the Special Security Force, as they track an extremist group known as Red May.
The anime is known for being action-packed and fast-paced, keeping audiences engaged from start to finish. It’s unapologetically brutal, and the characters are complex, creating a strong, unsettling atmosphere to bleed through the screen. The series’ themes are examined through intense confrontations and dilemmas that challenge both Angel and the viewers’ perceptions.
Angel Copis an entertaining and thrilling show that can be streamed on Crunchyroll or Amazon Prime. While not every element aligns with modern sensibilities, the story dives into political commentary and explores themes of justice and power, delivering a dark, thought-provoking narrative that leaves behind a lasting impression.
7Gunbuster
Produced by Gainax, an Anime Original Directed by Hideaki Anno
Gunbusterfollows Noriko Takaya, a young pilot with dreams of protecting humanity from invading alien forces. The six-episode mini-series tracks her rigorous training and growth as she dedicates her life to safeguarding the future. Despite her initial lack of confidence and skills, Noriko proves herself to be a determined young woman.
The series is available to stream on Crunchyroll and isbest known for its intense mecha battlesand coming-of-age story. The mini-series explores themes of loss, time dilation, and personal growth as Noriko overcomes seemingly impossible challenges.Gunbusteris the directorial debut of Hideaki Anno, who is best known for creating and directingNeon Genesis Evangelion.
6City Hunter
Produced by Sunrise, Based on the Manga by Tsukasa Hojo
City Hunterfollows Ryo Saeba, a charismatic yet lecherous private detective who switches between being a womanizer and a serious, deadly investigator when the situation demands it. Ryo takes on a variety of dangerous cases until his partner Makimura is killed, prompting him to team up with his sister, Kaori Makimura, to investigate his death.
The series is best known for its action and slapstick humor.With multiple spin-offs, reboots, and sequels, the originalCity Hunteris rather episodic; however, its underlying themes and details establish it as a nostalgic icon. With its fast-paced action and comedic elements,City Huntercaptures the vibe of ‘80s Japan. The series can be streamed on Crunchyroll.
5Ranma 1/2
Produced by Studio Deen, Based on the Manga by Rumiko Takahashi
Ranma 1/2follows Ranma Saotome, a martial artist cursed to transform into a girl every time he’s splashed with cold water and only reverting to a boy with hot water. The bizarre condition complicates his daily life, especially regarding his arranged marriage with Akane Tendo, a fierce girl who is equally skilled in martial arts.
The story is known for its blend of action and humor, typically revolving around mistaken identities, romantic rivalries, and eccentric characters. While the storyline embraces its chaotic elements, it also explores deeper themes of identity and gender. The original ‘80s anime can be streamed on Hulu.
Ranma 1/2is filled with unforgettable characters and clever humor and is a classic masterpiece. The series was created by Rumiko Takahashi, who is also known forInuyashaandUrusei Yatsura. The series recentlyreceived a modern remake in October 2024that can be found on Netflix.
The series’ unique mix of supernatural elements and relatable struggles makes it timeless and appealing to all ages. Its lively storytelling combines comedy with genuine moments of connection and emotion between the characters, making it much more than a humorous martial arts anime.Ranma 1/2was ahead of its time, which has contributed to its enduring popularity today.
4Fist of the North Star
Produced by Toei Animation, Based on the Manga by Buronson and Tetsuo Hara
Fist of the North Startakes place in a ruined, post-apocalyptic world where nuclear war has left society in chaos. The story follows Kenshiro, a martial artist who is the 64th successor of Hokuto Shinken, a deadly style that targets vital points. In a society fallen into lawlessness and brutality, he aims to protect the innocent and confront rival warlords.
After his fiancée Yuria is abducted by his former friend turned rival, Kenshiro sets out on a journey through the devastated wasteland, despite being told that she was dead, in hopes of reuniting with her. The series is known for its intense action and iconic one-liners and excels at balancing brutality with emotional stakes.
The series explores the true meaning of strength in a world stripped of order, earning its place among classic masterpieces. Best known for its over-the-top violence and action, the series has surprising emotional and thematic depth.Fist of the North Starcan be streamed on Crunchyroll.
3Saint Seiya: Knights of the Zodiac
Produced by Toei Animation, Based on the Manga by Masami Kurumada
Saint Seiya: Knights of the Zodiacfollows a group of young warriors known as the Bronze Saints who are sworn to protect the reincarnation of the goddess Athena. The Bronze Saints wear mystical armor linked to constellations and draw their power from a force called Cosmo to battle against enemies and rival factions that threaten the Earth.
While the series is packed with dramatic battles and elaborate attacks, the story is driven by themes of friendship, sacrifice, determination, resilience, and perseverance, even in the face of overwhelming odds.Saint Seiyais full of emotional depth and unforgettable battle sequences that can be revisited on Crunchyroll.
Saint Seiyais a nostalgic series and one of the titles that introduced many fans to the world of anime. With visually striking animation and a rich narrative rooted in mythology,Saint Seiyais known for its epic battles that remain grounded in emotional stakes and relatable internal struggles, helping to define a generation of anime that still resonates today.
2Dragon Ball Z
Produced by Toei Animation, Based on the Manga by Akira Toriyama
Dragon Balland its sequel,Dragon Ball Z,follow Goku, a Saiyan warrior from Earth.The franchise begins with Goku’s humble beginnings as a cheerful and extraordinarily strong boy who begins a journey to collect the seven Dragon Balls. Along his journey, he forms long-lasting friendships, refines his martial arts skills, and faces off against increasingly powerful enemies.
The original series is immediately followed byDragon Ball Z, in which Goku, now an adult, discovers his Saiyan heritage and faces off against ever-escalating threats from across the universe. While action remains at the forefront of the series,Dragon Ball Zhas also become known for its unforgettable transformations and iconic villains like Frieza and Cell.
Available to stream on Crunchyroll,Dragon BallandDragon Ball Zhelped popularize anime worldwide. Its nostalgic appeal is rooted in its slapstick humor, adventurous spirit, and intense action, which increasingly raises the stakes as the series progresses. Thefranchise has influenced generations of anime fansand creators alike, inspiring countless adaptations, spin-offs, video games, films, and much more.
1Akira
Produced by TMS Entertainment, Based on the Manga by Katsuhiro Otomo
Akirais set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo rebuilt after a devastating event that destroyed the original city, caused by the government after ESP experiments on children went wrong. Decades after the catastrophe, during a time of growing political unrest and gang violence, a young man named Tetsuo develops uncontrollable psychic powers, becoming a greater threat than the original disaster.
The story follows Tetsuo’s childhood friend, Kaneda, the leader of a biker gang, as he attempts to save his friend and prevent a looming disaster. As Tetsuo’s power keeps growing, the line between human and weapon starts to blur, threatening the city’s already fragile stability.
Akirais a groundbreaking anime known for its visually stunning animation quality and thematically dense narrative. The film explores issues of identity and the cost of power in a way that encourages audiences to reflect. At the time of its release,Akirawas pushing the boundaries of what anime could achieve and inspired countless filmmakers and creators worldwide.
Even decades later,Akirais a cinematic experience that holds up by today’s standards and can currently be streamed on Crunchyroll. With its cyberpunk aesthetic, philosophical depth, and intense action sequences,Akirakeeps viewers on the edge of their seats and remains an experience that can’t be missed.
