Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime from the 2000s to the 2010s
Anime, a cultural treasure Japan has long been proud of.
Some titles become huge hits with film adaptations or even spark trends that define an era.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected popular anime that will feel especially nostalgic for people in their 20s.
Focusing on works from the 2000s to the 2010s, we chose titles whose popularity hasn’t faded.
Some have ongoing series that continue to air today or have been adapted into films.
Take this opportunity to revisit them!
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Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime [2000s–2010s] (21–30)
Kaiketsu Zorori
I’d like to introduce Kaiketsu Zorori as a work familiar to many people.
Not only was the anime a hit, but I imagine quite a few of you also had the original children’s books in your school library.
As for the anime, it’s crafted as a gag series with self-contained, single-episode stories.
Of course, the beloved characters Ishishi and Noshishi make appearances, and you can enjoy their classic banter.
I should also mention that in recent years its social media accounts have been going viral.
Barrier Master
Countless people have shouted “Bind!” and “Annihilate!” in that pose.
The anime Kekkaishi, based on a manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday, began airing in 2006.
Since it occupied the Monday 7 p.
m.
slot, many people probably watched it as a follow-up to shows like Inuyasha and Black Jack 21.
The story follows the protagonist and barrier master Yoshimori Sumimura and his friends as they battle ayakashi.
There’s just something so stirring about a good battle series! By the way, the opening theme “Sha la la – Ayakashi NIGHT -,” sung by Saeka Uura, was written and composed by Koshi Inaba of B’z.
D·N·A² ~That Someone’s Something I Lost Somewhere~
The anime “D·N·A²: Dokoka de Nakushita Aitsu no Aitsu” is based on Masakazu Katsura’s manga and aired in 1994.
It has a strong sci-fi storyline in which Karin Aoi, a DNA operator, travels from the future to modify the DNA of the protagonist, Junta Momonari.
Despite its sci-fi elements, it also unfolds as a romantic comedy, and that contrast drew attention.
It’s also remembered for detailed tidbits, such as having theme songs performed by L’Arc~en~Ciel and Sharan Q just before their big break.
Kirarin☆Revolution
Kirarin Revolution is the story of middle schooler Kirari Tsukishima, who strives to become a true idol.
Originally a manga series by An Nakahara serialized in the magazine Ciao, it was adapted into an anime that aired starting in 2006.
Koharu Kusumi from Morning Musume was cast as the protagonist’s voice actor.
At the time, it was rare for an active idol to voice a character in a TV anime.
Doesn’t it bring back memories of the butterflies from the romance, or the longing for that sparkling youth you felt when you watched it?
Wishing Upon Mirmo!
Mirmo! is a fantasy anime that was broadcast in 16 countries around the world.
It follows the fairy Mirmo and his friends as they deepen their relationship with a human girl, Kaede Minami.
While the show mainly features heartwarming everyday life, it sometimes includes battle scenes and romantic elements as well.
That may be one reason it appeals to such a wide audience.
There are four seasons in total, so check the order as you watch.
By the way, the first season has 78 episodes.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Premiering in 1995, the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion tells the story of boys and girls who pilot giant humanoid weapons called Evangelions to fight mysterious enemies known as Angels.
Far from being just a sci-fi robot anime, it delves deeply into psychological portrayals and philosophical themes, sparking a social phenomenon that extended beyond anime fans of the time.
Its stylish visuals, shocking storyline, and distinctive characters have combined to earn it enduring popularity.
In addition to the TV series, its extensive media expansion—including theatrical films and a manga adaptation—is also part of its appeal.
Yu-Gi-Oh!
The 1998 anime often considered the origin of the series, Yu-Gi-Oh!, is a work whose appeal lies in its horror-tinged atmosphere from the early manga and its thrilling developments.
After the protagonist, Yugi Mutou, solves the ancient Egyptian Millennium Puzzle, a second persona emerges, who judges evil through Shadow Games and resolves incidents.
Not only Yugi’s friends but also the villains are strikingly unique, and their relationships further heighten the drama.
The in-story card game, Magic and Wizards, became the basis for Duel Monsters, which then expanded and led to everything that followed—making this a work that can truly be called the beginning of a legend.