[From 2010 onward] A roundup of anime that teenagers feel nostalgic about

Gundam Build Fighters

Episode 1 | Build Fighters [Ganchan]

The Mobile Suit Gundam series has been loved for a long time.

Among them, Gundam Build Fighters stands out, and for many teens it may be the Gundam of their generation.

Until then, Gundam had a strong image as a “war story,” with people fighting people and robots fighting robots, but Gundam Build Fighters uses Gunpla as its theme.

It tells the story of Sei Iori, the protagonist, getting absorbed in Gunpla Battle, a competitive match where players control their Gunpla.

Influenced by the anime, Gunpla sold out across the country.

Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai

[Watchalong] Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai (2020) Episodes 52–58 [Takane Lui / hololive]

Dai no Daibouken (Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai) is a grand adventure tale about Dai, a boy who dreams of becoming a hero, as he faces powerful foes alongside his companions.

Set in a world of swords and sorcery, it features thrilling battles and a growth-driven drama, making it a great recommendation for upper elementary school kids.

Through clashes with enemies, the story teaches the value of friendship and courage, and each character’s unique personality is part of the appeal.

Beyond the fights, many scenes portray trust among comrades and inner conflicts, making it easy to become emotionally invested.

The original work has been beloved for many years, and its anime adaptation has brought it renewed attention from today’s children.

It’s especially recommended for fans of action and adventure, and it’s sure to spark lively conversations with friends—an exciting, adventure-filled series that fires the imagination.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

[Official] Neon Genesis Evangelion Episode 1: “Angel, Attack”

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.

Fruits Basket

Ritsuko Okazaki - For Fruits Basket

Based on the manga by Natsuki Takaya, Fruits Basket is a work whose popularity is clear from the fact that it was adapted into an anime in 2001 and then remade in 2019.

The story follows the protagonist Tohru Honda, who ends up living in the home of her classmate Yuki Sohma due to an unexpected turn of events, and gradually learns the secrets of the Sohma family through their daily life.

The unique characters themed around the Chinese zodiac, as well as the way each one confronts their personal struggles, are key points of interest.

Its touching portrayal of family bonds and personal growth resonated with a wide audience and earned broad support.

Magic Knight Rayearth

[Episodes 1–3 Pack] Magic Knight Rayearth: “Legendary Magic Knights Activate,” “Presea, Creator of the Silent Forest,” and “The Mysterious Handsome Swordsman, Ferio” (1994)

The anime Magic Knight Rayearth is a fantasy series based on CLAMP’s manga.

It depicts three girls who are summoned to an alternate world called Cephiro and set out on a journey as Magic Knights to save it from crisis.

Set in a realm of swords and sorcery, the story’s appeal lies in how the girls fight and grow.

Another highlight is the beautiful artwork characteristic of CLAMP’s works; the delicate designs further accentuate the worldbuilding.

Along with its theme song, “Yuzurenai Negai” (Unyielding Wish), it’s a title that has surely left its mark on anime history.

Digimon Adventure

[Official] Digimon Adventure Episode 1: "Drifting? The Island of Adventure!"

The anime Digimon Adventure, which aired in 1999, is a story about children who get lost in another world and embark on an adventure.

Their encounters with Digimon in the Digital World, and the way each of them grows and deepens their bonds throughout their journey, resonated with viewers.

The unique personalities and action of the Digimon are part of the appeal, and the emotion and intensity come through especially strongly in the evolution scenes.

The children each struggle with their own issues, and many viewers likely related to watching them move forward while grappling with their worries.

Revolutionary Girl Utena

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening

Revolutionary Girl Utena, which aired in 1997, is a work that depicts the struggles of a girl named Utena Tenjou, who admires princes and wishes to become one herself.

Beyond its experimental direction and avant-garde visual expression, it drew attention for exploring universal and profound themes such as adolescent turmoil, sexuality, and questioning established values.

Perhaps the greatest appeal of the series lies in the human drama woven by its distinctive characters, including the protagonist Utena and Anthy.

Even those who found it hard to understand at the time may discover new insights when they revisit it as adults.