Masterpiece anime that Heisei-born people feel nostalgic about

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.

Chibi Maruko-chan

maruko chan sub indo (maruko dan andrea)

Based on the manga by Momoko Sakura, this work has continued to be loved by people of all ages since it began airing in 1990, to the point that it can be called a national anime.

Through the perspective of the protagonist, Maruko, nostalgic Showa-era scenery and the small happenings common in childhood are depicted with humor.

A key point is that the main character reflects the author, Momoko Sakura, and together with her distinctive friends, the everyday lives of children at the time are conveyed with a comedic yet realistic touch.

It’s a series that reminds us of the important things in daily life—family bonds, friendships, and the small joys of everyday moments.

Dragon Ball GT

[Official] Dragon Ball GT Episode 1: "Mysterious DB Appears!! Goku Turns Into a Child!?"

Dragon Ball GT, which began airing in 1996, is the sequel to the anime Dragon Ball Z that had been broadcast up to that point.

Since the original manga’s story ends with Dragon Ball Z, people were also interested in what new developments would unfold from there.

The series follows Son Goku, who has been turned back into a child, as he embarks on a space-traveling adventure with his granddaughter Pan and Trunks.

This adventure-centric storyline evokes the early days of the original series.

With encounters with unique characters on various planets, the show offers appeal beyond just the battles.

Yu-Gi-Oh!

[Yu-Gi-Oh!] The results of opening 50 discontinued packs and sending them for grading are insane. [Early Premium Pack 1 / ARS Grading]

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.

China's Number One!

[Episodes 1–3] True Cooking Master Boy Limited-Time Streaming [Official Anime]

Cooking Master Boy depicts Mao, a young chef and the protagonist, as he travels across China, growing through a series of culinary duels with his rivals.

As a cooking anime focused specifically on Chinese cuisine, it offered viewers the joy of discovering new dishes.

Its appeal lies not only in its inventive culinary ideas but also in its distinctive cast of characters—like martial artist–type figures who create delicate dishes, a contrast that adds excitement to the story.

The blend of passion for cooking and action-like cooking scenes draws you deeply into its unique world.

Pocket Monsters

[Official] Anime “Pokémon” Episode 1: “Pokémon! I Choose You!” (Anipoke Selection)

It feels like the Pokémon franchise, which began as a Nintendo game, became a social phenomenon in large part thanks to the anime that started airing in 1997.

The story of the protagonist, Satoshi (Ash), journeying with his partner Pikachu to become a Pokémon Master sparked a spirit of adventure in many children.

The encounters with unique Pokémon, the heated battles, and the bonds with friends are the kind of elements that stir the heart no matter the era.

With each new game release, the anime weaves in fresh elements, and at times looks back on the past—storytelling made possible by its long-running history, which is a big part of its appeal.