Top 50 Best 80s Anime Of All Time

Get ready for an unforgettable epic: "Legend of the Galactic Heroes," an OVA series that stands out as a cornerstone of anime history. Debuting in 1988 with a remarkable 110 episodes, it swiftly became a touchstone of classic storytelling.

Based on a novel by Tanaka Yoshiki and illustrated by Katou Naoyuki and Kamoshita Yukihisa, this series delves deep into the sprawling struggle between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance.

The rise of a new generation of leaders signals a major shift in an ongoing interstellar war. Reinhard von Lohengramm, an ambitious figure within the Empire, dreams of unifying humanity under one authority, while Yang Wenli defends democracy and opposes aristocratic rule.

As their competing philosophies clash, these two extraordinary strategists must unravel the complex origins of the turmoil and warfare threatening the cosmos.

Widely acclaimed by both critics and fans, "Legend of the Galactic Heroes" remains one of the most highly regarded anime series ever, currently holding the impressive #6 spot on MyAnimeList's rankings.

If you've been waiting for the right time to experience this masterpiece, there's no better moment than now to add it to your watchlist.

"Grave of the Fireflies" is a poignant masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, released in 1988. Adapted from Akiyuki Nosaka's novel, the film is deeply influenced by his firsthand experiences during and after the American firebombing of Kobe in 1945.

Directed by Isao Takahata, the story centers on Seita and his younger sister Setsuko, who become orphans after losing everything in the ravages of war. Forced to navigate a harsh world on their own, the siblings face the emotional coldness and indifference of the adults around them.

As Seita and Setsuko journey through their hardships, they come to realize how extreme circumstances can transform even compassionate people into distant or unkind strangers. Despite these challenges, their resilience and hope shine through each day.

The film has earned widespread acclaim, winning the 1988 Japan Catholic Film Award, the Grand Prix at the 1st Moscow International Children's and Youth's Film Festival, a Special Award at the 31st Blue Ribbon Awards in 1989, and recognition at the 1994 Chicago International Children's Film Festival.

Widely celebrated for its emotional depth and unforgettable visuals, "Grave of the Fireflies" stands as a must-see film for anime fans. Brace yourself for a moving experience that lingers long after the story ends.

"Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind," released in 1984, is an anime film adaptation based on the renowned manga of the same name.

The manga was both written and illustrated by Hayao Miyazaki, who also served as the film’s director. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by the disastrous 'Seven Days of Fire,' the story unfolds in a landscape struggling to recover.

Decades after the cataclysm, a toxic jungle dominates much of the planet, rendering it nearly uninhabitable for humans. Nausicaä, the empathetic leader of the Valley of the Wind, guides her people in coexisting with this dangerous yet fascinating ecosystem.

The valley's fragile peace unravels when an airship crash-lands nearby, transporting the remnants of fearsome Giant Warriors. Soon after, a rival nation invades, determined to eradicate the toxic forest, convinced that destruction is their only hope for survival.

Despite the mounting tension, Nausicaä seeks peaceful coexistence with both the human factions and the forest’s giant insects. She courageously steps forward to prevent violence and restore the vital balance of her world.

The film received the Ōfuji Noburō Award at the 1984 Mainichi Film Awards and also won Best Short Film at the Fantafestival in 1985.

With its captivating adventure and deep emotional resonance, "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind" has remained a cherished classic, its enduring popularity a testament to its timeless appeal.

Calling all sports anime enthusiasts: get ready to experience a timeless classic! "Ashita No Joe" is a legendary series that began as a beloved manga, written by Kajiwara Ikki and illustrated by Chiba Tetsuya. It has inspired and captivated fans across multiple generations.

The story follows Joe, a rebellious but fiercely determined young man with few prospects in life. While he might seem unremarkable at first, Joe’s undeniable talent and indomitable spirit distinguish him from the crowd.

Joe’s raw determination becomes evident when he bravely confronts a gang on his own. His tenacity catches the eye of a seasoned coach, who sees his potential and offers to train him as a professional boxer.

Initially reluctant, Joe eventually accepts the challenge and embarks on a journey to become Japan’s top boxer. His path is filled with personal growth, tough rivals, and memorable showdowns.

"Ashita No Joe" became an immediate favorite upon release, leaving a lasting mark and paving the way for future sports anime. If you’re seeking an influential and enduring series, look no further than this unforgettable masterpiece.

"Kiki's Delivery Service" is a cherished anime film from 1989, crafted by renowned director Hayao Miyazaki and adapted from a beloved novel. The story centers on Kiki, a young witch-in-training, as she embarks on her journey toward independence in a bustling new town.

Feeling lonely in an unfamiliar place where she knows no one, Kiki finds solace when Osono, a generous bakery owner, offers her a room. However, there's a catch—Kiki must help out by making deliveries for the bakery.

Through her daily deliveries, Kiki grows more confident and learns to adapt to her new environment. Her adventures are filled with meaningful lessons, exploring themes of responsibility, resilience, and self-discovery as she overcomes various challenges.

This enduring Studio Ghibli classic captivates audiences worldwide with its wholesome narrative and heartfelt depiction of growing up. Notably, "Kiki's Delivery Service" won the 1989 Animage Anime Grand Prix Award.

If you've yet to experience this uplifting film, it's a must-see addition to any anime watchlist.

"Castle in the Sky" is a cherished romantic adventure film released in 1986, directed by the acclaimed Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows Sheeta, a young girl who becomes the target of government agents due to her mysterious crystal amulet. Amidst her abduction, sky pirates unexpectedly intervene, providing Sheeta with a chance to escape.

After her escape, Sheeta encounters Pazu, a boy with dreams of finding the mythical floating castle of Laputa. Drawn together by fate, Sheeta and Pazu set off on an extraordinary journey into the skies, in pursuit of the enigmatic castle that intertwines their destinies.

Fun Fact: "Castle in the Sky" was awarded the prestigious Animage Anime Grand Prix in 1986. Revered as a masterpiece from "the Disney of Japan," it rightfully holds a treasured place on every anime enthusiast's watchlist.

If you're part of the anime community, you've likely come across the cherished film My Neighbor Totoro. Released in 1988, this iconic anime movie continues to enchant audiences and remains a timeless favorite.

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the film follows Tatsuo Kusakabe and his daughters, Mei and Satsuki, as they relocate to the countryside. Their move brings them closer to the hospital where the girls' mother is recuperating.

Amid their new surroundings, the sisters discover fascinating mysteries. Mei stumbles upon a small creature, which leads her to meet Totoro—a gentle spirit of the forest. Soon, Satsuki encounters Totoro too, and together, the girls experience a series of magical adventures.

Renowned for its heartfelt storytelling and enchanting ambiance, the film has earned numerous honors. These include the Grand Prix at the Animage Anime Awards, the Special Award at the 31st Blue Ribbon Awards, Best Japanese Film at the Kinema Junpo Awards, and multiple Mainichi Film Awards, including Best Film, Reader's Choice, and the Ofuji Noburo Award.

Given its accolades and enduring charm, it's clear why My Neighbor Totoro is considered essential viewing for anime fans of all ages.

Maison Ikkoku is a classic anime series from 1986, consisting of 96 episodes. Adapted from Rumiko Takahashi’s acclaimed manga of the same name, it remains one of her most celebrated works thanks to its heartfelt storytelling and memorable cast of characters.

Set in the quirky Clock Hill neighborhood, the series follows Yuusaku Godai, a young man enduring the antics of his eccentric roommates at the Maison Ikkoku boarding house. Eager to escape his chaotic life, Godai’s plans change dramatically with the arrival of a new manager.

Kyoko Otonashi, the new manager, quickly makes a lasting impression on Godai. Captivated by her charm, he begins a touching pursuit of her affection—even as she struggles to move on from the loss of her husband after only six months of marriage.

Although Kyoko initially resists the idea of loving again, Godai’s unwavering devotion gradually begins to reach her. If you love romantic, character-driven stories, this timeless seinen series is a must-watch and will surely earn a place on your list of favorites.

It's almost impossible not to recognize this legendary series. Dragon Ball made its debut in 1986, airing 153 episodes that left an everlasting impact on the world of anime.

Inspired by Akira Toriyama's iconic manga, the anime adaptation masterfully brings his imaginative universe and memorable characters to life. For those new to Dragon Ball, here's a glimpse into its captivating narrative.

The story centers on a spirited young boy named Goku. His life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Bulma, an ambitious girl on a quest for the mystical Dragon Balls—magical orbs said to grant any wish to their possessor.

Bulma, driven by her wish for the perfect boyfriend, joins forces with Goku, who already holds one of the Dragon Balls. On their adventure, they team up with martial arts master Roshi and his enthusiastic disciple, Krillin, plunging into a journey full of danger and excitement.

Under Master Roshi's rigorous training, Goku and Krillin dream of becoming the world's strongest fighters. Together, they protect the Dragon Balls from those with selfish desires, forging deep friendships and facing epic battles along the way.

Dragon Ball not only redefined the shounen genre but also became a cornerstone of global pop culture. Decades after its first airing, it remains an essential and beloved watch for anime fans of every generation.

"Touch" stands as a cherished anime adaptation of Adachi Mitsuru's acclaimed manga, weaving an engaging tale of youthful romance and rivalry. At its core is a compelling love triangle between Uesugi Kazuya, his twin brother Tatsuya, and their childhood friend, Asakura Minami.

Kazuya is admired for his dedication and natural talent, often earning praise from those around him. Contrastingly, Tatsuya, with his more relaxed demeanor, tends to be overshadowed by his brother. Despite the admiration Kazuya receives, Minami appreciates both twins equally, valuing each for their unique qualities.

While Tatsuya loyally supports his brother's successes, he quietly struggles with the possibility of losing Minami to Kazuya. This emotional conflict leads both brothers to seek Minami's affection, even as they strive to help her fulfill her own aspirations.

"Touch" is widely celebrated as a classic in the romance and shounen genres, captivating audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and memorable characters. If you are drawn to emotional love stories set against the backdrop of youth and ambition, this anime deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Coming up on our list is a classic anime movie from the beloved Urusei Yatsura franchise. Released in 1984 and running for one hour and thirty-five minutes, "Urusei Yatsura Movie 2: Beautiful Dreamer" stands out as a notable entry among 80s anime films.

This film adapts the original manga created by Takahashi Rumiko, blending her signature humor and surreal storytelling. Set in the peculiar town of Tomobiki, where nothing is ever truly normal, the story quickly takes an unusual turn.

The narrative follows a group of students energetically preparing for their school fair, scheduled for the next day. However, they soon notice reality itself has started to unravel, and they remain stuck waiting for the elusive 'next day.'

As the students search for answers, they are confronted with questions about what is real and what might be a dream. The movie invites viewers to contemplate the boundaries between reality and imagination. No wonder Urusei Yatsura was a sensation during its time.

With its unique and thought-provoking narrative, it's easy to see why "Beautiful Dreamer" remains so highly regarded among anime fans.

Get ready for another classic, as our next entry is the unforgettable "City Hunter." This 51-episode TV series originally aired in 1987 and is adapted from the beloved manga of the same name.

Created and illustrated by Hojo Tsukasa, the story centers around Ryou Saeba, a key member of the renowned group known as "City Hunter." Operating under the call sign "XYZ," the group is prepared to take on any job for those in need.

Ryou, known for his sharp shooting skills with a Colt Python, teams up with Kaori Makimura. Together, they face a variety of dangerous cases, relying on both brains and bravery to get the job done.

When they're not tracking down criminals, Ryou has a wandering eye for beautiful women, though Kaori is always there to keep him grounded. Whether it’s an impossible crime or a daunting mission, the City Hunters are up for the challenge.

For anyone longing for the excitement and style of classic anime, "City Hunter" is a must-watch that stands tall among the greats of the 1980s.

Let's delve into one of the most influential series in the legendary Gundam franchise: Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam. This 50-episode television classic premiered in 1985, directed by Tomino Yoshiyuki and brought to life by Studio Sunrise.

The story unfolds in Universal Century 0087, after the conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. In an effort to eliminate remaining Zeon forces, the Federation establishes a special unit known as the Titans.

However, the Titans soon become oppressive, leading to the rise of the Anti-Earth Union Group. The main protagonist, Kamille Bidan, becomes entangled in danger after assaulting a Titan officer and stealing a Gundam suit.

These bold actions thrust Kamille into a series of intense conflicts and battles for survival. Will he manage to make it through? This suspense is just a glimpse of the impact the Gundam franchise had on the mecha genre.

If you're eager to experience some of the groundbreaking anime from the 1980s, Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam is an essential addition to your watchlist.

Adding to our list of iconic Mecha anime, we have Gunbuster—a classic six-episode OVA from Gainax Studios. Directed by Hideaki Anno, this original series takes place in a future where humanity has achieved interstellar space travel.

During their cosmic explorations, humans encounter a menacing insectoid alien race known as the 'Space Monsters.' Their sinister goal is nothing less than the total destruction of Earth. In response, humanity develops giant robots as their primary means of defense.

Noriko Takaya, the daughter of a legendary pilot, enrolls in an elite school to learn robot piloting. However, Noriko struggles to live up to her father's reputation and finds herself partnered with the exceptionally gifted Kazumi Amano.

Together, Noriko and Kazumi must battle not only the alien threat but also their own personal challenges and emotions. Mecha fans will no doubt appreciate this remarkable addition to the list, as Gunbuster embodies the spirit and excitement of the genre.

We hope you're enjoying this Mecha-filled countdown as much as we are, dedicated fans!

"Omae Wa Mou Shinderu!" As an anime fan, chances are you have heard this iconic phrase at least once—or perhaps countless times. But do you know the origins of these unforgettable words?

They hail from the classic series Fist of the North Star, a 109-episode TV anime that first aired in 1984. This series is an adaptation of the popular manga written by Buronson and illustrated by Tetsuo Hara.

The story is set in the year 199X, in a world ravaged by nuclear war. The once-blue seas have vanished, the earth is cracked and barren, and most living species have perished completely.

Despite the devastation, humanity struggles to survive in a harsh world with no civilization or laws. Only might makes right—those with power dominate the weak, and food and water are the greatest treasures.

Amidst this chaos, a mysterious warrior named Kenshirou wanders the wasteland, wielding a deadly martial art. In a place where justice is rare, can Kenshirou become the hero the oppressed desperately need?

Upon its release, the series was a major success and remains highly influential even today. If you love classic shounen anime, Fist of the North Star is an unmissable masterpiece.

"Silver Fang" is a 21-episode TV series that originally aired in 1986. The anime adapts the popular manga written and illustrated by Takahashi Yoshihiro.

The story centers on Gin, a courageous silver Tora-ge pup named for his brilliant coat. Not long after his birth, Gin witnesses the tragic murder of his father, Riki, at the claws of Akakabuto—a fearsome wild bear that demolishes everything in its path. Driven by this trauma, Gin sets out to assemble a brave band of dogs ready to take on Akakabuto.

Their fight is not just a battle of strength, but one destined to end a conflict spanning three generations. "Silver Fang" delivers powerful themes of loyalty, courage, and perseverance, making it far more moving than a typical animal adventure. If you're looking for an emotional, action-packed series with endearing characters, "Silver Fang" is a must-watch.

Looking for more mecha action? "Super Dimensional Fortress Macross" has you covered. This 36-episode TV series first aired in 1982, directed by Ishiguro Noboru and brought to life by Tatsunoko Production. The story begins when a mysterious spaceship crashes on Earth, revealing the existence of extraterrestrial life to humanity.

In response, people worldwide unite under a new United Nations organization. This group refits the crashed vessel, naming it SDF-1 Macross, preparing for possible contact with alien civilizations.

However, just as Macross is set to launch, the alien Zentradi attack. In the chaos, SDF-1 Macross accidentally triggers an interstellar war by firing on an enemy ship.

Attempting to escape, Macross tries to launch into the Moon's orbit. Instead, the battleship—and the entire city—are teleported to an unknown region of space. How will the crew of Macross and the citizens trapped aboard survive in this unfamiliar and perilous environment?

"Macross" stands as a landmark classic in the mecha genre, leaving a legacy that shaped countless series to come. If you're passionate about mecha anime, this one definitely deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Tenshi no Tamago transports viewers to a surreal and hauntingly quiet world, far removed from ordinary life and its distractions.

Within this strange landscape, you'll encounter mesmerizing sights—floating orbs with goddess statues, massive unmanned tanks, ghostly fishermen hunting unseen creatures, and caverns lined with delicate glass vessels brimming with water.

Amidst the desolation, a young girl cares for a mysterious egg while searching for food. Her fateful meeting with an enigmatic man carrying a cross propels them on a journey to explore their deteriorating surroundings. Together, they engage in deep conversations about faith, the purpose of existence, and the mysteries behind their own creation.

Ranma Saotome is a gifted martial artist and a prodigy of the Saotome "Anything-Goes" school. His life takes a dramatic turn during a training trip to China, where an unexpected accident changes everything.

After falling into a cursed spring, Ranma and his father become victims of a peculiar curse—Ranma transforms into a girl when splashed with cold water, while his father turns into a panda.

Complicating matters further, Ranma's father arranges for his son to marry one of Soun Tendo's three daughters, a union essential to the future of the Tendo dojo.

Despite being aware of Ranma's unusual predicament, Soun moves forward with the engagement, choosing Akane—the youngest daughter famed for her martial arts skills and notorious dislike of men.

"Armored Trooper Votoms" stands as a standout mecha series from the 1980s, earning its place among the era's best. This 52-episode television anime first aired in 1983 and quickly captured the attention of sci-fi fans worldwide.

The show is an original production directed by Takahashi Ryousuke and animated by the renowned Studio Sunrise. Set in a war-torn universe, it follows the disillusioned soldier Chirico Cuvie, who struggles to find motivation amid endless conflict.

Cuvie's story takes a twist when he's assigned to steal secret information, only to discover that his mission leads him to infiltrate his own nation's base. Suddenly, he is faced with the dilemma of betraying his homeland in a web of espionage and intrigue.

As part of his mission, Cuvie encounters a mysterious woman holding the key to a politically sensitive secret—one so valuable that the enemy will stop at nothing to protect it. The stakes quickly escalate, putting Cuvie in grave danger.

Will Cuvie manage to survive against all odds in this relentless, life-or-death struggle? With its gripping story and immersive mecha action, "Armored Trooper Votoms" remains a must-watch for fans of classic anime. Don’t miss this hidden gem if you haven’t seen it yet.

Coming from the year 1982, we have yet another space adventure series in the form of Space Adventure Cobra. This 1hr 40min movie is adapted from a manga named Cobra.

The manga was written and illustrated by Terasawa Buichi. The story revolves around a notorious pirate who goes by the name of Cobra. Cobra is enlisted by a bounty hunter named Jane.

Jane asks him to save her sister from a strange being. This strange being is called Crystal Boy. However, after getting involved in this, Cobra finds himself drawn into something unexpected.

He now has to take care of the fate of the mysterious wandering planets. What his destiny has in store for him? This is another space, a sci-fi series that you can add to your never-ending watchlist.

If you are someone who likes Historical Drama then this one might spark your interest. Barefoot Gen is an anime movie adaptation of its Manga counterpart that aired back in 1983.

The manga was written and illustrated by Nakazawa Keiji. The movie was animated by Studio Madhouse. The story revolves around the Japan and USA war that took place back in the day.

Our protagonist Gen tries his level best to make sure that his family survives. Due to the scarcity of food, his family is malnourished including his pregnant mother. In these tough times, Gen and his little brother Shinji must work hard for their family in Hiroshima.

However, his life is about to change completely as soon, as Hiroshima will experience its unfortunate fate. This movie won the Oufuji Noburou Award at the Mainichi Film Awards back in 1983.

This compelling award and realistic expression make this movie, a great watch for any drama lovers.

Up next, we have one of the most renowned anime series of all time, Saint Seiya. This 114-episode-long OVA series aired back in 1986. It is an anime adaptation of its Manga counterpart.

The Manga is written and illustrated by Kurumada Masami. The story revolves around a group of extremely strong young men called Saints. Saints devote their lives to protecting Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom and War.

A new generation of Saints is showing up in the present time. Seiya is one of the individuals fighting hard for the Armor Of Pegasus. After years of hard work and determination, Seiya finally succeeds to make it a Saint.

However, this victory marks the beginning of a new journey. A journey filled with problems, obstacles, and life-threatening dangers. Will Seiya and his fellow Saints be able to protect Athena?

Fun Fact: Saint Seiya won the 1987 Animage's Anime Grand Prix Award. If you haven't watched this classic, you are missing out.

Let's talk about some action, adventure, romance shounen. And what better one to talk about than Igano Kabamaru? This 24-episode TV series aired back in 1983. It is an adaptation of a manga of the same name.

The manga was written and illustrated by Azuki Yuu. The story is just as it sounds. A young man named Kabamaru from Iga. After his Grandfather's death, he was adopted by a lady.

His Grandfather was a sensei in Iga and he asked this lady to adopt his grandson. This lady now takes him to Tokyo where Kabamaru is supposed to have a normal life.

However, things are not as simple as they initially seem. Thus, begins the journey with Kabamaru in this new world. Filled with action, comedy, and adventure, this series is a great one to have fun with from the old era.

This entry is an interesting one. We have opening animations of Daicon. These 2 special episodes aired back in 1981. They were animated by Studio Gainax and directed by Yamaga Hiroyuki.

These episodes involve an unnamed girl who is entrusted with a glass of water. She is supposed to use that glass and water a radish. However, this simple task includes a lot of fictional beings like lizardmen, Mecha, etc.

Will she survive this situation!? The next episode is about the same girl who has grown up now. She fights with monsters all around the galaxy using her lightsaber and saves the day.

Daicon III and IV were created as a grand tribute to science fiction. If you are a fan of this genre, I don't see a reason for you to NOT watch it.

Picking up the next spot on our list, we have Arcadia Of My Youth. This space adventure movie aired back in 1982. It is an adaptation of the Senjou Manga series.

The manga was written and illustrated by Matsumoto Leiji. Our planet is invaded by evil monsters from Illumidus Empire. Captain Harlock with his team begins his journey to fight this empire.

With the idea of restoring the freedom of Earth, the journey of Captain Harlock tackles the most difficult hurdles. Will they be able to bring back Earth's liberty? A great sci-fi series is always appreciated by fans.

Even back in the day, these genres had so many great installments and this is one of them.

This 34-episode TV series aired from 1980-1981. It was done by the renowned Toei Animation. Ganbare Genki is an anime adaptation of a manga of the same name. The manga was written and illustrated by Koyama Yuu.

The story focuses on Horiguchi Genki, a boy who lost his mother at the time of his birth. His father, who was a professional boxer, took care of him from the beginning.

Later on, his father also faces death and Genki gets adopted by his Grandparents. Keeping his father as an idol, Genku desires to be a professional boxer as well. Although his grandparents have been against boxing, Genki continues to train and become stronger.

Thus the story follows his journey as a kid who dreams to be a professional boxer. Ganbare Genki has a different approach toward the sports element in anime. If sports anime have been your favorite, Ganbare Genki would be a great add-up.

Adding up to our list, we have this beautiful shounen romance series called Kimagure Orange Road. This 48-episode-long TV series aired back in 1987. It's an anime adaptation of a Manga of the same name.

The manga was written and illustrated by Matsumoto Izumi. The love triangle-ish story is put up in the series. Kyousuke Kasuga is our protagonist who is in love with Madoka Ayukawa.

This love took birth, right after his appearance in his new city. The problem is that Madoka treats Kasuga in a really cold manner. However, Hikaru Hiyama is the one who likes Kasuga after she saw him make an impossible basketball shot.

But to make matters even more interesting, Kasuga and his family members are blessed with some superpowers like teleportation, time travel, hypnosis, etc. Although Kasuga avoids using these powers in public, his family members don't share the same sentiment.

Thus, begins the humorous and fun-filled story of Kasuga and his life in this new city. The new plot device added to the show makes it worth watching.

Drawing loose inspiration from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Sherlock Holmes" series, "Sherlock Hound" transforms the beloved characters into canines.

The brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes, along with his faithful companion Watson and the housemaid Mrs Hudson, join forces to solve a multitude of mysteries.

Frequently, their investigations lead them to the mischievous Professor Moriarty and his gang, who employ eccentric gadgets to carry out their thieving escapades.

Shoujo fans, listen up. I have another fantastic series for you all. This time it's Glass Mask. This 23-episode TV series aired back in 1984. It is an anime adaptation of its Manga counterpart.

The manga was written and illustrated by Miuchi Suzue. The series revolves around an acting prodigy named Maya Kitajima who gets scouted by actress Tsukikage. Thus, begins the adventure of Maya as an actress in the entertainment industry.

The story then focuses on Himekawa Ayumi who is Maya's biggest rival. And their meeting takes place for the most sought-after role of the Crimson Goddess. A romantic plot is cooking behind Maya and Hayami Masumi, who just so happens to be her biggest fans.

However, their meetings always lead to misunderstandings and chaos. What's up on the journey for Maya? Make sure to find it out yourself!

Shounen Fanboys I have good news for you. The next entry on our list is an action martial arts series named Sakigake!! Otokojuku. This 34-episode TV series aired back in 1988.

It is an anime adaptation of a Manga of the same name. The manga was written and illustrated by Miyashita Akira. Otokojuku is a private school for juvenile delinquents. These individuals were expelled from normal schools and thus end up here.

Using feudal and military fundamentals, Japanese Chivalry is taught at this school. As shown in a lot of movies, the classes are filled with violence and brute force. The one who surpasses it all would be considered a True Man.

If you like your action-comedy series with great fights, make sure to take a look at this work.

Adieu, Galaxy Express 999 is a movie that aired in 1981. It's an anime movie adaptation of its Manga counterpart. The manga was written and illustrated by Matsumoto Leiji.

The movie was directed by Rintaro. It revolves around Tetsuro Hoshino, who wants to avenge the death of his mother. His mother was killed by the evil Count Mecha. However, to kill Count Mecha, he needs to board a three-nine.

And Tetsuro is willing to give up everything to do that. After the events of Galaxy Express 999, Tetsuro is called back for three-nine. Thus begins his journey to find some of the darkest truths that his world needs to offer.

This narrative seems interesting, doesn't it? If it does, you should check out this old yet fine anime.

This 46-episode anime aired back in 1983. It was also one of the first Mecha anime out there. Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam is an original anime from Studio Sunrise. This anime was directed by Kanda Takeyuki.

Being set in AD 2058, the anime is about the journey of the residents of Clayad. Clayad is the 3rd planet of the Ypserlon system. Moreover, it is 43 light-years away from planet Earth.

However, all of a sudden, there is an alien invasion on the planet of Clayad. The residents of the Planet decide to leave the planet and reach out to another one.

However, during this commotion, the children got strayed from their parents. Luckily, these children get on the training ship named Janous. By striving hard and sacrificing a ton, they managed to get to the 4th planet named Belwick.

However, Belwick is already in a state of war. Therefore, these children now decide to go back to planet earth. But how easy is this voyage going to be? Will these kids make it there alive?

This series was one of the first Mecha/Space anime out there. Thus, it will give you a great idea of what the beginning of the genres looked like.

Another Mecha anime up on our list, we have Armor Hunter Mellowlink. This 12-episode OVA series is an original work that aired back in 1988. It was directed by Kanda Takeyuki and the episodes were directed by Watanabe Shinichiro.

The story focuses on Mellowlink Arity who was the sole survivor of a squad. This squad was killed and sacrificed as scapegoats. This was done for the sake of the military resources of the 100 years' war.

With the idea of Vengeance in Mind, Mellowlink swears to kill every one of those police officers who betrayed his comrades. On this vengeance, he might uncover the actual truth behind this entire plot.

This mecha anime has a serious tone that explores itself well. If it sparks your interest, you can go ahead and prepare a watch.

Mecha fans I have good news for you. This is another mecha entry on our list named Giant Gorg. This 26 episodes original anime aired back in 1984. It is directed by Yasuhiko Yoshikazu and animated by Studio Sunrise.

The story focuses on Yuu, a boy who was sent to America after his father's death. In America, Yuu used to stay with Doctor Wave. Doctor Wave is a friend of Yuu's father who is also researching the lost islands of New Austral.

However, on the first meeting of Yuu, Doctor Wave and his sister Doris were attacked with a slamming ball. It is assumed that the organization GAIL is after New Austral as well and they want to endure that Doctor Wave doesn't end up their first.

But instead of losing hope or calm, Doctor Wave gathers a team to find the secrets of New Austral. Will he along with his team be able to realize the truth in one piece?

A great sci-fi, mecha series awaits you in the form of Giant Gorg. This opportunity is well worth it.

Very rarely do we come across a sci-fi, shoujo movie like They Were Eleven which was released in 1986. It is an anime movie adaptation of a Manga of the same name.

The manga was written and illustrated by Hagio Moto. The story is set in a world where universal peace has been established. And with that, there is also the presence of the most elite school in existence called Cosmo University.

A University that guarantees the students any job they wish for. However, this exam is held once in three years. This makes the competition much harder. Lane Tadatos managed to get to the final stage of the examination.

However, in actuality, they are supposed to stay alive for 53 days on a ship named Esperanza. In a group of 10, they are sent to Esperanza. However, in actuality, the group had 11 members.

This means that one of them is a wolf amongst sheep. Having such an interesting narrative is compelling in itself. So if you want some thriller space anime, this movie might be for you!

Next up, we have an anime adaptation of a picture book, Little Nemo. Little Nemo is an anime movie adaptation based on the renowned Nemo comic strips by Winsor McCay.

He is considered the pioneer of animation. The story revolves around Nemo who used to get innumerable nightmares. But her bedtime experience was about to change as she was invited to the wonderful Slumberland.

A place where anything is possible! In Slumberland, Nemo is summoned by King Morpheus to be his daughter's playmate. King also provides Nemo with a key. A key that can open any door in the Kingdom.

However, King states that he mustn't open the door with the Key's sign on it. He says that it is a door filled with nightmares. What exactly lies behind the door?

Little Nemo was the First Japanese Anime Movie to receive a nationwide U. S. theatrical release. If that doesn't tell you how exceptional it was, then I am confused about what will.

All those who adore Historical Drama, open up your eyes and read this entry, we have Hi No Ame Ga Furu. This anime movie aired back in 1988. It was directed by Arihara Seiji and animated by Mushi Production.

This is an anti-war anime movie adapted from a book. The book contained modern accounts of the fire-bombing. It's about the incidents when a fatal fire-bombing took place in the city of Fukuoka on June 19.

Being based on such a book, it is bound to have a lot of emotions and sentiments involved in it. So if you like your human drama-heavy series then this movie might be for you.

One of the oldest anime based on the Vampire Setting, we have Vampire Hunter D. This movie was released back in 1985. The anime is an adaptation of a novel series.

This novel series is written by Hideyuki Kikuchi. The story is set in the future where the world is ruled by Vampires and Demon Lords. A young girl named Doris comes under the radar of Count Magnus Lee.

The count is a Vampire Lord who wants Doris as his plaything. After she gets bitten by Count, Doris tries to seek help from Vampire Hunter D. Vampire Hunter D decides to help this girl by killing the Vampire Lord and his underlings.

Will he be able to put an end to Doris's misery? It is an old anime movie based on a very popular Vampire setting so if you want some old series that depicts the early stages of Vampires and Demons, Vampire Hunter D should be your choice.

Vampire anime are awesome to watch as they provide so many fantasy-filled insights about vampires and their ways.

This Historical drama special episode aired back in 1982. It is adapted from a novel and directed by Yoshikawa Souji. The story focuses on White Fang who was born on the planes of Alaska.

He was born to a wolf father and half wolf and half-dog mother. One day, white fang and his mother come across Mitsah who has always dreamed of having a dog.

Fortunately, the wolves end up with the humans and stay in Alaska. However, life in Alaska is no joke. Therefore, the humans and wolves face a lot of hardships throughout.

The story is about these hardships and human nature in such an extreme situation. If drama is something that makes you happy then this single episode would work for you!

Make sure to have a look.

A lost movie from the '80s has made it to our list, Oshin. Oshin is a historical drama movie that aired back in 1984. It was directed by Yamamoto Eiichi.

The story is about a 7-year-old girl named Oshin who comes from a family of poor farmers. Her father and brother are working hard to make a living. On the other hand, her mother and grandmother are expecting another child when they barely get to eat themselves.

Due to this horrible situation, Oshin decides to help her family out. To do so, she leaves her school and becomes a servant at a wealthy family's house. There, she faces challenges and problems that were far bound by her expectations.

This movie is an emotional roller coaster that might bring tears to your eyes. If you ever get your hands on it, that is.

We have a Shoujo series up next weebs. It's Shouwa Ahozoushi Akanuke Ichiban. This 22-episode TV series aired back in 1985. It was animated by Tatsunoko Production. It focuses on Koujirou residing in Hokkaido.

He shifts to Tokyo Japan and wishes to bring Hikarikin with him. Hikarikin is Koujirou's horse. Koujirou receives a belt from Alien King Rel that would allow him to turn into a Miracle Hero.

This miracle hero is supposed to save the world from aliens. However, he is more interested in impressing Yuka. Still, his rival Michinari is after her as well. Which of the two would get miss beautiful?

This anime is one of the oldest Shoujos out there. So if shoujo is your jam, this anime can make you happy!

Yuki is an animated movie adaptation of a book. The movie is directed by Imai Tadashi. It is about the story of Yuki who is sent to earth by her parents in heaven.

She is on a mission to save a village from Bandits and their attack. Once Yuki becomes a part of the village, she intends to save the orphans and farmers from Bandits as well as Goemon, the landlord.

However, her biggest challenge arrives when the Demon God residing in the volcano decides to destroy everything underneath. How will Yuki and the others survive the predicament? Let's find out!

This is a wholesome adventure fantasy series that would give you an idea of how simply beautiful anime used to air back in the 1980s.

In the wake of World War III, Appleseed presents a world where Olympus, an experimental city, has emerged under the General Management Control Office. Olympus, designed as a utopia, houses humans, cyborgs, and bioroids, genetically engineered humans with enhanced physical but reduced emotional capabilities.

Bioroids manage the city's administrative functions to maintain its utopian ideals. Yet, for some, Olympus has shifted from a sanctuary to a confining prison. Police officer Calon Mautholos, grieving his wife's suicide and attributing it to the city's restrictive rules, has grown to loathe Olympus.

He allies with the terrorist A.J. Sebastian to dismantle the Legislature of the Central Management Bureau, representing those rules.

This 1 hour-long special episode was released back in 1980. It's a part of Animated Classics Of Japanese Literature. However, this episode follows a different storyline than the original. Bocchan is an anime adaptation of a Novel.

This special episode is produced by Dezaki Osamu. The story revolves around a graduate named Botchan. He begins his first assignment as a teacher only to be bothered by his students.

These students not only spy on him but also pull some nasty stunts on him. To add up to his struggle, he also faces a landlord who sells him worthless antiques.

However, soon Botchan realized that the cause of all his misery is his only friend Hotta. To add even more to his problems, the punishment given to students for bothering Botchan is extremely soft.

Is the dean involved in this? Was Hotta the culprit? Thus, begins the journey with Hotta and Botchan to seek the truth. The truth about the dean and bring them down.

This Historical Comedy Series is looked upon as some of the earliest works of TMS Entertainment. If you don't know, TMS Entertainment is the same studio that made Dr. Stone.

So if you like this studio, make sure to have a look at some of their initial works.

Another lost soul has reached our list in the form of Chikyuu Monogatari Telepath 2500. This forgotten movie aired back in 1984. The art for this original work was directed by Nakamura Mitsuki.

This adventure, drama, and sci-fi series is based on a supercomputer setting. Set in the year 2500, there's a supercomputer that chooses marriage partners. Marriage partners who seem to have the perfect match for each other are scouted by it.

This supercomputer exists in the fifth world of the Tolphan system. This is another lost movie that couldn't pave its way in the modern era. If you get your hands on this rare piece, make sure to watch it.

Talking about revolutionary, why not take a look at this amazing anime movie named Akira? This 2 hours long movie aired back in 1988. Akira is an anime adaptation of its Manga counterpart.

The manga was written and illustrated by Otomo Katsuhiro. The story is set in Neo Tokyo formed due to the aftermath of World War III. However, Neo Tokyo is a place filled with delinquents who follow no rules and resolve to violence.

Shoutarou Kaneda is a member of a bikers group called 'The Capsules' and they always end up in conflict with their rivals called 'The Clowns". During one of these fights, Kaneda's friend Tetsuo Shima gets involved with a strange boy.

However, this involvement results in something unexpected. Tetsuo himself starts to develop some unrecognizable abilities. The government now tries to bring him to stop him from any sort of possible destruction.

Akira won the Silver Scream Award in 1992 and was nominated for Best Anime Feature at American Anime Awards in 2007. This movie is one of the most critically acclaimed pieces that is appreciated to this day.

Therefore, if you have a sense of attachment to Classics, Akira is the movie you should watch right now.