Summary
The 2000s were an excellent decade foranimefans. Not only did this era produce some massive cultural icons and cult classics, but it also saw many outstanding remakes of beloved series. From apple-eating Shinigami to gunslinging vampires, 2000s anime delivered some of the most fascinating characters and stories ever to leave Japan.
Arguably, the best part of this decade is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping action show, a heartwarming romantic comedy, or a mind-bending psychological thriller, there’s something for everyone among the vast lineup of 2000s anime. The following series, in particular, are just as good now as when they first debuted.
8/10
4.7/5
220
2003-2007
You’d be hard-pressed to findan action animemore iconic than Naruto. The series takes you through the life of the titular hero as he evolves from a naive and troublemaking student to a noble and wise ninja. Naruto’s quirky personality, elaborate backstory, and the many epic fights he partakes in are just a few elements that turned the show into a worldwide phenomenon.
Thanks to its long story arcs and engaging character development, Naruto is the perfect anime to sink hundreds of hours into. Also, ensure to check out the follow-up series Naruto: Shippuden, which depicts an older version of the character.
8.1/10
4.8/5
25
2008-2009
Ryuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka have the strangest friendship in their school. After all, they can’t stand each other. But, after discovering they both have a crush on the other’s best friend, they form a reluctant alliance to help each other pursue romance. Over time, their bitter truce blossoms into a more complex and wholesome relationship.
You can’t help but laugh as the two unlikely friends get tangled in a web of romantic rivals, misunderstandings, and love triangles. Lighthearted and silly, Toradora is an excellent choice if you’re looking for aslice-of-life romantic comedy.
8.4/10
10
2006-2012
Inspired by the Dracula lore, Hellsing Ultimate follows the vampire Alucard, who, for mysterious reasons, teams up with humans to eradicate the undead. As he takes on the world’s most ferocious monsters, his tragic backstory slowly unravels before you, showcasing the humanity inside the vampire.
Debuting five years after the first Hellsing series, Ultimate more closely follows the manga while preserving the action and horror elements that made the original show so beloved. However, it should be noted that the series' mature themes make itgeared more toward adults.
8.6/10
47
2006-2007
Nana follows the unlikely friendship between two young women, both named after the show’s title. One is an aspiring musician, and the other is a waitress trying to find love. Despite their clashing personalities, the two Nanas help each other navigate a world of breakups, affairs, and grief.
On top of the realistic depictions of life’s struggles, the show stands out thanks to the complex dynamic between the two main characters. The story perfectly showcases the benefits and obstacles of maintaining a friendship while dealing with the hardships of adulthood. Give it a watch if you’re looking for a character-driven drama.
37
Often considered a masterclass in suspense, Death Note follows teenage genius Light Yagami, who stumbles across a notebook that will kill anyone whose name is written in it. What follows is a thrilling crime drama as Light goes from a noble vigilante to a ruthless serial killer and cult leader named Kira.
The series mainly explores the exhilarating battle of wits between Light and an anonymous detective known as L. It’s a heart-pounding chess match that leads to dozens of shocking plot twists and nail-biting cliffhangers. Expertly written and featuring complex character exploration, Death Note is a must-watch for all anime fans.
I’ve watched Death Note three times, and with each rewatch, I found it incredibly difficult to put down, even though I already knew what would happen. It just goes to show how unbelievably suspenseful the story is.
8.9/10
8.7/10
74
2004-2005
What would you do if the person you saved from dying turned out to be a heartless killer? That question haunts Dr. Kenzo Tenma after he foregoes the Mayor’s surgery to operate on a patient named Johan Liebert, who, after being released from the hospital, goes on a vicious killing spree.
Racked with guilt, Tenma makes it his life’s goal to put an end to the monster he allowed to live. The show takes a deep dive into the morality of the doctor’s situation, delivering a dark, emotional, and exciting drama from start to finish.
379
2005-2021
Known as one of the funniest anime of the 2000s, Gintama takes place in a fictional version of Edo Period Japan where aliens have invaded and samurai are outlawed. Gintoki Sakata, the last of the samurai, must find a way to pay the bills despite the new laws and his tendency to procrastinate.
Starting a freelance organization called Odd Jobs, Gintoki and his team take whatever work they can get, from fighting space pirates to helping pull Santa’s sleigh. Providing a nice blend of action and ridiculous comedy, Gintama never fails to evoke suspense and laughs.
9.1/10
4.9/5
64
2009-2010
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has long been celebrated as one of thebest anime series ever made. The plot follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who lost most of their bodies after a failed attempt to revive their mother through alchemy. Now, they travel the globe in search of a way to return to normal.
As a reboot of the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist series, Brotherhood maintains the steampunk and fantasy-based fight scenes while providing a more focused and manga-accurate story. Thrilling, heartwrenching, and brimming with excellent characters, this show is a prime example of exceptional animated storytelling.
