Retro anime fans often find themselves hooked on the distinct style, approach to storytelling, and nostalgic charm of watching and enjoying older series. That said, there are plenty of modern anime that balance updated animation techniques with depth and stylistic charm, with many of its characters standing out as memorable and well-rounded.
These series feel fresh, yet offer experiences that retro anime fans will find themselves attracted to. Many of these series contain a familiar balance of conflict and humor, while others stand out for subverting genre expectations, creating a truly refreshing and rewarding experience from start to finish.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners follows David Martinez, a street kid who is pulled into Night City’s criminal underworld after a devastating loss. After installing a cybernetic implant, he joins a group of Edgerunners, mercenaries who live on the edges of society, and begins a new life in which he must navigate dangerous missions, personal relationships, and a world shaped by corporate power.
The series is known for its heavy themes that explore the cost of ambition, class struggle, and the effects of hyper-capitalism. Fans of retro anime will find that Cyberpunk’s gritty aesthetic and vibrant animation are reminiscent of Akira or Ghost in the Shell, making it a perfect fit for those looking for similar experiences.
Ranma 1/2
Ranma 1/2 centers on Ranma Saotome, a martial artist cursed to turn into a girl whenever he’s exposed to cold water and back into a boy when touched by hot water, and his arranged engagement to Akane Tendo, a strong-willed martial artist who, much like Ranma, does not fully accept their arrangement.
The Netflix series is a remake of the iconic 1989 rom-com that stands out as a more faithful adaptation of the manga. Filled with humor, heart, and chaotic misunderstandings, the series is perfect for those who want to experience a fresh yet nostalgic callback to an older anime series.
Delicious in Dungeon
Delicious in Dungeon follows a group of adventurers led by Laios, a young warrior whose sister was devoured by a dragon in the depths of a dungeon. To save her, the group immediately returns to the dangerous environment, where their survival depends on defeating and cooking the monsters they encounter.
The series stands apart from other anime for the way the cast approaches obstacles, blending creativity and realism. Each monster they come across and every meal they make is carefully prepared, and the farther into the dungeon they go, the more the characters grow and learn from one another, creating a cozy yet thrilling storyline.
Sonny Boy
Sonny Boy follows a group of students who are mysteriously transported to an alternate dimension, each gaining a unique supernatural ability in the process. Stranded on drifting islands disconnected from reality, the students must learn to navigate their surroundings and survive.
Sonny Boy is known for its abstract approach to adolescence and responsibility in its coming-of-age storyline. Fans of retro anime will find that the series’s existential themes and dreamlike atmosphere are reminiscent of the late 90s and early 2000s.
Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Man centers on Denji, a young man burdened by debt who survives an attack by the Zombie Devil after his pet devil, Pochita, merges with him, effectively turning him into a half-human, half-devil being known as Chainsaw Man. Denji quickly finds himself recruited by the Public Safety Devil Hunters, where he must learn to wield his newfound power.
The series is known best for its energy, sharp humor, unpredictability, and inventive fight sequences. Chainsaw Man subverts standard shōnen tropes and stands out as a gritty, atmospheric series that doesn’t shy away from dark humor or awkward realism, making it a raw, authentic series to explore.
Dorohedoro
Dorohedoro follows Caiman, a reptilian man from the chaotic city of Hole, who has no memory of his past. Alongside his companion Nikaido, the two hunt down sorcerers with the mission of discovering the one who transformed Caiman to restore his human face.
The series takes place in a world filled with violence, dark humor, and bizarre creatures, making it a unique series with a distinctive tone and style. Its magic system is inventive, the characters memorable, and the storyline strikes a balance between intense action and emotionally grounded moments.
Gachiakuta
Gachiakuta centers on Rudo, a young boy living in the slums of a wealthy floating city known as the Sphere. When his father figure is murdered, Rudo is framed as the killer and thrown into the Pit below, where he must learn to survive as one of the Cleaners in a trash-filled wasteland filled with beasts and Raiders.
The series is known for its gritty, unapologetic atmosphere, unforgettable characters, and intense action. The series is full of experimental styles that are both eye-catching and gorgeously presented, offering a refreshing, thrilling experience from start to finish.
Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho 100 centers on Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama, an unassuming middle school boy with immense psychic powers. As he tries to lead a normal life, he must confront spirits, other psychics, and his own emotional insecurities all under the guidance of his mentor, who is a self-proclaimed psychic, Reigen.
The series is known for its unique animation style and extraordinary emotional depth. With universal themes of self-improvement, empathy, growth, and true strength, Mob Psycho 100 stands out as one of the best anime series available and will capture hearts from the very first episode.
Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga centers on Thorfinn, a young Viking warrior driven by revenge against Askeladd, the man who killed his father, Thors. The series follows his growth from childhood in the harsh climate of 11th-century Europe, marked by war, political tension, and bloodshed.
The series is known for its complex characters and exploration of loyalty and growth. Thorfinn’s early journey is marked by vengeance, but as the series unfolds, viewers witness his growth into a man seeking redemption and peace, as he questions the true meaning of strength.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End centers on the titular character, Frieren, an elven mage who outlives the companions she adventures with to defeat the Demon King. Following the death of two of her party members, Frieren begins a journey to better understand humanity and reconnect with memories of her late companions.
The series is known for its subversive approach to the fantasy genre and breathtaking animation. Its focus on memory creates a reflective, introspective story that is truly refreshing and unique, offering an experience that few other anime series can match.
