Hey guys! Remember the 2000s? What a time to be alive, especially if you were a fan of Japanese cartoons, or as we know them, anime! The 2000s were a goldmine for incredible stories, unforgettable characters, and animation styles that blew our minds. Let's take a walk down memory lane and revisit some of the best Japanese cartoons from that era. Get ready for a serious nostalgia trip!

Why the 2000s Anime Scene Was Awesome

Okay, so what made the 2000s such a special time for anime? A few things really stand out. First off, the variety was insane. You had everything from epic shonen adventures that kept you on the edge of your seat to heartwarming slice-of-life stories that made you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. And let's not forget the groundbreaking animation techniques that were pushing the boundaries of what was possible. The 2000s saw a huge leap in quality, with studios using both traditional and digital methods to create visually stunning shows. It was also a time when anime started to gain even more international recognition, with shows being dubbed and subtitled for audiences all over the world. This meant that more people than ever were able to experience the magic of Japanese animation. Plus, the music! The opening and ending themes from 2000s anime are still iconic, instantly recognizable, and guaranteed to get stuck in your head for days. It was a perfect storm of creativity, innovation, and accessibility that made the 2000s a golden age for anime fans. We were seriously spoiled for choice, and looking back, it's clear that this era had a massive impact on the anime landscape we know and love today. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's dive into some of the best shows the 2000s had to offer!

Must-Watch Anime from the 2000s

Alright, let's get into the good stuff! Here are some of the absolute best Japanese cartoons from the 2000s that you absolutely need to check out (or re-watch!).

Death Note

Okay, let's start with a classic. Death Note, which aired from 2006 to 2007, is a psychological thriller that will keep you hooked from the very first episode. The story follows Light Yagami, a brilliant but bored high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. Light decides to use the Death Note to rid the world of criminals and create a new world order, but his actions attract the attention of L, an eccentric and enigmatic detective who is determined to stop him. The cat-and-mouse game between Light and L is absolutely thrilling, filled with twists, turns, and moral dilemmas that will leave you questioning everything. The animation is top-notch, the voice acting is superb, and the soundtrack is unforgettable. But what really makes Death Note so special is its complex and thought-provoking themes. It explores the nature of justice, the corrupting influence of power, and the ethical implications of playing God. It's a show that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it, prompting you to debate and discuss its many layers with your friends. If you're looking for an anime that's both entertaining and intellectually stimulating, Death Note is an absolute must-watch. Just be prepared for some serious plot twists and a whole lot of suspense!

Code Geass

Code Geass, which premiered in 2006, is another anime that's renowned for its complex plot, strategic battles, and morally ambiguous characters. Set in an alternate timeline where the Holy Empire of Britannia has conquered Japan, the story follows Lelouch Lamperouge, an exiled prince who gains a powerful ability known as Geass, which allows him to control people's minds. Lelouch uses his Geass to lead a rebellion against Britannia, seeking to avenge his mother's death and create a better world for his sister. But as Lelouch's rebellion gains momentum, he finds himself facing increasingly difficult choices and moral compromises. The animation in Code Geass is stunning, with detailed character designs and action-packed mecha battles that are a feast for the eyes. The soundtrack is equally impressive, perfectly capturing the drama and intensity of the story. But what really sets Code Geass apart is its exploration of complex political themes, such as imperialism, revolution, and the ethics of war. Lelouch is a fascinating protagonist, a brilliant strategist who is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, even if it means sacrificing his own humanity. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own motivations and agendas. If you're looking for an anime that's both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging, Code Geass is an absolute must-watch. Just be prepared for some serious plot twists and a whole lot of heartbreak!

Fullmetal Alchemist

You can't talk about 2000s anime without mentioning Fullmetal Alchemist (and especially Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood). This series, with its blend of action, adventure, humor, and heart, has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. The story follows the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, who attempt a forbidden form of alchemy to bring their deceased mother back to life. The ritual goes horribly wrong, resulting in Edward losing an arm and Alphonse losing his entire body, his soul bound to a suit of armor. Determined to restore their bodies, the Elric brothers embark on a journey to find the Philosopher's Stone, a legendary artifact that can amplify alchemical abilities. Along the way, they uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens to destroy their entire world. Fullmetal Alchemist is known for its rich world-building, its complex characters, and its exploration of themes such as loss, sacrifice, and redemption. The animation is top-notch, the action sequences are thrilling, and the soundtrack is unforgettable. But what really makes Fullmetal Alchemist so special is its emotional depth. The relationship between Edward and Alphonse is the heart of the story, and their unwavering devotion to each other is incredibly moving. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each with their own struggles and motivations. If you're looking for an anime that will make you laugh, cry, and think, Fullmetal Alchemist is an absolute must-watch. Just be prepared for some serious feels!

Bleach

Bleach, which premiered in 2004, is a long-running shonen anime that's known for its action-packed battles, its stylish character designs, and its supernatural themes. The story follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a high school student who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper, a supernatural being who is responsible for protecting humans from evil spirits known as Hollows. Ichigo is thrust into the world of the Soul Reapers, where he must learn to master his powers and defend his friends and family from the forces of darkness. Bleach is known for its fast-paced action, its colorful characters, and its epic storylines. The animation is top-notch, the fight scenes are thrilling, and the soundtrack is amazing. But what really makes Bleach so popular is its sense of fun and adventure. Ichigo is a likable protagonist, and his interactions with his friends and allies are always entertaining. The supporting characters are equally memorable, each with their own unique personalities and abilities. If you're looking for an anime that's packed with action, humor, and supernatural elements, Bleach is a great choice. Just be prepared for a long ride, as the series has hundreds of episodes!

Fruits Basket

For something a little different, let's talk about Fruits Basket. This anime is a heartwarming and emotional story about Tohru Honda, an orphaned high school student who discovers that the members of the Sohma family are possessed by the spirits of the Chinese zodiac. When hugged by someone of the opposite sex, they transform into their respective zodiac animal. Tohru moves in with the Sohma family and becomes determined to break the curse that binds them. Fruits Basket is known for its gentle storytelling, its complex characters, and its exploration of themes such as trauma, healing, and acceptance. The animation is beautiful, the voice acting is superb, and the soundtrack is lovely. But what really makes Fruits Basket so special is its emotional depth. Tohru is an incredibly kind and compassionate character, and her unwavering optimism is inspiring. The Sohma family members are all struggling with their own inner demons, and Tohru's presence helps them to heal and find happiness. If you're looking for an anime that will make you laugh, cry, and feel all warm and fuzzy inside, Fruits Basket is an excellent choice. Just be prepared for some serious feels!

Honorable Mentions

Of course, there are tons of other amazing anime from the 2000s that deserve a mention. Here are just a few:

• Ouran High School Host Club
• Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
• Clannad
• Higurashi: When They Cry
• Gintama

Final Thoughts

The 2000s were a truly special time for anime. With its diverse range of genres, groundbreaking animation techniques, and unforgettable characters, this era has left a lasting impact on the anime landscape. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of Japanese animation, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the anime of the 2000s. So go ahead, dive in and discover (or rediscover) some of these amazing shows! You won't be disappointed.