Best Action Anime of the 1990s

Ranked by community ratings from MyAnimeList across 69 action titles spanning 1990–1999.

1
Sunrise · 1998 · 1,054,562 ratings
Cowboy Bebop is generally regarded as a classic anime with strong production values and memorable characters. However,...
8.7
2
OLM · 1997 · 409,403 ratings
Berserk (1997) is lauded for its engaging narrative, complex characters, and profound themes, set within a dark and...
8.6
3
Studio Pierrot · 1992 · 356,633 ratings
Yu Yu Hakusho is largely regarded as a classic shonen anime with strong characters and a well-balanced story. While...
8.4
4
Gallop · 1998 · 247,619 ratings
Rurouni Kenshin is a highly regarded samurai anime, praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and...
8.3
5
Gallop · 1998 · 217,080 ratings
Initial D First Stage is viewed as a classic, highly entertaining sports anime, particularly praised for its exciting...
8.3
6
Madhouse · 1998 · 399,518 ratings
Trigun is a beloved anime that masterfully blends comedy, action, and philosophical themes. Viewers praise the complex...
8.2
7
Pastel · 1999 · 151,848 ratings
Overall, Initial D Second Stage is well-received, with many considering it a strong continuation of the first season....
8.2
8
Toei Animation · 1990 · 902,296 ratings
Dragon Ball Z is widely beloved as a classic and influential anime, particularly for its action and characters. Some...
8.2
9
E&G Films · 1996 · 39,834 ratings
Slayers Next is a well-regarded sequel that improves upon the original in many aspects, particularly in pacing,...
7.9
10
Studio Deen · 1990 · 131,300 ratings
Ranma ½ is a beloved classic anime with a unique blend of comedy, action, and romance. While the show is praised for...
7.8
11
Sunrise · 1998 · 66,643 ratings
Outlaw Star is a generally well-regarded space adventure anime, praised for its creative world, fun characters, and...
7.8
12
E&G Films · 1995 · 65,662 ratings
Slayers is viewed as a nostalgic and humorous fantasy anime with memorable characters and witty parodies, though some...
7.7
13
E&G Films · 1997 · 31,460 ratings
Slayers Try is a somewhat divisive entry in the Slayers franchise. While many appreciate its more focused plot,...
7.7
14
Studio Pierrot · 1995 · 54,409 ratings
Fushigi Yuugi is a divisive anime, particularly regarding the main character Miaka, with fans either loving or hating...
7.6
15
Sunrise · 1999 · 19,662 ratings
Seikai no Monshou is a highly regarded space opera anime praised for its complex story, well-developed characters, and...
7.5
16
Sunrise · 1991 · 10,150 ratings
City Hunter '91 is a decent, though somewhat disappointing, conclusion to the original series. Fans appreciate the...
7.5
17
Nippon Animation · 1997 · 8,818 ratings
Audiences generally enjoy Chuuka Ichiban! for its nostalgic value, engaging characters, and creative take on Chinese...
7.4
18
Toei Animation · 1999 · 30,031 ratings
Audience sentiment is mixed, with many viewers appreciating the characters and romance elements, but finding the anime...
7.4
19
Studio Deen · 1996 · 11,371 ratings
Viewers express strong affection for 'You're Under Arrest!', praising its heartwarming character interactions, catchy...
7.4
20
Toei Animation · 1991 · 11,854 ratings
The Dragon Quest: Dai no Daibouken anime is generally well-regarded, particularly for its engaging story, likable...
7.4