The late 1980s through the 1990s stand out as part of the golden era of anime, known for releases that would go on to become pillars of the industry, such as Dragon Ball Z and Sailor Moon. Many of these major series remain pillars of the industry and are often cited for their influence and impact, which can still be seen shining through modern anime releases. The series that went on to achieve mainstream success is still widely discussed and shared within fan communities.
However, the 90s share a vast range of hidden gems that either become largely overlooked by anime’s growing fan base or are entirely overshadowed by other series to the point that they are often left out of conversation. These forgotten anime remain stellar works of art and offer stories that deserve to be back in the spotlight. Anime fans who are looking for lesser-known classics will find that these hidden gems are worth discovering.
Now and Then, Here and There
Now and Then, Here and There was originally released in Japan on October 14, 1999, and aired for 13 episodes. The story centers on Shuzo “Shu” Matsutani, a straightforward and energetic boy who finds himself transported to an alternate world after trying to defend a mysterious girl named Lala-Ru. In this world, water is scarce, making Lala-Ru a highly valuable asset because of her ability to generate an infinite supply of water.
The problem is that this world is built around the militarized regime of King Hamdo, who plans to use Lala-Ru’s ability to take over the entire world. Even so, Shu’s strong optimism and moral code persist throughout the story, often leading to intense, emotional moments that challenge the ideas of heroism and expose the harsh reality of war.
Despite its limited length, Now and Then, Here and There remains a must-watch series that leaves behind an unforgettable mark through its uncompromising exploration of war and its psychological toll. The series approaches real-world atrocities through the eyes of a child, making the story difficult to watch, yet it continues to stand out as a rewarding experience due to its themes and messages. Now and Then, Here and There can be bought digitally on Prime Video and YouTube.
Outlaw Star
Outlaw Star originally premiered in Japan on January 8, 1998, airing on TV Tokyo and produced by Sunrise, and was adapted from the manga by Takehiko Ito. The story follows Gene Starwind, a jack-of-all-trades, and his young 11-year-old partner, Jim Hawking, two small-time operators whose lives are completely upended after an encounter with space pirates, leaving them with the highly advanced outlaw vessel known as the Outlaw Star.
The duo becomes part of a larger crew as they pursue the mythic Galactic Leyline across deep space, racing against assassins, pirates, and other factions to get to it. Gene serves as a skilled pilot and gunslinger, while Jim provides technical expertise. Along with the rest of their crew, Melfina, a bio-android linked to the Outlaw Star’s navigation system, Aisha Clanclan, a former officer of an opposing empire, and Twilight Suzuka, a stoic, sword-wielding assassin.
Running for 26 episodes, Outlaw Star received rather notable exposure through Cartoon Network’s Toonami block. However, its legacy is overshadowed by other late-90s space-western anime such as Cowboy Bebop and Trigun, leaving Outlaw Star largely forgotten in many discussions. Still, it remains a thrilling, well-rounded series that deserves more visibility. Outlaw Star can be streamed on Apple TV.
Dear Brother
Dear Brother aired in Japan from July 14, 1991, to May 31, 1992, as a 39-episode adaptation of Riyoko Ikeda’s 1970s manga. The series follows Nanako Misonoo, a high school girl who is admitted to an elite all-girls academy and is unexpectedly invited to join the school’s exclusive sorority, making her the target for intense bullying and resentment from her classmates. While navigating life at Seiran Academy, she writes letters to an old mentor whom she affectionately calls her “Dear Brother.”
Dear Brother stands out as a must-watch psychological drama that excels at creating high stakes and maintaining strong atmospheric tension.
These letters document her experiences and struggles at Seiran, treating them very much like a diary. However, with one of her peers holding a deep-seated grudge against her, Nanako’s school life is full of manipulation and lies that is perpetuated by those around her. Through these unexpected twists, Dear Brother stands out as a must-watch psychological drama that excels at creating high stakes and maintaining strong atmospheric tension.
Paired with its willingness to explore taboo subjects, especially given its time period, Dear Brother offers a beautifully tragic, cinematic experience that is far too under-discussed. With only 39 episodes, Dear Brother is a perfect series to watch on a weekend or as a late-night binge. It can be streamed for free with ads on Tubi and The Roku Channel, or on Amazon Prime with a RetroCrush add-on.
Flame of Recca
Flame of Recca originally premiered in Japan on July 19, 1997, as a 42-episode adaptation of Nobuyuki Anzai’s manga that was serialized in Weekly Shōnen Sunday. The series centers on Recca Hanabishi, a self-proclaimed ninja enthusiast who unexpectedly discovers his ability to generate and manipulate fire after a life-threatening situation. With this newfound ability, he vows to protect Yanagi Sakoshita, a girl with a rare healing ability.
With his gradually growing mastery over his flame ability, the story follows by expanding into a larger conflict that involves mystical artifacts known as Madogu, which can grant special abilities, as well as expanding on the legacy of the Hokage ninja clan. Audiences who enjoy traditional battle shōnen will enjoy the combat, powerful opponents, tournament arcs, and steady power progression of the series.
Despite its popularity during the time it was broadcast, Flame of Recca has become less and less prominent, with many new fans not familiar with the title. Compared to other battle shōnen at the time, such as Yu Yu Hakusho, Flame of Recca has become increasingly overlooked, despite its inventive power system and thrilling battles. With 42 episodes, the series is a rewarding anime that fits relatively easily into viewers’ schedules when watched in chunks. Flame of Recca can be streamed on Crunchyroll or for free with ads on Pluto TV.
The Heroic Legend of Arslan
The Heroic Legend of Arslan first aired in 1991 as a six-part fantasy OVA series, with its initial episodes being released as feature-length theatrical productions. Based on the novels by Yoshiki Tanaka, the story follows Prince Arslan of Pars, whose kingdom collapses after a devastating betrayal and invasion by the Lusitanian army. The prince is forced into exile and begins a long journey to reclaim the throne alongside a loyal group of retainers, including his loyal general, Daryun.
The two work together to create a resistance army filled with allies loyal to their cause. Paired with Arslan’s growth from a sheltered prince to a capable leader, The Heroic Legend of Arslan stands out as a thrilling epic that doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of war and rebellion. Viewers who enjoy historical fantasy series and strategic warfare stories will find that the anime is incredibly appealing and rewarding.
The original anime for The Heroic Legend of Arslan has become increasingly overlooked, particularly following its 2015 remake under the same name. While it introduced a new generation to the storyline, it also increased the obscurity of the original 90s series, which, unfortunately, cannot be streamed on any major platforms, making it incredibly difficult to find and view. The 2015 adaptation, however, can be streamed on Apple TV.