Top 10 Iconic Anime That Defined The 2000s Anime Fandom

The 2000s were a golden age for anime, guys! This era gifted us with some truly iconic shows that not only shaped the anime landscape but also deeply influenced anime fandom as we know it. We're talking about series that sparked massive online discussions, inspired countless fan works, and continue to be celebrated today. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, the anime of the 2000s offered something for everyone. So, let's dive into the top 10 iconic anime that perfectly captured the spirit of the 2000s anime fandom. Get ready for a trip down memory lane!

1. Naruto

When you talk about iconic anime, you absolutely have to start with Naruto. This series exploded onto the scene and became a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its compelling characters, intense battles, and the inspiring journey of Naruto Uzumaki to become Hokage. The story follows Naruto, a young ninja ostracized by his village, as he strives for recognition and dreams of becoming the strongest ninja leader. The 2000s saw the original Naruto anime and the beginning of Naruto Shippuden, which delved into darker themes and more complex character development. What made Naruto so special was its ability to blend action, comedy, and emotional depth seamlessly. The bonds between Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, as well as the numerous other characters, resonated deeply with viewers, creating a strong emotional investment in the story. The fight sequences were epic, showcasing unique ninja abilities and strategies that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Beyond the action, Naruto explored themes of friendship, perseverance, and the importance of believing in yourself, making it a relatable and inspiring series for many. The impact of Naruto on anime fandom is undeniable. It introduced many people to the world of anime and manga, sparking a wave of new fans. The series' popularity led to a massive influx of fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, cosplay, and AMVs (Anime Music Videos). Forums and online communities dedicated to Naruto thrived, providing platforms for fans to discuss theories, share their love for the characters, and connect with others who shared their passion. Naruto merchandise, from figurines to clothing, flew off the shelves, further solidifying its place in pop culture. The Naruto franchise continues to be a powerhouse in the anime world, with spin-offs like Boruto carrying on the legacy. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent anime series, which have adopted similar storytelling techniques and character archetypes. Naruto's impact on the 2000s anime fandom is immeasurable, and it remains a beloved classic to this day.

2. Bleach

Next up, we have Bleach, another heavyweight contender from the 2000s that significantly shaped anime fandom. This series, with its stylish character designs and thrilling sword fights, captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, supernatural elements, and humor. Bleach tells the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a high school student who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper and must protect humans from evil spirits known as Hollows. The series follows Ichigo's journey as he navigates the world of Soul Reapers, battles powerful enemies, and uncovers the secrets of his past. What made Bleach so appealing was its distinct aesthetic. The characters, with their cool outfits and unique Zanpakuto (Soul Reaper swords), were instantly iconic. The action sequences were fast-paced and visually stunning, making each battle a spectacle. The world-building in Bleach was also impressive, with a rich mythology and lore that drew viewers into the story. The Soul Society, Hueco Mundo, and other realms introduced in the series added depth and complexity to the narrative. Beyond the action, Bleach also featured a strong ensemble cast of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Ichigo's friends and allies, such as Rukia, Orihime, and Chad, played crucial roles in the story, and their relationships added emotional weight to the series. The humor in Bleach provided a welcome contrast to the darker elements of the plot, making it a well-rounded and entertaining series. Bleach's impact on anime fandom was substantial. It garnered a massive following, spawning a wealth of fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and cosplay. Online forums and communities dedicated to Bleach flourished, providing spaces for fans to discuss the series, share their theories, and connect with others who shared their enthusiasm. Bleach merchandise was also highly sought after, with figures, posters, and other collectibles becoming popular among fans. The series' popularity extended beyond Japan, making it a global phenomenon. Bleach helped to further popularize anime and manga worldwide, introducing many new fans to the medium. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent action anime, which have adopted similar elements of style and storytelling. Bleach remains a beloved classic, and its legacy in the 2000s anime fandom is undeniable.

3. Death Note

Changing gears a bit, let's talk about Death Note, a psychological thriller that took the anime world by storm in the mid-2000s. This series, with its dark themes and intellectual battles, offered a refreshing departure from the more action-oriented anime of the time and captivated audiences with its intricate plot and morally ambiguous characters. Death Note tells the story of Light Yagami, a brilliant high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. Light, disillusioned with the state of the world, decides to use the Death Note to create a new world free of criminals, but his actions draw the attention of L, a mysterious and equally brilliant detective who seeks to bring him to justice. The series follows the cat-and-mouse game between Light and L, as they engage in a battle of wits that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. What made Death Note so compelling was its exploration of complex ethical and philosophical questions. The series challenged viewers to consider the nature of justice, the morality of vigilantism, and the consequences of power. Light's descent into darkness and L's unwavering pursuit of justice created a fascinating dynamic that fueled the narrative. The characters in Death Note were also incredibly well-developed, each with their own motivations and flaws. Light's intelligence and charisma made him a compelling protagonist, even as he committed increasingly questionable acts. L's eccentric personality and brilliant deductive skills made him an equally captivating antagonist. The supporting characters, such as Misa Amane and Near, added further layers of complexity to the story. Death Note's impact on anime fandom was significant. It sparked countless debates and discussions about its themes and characters, making it a favorite among fans who enjoyed intellectual and thought-provoking stories. The series' popularity led to a surge in fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and cosplay. Online forums and communities dedicated to Death Note thrived, providing platforms for fans to analyze the plot, discuss theories, and share their opinions. Death Note merchandise, from notebooks to character figures, became popular among fans. The series' success also led to live-action adaptations and a musical, further demonstrating its cultural impact. Death Note stands out as a unique and influential anime from the 2000s. Its dark themes, intricate plot, and morally ambiguous characters resonated with a wide audience, making it a classic in the psychological thriller genre. Its impact on anime fandom is undeniable, and it continues to be celebrated for its intelligence and originality.

4. Code Geass

Speaking of mind-bending anime, Code Geass is another must-mention from the 2000s. This series, a blend of mecha action, political intrigue, and complex characters, captivated audiences with its thrilling plot twists and thought-provoking themes. Code Geass is set in an alternate timeline where the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered Japan, renaming it Area 11. The story follows Lelouch Lamperouge, a Britannian student living in Area 11 who gains a powerful ability known as Geass, which allows him to command anyone to obey his orders. Lelouch, using his Geass and his strategic brilliance, leads a rebellion against the Britannian Empire, seeking to create a better world for his younger sister and the people of Area 11. The series is filled with political machinations, intense battles, and shocking revelations that keep viewers constantly guessing. What made Code Geass so captivating was its intricate plot and its morally complex characters. Lelouch, with his charismatic personality and his willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, is a fascinating protagonist, even though his methods are often questionable. The supporting cast, including Suzaku Kururugi, C.C., and Kallen Stadtfeld, are equally well-developed, each with their own motivations and loyalties. The political themes in Code Geass added depth to the story, exploring issues of freedom, oppression, and the consequences of power. The mecha action sequences were also visually stunning, with the Knightmare Frames adding a unique element to the battles. The series' many plot twists and cliffhangers kept viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to see what would happen next. Code Geass had a significant impact on anime fandom. Its complex plot and compelling characters generated a lot of discussion and debate among fans. The series' popularity led to a surge in fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and cosplay. Online forums and communities dedicated to Code Geass flourished, providing platforms for fans to analyze the plot, discuss theories, and share their opinions. Code Geass merchandise, from figures to posters, became popular among fans. The series' success also led to sequels, OVAs, and a movie trilogy, further expanding the Code Geass universe. Code Geass stands out as a unique and influential anime from the 2000s. Its blend of mecha action, political intrigue, and complex characters resonated with a wide audience, making it a classic in the genre. Its impact on anime fandom is undeniable, and it continues to be celebrated for its intelligence and originality.

5. Fullmetal Alchemist

Switching gears again, let's talk about Fullmetal Alchemist, a fantastic series that perfectly blends action, adventure, and complex moral themes. There are actually two versions that made waves in the 2000s. We have Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009). Both series follow the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, who attempt a forbidden alchemical ritual to resurrect their deceased mother. The ritual goes horribly wrong, costing Edward his arm and Alphonse his entire body, trapping his soul in a suit of armor. The brothers embark on a journey to find the Philosopher's Stone, a powerful artifact that they believe will restore their bodies. What sets Fullmetal Alchemist apart is its rich world-building, its compelling characters, and its exploration of complex themes. The world of Amestris, with its unique alchemy system and its military government, is incredibly detailed and immersive. The Elric brothers are both complex and relatable characters, each grappling with their own personal demons and moral dilemmas. The supporting cast, including Roy Mustang, Riza Hawkeye, and Scar, are equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the story. Fullmetal Alchemist explores themes of loss, sacrifice, redemption, and the dangers of playing God. The series challenges viewers to consider the consequences of their actions and the importance of human connection. The action sequences in Fullmetal Alchemist are also incredibly well-done, with the alchemical battles being both visually stunning and strategically engaging. The humor in the series provides a welcome contrast to the darker elements of the plot, making it a well-rounded and entertaining series. Fullmetal Alchemist has had a significant impact on anime fandom. Both the 2003 series and Brotherhood have garnered massive followings, sparking countless discussions and debates among fans. The series' popularity has led to a surge in fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and cosplay. Online forums and communities dedicated to Fullmetal Alchemist have flourished, providing platforms for fans to analyze the plot, discuss theories, and share their opinions. Fullmetal Alchemist merchandise, from figures to posters, has become popular among fans. The series' success has also led to movies, OVAs, and video games, further expanding the Fullmetal Alchemist universe. Fullmetal Alchemist stands out as a masterpiece of the 2000s anime era. Its rich world-building, compelling characters, and exploration of complex themes have resonated with a wide audience, making it a classic in the genre. Its impact on anime fandom is undeniable, and it continues to be celebrated for its intelligence and emotional depth.

6. Ouran High School Host Club

Now, for something completely different, let's talk about Ouran High School Host Club, a reverse harem that brought a fresh perspective to the anime scene. This series, a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and social commentary, captivated audiences with its charming characters and its witty humor. Ouran High School Host Club tells the story of Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at the prestigious Ouran Academy, a school for the ultra-rich. While searching for a quiet place to study, Haruhi stumbles upon the school's Host Club, a group of six attractive male students who entertain the school's female population. In a clumsy accident, Haruhi breaks an expensive vase and is forced to work off her debt as a host, disguising herself as a boy. The series follows Haruhi's interactions with the Host Club members and the various clients they entertain, as well as her own personal growth and self-discovery. What made Ouran High School Host Club so unique was its subversion of traditional gender roles and romantic tropes. Haruhi's gender-bending disguise and her pragmatic personality challenged conventional expectations of female characters in anime. The Host Club members, each with their own distinct personality and backstory, were also well-developed and engaging. The series' humor was sharp and witty, often poking fun at the clichés of the romance genre. Ouran High School Host Club also explored themes of social class, identity, and the importance of being true to oneself. The series' impact on anime fandom was significant. It garnered a large female following, introducing many new fans to the medium. The series' popularity led to a surge in fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and cosplay. Online forums and communities dedicated to Ouran High School Host Club flourished, providing platforms for fans to discuss the series, share their love for the characters, and connect with others who shared their enthusiasm. Ouran High School Host Club merchandise, from figures to clothing, became popular among fans. The series' success also led to a live-action drama and a live-action movie, further demonstrating its cultural impact. Ouran High School Host Club stands out as a unique and influential anime from the 2000s. Its charming characters, witty humor, and subversion of traditional tropes resonated with a wide audience, making it a classic in the reverse harem genre. Its impact on anime fandom is undeniable, and it continues to be celebrated for its originality and its heartwarming story.

7. Fruits Basket

For a more heartfelt and emotional experience, Fruits Basket is a must-watch anime from the 2000s. This series, a beautiful blend of slice-of-life, romance, and supernatural elements, captivated audiences with its endearing characters and its poignant exploration of family, trauma, and healing. Fruits Basket tells the story of Tohru Honda, an orphaned high school student who stumbles upon the secret of the Sohma family. The Sohma family is cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac when hugged by someone of the opposite sex. Tohru, with her kind and compassionate nature, becomes involved in the lives of the Sohmas, helping them to overcome their emotional wounds and break the curse. The series follows Tohru's journey as she learns about the Sohma family's history and struggles, while also dealing with her own personal losses. What made Fruits Basket so special was its emphasis on character development and its exploration of complex emotional themes. The Sohma family members, each with their own unique animal transformation and their own personal traumas, were incredibly well-developed and relatable. Tohru's unwavering optimism and her genuine desire to help others made her a compelling protagonist. The series tackled sensitive issues such as abuse, abandonment, and mental health with sensitivity and nuance. The romance in Fruits Basket was also beautifully done, with the relationships between Tohru and the Sohma boys developing naturally and organically. Fruits Basket had a profound impact on anime fandom. Its emotional depth and its heartwarming story resonated with a wide audience, making it a favorite among fans who enjoyed character-driven narratives. The series' popularity led to a surge in fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and cosplay. Online forums and communities dedicated to Fruits Basket flourished, providing platforms for fans to discuss the series, share their love for the characters, and connect with others who shared their enthusiasm. Fruits Basket merchandise, from figures to plushies, became popular among fans. The series' success also led to a remake in 2019, further demonstrating its enduring appeal. Fruits Basket stands out as a masterpiece of the 2000s anime era. Its endearing characters, its poignant exploration of emotional themes, and its heartwarming story have resonated with a wide audience, making it a classic in the slice-of-life genre. Its impact on anime fandom is undeniable, and it continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and its beautiful storytelling.

8. Clannad

If you're looking for emotional rollercoasters Clannad is right up your alley. This anime, especially Clannad: After Story is known for making people cry buckets. It masterfully combines slice-of-life, romance, and drama elements to create a deeply moving story about family, love, and loss. Clannad starts with Tomoya Okazaki, a cynical high school student who meets Nagisa Furukawa, a sweet but frail girl who had to repeat a year due to illness. Tomoya decides to help Nagisa revive the school's drama club, and through this, they and their group of friends experience the ups and downs of life together. Clannad: After Story takes the story beyond high school, following Tomoya and Nagisa as they navigate adulthood, marriage, and parenthood. The series dives into the challenges of raising a family, dealing with illness, and coping with loss, making it a very emotional experience for viewers. What makes Clannad so impactful is its realistic portrayal of human relationships and its exploration of the complexities of life. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own struggles and flaws. The series tackles themes of family, friendship, perseverance, and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones. Clannad's ability to evoke strong emotions in viewers is one of its defining characteristics. The series is known for its tear-jerking moments, but it also has plenty of heartwarming and funny scenes that balance out the emotional weight. Clannad has a significant impact on anime fandom. It's considered one of the most influential slice-of-life anime of all time, inspiring many subsequent series in the genre. Its emotionally resonant storytelling and its focus on character development have earned it a dedicated fanbase. Clannad has generated a lot of fan-created content, including fan fiction, fan art, and AMVs. Online communities dedicated to Clannad thrive, where fans can discuss the series, share their favorite moments, and connect with others who have been touched by the story. Clannad's legacy in the anime world is secure. It's a series that continues to resonate with viewers years after its release, and its impact on the slice-of-life genre is undeniable.

9. Cowboy Bebop

Okay, let's jump into something a bit more retro-cool with Cowboy Bebop. While it technically premiered in Japan in 1998, its major international recognition and influence on Western anime fandom really took off in the 2000s. This series is a genre-bending masterpiece that combines space western, film noir, and action elements into a stylish and unforgettable package. Cowboy Bebop follows the adventures of a group of bounty hunters traveling the solar system in their spaceship, the Bebop. The crew consists of Spike Spiegel, a cool and charismatic ex-hitman; Jet Black, a former ISSP officer; Faye Valentine, a cunning and amnesiac con artist; Ed, a quirky and eccentric hacker; and Ein, a genetically engineered corgi. Each episode of Cowboy Bebop is like a self-contained short film, often with its own unique tone and style. The series blends action-packed gunfights and space chases with quieter, more character-driven moments. It explores themes of loneliness, regret, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. What makes Cowboy Bebop so special is its unique atmosphere and its effortlessly cool style. The series' jazz-infused soundtrack is iconic, perfectly complementing the visuals and the overall mood. The characters are all flawed and complex, with their own backstories and motivations. Cowboy Bebop doesn't shy away from exploring darker themes, but it also has a sense of humor and a sense of adventure that keeps it engaging. Cowboy Bebop is considered one of the most influential anime of all time. It helped to popularize anime in the West and introduced many new fans to the medium. Its stylish visuals, its memorable characters, and its sophisticated storytelling have made it a classic. Cowboy Bebop has inspired countless other anime, movies, and TV shows. Its influence can be seen in everything from its genre-bending approach to its focus on character development. Cowboy Bebop's impact on anime fandom is undeniable. It's a series that continues to be celebrated for its artistry, its style, and its timeless appeal.

10. Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu (The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya)

Last but not least, we have Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu (The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya), a series that totally shook up the anime world with its innovative storytelling and its meta-commentary on anime fandom itself. This anime, a mix of slice-of-life, science fiction, and comedy, captivated audiences with its quirky characters and its mind-bending plot twists. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya centers around Haruhi Suzumiya, a high school student who is bored with the mundane and seeks out the extraordinary. She forms the SOS Brigade, a club dedicated to finding aliens, time travelers, and espers. Kyon, a cynical and sarcastic high school student, is dragged into the SOS Brigade and becomes Haruhi's unwilling confidante. The series follows the adventures of the SOS Brigade as they investigate strange occurrences and deal with Haruhi's unpredictable behavior. What makes The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya so unique is its meta-narrative and its deconstruction of anime tropes. The series plays with the viewer's expectations, often subverting clichés and using unconventional storytelling techniques. The characters are all archetypes, but they are also self-aware and often comment on their own roles in the narrative. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is known for its non-linear storytelling, its fourth-wall breaking humor, and its iconic dance sequence from the ending theme song. The series also spawned the infamous "Endless Eight" arc, where eight episodes featured the same events repeated with slight variations, much to the dismay (and amusement) of fans. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya had a massive impact on anime fandom. It became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless fan works, parodies, and discussions. The series helped to popularize the moe aesthetic and the concept of the "God-like" character. Its innovative storytelling and its meta-commentary on anime tropes influenced many subsequent series. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya's legacy in the anime world is undeniable. It's a series that pushed the boundaries of the medium and challenged viewers' expectations. Its quirky characters, its mind-bending plot twists, and its self-aware humor have made it a classic.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! These 10 iconic anime from the 2000s aren't just shows; they're cultural touchstones that defined a generation of anime fans. They're the series that sparked our imaginations, made us laugh, made us cry, and brought us together in online forums and conventions. Whether you're a seasoned anime veteran or just starting your journey into this amazing world, these titles are definitely worth checking out. They represent the best of what the 2000s had to offer and continue to be celebrated by fans around the world. What are your favorite anime from the 2000s? Let us know in the comments below!