Best Anime from 2000-2010

Introduction

The period between 2000-2010 saw the emergence of some of the best anime of all time. From iconic classics to genre-defining series, the anime released during this period have left an indelible mark on the anime industry and continue to be beloved by fans all over the world. In this article, we will be looking at the top 20 anime from 2000-2010 that have made a lasting impact.

Fullmetal Alchemist (2003-2004)

Fullmetal Alchemist is an anime that needs no introduction. The series follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who attempt to use alchemy to bring their deceased mother back to life. The experiment goes horribly wrong, resulting in Edward losing an arm and a leg, and Alphonse losing his entire body. The two set out on a journey to find the Philosopher's Stone, hoping it will help them restore their bodies.Fullmetal Alchemist is a classic anime that blends action, adventure, and drama seamlessly. It has a deep and complex story that explores themes like redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of playing God. The characters are well-written, with each having their own unique personality and backstory. The animation and music are top-notch, making it a must-watch for any anime fan.

Death Note (2006-2007)

Death Note is a psychological thriller anime that follows Light Yagami, a 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 notebook to rid the world of criminals and becomes known as Kira. However, his actions attract the attention of the brilliant detective, L, who is determined to catch him.Death Note is a masterpiece of storytelling that keeps you on the edge of your seat with its intricate plot twists and mind games. The battle of wits between Light and L is intense and entertaining to watch. The anime explores complex themes like morality, justice, and power, making it a thought-provoking watch.

Naruto (2002-2007)

Naruto is an action-packed anime that follows the journey of a young ninja named Naruto Uzumaki as he strives to become the Hokage, the leader of his village. Along the way, he faces numerous challenges, makes new friends, and discovers the truth about his past.Naruto is a classic shonen anime that combines action, humor, and drama perfectly. The fights are well-animated and thrilling, with each character having their own unique abilities. The world-building is excellent, with each village having its own history and culture. Naruto is a coming-of-age story that teaches valuable life lessons about hard work, perseverance, and friendship.

Wolf's Rain (2003-2004)

An alternate option for Wolf's Rain is Ergo Proxy (2006). Ergo Proxy is a science fiction anime that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humans and androids coexist. Like Wolf's Rain, Ergo Proxy has a dark and mysterious atmosphere and explores themes like identity and existence.

Code Geass (2006-2008)

Code Geass is a mecha anime that takes place in an alternate timeline where the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered Japan. The story follows Lelouch Lamperouge, a high school student who gains the power of Geass, which allows him to control people's minds. Lelouch decides to use his power to overthrow the Britannian Empire and create a better world for his sister.Code Geass is a complex and political anime that explores themes like power, rebellion, and morality. The characters are well-written, with each having their own motivations and goals. The mecha battles are well-animated and exciting to watch, with each Knightmare Frame having its own unique abilities.

Ouran High School Host Club (2006)

Ouran High School Host Club is a romantic comedy anime that follows Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student who accidentally breaks an expensive vase belonging to the school's Host Club. To pay off her debt, Haruhi joins the Host Club, a group of handsome boys who entertain female clients with their charm and good looks.Ouran High School Host Club is a hilarious and heartwarming anime that pokes fun at the tropes of shoujo anime. The characters are lovable and entertaining, with each member of the Host Club having their own distinct personality. The anime also has a great soundtrack and animation, making it a joy to watch.

Bleach (2004-2012)

Bleach is a supernatural action anime that follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who gains the power to see and fight ghosts. Ichigo becomes a Soul Reaper, a guardian of the afterlife, and must fight Hollows, evil spirits that threaten the world of the living.Bleach has a vast and complex world-building, with the Soul Society and Hueco Mundo being well-developed. The characters are well-written, with each having their own unique abilities and backstory. The action scenes are well-animated and exciting, with each fight being unique and creative.

One Piece (1999-present)

One Piece is a long-running adventure anime that follows Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate with the power to stretch his body like rubber. Luffy sets out to find the legendary One Piece treasure and become the Pirate King, the ultimate title for a pirate.One Piece is a classic shonen anime that has been running for over 20 years. The world-building is excellent, with each island having its own unique culture and history. The characters are well-written, with each member of the Straw Hat crew having their own distinct personality and backstory. The anime also has a great balance of humor, action, and drama, making it a timeless classic.

Gintama (2006-2018)

Gintama is a comedy anime that takes place in an alternate version of Japan where aliens have taken over. The story follows Gintoki Sakata, a samurai who runs the Yorozuya, a group that takes on odd jobs and helps people in need.Gintama is a hilarious anime that parodies various aspects of Japanese culture and media. The characters are well-written, with each having their own unique quirks and personalities. The anime also has a good balance of comedy and drama, making it a must-watch for any anime fan.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2006)

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is a slice-of-life anime that follows Kyon, a high school student who meets Haruhi Suzumiya, a girl who is bored with her mundane life and seeks to find aliens, time travelers, and espers.The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is a unique anime that plays with the conventions of the slice-of-life genre. The characters are well-written, with each having their own distinct personality and quirks. The anime also has a great soundtrack and animation, making it a joy to watch.

Monster (2004-2005)

Monster is a psychological thriller anime that follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese brain surgeon who saves the life of a young boy over the life of the mayor. Years later, he begins to realize that the boy he saved has become a notorious serial killer, and he sets out to stop him.Monster is a dark and intense anime that explores themes like morality, justice, and the consequences of one's actions. The characters are well-written, with each having their own motivations and flaws. The animation is also well-done, with each scene being carefully crafted to enhance the mood and tone of the anime.

Hajime no Ippo (2000-2002)

Hajime no Ippo is a sports anime that follows Ippo Makunouchi, a high school student who is bullied and finds solace in boxing. With the help of his coach, he trains to become a professional boxer and fights his way up the ranks.Hajime no Ippo is a classic sports anime that has a great balance of humor, drama, and action. The characters are well-written, with each having their own backstory and motivations. The boxing matches are well-animated and exciting to watch, with each fight being unique and intense.

Princess Tutu (2002-2003)

Princess Tutu is a fantasy anime that follows Ahiru, a duck who is transformed into a human girl by a mysterious man named Drosselmeyer. Ahiru attends a ballet school and becomes Princess Tutu, a magical girl who must collect the pieces of a broken heart to restore a prince's emotions.Princess Tutu is a beautiful and heartwarming anime that subverts the typical magical girl genre. The characters are well-written, with each having their own struggles and motivations. The animation is also well-done, with the ballet sequences being particularly stunning.

Samurai Champloo (2004-2005)

Samurai Champloo is a historical action anime that takes place in Edo-era Japan. The story follows Mugen, a wild and reckless swordsman, and Jin, a stoic and disciplined samurai, as they journey together to find a mysterious samurai who smells of sunflowers.Samurai Champloo is a stylish and unique anime that blends elements of hip-hop and samurai culture. The characters are well-written, with each having their own distinct personality and fighting style. The animation is also well-done, with the fight scenes being particularly exciting to watch.

Full Metal Panic! (2002-2003)

An alternate option for Full Metal Panic! is Gundam Seed (2002-2003). Gundam Seed is a mecha anime that takes place in a future where genetically enhanced humans known as Coordinators and regular humans known as Naturals are in conflict. Like Full Metal Panic!, Gundam Seed features mecha battles and explores themes like war and politics.

Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad (2004-2005)

An alternate option for Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad is Nana (2006-2007). Nana is a drama anime that follows two young women, both named Nana, as they navigate love, friendship, and their dreams of becoming musicians. Like Beck, Nana features a great soundtrack and explores themes like youth and self-discovery.

Gurren Lagann (2007)

Gurren Lagann is a mecha anime that takes place in a future where humanity lives underground and is ruled by the Spiral King. The story follows Simon and Kamina, two young men who discover a mecha called Lagann and use it to fight against the Spiral King's army. Gurren Lagann is known for its over-the-top action, inspiring messages, and dynamic characters.

Clannad (2007-2008)

Clannad is a romance/drama anime that follows Tomoya Okazaki, a high school student who meets a girl named Nagisa Furukawa and becomes involved with her and her friends. The anime explores themes like family, love, and the importance of human connection. Clannad is known for its emotional storytelling, beautiful animation, and memorable characters.

Toradora! (2008-2009)

Toradora! is a romantic comedy anime that follows Ryuji Takasu, a high school student with a scary face but a kind heart, and Taiga Aisaka, a small and feisty girl who is also Ryuji's classmate. The anime explores their relationship and the relationships of their friends as they navigate high school life. Toradora! is known for its charming characters, funny moments, and heartwarming moments.

Soul Eater (2008-2009)

Soul Eater is a supernatural action anime that takes place in the Death Weapon Meister Academy, a school where students learn to use humans that can transform into weapons called "Death Scythes". The story follows a group of students as they fight against supernatural threats and try to collect the souls of 99 evil humans and one witch. Soul Eater is known for its unique setting, stylish animation, and memorable characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2000s were a great decade for anime, with many iconic series that have become staples of the medium. From action-packed mecha anime like Gundam Seed and Code Geass to emotional dramas like Clannad and Toradora!, the 2000s had something for everyone. Whether you're a longtime anime fan or a newcomer to the medium, there are plenty of great anime from this time period to discover and enjoy.