Category: Anime Reviews

  • 80s Anime that Inspired

    80s Anime that Inspired

    The 1980s didn’t just give us iconic anime—it gave us stories that challenged us, inspired us, and pushed us to become the best versions of ourselves.

    Whether it was training our bodies like a shonen hero, sharpening our minds through tales of perseverance, or finding the strength to face life’s toughest battles, these anime weren’t just entertainment—they were blueprints for growth. With hand-drawn artistry and unforgettable characters, these classics still ignite our passion, our willpower, and our hunger for self-improvement.

    Disclaimer: This blog contains Amazon affiliate links. That means that I am awarded a small commission for purchases made through them, at no added cost for you. 


    Aim for the Ace! (1979-1980) – Sports & Determination

    A classic tennis anime about perseverance, self-discipline, and overcoming self-doubt.

    Why you should watch?

    It follows Hiromi Oka, a young girl who aspires to be a top tennis player, facing hardships and pushing herself to greatness. If you love underdog stories with intense training arcs and fierce rivalries, this one delivers.


    Tomorrow’s Joe 2 (1980-1981) – Grit & Emotional Growth

    A legendary boxing anime with deep themes of perseverance, redemption, and struggle.

    Why you should watch?

    Joe Yabuki fights his way from the bottom, growing through his battles and learning the price of ambition. This anime hits as hard emotionally as it does physically—expect intense fights, powerful character arcs, and gut-wrenching moments that will stay with you. If Rocky was an anime, this would be it.

    Watch on Amazon Prime ↗️


    Fist of the North Star (1984-1988) – Strength & Willpower

    A legendary martial arts anime where inspiring Kenshiro faces an apocalyptic world with unwavering determination.

    Why you should watch?

    It’s filled with themes of resilience, self-discipline, and inner strength. If you want to feel instantly tougher, this is your anime—just watching Kenshiro might give you six-pack abs. Plus, it’s got one of the most iconic anime catchphrases of all time: “Omae wa mou shindeiru.” (You are already dead.)


    Saint Seiya (1986-1989) – Heroism & Self-Belief

    A cosmic adventure about warriors pushing themselves beyond their limits. The Bronze Saints train rigorously, overcoming weaknesses to protect the world, reinforcing themes of perseverance and self-improvement.

    Why you should watch?

    If you love epic battles, cosmic armor, and protagonists who scream out their special moves, Saint Seiya is pure gold. It’s like Dragon Ball but with mythology, destiny, and shinier outfits.


    Gunbuster (1988) – Growth & Hard Work

    A sci-fi mecha anime that emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and overcoming self-doubt.

    Why you should watch?

    It’s a mix of giant robots, space battles, and emotional depth that hits surprisingly hard. If you love seeing a character evolve from insecure to unstoppable, this is a must-watch.


    Kimagure Orange Road (1987-1988) – Coming-of-Age & Self-Discovery

    A mix of romance, comedy, and supernatural elements that explores emotional maturity and self-acceptance.

    Why you should watch?

    It’s the perfect blend of lighthearted fun and deep introspection about love and growing up. If you ever wondered what having psychic powers and a messy love life in the 80s was like, this show has you covered.


    Akira (1988) – Identity & Rebellion

    A cyberpunk masterpiece about teenage biker Kaneda navigating a dystopian Tokyo and uncovering the dark truth behind psychic powers and government conspiracies.

    Why you should watch?

    Beyond the mind-blowing animation, it’s a powerful reflection on youth, power, and self-destruction. This isn’t just anime history—it’s a must-watch for any sci-fi fan.


    Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) – Environmentalism & Leadership

    A breathtaking Ghibli film about Princess Nausicaä, a compassionate leader striving to bring peace between humanity and nature in a post-apocalyptic world.

    Why you should watch?

    This is a story about courage, empathy, and fighting for a better world—plus, it has some of the best world-building in anime history. If you love strong female protagonists and Miyazaki’s magic, this is a must.


    Super Dimension Fortress Macross (1982-1983) – Love, War & Responsibility

    A space opera about humanity’s fight for survival, featuring giant mechs, alien warfare, and an iconic love triangle.

    Why you should watch?

    Macross blends sci-fi action with deep character growth and unforgettable music (yes, music saves the world here!). If you ever wanted to see love, war, and pop idols collide, this is your show.


    City Hunter (1987-1991) – Justice & Redemption

    A stylish action series following Ryo Saeba, a sharpshooting private eye with a heart of gold, who helps those in need while dealing with his own troubled past.

    Why you should watch?

    It’s a perfect mix of action, humor, and emotional depth—imagine James Bond, but funnier and with bigger heart. If you love badass heroes with a sense of justice and charm, City Hunter delivers.


    Bubblegum Crisis (1987-1991) – Cyberpunk & Female Empowerment

    A group of badass women in powered suits take on corrupt megacorporations and rogue robots in a cyberpunk future.

    Why you should watch?

    It’s stylish, action-packed, and ahead of its time with its themes of corporate greed and technology’s impact on humanity. If you love Blade Runner, synth music, and girl power, this is a must-watch.


    Crusher Joe (1983) – Teamwork & Space Adventure

    A group of intergalactic troubleshooters take on dangerous missions in space, dealing with everything from political intrigue to space pirates.

    Why you should watch?

    It’s classic 80s sci-fi fun with stunning action and charismatic characters—think Cowboy Bebop before Cowboy Bebop. If you want a fun, high-energy adventure with heart, this is a hidden gem.


    Check out the Recommendations page for more inspiring Anime!

  • 10 Anime Recommendations for Valentine’s Day

    10 Anime Recommendations for Valentine’s Day

    Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and whether you’re spending it with someone special or enjoying a solo night in, there’s no better way to celebrate love than with a perfect anime binge. From heartwarming romances to epic tales of devotion, anime has a treasure trove of stories that will tug at your heartstrings.

    Grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let’s dive into the world of anime romance!

    Disclaimer: This blog contains Amazon affiliate links. That means that I am awarded a small commission for purchases made through them, at no added cost for you. 

    1. Toradora!

    Synopsis: Ryuuji, a misunderstood high school student, forms an unlikely friendship (and potential romance) with the short-tempered Taiga, who’s infamous for her fiery personality. It’s a classic romantic journey filled with laughter, tears, and plenty of heart.

    Watch on Amazon Prime ↗️

    Why It’s Perfect: It’s the ultimate “will-they-won’t-they” romance with tons of sweet moments that’ll make you swoon, plus some comedy to keep it light-hearted.


    2. Lovely★Complex

    Synopsis: Risa, a tall girl, and Ōtani, a short guy, make a hilarious pair as they help each other navigate their romantic lives. Their friendship blossoms into something deeper as they learn to look beyond the surface.

    Why It’s Perfect: If you’re looking for a light-hearted, funny, and uplifting romance with an unlikely couple, this one’s a perfect Valentine’s pick. Plus, it’s full of “aww” moments!


    3. Your Lie in April

    Synopsis: Kousei, a talented pianist, loses his ability to hear music after his mother’s death. Everything changes when he meets a spirited violinist named Arima, who helps him rediscover his love for music—and life.

    Why It’s Perfect: It’s a beautiful, emotional rollercoaster of love, loss, and rediscovery. Perfect for those who want to feel all the feels this Valentine’s Day.


    4. Fruits Basket

    Synopsis: Tohru Honda stumbles upon the mysterious Soma family, whose members are cursed to turn into animals of the Chinese zodiac. As she gets closer to the family, she uncovers secrets, friendships, and, of course, romance.

    Why It’s Perfect: A heartwarming tale of love, healing, and acceptance with plenty of sweet and dramatic moments. The romance is slow-burn, but it’s so worth it.


    5. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU

    Synopsis: Hachiman Hikigaya, a cynical high schooler, is forced to join a service club with the beautiful but cold Yukino Yukinoshita. Together, they help their classmates with their problems, all while navigating their complicated feelings for each other.

    Why It’s Perfect: For something a little more sarcastic and offbeat, this series explores the complexities of love, relationships, and high school drama in a way that feels fresh and relatable.


    6. Kimi ni Todoke (From Me to You)

    Synopsis: Sawako Kuronuma, often mistaken for the creepy Sadako from The Ring, struggles to make friends due to her eerie appearance. But everything changes when the popular boy in class, Kazehaya, reaches out to her, and a sweet romance begins to bloom.

    Why It’s Perfect: It’s a classic, feel-good romance with tons of sweet, shy moments. A true Valentine’s Day delight for fans of slow-burn romance.


    7. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War

    Synopsis: Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, are head over heels in love with each other—but neither will confess first. Instead, they engage in a hilarious battle of wits and psychological games to make the other confess first, with both convinced they’ll come out victorious.

    Why It’s Perfect: If you love comedy and mind games, Kaguya-sama is perfect. The back-and-forth banter, strategic “love wars,” and epic tension between the main couple make for a hilarious yet surprisingly sweet romance. It’s a fresh, fun take on love that’s both clever and adorable.


    8. My Love Story!!

    Synopsis: Takeo Goda has never been popular with girls—his best friend, the charming and handsome Sunakawa, always steals the spotlight. However, when Takeo saves the sweet and shy Rinko Yamato from a train accident, she falls in love with him. The catch? Takeo’s huge, intimidating appearance makes him think no girl could ever like him.

    Why It’s Perfect: A refreshing twist on the typical romance anime. It’s full of wholesome, feel-good moments, with a surprisingly gentle and sweet lead who’s anything but the usual “perfect” romantic hero. It’s a heartwarming and hilarious love story with a lot of sweet, tender moments that will make your heart melt.


    9. Your Name

    Synopsis: High schoolers Mitsuha and Taki are complete strangers living separate lives. But one night, they suddenly switch places. Mitsuha wakes up in Taki’s body, and he in hers. What does their newfound connection mean? And how will it bring them together?

    Why It’s Perfect: It’s an emotional and heartfelt romance that explores fate, longing, and deep connections between two people. It sets the perfect mood for a romantic evening.


    10. CLANNAD

    Synopsis: A high school student who cares little about school or his future decides to help a lonely girl repeating her final year in re-establishing the school’s drama club.

    Why It’s Perfect: It follows Tomoya and Nagisa’s journey from high school romance to adulthood, making it more realistic and deeply moving. While it has cute and wholesome romance, it also deals with loss, family, and personal growth, making it incredibly touching.


    Check out the Recommendations Page for more Anime that will take you on an emotional journey.