9 classic 90s anime that deserve an action-packed remake |
1. Flame of Recca
The Underrated Ninja Epic With Fiery Potential
Originally highlighted by Game Rant for its tournament arcs and ninja lore.
- Original Release: July 19, 1997
- Studio: Pierrot
- Episodes: 42
- Manga By: Nobuyuki Anzai
- Current Score (MyAnimeList): 7.34
A spiritual successor to Yu Yu Hakusho, Flame of Recca tells the story of Recca Hanabishi, a modern-day teenager who discovers his lineage from a flame-wielding ninja clan. The series blends traditional ninja lore with supernatural powers, martial arts tournaments, and a deeply personal journey of self-discovery.
2. Berserk (1997)
A Dark Fantasy Classic Deserving a Worthy Adaptation
- Original Release: October 8, 1997
- Studio: OLM
- Episodes: 25
- Manga By: Kentaro Miura
- Current Score (MyAnimeList): 8.59
Kentaro Miura’s Berserk is a grim masterpiece that explores the brutal life of Guts, a lone mercenary entangled in a cycle of war, betrayal, and demonic terror. While Game Rant acknowledges the 1997 version as the best adaptation to date, a full remake with modern animation could finally capture the manga’s rich, tragic scope.
3. Yu Yu Hakusho
The Spirit Detective Saga That Set the Shōnen Standard
- Original Release: 1992–1994
- Studio: Pierrot
- Episodes: 112
- Manga By: Yoshihiro Togashi
- Current Score (MyAnimeList): 8.46
Recognized by Game Rant as a foundational shōnen, Yu Yu Hakusho stands the test of time in story and characters. However, a visual refresh and refined pacing could elevate this supernatural saga for today’s generation of anime fans.
4. Outlaw Star
A Space Western Worthy of Revival
- Original Release: January 1998
- Studio: Sunrise
- Episodes: 26
- Manga By: Takehiko Itō
- Current Score (MyAnimeList): 7.83
Outlaw Star was praised in the Game Rant piece for its fusion of sci-fi and Western themes. A modern remake could build on its legacy, especially in a post-Cowboy Bebop streaming era hungry for stylized space operas.
5. The Big O
Noir Meets Mecha in a Memory-Loss Dystopia
- Original Release: October 13, 1999
- Studio: Sunrise
- Episodes: 26 (Two Seasons)
Cited for its unique genre-blending style, The Big O offers a noir-meets-mecha story that’s well-suited for a modern comeback. A clearer narrative direction and high-budget animation could bring this cult favorite new acclaim.
6. Revolutionary Girl Utena
A Symbolic Masterpiece Ready for Rediscovery
- Original Release: April 1997
- Studio: J.C.Staff
- Episodes: 39
- Created By: Be-Papas
- Current Score (MyAnimeList): 8.22
According to Game Rant, Utena’s exploration of identity and gender roles makes it an ideal candidate for a remake. Today’s social climate is primed for a reboot that remains faithful to its progressive roots while updating its accessibility.
7. Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water
Steampunk Adventure Through Jules Verne’s Lens
- Original Release: 1990
- Studio: Gainax & Group TAC
- Episodes: 39
Game Rant included Nadia for its thematic depth and connection to 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. A remake could enhance its steampunk elements, streamline the pacing, and improve on the sometimes uneven animation.
8. Crows
High School Gangs and Gritty Street Justice
- Original Release: January 1994
- Studio: Knack Productions
- Episodes: OVA series
Based on Hiroshi Takahashi’s manga, Crows deserves a remake as gritty as the street fights it portrays. Game Rant rightly identified this early 90s OVA as a raw gem awaiting proper adaptation.
9. Blue Seed
Mythology, Monsters, and Missed Opportunities
- Original Release: October 1994
- Studios: Production I.G & Ashi Productions
- Episodes: 26 + OVA
Game Rant spotlighted Blue Seed for its mythological approach and urban action, noting that a remake could better explore its fascinating Japanese folklore themes with modern storytelling and aesthetics.
