Anime really took off in the West during the ’90s with Cowboy Bebop, but the ’80s were an influential decade that, while not impacting the West, was a significant era for Japan and the growth of the medium. Everyone knows of classics like Dragon Ball, but the 1980s had countless other underrated gems that many modern fans overlook due to their age.
The ’80s may not be the most memorable period in anime’s history, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have must-watch anime. This list ranks the ten most underrated anime from the 1980s, based on writing, animation, story, characters, fan opinion, and critical acclaim. Underrated is an umbrella term for anime that deserve higher ratings, shows that are overlooked, or series that are underwatched.
10
‘Legend of the Galactic Heroes’ (1988–1997)
The sci-fi genre isn’t as popular as it used to be, but in its heyday, it produced some of the greatest anime of all time, including Legend of the Galactic Heroes. When two young leaders break the decades-old ceasefire, their conflicting ideals rage a war that envelops the entire galaxy.
For many fans who know about Legend of the Galactic Heroes, they will probably strongly disagree with this anime’s placement on the list. Which is fair, considering it is one of the most critically acclaimed anime series of all time. However, the series has become more and more underwatched and overlooked, earning it a spot on this list despite being a sci-fi anime masterpiece.
9
‘Fist of the North Star’ (1984–1988)
Fist of the North Star is yet another entry that isn’t exactly underrated, but it lands on this list regardless because of its fading popularity. Kenshirou wanders the apocalypse searching for his rival, hoping for one final duel of revenge. A Fist of the North Star remake is officially in production and set to release sometime in 2026.
Few anime on this list had the same impact as Fist of the North Star, which not only had a genre-defining anime character but also revolutionized action shows during this time. This anime is also an iconic staple in the anime community, spreading countless memes and images. However, Fist of the North Star is fairly underrated by today’s standards, but hopefully the upcoming remake will change that.
8
‘Gunbuster’ (1988–1989)
The mecha and sci-fi genre was at its peak during the 1980s, producing an abundance of thrilling intergalactic shows, including Gunbuster. When humanity discovers an evil alien race hellbent on destroying them, Noriko and Kazumi are two rookie pilots who need to make sure the aliens don’t discover Earth.
Gunbuster has a solid rating and a dedicated fanbase, but considering its quality, it is surprising that the anime isn’t higher in both respects. The charming and fluid animation still holds up today, and the ’80s art style adds even more splendor to this gorgeous series. The space battles hold real weight, creating a captivating sci-fi series that has been forgotten over time.
7
‘Dallos’ (1983–1984)
Mamoru Oshii is known for Ghost in the Shell, a seminal anime movie that is anything but underrated. However, his first directorial anime is another story, as Dallos received horrible reviews, cramming a fascinating political sci-fi plot into only four episodes. After extremists kidnap a person of interest, the moon miners struggle to decide whether to join the rebellion or lay low.
Dallos is probably the first true underrated anime on this list, as Legend of the Galactic Heroes and Fist of the North Star either have critical acclaim or popularity. Dallos, on the other hand, is a poorly ranked anime with few fans, making it perfect for this list. The art design and music are absolutely flawless, providing a distinct atmosphere despite the rushed plot that undermines an otherwise overambitious story.
6
‘Cat’s Eye’ (1983–1985)
City Hunter is one of the most popular anime shows from the 1980s, but in the same universe, Cat’s Eye exists, following three female protagonists. After someone kidnapped their father, the trio of siblings steal his paintings around the city, hoping to find clues about his whereabouts.
Cat’s Eye may be repetitive at times, and the animation has definitely aged, but it remains an entertaining Phantom Thief anime that was pretty popular during its original release. However, with a surprisingly low rating, this classic deserves better, and hopefully, it will get that when its remake airs in September 2025 on Disney+.
5
‘Kimagure Orange Road’ (1987–1988)
School anime is a staple of the medium, but Kimagure Orange Road is surprisingly the first of its genre on this list. Kyousuke has to move often because of his family’s secret power of communing with the dead, but after making friends with a couple of eccentric individuals, he finds it hard to keep things under wraps despite wanting to stay.
Some of the characters may be one-dimensional and annoying at times, but Kimagure Orange Road can make fans feel like their younger self, experiencing the nostalgic school days of friendship and young love. Younger audiences will connect to it more, but older viewers will adore the animation, music, and sense of nostalgia.
4
‘Fang of the Sun Dougram’ (1981–1983)
Fang of the Sun Dougram is yet another sci-fi mecha anime on this list, proving this era was full of classic mech adventures. When a new governor becomes a dictator, a group of guerrilla fighters rises up to start the rebellion, hoping to change the world and free it from the oppressive new grasp.
This anime is a rare breed, delivering one of the most detailed and intelligent political war plots in anime while also keeping silly moments and plot holes. Fang of the Sun Dougram is both brilliantly written and lacking in that regard, which makes it the underrated ’80s anime series it is today and a perfect watch for fans seeking something more in-depth and profound, with a hint of silliness.
3
‘Igano Kabamaru’ (1983–1984)
After the death of his grandfather and ninja teacher, the titular protagonist moves to Tokyo with his grandmother, where he leads a normal life at school. However, Tokyo seems to have its own peculiarities, making Igano Kabamaru a classic high school tale that combines action, adventure, comedy, and romance.
Igano Kabamaru may not be anything too special, but the animation holds up well and is consistent for the entire show. The anime is down-to-earth and ridiculously goofy, offering fans the best of both worlds while highlighting the classic ’80s animation style. Igano Kabamaru is a nice slice of the ’80s to get a grasp of the style and vibe.
2
‘Bubblegum Crisis’ (1987–1991)
A mysterious company has taken over the reborn city of Mega Tokyo, utilizing its advanced robots to leave the police helpless. That is, until the vigilante force known as the Knight Sabers comes in to save the day. Bubblegum Crisis is an action-packed series in which a group of heroes saves the day and attempts to free the city.
Bubblegum Crisis is an underrated network anime that older fans will fondly remember. This female-led action anime packs some severe heat, entertaining viewers with its fascinating side plots and mesmerizing action. The animation and cheesiness are very apparent, but that just makes it feel more like an ’80s anime, making it more special that way.
1
‘Sherlock Hound’ (1984–1985)
Finally, coming in at number one is one of the greatest ’80s anime that is somehow underrated. Sherlock Hound is a mystery anime loosely based on the classic Sherlock Holmes series, this time following a cast of anthropomorphic dogs and the series of mysteries and adventures they get up to.
Any fans of Sherlock Holmes or mystery must check out this incredible ’80s anime, which delivers on the intrigue while also providing compelling characters, comedic moments, and goofy situations. Hayao Miyazaki directed this charming anime, which surprisingly has a low rating and few fans, making it one of the most underrated anime of all time.
Sherlock Hound
- Release Date
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1984 – 1984
- Network
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tv asahi, ABC TV, Rai 1, Nagoya TV, HTB, Kyushu Asahi Broadcasting, YBC, Niigata Television Network 21, khb, KFB, Shizuoka Kenmin TV, HOME, KSB, Kagoshima Broadcasting
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Taichiro Hirokawa
Sherlock Hound (voice)
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Chikao Ohtsuka
Professor Moriarty (voice)
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Yoko Asagami
Mrs. Hudson (voice)
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Kosei Tomita
Doctor Watson (voice)