This medium has evolved every decade since its creation, exponentially expanding in terms of quality and quantity.

There are countless great anime from this time period, includingHajime no IppoandGurren Lagann.

This group go on mystical adventures ranging from fighting mountain apes to exposing dark guilds.

10 Essential Anime Shows That Defined the 2000s

Image via Zanda Rice

With bonds of friendship, nothing is impossible as they journey and fight against evil mages.

Soul Eaterwas all the rage back in the 2000s because it delivered a unique experience and vibe.

However, the 2000s was the peak for this punch in of show, producing anime likeOne PieceandDragon Ball.

Gintoki and Kagura eating tons of sweets and desserts in Gintama.

Image via Sunrise

Another popular series isInuYasha, which blends battles with romance and drama.

Deciding the greatest anime of all time isn’t an easy decision, like picking the best movie.

This series was so popular that it reached people who hadn’t heard of anime.

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Itstarted the dark and edgy trend that would define the anime of this decade.

This anime blends slice-of-life school antics with sci-fi to create a unique and innovative show.

Haruhi Suzumiyawas a cultural phenomenon.

Natuso, Lucy, Gray, Erza, Happy, and Plue sitting in a train in Fairy Tail.

Image via A-1 Pictures

Its dark plot and edgy vibe perfectly fit this decade, drawing many fans to it.

The original series follows the titular ninja on a quest to become the Hokage of his village.

Together, the three go on dangerous adventures and face other powerful ninja, testing their abilities.

Fairy Tail

It influenced popular culture, internet memes, and the anime scene, including the iconicNarutorun.

WhileNarutois the more popular anime,Bleachdefined its decade much better.

Keep Reading:The 15 Best Anime Series of the 2000s, Ranked

Cast of Soul Eater looking into the camera with a smiling moon behind them.

Image via Bones

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Kikyo and InuYasha sitting separately on a boat in InuYasha.

Image via Sunrise

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Edward and Alphonse Elric in ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’.

Image via Bones Inc.

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Light Yagami and L look serious in ‘Death Note’.

Image via Madhouse

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Students gather around someone who is writing on a piece of paper in The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.

Image via Chiba TV

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One character whispers to another, both wearing tuxedos in the anime series Black Butler.

Image via Cruncyroll

Black Butler

Naruto tied to a tree while Sasuke and Sakura eat lunch in Naruto.

Image via Pierrot

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Ichigo brooding while Rukia looks at him in Bleach.

Image via YTV

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