The anime community is vast and diverse, yet one recurring tension exists between long-time fans of 90s anime and newer enthusiasts.This divide is not merely about preferences but reflects deeper cultural, generational, and emotional factors.
Let’s understand why many 90s anime lovers seem to harbor resentment toward newcomers to the medium.
Nostalgia and Emotional Attachment
For many who grew up in the 90s, anime was more than just entertainment—it was a formative experience. Shows like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Cowboy Bebop, and Sailor Moon weren’t just stories; they were gateways into a new world of storytelling. The emotional resonance of these classics often leads older fans to view them as unparalleled. As one fan on Reddit shared:
“Having grown up watching anime through the 90s, I think the good old days are mostly people remembering the great shows they grew up with and shaped them as fans, forgetting about all the crap that didn’t make an impact”
This nostalgic lens can make it difficult for older fans to embrace modern anime, which they may perceive as lacking the same depth or charm.
A Perceived Decline in Quality
Many 90s anime enthusiasts argue that modern anime lacks the originality and artistic experimentation of their era. The 90s were marked by groundbreaking works that pushed boundaries, such as Serial Experiments Lain and Trigun.
OVAs (Original Video Animations) thrived during this period, offering creators freedom to experiment without commercial constraints. In contrast, modern anime often relies on repetitive tropes, particularly in genres like isekai (parallel world stories)
Misunderstandings Between Generations
The generational gap between 90s fans and newcomers often leads to misunderstandings. Modern fans may dismiss older shows for their dated animation styles or slower pacing, while older fans may criticize newer series for prioritizing flashy visuals over storytelling. A fan from MyAnimeList expressed this frustration:
“Modern fans tend to be generally passive towards old anime… rather than outright hating it, they just don’t really care while old anime watchers would often be very vocal of their disdain for modern anime”
This disconnect can create an “us vs. them” mentality, where each side feels misunderstood or undervalued.
The Role of Gatekeeping
Some 90s anime lovers engage in gatekeeping—believing that newer fans lack an appreciation for the history or artistry of the medium. This attitude can manifest in dismissive comments or outright hostility toward those who primarily watch modern hits like Attack on Titan or Demon Slayer. One Reddit user observed:
“Most of my favorite shows are definitely older… but I suspect that has more to do with nostalgia at this point than objective quality”
Gatekeeping often stems from a protective instinct over something deeply personal but can alienate newcomers eager to explore anime.
Bridging the Gap
Despite these tensions, many older fans recognize that both eras have their merits. Some acknowledge that nostalgia plays a significant role in their preferences and encourage openness toward modern series. As one Reddit commenter wisely put it:
“Overall, I’d have to say that the ‘good ol’ days’ are more about how we all felt back when we first discovered anime rather than any commentary on how good the shows were back then”.
By fostering mutual respect and understanding, both groups can celebrate what makes anime special across generations.
The divide between 90s anime lovers and newcomers is rooted in nostalgia, changing industry trends, and generational differences. While it’s natural for long-time fans to feel protective of what they love, embracing change can enrich everyone’s experience.
After all, whether it’s classics like Dragon Ball Z or modern hits like My Hero Academia, anime’s true beauty lies in its ability to bring people together through compelling stories and unforgettable characters.
