In terms of TV animation, the 90s brought us stuff that was equal parts unconventional and addictive. From extreme violence and disastrous characters to beautifully crafted fight sequences and gripping plots, this decade gave us a bit of everything. These TV shows packed generous amounts of exoskeletons and mech-suits, monstrous heroes and villains, mythological and mystical plots, and most importantly- aesthetically rich and vibrant animation. We wouldn’t be wrong in saying that what was provided was a much-needed bridge, reducing the gap between kids-centric cartoons, and ones aimed at adults. After the 90s were over, there came a radical and dramatic shift in the way cartoons were made and viewed, and adult viewership became a luxury that’s enjoyed even today than by animation creators. The introduction of CGI alongside live-action sequences in cartoons gained prominence in the 90s, and the 2021 movie Tom and Jerry is the latest direct consequence of the trend. In this video, we will look at some of the edgiest, avant-garde cartoons that pioneered something new. We will refrain from including mainstream cartoons and deal only in the ones that we think were minor or major game-changers. So sit back and enjoy this thrill ride and let us know in the comments which among these you’d like to watch.

0:00 Intro
2:03 Exosquad (1993–1995)
4:10 The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest (1996-1997)
6:36 Biker Mice from Mars (1993-1996)
8:42 Extreme Ghostbusters (1997)
10:37 Skeleton Warriors (1994)
12:26 Godzilla: The Series (1998)
14:32 Conan the Adventurer (1992 TV series)
16:43 Wild CATS: Covert Action Teams (1994)
18:14 Highlander: The Animated Series (1994–1996)
20:04 ACTION MAN (1995)
22:00 GI JOE EXTREME (1995)
23:58 The Savage Dragon (1995-1996)