Digimon actually had some interesting plot and characterization. Yes, most of it was one- or two-dimensional but the character dynamics between Tai and Matt and his younger brother were actually quite good.
Digimon (first season) had superb characters who were all multi-dimensional. Izzy was adopted and they had a small arc on that and Sora has a trouble relationship with her divorced mom who she lives with. I found this series very interesting as a 10 year old boy.
Thanks, I couldn't remember details on the other characters! despite loving Izzy, I mostly remember him as "the techy nerd" of the group. I also found the series very thought-provoking as a young boy.