Updated on August 14, 1:50 p.m. (GMT+8): Improved relevancy
Anime has grown into a global cultural phenomenon, captivating millions of viewers worldwide.
With a vast array of anime shows and movies available, newcomers to the medium may find the prospect of choosing what to watch first a bit overwhelming.
Some anime feature straightforward and heartfelt stories, like Your Lie in April and My Happy Marriage, while others delve into complex, mind-bending narratives that demand multiple viewings to fully comprehend, such as Steins;Gate and Death Note.
For those embarking on their anime journey, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best anime for beginners.
These series are not only easy to follow but also offer uncomplicated plotlines, ensuring an enjoyable introduction to the world of anime.
Here are 10 of the best anime for beginners
10. Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer is an ideal anime for beginners.
Amidst the backdrop of Taisho era-Japan, the story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who embarks on a treacherous journey to save his sister, Nezuko after she is transformed into a demon.
Armed with a legendary sword and guided by a diverse group of demon slayers, Tanjiro battles sinister demons while navigating his way through a richly detailed and fantastical world.
It is an excellent anime for beginners due to its compelling story and stunning animation, which make it engaging and visually appealing, and its relatively short length, making it a manageable introduction to the medium.
9. One-Punch Man
One-Punch Man takes the trope of overpowered protagonists to a whole new level.
The series revolves around Saitama, a hero capable of defeating any adversary with a single punch, yet he yearns for a challenge worthy of his abilities.
One-Punch Man possesses a distinct mix of humor, action, and a satirical take on superhero conventions.
With superheroes taking over popular culture over the past decade, One-Punch Man is a must-watch not only for anime beginners but also for dedicated otaku seeking a refreshing and entertaining series.
8. Spy x Family
If you’re a fan of the espionage genre, Spy x Family is a must-watch.
The series follows the intriguing life of Twilight, a top-notch spy tasked with a critical mission.
To infiltrate a prestigious school and get close to his target, he forms a fake family, including a telepathic daughter and a wife who moonlights as a hitman.
The series weaves espionage, humor, and heartwarming family dynamics, offering a captivating and unique tale of a makeshift family navigating the complexities of their dual lives.
What makes this series great for anime beginners is it is relatively new and has a manageable episode count, making it accessible for newcomers to the world of anime. It also has a lighthearted plot which everyone can enjoy.
7. Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho 100 is an excellent choice for anime beginners for several reasons.
First, its protagonist, Mob, is a relatable high school student with extraordinary psychic powers, making it easy for newcomers to connect with the character.
The series features visually engaging animation and action sequences suitable for all audiences.
Moreover, it offers a delightful mix of humor, especially through Mob’s mentor, Reigen, adding a lighthearted touch.
The profound character development in the show provides valuable life lessons that will resonate with new viewers.
6. Your Lie in April
While shonen anime often takes the spotlight, there’s something undeniably captivating about a classic romance plot, and Your Lie in April delivers just that.
The series revolves around Kousei Arima, a young piano prodigy who loses his ability to hear after a traumatic event.
However, his life takes a transformative turn when he encounters the spirited and talented violinist, Kaori Miyazono.
Your Lie in April is celebrated for its emotionally charged storytelling, breathtaking animation, and powerful soundtrack that elevates the experience.
This series has the remarkable ability to evoke profound emotions and is known to leave viewers in tears by the time it concludes, making it an unforgettable and heartrending anime journey, especially for those who are new to watching anime.
5. Bocchi the Rock!
Bocchi the Rock! is a captivating anime that revolves around the life of Hitori Gotoh, a shy and introverted high school student.
She is determined to become a rockstar and make new friends in school. However, her crippling social anxiety stands in her way.
The series is a heartwarming and humorous tale of self-discovery, friendship, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
A standout feature is its short length of just 12 episodes, making it an easily digestible and engaging choice for novice anime fans.
4. Haikyu!!
For a compelling and action-packed anime with a strong dose of realism, Haikyuu!! is a must-watch. It stands out as one of the best anime for beginners, particularly if you have an interest in sports.
The story revolves around Shoyo Hinata, a determined and vertically challenged athlete whose unwavering passion is volleyball.
His inspiring journey led him to join the Karasuno High School volleyball team, despite his stature.
This anime skillfully navigates the trials and triumphs of the Karasuno team as they strive for victory in national competitions, offering a relatable and adrenaline-pumping narrative that captivates both sports enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of anime.
3. Pokemon
If there’s one anime that has stood the test of time and earned the adoration of not just anime enthusiasts but also those who typically aren’t fans of the genre, it’s undoubtedly Pokémon.
The series chronicles the adventures of Ash Ketchum and his trusty partner, Pikachu, as they strive to become Pokémon Masters.
It’s beloved for its enduring themes of friendship and teamwork, the diverse array of Pokémon, and its ability to create an imaginative world that bridges generations, solidifying its status as an iconic and enduring part of popular culture.
It’s an ideal anime for beginners thanks to its simple and accessible plot centered around capturing and training creatures, fostering a sense of adventure and camaraderie.
Its longevity and widespread recognition make it a popular entry point for newcomers to the world of anime.
2. Detective Conan
Detective Conan, also known as Case Closed, is a renowned anime series that has left an indelible mark on the world of crime and mystery fiction.
The story revolves around Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant young detective whose life takes a dramatic turn when he’s transformed into a child after being poisoned.
Now living under the pseudonym Conan Edogawa, he continues his quest to solve crimes while searching for a cure.
Detective Conan is a good choice for beginners because it offers intriguing mystery-solving adventures with a relatable and clever protagonist, making it engaging for a wide audience.
Its episodic format allows viewers to jump into the series without needing to watch everything from the beginning.
1. Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online drops you right into the world of virtual reality gaming, following Kirito, a gamer stuck with others in a virtual game world.
This anime smoothly mixes exciting battles with character growth and dives into the whole virtual vs. real-world thing.
Sword Art Online is unique and a great choice for anime beginners because it blends virtual reality gaming with real-world consequences, providing an exciting and relatable premise.
Its compelling mix of action, adventure, romance, and exploration of virtual worlds appeals to a broad audience and can serve as an introduction to the diversity of themes and genres in anime.
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