10 Must-Watch Anime for Absolute Beginners – Start Your Anime Journey Here
New to Anime? Start Here
So, you’ve finally decided to dive into anime—but where do you begin? With thousands of series, genres, and art styles, starting your anime journey can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve curated the perfect list of must-watch anime for absolute beginners.
These shows are:
- Easy to follow
- Emotionally engaging
- Culturally accessible
- Highly rated by fans and critics
Whether you’re looking for action, romance, comedy, or slice-of-life, this guide has something for everyone.
Let’s kick off your anime journey the right way.
🎯 Why These Anime Are Perfect for Beginners
Before we dive into the list, here’s what makes a beginner-friendly anime:
- Simple but engaging plot
- Great animation quality
- Minimal cultural confusion
- Dub availability
- Complete or easy-to-pick-up seasons
Ready? Let’s go!
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (Action / Adventure / Fantasy)
Episodes: 64
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu
Why it’s great for beginners:
This is often hailed as the most complete anime experience. It blends deep emotional storytelling, thrilling action, and philosophical questions—without being confusing or overwhelming. The pacing is smooth, and the English dub is excellent.
Make sure to watch Brotherhood, not the 2003 version.
2. Your Name (Romance / Drama / Sci-Fi)
Runtime: 1 hour 52 minutes (movie)
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime
Why it’s great for beginners:
A visually stunning film by Makoto Shinkai that mixes romance, time travel, and gorgeous animation. It’s a self-contained story, perfect for movie night—even for people who don’t usually watch anime.
This film is one of the highest-grossing anime movies ever and constantly ranks in “best anime for beginners” lists.
3. One Punch Man (Action / Comedy / Superhero Parody)
Episodes: 24 (2 seasons)
Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu, Crunchyroll
Why it’s great for beginners:
This series is perfect if you enjoy superhero shows like The Boys or Marvel. It’s hilarious, full of action, and doesn’t require deep anime knowledge. Saitama, the overpowered bald hero, will have you laughing from episode one.
It parodies typical anime tropes, making it perfect for new viewers.
4. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (Action / Drama / Supernatural)
Episodes: Ongoing (3 seasons + movies)
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Why it’s great for beginners:
One of the most beautifully animated anime ever made, Demon Slayer has a simple plot: a boy fights demons to save his sister. The emotional core, incredible fight scenes, and lovable characters make this an instant favorite.
The Mugen Train movie connects directly to Season 2.
5. My Hero Academia (Superhero / Action / School Life)
Episodes: 7 seasons and counting
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix
Why it’s great for beginners:
This is a great entry point for fans of Western superhero stories. It’s like X-Men meets Naruto, with a school for kids learning to control their powers. It has emotional arcs, epic battles, and relatable characters.
One of the best English dubs available!
6. Death Note (Psychological / Crime / Supernatural)
Episodes: 37
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Why it’s great for beginners:
Death Note is a dark, gripping thriller where a teen finds a notebook that can kill anyone. It’s smart, suspenseful, and incredibly addictive. Perfect if you love shows like Breaking Bad or Sherlock.
You’ll be asking “Is he the villain or the hero?” the entire time.
7. Spirited Away (Fantasy / Adventure / Coming of Age)
Runtime: 2 hours 5 minutes (movie)
Where to Watch: Netflix, HBO Max (US), Amazon Prime
Why it’s great for beginners:
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli, this Oscar-winning film is a perfect introduction to anime fantasy. The story of a young girl in a spirit world is both enchanting and emotionally resonant.
Ghibli films are beloved worldwide and great for all ages.
8. Kaguya-sama: Love is War (Romantic Comedy)
Episodes: 3 seasons + movie
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
Why it’s great for beginners:
Want to start with something lighthearted? This romantic comedy about two geniuses trying to make the other confess love first is hilarious and refreshing. The humor and style are easy to digest—even for newcomers.
Think of it as The Office meets How I Met Your Mother, but in anime form.
9. Attack on Titan (Action / Drama / Post-Apocalyptic)
Episodes: 4 seasons (completed)
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
Why it’s great for beginners:
If you’re okay with a more intense start, this show will hook you instantly. Titans eating humans, massive mysteries, and epic plot twists. It’s brutal, but once you’re in, you’re in deep.
Be prepared for strong violence and emotional themes.
10. One Piece (Adventure / Comedy / Pirate Fantasy)
Episodes: Over 1,000 (Ongoing)
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why it’s great for beginners:
Yes, it’s long. But One Piece is a global phenomenon for a reason. The early episodes are fun, full of heart, and slowly build into one of the most expansive stories in anime history.
Start with the One Piece Live-Action on Netflix—it’s beginner-friendly and leads nicely into the anime.
✅ Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Start With?
If you’re unsure where to begin:
- For story + emotion: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- For fantasy vibes: Spirited Away
- For pure laughs: One Punch Man or Kaguya-sama
- For edge-of-your-seat thrill: Death Note
No matter your choice, these anime will ease you into the world of Japanese animation while keeping you entertained from the first episode.
💬 What Was YOUR First Anime?
Drop a comment and let us know!
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