New to anime? Here are the best beginner-friendly anime series to start with
Getting into anime can feel overwhelming there are literally thousands of shows out there, each with different genres, art styles, and episode counts. But don't worry! If you're wondering where to begin, we've got your back.
Whether you're into action, romance, or slice-of-life, these beginner-friendly anime series are perfect to start your journey. They're easy to follow, wildly entertaining, and loved by fans worldwide. Let's dive in.
Best beginner-friendly anime series to watch right now
Death Note
Source: IMDB
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Genre: Thriller, supernatural
Episodes: 37
This iconic series is often the gateway drug to anime fandom. Death Note follows Light Yagami, a high school genius who gains the power to kill anyone just by writing their name in a notebook. The moral dilemmas, intense cat-and-mouse chase with detective L, and clever storytelling make it an irresistible start for beginners.
My Hero Academia
Source: IMDB
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll, JioCinema
Genre: Action, superhero, school
Episodes: 100+ (ongoing)
Set in a world where almost everyone has superpowers called quirks, My Hero Academia tells the story of Izuku Midoriya, a quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. It's full of high-energy battles, emotional arcs, and strong character development, making it one of the best beginner-friendly anime for fans of Marvel or DC.
One Punch Man
Source: IMDB
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Genre: Action, comedy, superhero
Episodes: 24 (2 seasons)
What happens when a hero is so strong he defeats everyone with one punch? That's the hilarious premise of One Punch Man.
With crisp animation and satire of superhero tropes, it's perfect for those who want laughs with their action.
Demon Slayer
: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll, Prime Video
Genre: Action, dark fantasy
Episodes: 55+ (ongoing)
If you're into gorgeous animation and emotionally gripping stories, Demon Slayer is a must. It follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered. It's intense, heartfelt, and one of the most visually stunning anime ever made.
Spirited Away (Movie)
Source: IMDB
Found in: Netflix, Prime Video (Studio Ghibli collection)
Genre: Fantasy, adventure
Duration: 125 minutes
Prefer movies over series? Start with Spirited Away, a magical masterpiece by Studio Ghibli.
It follows a young girl named Chihiro trapped in a world of spirits. The film is dreamy, imaginative, and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. A beautiful introduction to anime films.
Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)
Found in: Netflix, Prime Video
Genre: Romance, fantasy, drama
Duration: 106 minutes
This film hits you right in the feels. Two teenagers mysteriously start switching bodies, and what begins as a fun twist turns into an emotional rollercoaster. With breathtaking animation and a killer soundtrack, Your Name is a modern anime classic.
Attack on Titan
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Genre: Action, post-apocalyptic
Episodes: 90+ (complete)
If you're okay with a darker, more intense story, Attack on Titan is unforgettable. It's set in a world under siege by man-eating giants, and it only gets crazier from there. Incredible plot twists, epic fights, and complex characters make this a must-watch for thrill-seekers.
Fruits Basket (2019 reboot)
Found in: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Genre: Romance, drama, slice-of-life
Episodes: 63
Want something wholesome with a bit of magical realism? Fruits Basket is a sweet, emotional story about a girl who ends up living with a family cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac.
It's heartwarming, funny, and low-key deep.
Haikyuu!!
Source: IMDB
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Genre: Sports, school, comedy
Episodes: 85+ (ongoing)
Even if you've never cared about volleyball, Haikyuu!! will make you obsessed. It's an underdog story filled with energy, friendship, rivalry, and amazing character arcs. Perfect for fans of sports dramas or coming-of-age tales.
Naruto (Classic + Shippuden)
Found in: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Genre: Action, adventure, ninja
Episodes: 720 (including Shippuden)
Yes, it's long but Naruto is a cultural phenomenon for a reason. Follow Naruto Uzumaki, a loud, lovable ninja outcast with a dream of becoming the village's strongest leader.
If you're ready for a binge-worthy adventure, this is the ultimate starter.
Whether you've got five minutes or five hours, there's an anime out there for you. From intense thrillers to light-hearted romances, these beginner-friendly anime shows and movies give you a taste of the best the medium has to offer. Try one, and you might just find yourself hooked.
Also read |
If Demon Slayer hooked you, don't miss these 5 action-packed supernatural anime
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