12 Best Starter Anime Series for Anyone New to Watching Anime

This classic shonen anime mixes fantasy, philosophy and fast-paced adventure. Two brothers use alchemy to search for the Philosopher's Stone after a tragic attempt to bring their mother back to life.

The show blends drama, action and compelling story arcs that build across seasons. It's also based on a beloved manga series and offers one of the best anime experiences for new fans.

Beautiful animation and heartfelt storytelling make "Demon Slayer" one of the best anime for beginners.

The show follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young man who sets out to avenge his family and save his sister Nezuko after a demon attack. With dazzling fight scenes and strong emotional focus, it's a great first anime with just the right balance of horror and heart.

A powerhouse in modern shonen anime, "My Hero Academia" centers on a boy born without powers in a world full of superheroes. The series is filled with exciting battles, relatable characters and the kind of emotional beats that make anime unforgettable.

Its popularity makes it a must-watch and a great introduction to anime for beginners.

This psychological thriller is a great anime for fans of crime, mystery, and moral dilemmas. A high school student gains the power to kill anyone by writing their name in a supernatural notebook.

"Death Note" is ideal for those who want a dark, fast-paced story with intelligent plot twists and intense character rivalries.

A hilarious parody of the superhero genre, "One Punch Man" follows Saitama, a hero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch.

Its mix of satire, sharp animation and memorable characters makes it fun for both casual viewers and hardcore anime fans. It's also one of the best examples of anime comedy.

If you're interested in slice-of-life romance with a supernatural twist, "Fruits Basket" is a strong choice. Tohru Honda becomes involved with the cursed Sohma family, who turn into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by a member of the opposite sex.

Themes of trauma, healing, and acceptance make it more than just a typical romance.

For sports anime fans, "Haikyuu!!" delivers non-stop volleyball action and compelling character growth. It tracks the rise of a high school team through intense matches and personal challenges.

The series shows how anime can make even a high school volleyball game feel like an epic battle.

"One Piece" is a legendary anime series that follows Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates on a quest to find the world’s greatest treasure.

With hundreds of episodes, it's a commitment, but also a thrilling journey full of adventure, humor and friendship. The anime adaptation stays true to the source manga and creates a universe that's hard to leave.

From the creator of "One Punch Man," this anime combines comedy, action, and heartfelt storytelling, following a psychic boy trying to balance his powers with a normal life.

Its unique animation style and emotional depth make it a top pick for new anime fans.

Set in New York City, this anime blends crime drama, emotional tension and LGBTQ+ themes. The story of Ash and Eiji spans gang wars and government conspiracies. Its strong characters and serious tone offer a darker but rewarding anime for mature beginners.

Don’t be fooled by the title: This anime is a powerful character study wrapped in a sports story.

Its experimental visuals and deep emotional arcs make it an underrated gem—a great choice for fans interested in artful storytelling and offbeat style.

One of the most influential anime of all time, this sci-fi psychological drama dives deep into human emotion, trauma, and identity.

Though more complex and surreal than other entries, it's a rite of passage for anime fans and a fascinating watch for those interested in anime's intellectual side.

If you're more into anime movies than series, "A Silent Voice" is a powerful choice. It explores bullying, disability and redemption with incredible emotional maturity. The film's beautiful animation and nuanced characters show just how moving anime can be.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.