What Anime Should I Watch as a Beginner?
- Knewspaper
- Jul 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Starting your anime journey can feel overwhelming with thousands of shows to choose from. But don’t worry! We’ve curated a list of beginner-friendly anime that are easy to follow, visually stunning, and packed with engaging stories. Whether you’re into action, comedy, or heartfelt drama, this guide will help you find your perfect starting point.

Why These Anime Are Perfect for Beginners
Simple, Engaging Stories: No complex lore or confusing timelines.
Relatable Characters: Protagonists you’ll root for from the start.
High-Quality Animation: Eye-catching visuals to hook you in.
Variety of Genres: From fantasy to slice-of-life, there’s something for everyone.
Top 10 Anime for Beginners
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Why Watch?
Often called the greatest anime of all time, this series follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they seek the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies. It balances intense action with deep themes like sacrifice and humanity. Perfect for newcomers craving a complete, impactful story.
2. SPY x FAMILY
Genre: Action, Comedy
Why Watch?
A spy, an assassin, and a telepathic girl pretend to be a family—what could go wrong? This hilarious and heartwarming show mixes humor with thrilling missions. Its light tone and lovable characters make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
3. My Hero Academia
Genre: Superhero, Action
Why Watch?
Join Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who inherits superpowers, as he trains to become the world’s greatest hero. With explosive battles and inspiring messages about perseverance, it’s a modern classic for superhero fans.
4. Delicious in Dungeon
Genre: Fantasy, Cooking
Why Watch?
Imagine cooking monsters to survive a dungeon! This quirky series blends adventure with humor, making it a lighthearted entry into fantasy anime. Plus, who wouldn’t love a dwarf chef named Senshi?
5. The Apothecary Diaries
Genre: Historical Mystery
Why Watch?
Follow Maomao, a brilliant poison-tester in an ancient Chinese palace, as she solves political mysteries. Its smart storytelling and rich setting are ideal for fans of intrigue and strong female leads.
6. Toradora!
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Why Watch?
A hilarious yet heartfelt story about two teens helping each other win their crushes. It’s a gateway to romance anime, blending laugh-out-loud moments with emotional depth.
7. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Genre: Action, Supernatural
Why Watch?
Tanjiro Kamado battles demons to save his sister in this visually stunning series. The breathtaking animation and fast-paced plot make it a thrilling introduction to action anime.
8. Haikyuu!!
Genre: Sports, Drama
Why Watch?
Even if you’re not into volleyball, Haikyuu!! will make you cheer! It’s a high-energy underdog story about teamwork and passion, perfect for sports lovers and newcomers alike.
9. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Genre: Fantasy, Drama
Why Watch?
An elf mage reflects on life after her epic quest. This slow-burn series explores themes of time and loss, offering a thoughtful, beautifully animated experience.
10. Pokémon
Genre: Adventure, Family-Friendly
Why Watch?
A timeless classic! Follow Ash and Pikachu’s journey to become Pokémon masters. Its episodic format lets you jump in anywhere, making it ideal for casual viewers.
Tips for Choosing Your First Anime
Pick a Genre You Love: If you enjoy Marvel movies, try My Hero Academia. Prefer mysteries? Go for The Apothecary Diaries.
Start Short: Many beginner-friendly shows have 12–24 episodes (e.g., SPY x FAMILY).
Use Streaming Services: Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Hulu have curated anime sections for easy browsing.
Conclusion
Anime offers endless possibilities, and starting with these picks ensures a smooth entry into this vibrant world. Remember, the best anime is one that resonates with you—so grab some snacks, hit play, and enjoy the ride!
FAQs
Q: Is anime only for kids?
A: No! Anime spans all ages and genres, from kid-friendly (Pokémon) to mature (Chainsaw Man).
Q: Should I watch dubbed or subbed?
A: Both are great! Try dubbed if you prefer listening in your language, or subbed for the original voice acting.
Q: Are there anime movies for beginners?
A: Yes! Spirited Away and Your Name are iconic starters.