Beginner Anime: What Should You Start Watching?

Anime is a vibrant and diverse medium that has gained a massive following around the globe. For those new to this captivating world, beginner anime offers an excellent entry point to explore various genres, themes, and artistic styles. This article will guide you through some fantastic beginner anime selections and what makes them accessible and fun for newcomers.

What Makes Anime Ideal for Beginners?

Beginner anime is often characterized by its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and vibrant visuals. These shows tend to be less complex than long-running series, making them easier for first-time viewers to follow. They also introduce viewers to fundamental themes and tropes common within the medium.

Accessibility of Themes

Beginner anime frequently tackles universal themes like friendship, adventure, and self-discovery. These relatable topics resonate with a wide audience and make it easier for newcomers to connect with the narrative.

Examples of Universal Themes in Beginner Anime

• Friendship: Series like My Hero Academia showcase how bonds between characters can drive the story forward.
• Adventure: In Attack on Titan, characters embark on thrilling journeys fraught with danger and discovery.
• Self-Discovery: Shows like One Piece emphasize the journey of finding one’s place in the world.

Top Recommendations for Beginner Anime

Here are some of the best beginner anime that can serve as an introduction to this expansive genre.

1. My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a world where they are the norm. His journey into heroism captivates audiences, showcasing themes of perseverance and heroism. The show’s combination of action, humor, and character development makes it ideal for beginners.

2. Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan offers a gripping tale of humanity's fight against giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. With intense action and deep plot twists, it effectively draws viewers in, making it an exhilarating choice for newcomers to anime.

3. One Punch Man

One Punch Man presents a unique twist on the superhero genre, following Saitama, a hero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch. Its humor and satire make it entertaining while still providing exciting action sequences.

4. Spirited Away

Spirited Away is a beautifully animated film by Studio Ghibli that tells the story of Chihiro, a girl trapped in a mysterious spirit world. The film's stunning visuals and imaginative storytelling introduce viewers to the artistry of anime.

How to Start Watching Beginner Anime?

To begin your journey into the world of anime, consider the following steps:

Choose Your Genre

Different anime series cater to various tastes. Whether you prefer action, romance, or comedy, there’s an anime out there for you. Explore different genres to find what resonates best with you.

Find a Reliable Streaming Service

Select a streaming platform that offers a broad range of anime titles. Services like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix provide accessibility to many popular beginner anime shows and films.

Start with Shorter Series

Many beginner anime are shorter, often containing one season or around 12 episodes. Starting with these concise series allows for quick viewing and helps maintain your interest without overwhelming you.

Understanding Anime Terminology

Familiarizing yourself with anime terminology can enhance your viewing experience. Here are some key terms:

Sub vs. Dub

“Sub” refers to subtitles, allowing viewers to watch the original Japanese version with translated text. “Dub” means the show is re-recorded in another language, often English, providing an alternative for those uncomfortable with subtitles.

Genres and Categories

Anime spans various genres, including shounen (targeted at young males), shoujo (for young females), seinen (adult men), and josei (adult women). Knowing these classifications can help you select shows that appeal to your interests.

Conclusion

Beginner anime serves as the perfect entry point into the diverse world of anime. By exploring accessible series that feature relatable themes, engaging characters, and captivating narratives, new viewers can quickly find their footing. Consider starting with acclaimed titles like My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan, and One Punch Man, and be sure to explore different genres to discover what you love most in anime.

With countless stories waiting to be told, your introduction to beginner anime is just the beginning of an exciting adventure!