The 15 Best Anime Series for Absolute Beginners

Anime opens the door to vibrant worlds filled with epic battles, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable characters. For beginners, the sheer variety can feel overwhelming, but the right series can hook you with its charm and accessibility, making you eager for more.

This list ranks the 15 best anime for absolute beginners, chosen for their engaging plots, universal themes, and easy-to-follow storytelling. From action-packed adventures to cozy comedies, these shows are perfect entry points. Let’s dive into the anime universe.

15. ‘Pokémon’ (1997- )

Ash Ketchum and his electric pal Pikachu travel the world, catching creatures and battling trainers. This iconic series is beginner-friendly with its simple, episodic format and vibrant animation. Each season feels like a fresh start, making it easy to jump in. Its universal appeal spans kids and adults.

Running for decades, ‘Pokémon’ offers endless adventures with themes of friendship and perseverance. Its cultural impact and charming world make it a gentle introduction to anime’s colorful style.

14. ‘Yuri!!! on Ice’ (2016)

This sports anime follows Yuri Katsuki, a figure skater rebuilding his confidence with the help of his idol, Victor. Its stunning skating sequences and heartfelt romance shine, with a tight 12-episode run. The emotional depth and relatable characters make it inviting for newcomers.

‘Yuri!!! on Ice’ blends competition with personal growth, keeping the story accessible yet moving. Its universal themes of love and ambition make it a great starting point for anime fans.

13. ‘Haikyu!!’ (2014-2020)

Shoyo Hinata, a short but determined teen, joins his high school volleyball team to chase his dreams. This sports anime mixes high-energy matches with teamwork and growth, led by a lovable cast. Its clear narrative and dynamic animation hook viewers fast.

Over four seasons, ‘Haikyu!!’ delivers thrilling games and relatable struggles, perfect for beginners. Its focus on effort and friendship makes it an inspiring entry into anime’s emotional depth.

12. ‘My Teen Romantic Comedy Yahari’ (2013-2020)

Hachiman Hikigaya, a cynical teen, is forced into a club that helps solve students’ problems, leading to unexpected bonds. This slice-of-life comedy offers sharp wit and heartfelt moments across three seasons. Its focus on relationships keeps it grounded for new viewers.

‘My Teen Romantic Comedy Yahari’ balances humor with introspective character arcs, making it easy to follow. Its relatable high school drama draws beginners into anime’s storytelling range.

11. ‘Toradora!’ (2008-2009)

Ryuuji, a gentle teen with a scary face, teams up with feisty Taiga to help each other with their crushes. This romantic comedy’s 25 episodes blend humor, drama, and heart, with a tight focus on character growth. Its universal love story feels welcoming.

‘Toradora!’ shines with its emotional payoff and charming leads, perfect for beginners. Its mix of lighthearted fun and deeper feelings makes it a cozy anime gateway.

10. ‘One-Punch Man’ (2015- )

Saitama, a hero who defeats any foe with one punch, searches for a real challenge. This action-comedy’s sharp humor and jaw-dropping animation make its two seasons a blast. Its superhero satire is easy to grasp, even for anime newcomers.

‘One-Punch Man’ hooks with its over-the-top fights and deadpan wit, keeping the story light yet thrilling. Its short length and broad appeal make it a fantastic starter.

9. ‘Spy x Family’ (2022- )

A spy, an assassin, and a telepathic girl form a fake family for a mission, unaware of each other’s secrets. This comedy-action series is instantly lovable with its mix of espionage and heartwarming moments. Its ongoing run is easy to follow.

‘Spy x Family’ charms with its quirky trio and gorgeous animation, ideal for beginners. Its blend of humor and family dynamics offers a fun, accessible anime experience.

8. ‘Mob Psycho 100’ (2016-2022)

Shigeo, a shy teen with psychic powers, tries to live a normal life while facing supernatural threats. This action-packed series across three seasons balances humor, heart, and stunning visuals. Its relatable protagonist makes it inviting for new fans.

‘Mob Psycho 100’ captivates with its emotional depth and explosive animation, perfect for beginners. Its themes of self-control and friendship resonate, easing viewers into anime’s intensity.

7. ‘Fruits Basket’ (2019-2021)

Tohru, an orphan, lives with a family cursed to turn into zodiac animals when hugged. This reboot’s three seasons blend romance, comedy, and drama with a heartfelt story. Its warm tone and clear narrative make it beginner-friendly.

‘Fruits Basket’ draws you in with its emotional stakes and lovable cast, ideal for new viewers. Its mix of magic and human connection showcases anime’s storytelling power.

6. ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’ (2019- )

Tanjiro fights demons to save his sister, Nezuko, in a beautifully animated Taisho-era Japan. This action series’ stunning visuals and emotional sibling bond make its ongoing run accessible. Its straightforward plot hooks beginners instantly.

‘Demon Slayer’ shines with its breathtaking fights and heartfelt story, perfect for new fans. Its universal themes of family and resilience make it a modern anime classic.

5. ‘Naruto’ (2002-2007)

Naruto, a young ninja with a sealed demon, dreams of becoming his village’s leader. This long-running series’ early seasons offer action, humor, and growth, with a clear underdog story. Its iconic status and engaging world draw newcomers in.

‘Naruto’ captivates with its vibrant characters and epic battles, ideal for beginners. Its themes of perseverance and friendship make it a timeless anime entry point.

4. ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020- )

Yuji, a teen, joins a secret society of sorcerers to fight cursed spirits after swallowing a powerful artifact. This action series’ two seasons blend dark fantasy with humor and heart. Its modern vibe and clear plot make it beginner-friendly.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ hooks with its slick animation and lovable cast, perfect for new viewers. Its mix of thrills and emotional depth showcases anime’s dynamic range.

3. ‘Attack on Titan’ (2013-2023)

Eren and his friends fight giant Titans threatening humanity’s walled city. This dark fantasy’s four seasons deliver intense action and gripping mysteries. Its universal themes of survival and sacrifice make it accessible despite its complexity.

‘Attack on Titan’ captivates with its high stakes and stunning visuals, ideal for beginners. Its emotional weight and thrilling plot make it a must-watch anime gateway.

2. ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ (2009-2010)

Brothers Edward and Alphonse search for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemy attempt. This 64-episode series blends action, drama, and heart with a tight story. Its universal themes make it perfect for newcomers.

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ shines with its rich world and emotional depth, drawing beginners in. Its masterful storytelling and satisfying conclusion cement it as a top starter.

1. ‘My Hero Academia’ (2016- )

In a world where superpowers are common, quirkless Izuku inherits powers from a legendary hero. This action series’ ongoing run offers vibrant characters, epic fights, and a clear underdog story. Its superhero vibe and emotional core hook beginners fast.

‘My Hero Academia’ captivates with its dynamic animation and inspiring themes, making it the ultimate anime entry point. Its focus on courage and teamwork resonates universally, ensuring newcomers fall in love with the genre.

Which anime would you start with, or did I miss a perfect beginner pick? Drop your thoughts in the comments!