Anime can feel like a massive world if you’re only just peeking in. With thousands of titles and genres spanning everything from magical high school dramas to intense sci-fi thrillers, it’s no wonder many people don’t know where to begin. But don’t worry — this guide is here to help you find the perfect entry points into the world of anime.
Whether you’re entirely new or you’ve only watched an episode or two of something popular, these picks are the best place to begin. Here are the must-watch anime that will get you hooked in no time.
1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – A Visual Masterpiece With Heart
Demon Slayer is one of the most accessible modern anime for new fans. From the very first episode, it pulls you into a rich story with dazzling animation and a clear emotional story. It’s hard not to get invested in Tanjiro Kamado’s journey to avenge his family and save his sister from a demonic curse.
Beyond the story, the animation is jaw-dropping. The swordplay scenes in particular are artistic and cinematic — great for those who love action paired with emotion.
And if you’re already captivated by the beautifully rendered swords used by the Demon Slayers, you’ll probably love checking out real-life replicas. You can find high-quality versions of these iconic weapons at samuraiswordstore.com — a perfect way to bring a piece of the anime home.
2. Attack on Titan – Gritty, Gripping, and Thought-Provoking
If you enjoy a darker, more intense story that still gives you clear stakes and incredible pacing, Attack on Titan is a must. The premise is simple on the surface: humanity is trapped within massive walls to protect itself from man-eating giants. But as the story unfolds, it reveals deep political drama, ethical dilemmas, and shocking twists.
The pacing of the first season is designed to hook you. The tension builds rapidly, and the characters’ motivations are easy to grasp even if you’ve never watched anime before.
Plus, it’s a conversation starter. Everyone has opinions about Attack on Titan, and you’ll find plenty of people to discuss it with once you’re in.
3. My Hero Academia – Superheroes With a Japanese Twist
For fans of Marvel or DC, My Hero Academia offers a perfect blend of the familiar and the new. It’s set in a world where most people have superpowers (called Quirks), and it follows a group of students training to become professional heroes.
With exciting characters, plenty of comedic moments, and heartfelt story arcs, it’s fun and full of depth. The main character, Izuku Midoriya, is an underdog with a lot of heart — someone you’ll root for from the start.
Its school setting and straightforward plot make it easy to follow while still offering the kind of emotional highs and lows anime is known for.
4. Bleach – Classic Shonen Action With Style
Bleach is one of the classic “big three” anime series alongside Naruto and One Piece, but it’s arguably the most stylish of the bunch. It’s packed with sword fights, cool character designs, and a supernatural world that’s easy to dive into.
Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper, is a relatable lead with a clear mission: protect those he loves. As the story expands, it introduces a wide cast of characters and some of the most memorable battle sequences in anime history.
If you’re a fan of sword fights, Bleach delivers in spades. The various blade designs are iconic.
5. Death Note – A Mind Game With High Stakes
Not everyone wants non-stop action. If you’re more interested in suspense and psychological drama, Death Note is a brilliant place to start. The show follows a genius student, Light Yagami, who gains the power to kill anyone simply by writing their name in a notebook.
The story is a gripping battle of wits between Light and a mysterious detective named L. There are no massive fights or long arcs to get lost in — just sharp writing and a thought-provoking look at morality, justice, and power.
At only 37 episodes, Death Note is also one of the shorter entries on this list, making it perfect if you’re not ready to commit to a 100+ episode series.
6. One Punch Man – Laugh-Out-Loud Action Comedy
If you think anime might take itself too seriously, One Punch Man is the cure for that. It’s a parody of traditional superhero and shonen anime, following Saitama, a hero so powerful he defeats all his enemies with a single punch.
What makes the show special isn’t just the action (though the animation is top-tier). It’s the humor, self-awareness, and surprisingly relatable characters. Saitama’s boredom and search for purpose add depth to what could otherwise be a simple gag.
One Punch Man is a great intro for people who want something light, funny, and just a little bit absurd.
7. Spirited Away – A Magical Standalone Classic
Not every anime is a series. Spirited Away, a feature film from Studio Ghibli, is one of the most universally beloved anime movies ever made. It tells the story of Chihiro, a girl who stumbles into a world of spirits and must find a way to save her parents and return home.
With breathtaking visuals, deeply imaginative world-building, and a story that resonates across all ages, it’s often the first anime film recommended to newcomers — and for good reason.
It’s self-contained, so there’s no commitment to multiple seasons, and it’s a perfect example of how anime can be both whimsical and profound.
Conclusion
Anime isn’t a one-size-fits-all medium. There’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into high-stakes battles, complex characters, laugh-out-loud comedy, or beautiful animation, the titles above offer an incredible range of styles and genres.
The most important part? Just start. Pick one that sounds interesting and dive in. You won’t regret it.