If you’re new to the world of anime, you’re in for a treat. Anime offers a diverse range of storytelling, art styles, and genres that can captivate and entertain anyone. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re into action-packed adventures, heartfelt dramas, or mind-bending mysteries, there’s an anime out there for you. So, let’s dive in and explore some fantastic choices to kickstart your anime journey.
A Place Further Than the Universe
A Place Further Than the Universe is a unique high school story that follows four teenage girls on a daring adventure to Antarctica. This anime beautifully captures the joys and challenges of youth, and its offbeat friendship will resonate with viewers. If you’re looking for more heartfelt tales of high school life, Skip and Loafer is a great choice. For those seeking higher stakes, Sound! Euphonium combines young adult drama with the intensity of a wind ensemble.
ODDTAXI
ODDTAXI is a remarkable blend of comedy, satire, and suspense. This anime revolves around a funny walrus man who drives a taxi, but it delves deep into the complexities of metropolitan life. With influences from acclaimed TV dramas like Succession and Twin Peaks, ODDTAXI is an excellent choice for both anime and non-anime fans alike. If you crave spooky thrills, Satoshi Kon’s Paranoia Agent is unbeatable, and for adrenaline-pumping excitement, Kaiji will have you on the edge of your seat.
Mob Psycho 100
Middle school can be tough, and Mob Psycho 100 captures the struggles and growth of its hero, Mob, with incredible humor and heart. As the most powerful psychic on Earth, Mob faces the challenges of everyday life, like confessing his feelings or playing soccer. With its blend of comedy, heartfelt moments, and jaw-dropping action sequences, Mob Psycho 100 is a must-watch. If you’re craving more action and adventure, Hunter x Hunter is a perfect choice, while Sonny Boy offers a melancholic story of high school malaise.
Cardcaptor Sakura
Magical girl anime has a long history, and Cardcaptor Sakura is a standout among the genre. This 1998 series follows Sakura as she captures over 50 magical Clow Cards with the help of her friends. With great outfits, school hijinks, and surprising twists, Cardcaptor Sakura offers a diverse range of stories and tones. If you’re ready to hop on the Precure bandwagon, check out Tropical-Rouge! Precure for a hilarious and unforgettable experience. For something darker and stranger, take a chance on the classic Revolutionary Girl Utena.
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury
The Mobile Suit Gundam franchise is legendary in anime history, and Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury provides an excellent starting point. This standalone series requires no prior knowledge and tells a gripping tale of revenge, robot duels, and corporate intrigue. While introducing the first lead heroine in a Gundam series, it still captures the anger and commentary that made the original Mobile Suit Gundam resonate. If you’re hungry for more, dive into the very first Gundam series or try Gurren Lagann for a heroic “super robot” experience.
Chihayafuru
Chihayafuru takes the sports drama genre to new heights with its unique focus on karuta, a Japanese card game. This anime follows Chihaya and her journey to become the best karuta player while navigating personal relationships and intense competitions. With its appealing characters, nail-biting suspense, and a touch of romance, Chihayafuru offers a compelling and refreshing sports anime experience. If you’re looking for more sports series with drama, check out Run With the Wind or go for maximum adrenaline with Haikyu!!
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime that has stood the test of time. Mixing elements from Hong Kong films, gritty science fiction, and a legendary jazz score, it weaves together strange adventures with the weight of past failures. Cowboy Bebop’s vibes are simply unimpeachable, making it a beloved touchstone for anime fans. For a zanier tone and even better standalone episodes, explore Space Dandy, produced by Cowboy Bebop’s director, Shinichiro Watanabe. If you’re up for a fresh take on another ’90s classic, TRIGUN STAMPEDE by groundbreaking Studio Orange is a great choice.
MUSHI-SHI
MUSHI-SHI is a quiet and heartfelt anime set in a world of mystical spirits known as mushi. It follows Ginko, a mushishi who travels to help those whose lives have been affected by these creatures. With its beautiful backgrounds, immersive sound design, and intriguing stories, MUSHI-SHI is a captivating and unique anime experience.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started on your anime journey. Remember, there’s a vast and diverse anime universe waiting for you to explore. Enjoy the adventure and discover your favorite genres, art styles, and storytelling techniques along the way. Happy watching!
