So You Want to Start Watching Anime
Anime is one of the most varied and creatively rich storytelling mediums in the world — covering everything from children's adventure to adult psychological drama. But for a newcomer, the landscape can feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you everything you need to confidently start your anime journey.
What Exactly Is Anime?
In Japan, "anime" (アニメ) simply refers to all animation. Outside Japan, the word describes animated series and films produced in Japan, characterized by a distinctive visual style and spanning virtually every genre imaginable — action, romance, horror, comedy, sci-fi, slice-of-life, and more.
Crucially: anime is not a genre. It's a medium. Just as with live-action TV, anime can be made for children, teenagers, or adults, and the tone ranges from lighthearted to deeply serious.
Where Can You Watch Anime?
Several major streaming platforms carry large anime libraries:
- Crunchyroll — the largest dedicated anime streaming platform, with simulcasts (new episodes released same day as Japan) and a huge back catalog. Free tier available with ads.
- Netflix — carries many licensed titles and produces original anime series. Good for casual discovery.
- Funimation / Crunchyroll — Funimation merged operations with Crunchyroll and is the primary source for English-dubbed anime.
- Hidive — a solid alternative with titles not always found on Crunchyroll.
- Tubi & Pluto TV — free, ad-supported options with a more limited but accessible library.
Subtitles or Dubbed — Which Should You Choose?
This is one of the most common questions new viewers ask. The honest answer: both are valid.
- Subtitles (sub) — You hear the original Japanese voice acting, which many fans consider more expressive and authentic. Requires reading while watching.
- Dubbed (dub) — English (or other language) voice actors replace the Japanese audio. More comfortable if you're new, distracted, or multitasking. Quality varies by series.
A practical tip: try the first episode of a show in both versions and see which feels more natural to you.
What Should You Watch First?
The best starter anime depends on what you already enjoy. Here are genre-matched suggestions:
- If you like action/superhero stories: My Hero Academia or Demon Slayer
- If you like fantasy/adventure: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood or Made in Abyss
- If you like slice-of-life/comedy: Spy x Family or Nichijou
- If you like drama/romance: Your Lie in April or Fruits Basket
- If you like sci-fi/thriller: Steins;Gate or Psycho-Pass
- If you want a short, complete story: Start with a film — Spirited Away or Your Name
Understanding Anime Seasons and Episodes
Anime series are usually split into cours — batches of roughly 12–13 episodes aired each season (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter). A "Season 1" of an anime might be just 12 episodes. Don't be put off by a seemingly short episode count; many full stories are told in a single cour.
Longer "shonen" series like Naruto, One Piece, and Bleach run for hundreds of episodes. These are best approached after you've developed a taste for the medium.
Five Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Start
- Don't judge all anime by any one show — the medium is incredibly diverse.
- Give a series at least 3 episodes before deciding it's not for you.
- Keep a simple watchlist (even just a notes app) to track what you want to see.
- Join communities like Reddit's r/anime for recommendations without spoilers.
- Don't worry about watching everything — enjoy the journey.