Which Anime Should I Watch as a New Viewer in 2025?
If you're a beginner and unsure where to begin you're not alone! Anime can be too much with all of its different genres, styles, and stories. Don't worry though, this guide will assist you in selecting the perfect anime to watch as a new user of anime in 2025. These picks are simple to read, novice-friendly, and sure to make your first anime experience enjoyable.
What Makes an Anime Good for Beginners
Before we jump into the list, let's learn what makes an anime beginner-friendly:
- Easy Storylines: Simple-to-understand plots with minimal complexity.
- Short Length: Fewer episodes make the show less daunting.
- Entertaining Characters: Characters that are easy to relate to and fun to watch.
- Popular and Easy to Find: Widely available on streaming services such as Netflix Crunchyroll or Hulu.
Now, let's check out some of the top anime for new viewers in 2025!
Top Anime Picks for Beginners
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Genre: Action Adventure Fantasy
Episodes: 64
Why Watch?
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a masterpiece that blends action emotion and deep storytelling. It follows two brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric on their journey to restore their bodies after a failed alchemy experiment. The show balances humor and serious themes perfectly making it ideal for beginners.
Storyline: The show starts with the Elric brothers trying to revive their mother with alchemy which leaves Edward without a left leg and right arm, and Alphonse without a body. His soul is attached to a suit of armor. The brothers enlist in the military in order to look for the Philosopher's Stone which they think will help restore their bodies.
Why It's Perfect for Newcomers: It has a finely paced storyline and relatable characters, so one can easily comprehend and become engrossed in their lives.
2. Attack on Titan
Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy
Number of Episodes: 87 (Last Season currently ongoing)
Why Watch?
This suspenseful anime is full of action and tension. It revolves around the human struggle against monsters known as the Titans. Full of intense battles and unexpected plot twists Attack on Titan will have you holding your breath throughout.
Storyline: In a universe where humanity is being attacked by Titans Eren Yeager and his two friends Mikasa and Armin enlist in the military to retaliate. As they continue to search for answers concerning the Titans and the walls that confine humanity they stumble upon sinister secrets regarding their world.
Why It's Great for Beginners: Its dark fantasy world and fast-paced action scenes are exciting, while its survival and friendship themes are realistic and appealing.
3. My Hero Academia
Genre: Action, Superhero
Episodes: 138+ (Ongoing)
Why Watch?
My Hero Academia is ideal for superhero story enthusiasts. It tracks the journey of Izuku Midoriya, a lad who was born without powers in a world where nearly everyone possesses them. With motivational themes of friendship and diligence, this anime is an ideal place to begin.
Storyline: Izuku, or Deku, wants to be a hero even though he was born without powers. He gets the strong Quirk "One For All" from his hero All Might and is accepted into U.A. High School to study to be a hero.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The series has great messages of perseverance and friendship, so it's easy to become invested in the characters.
4. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)
Genre: Action, Adventure
Episodes: 44+ (Ongoing)
Why Watch?
Demon Slayer is visually stunning and emotionally impactful. The story revolves around Tanjiro Kamado as he fights demons to save his sister and avenge his family. Its straightforward plot and breathtaking animation make it beginner-friendly.
Storyline: Tanjiro's sister Nezuko is converted into a demon when his family is killed by demons. Tanjiro becomes determined to discover a cure for her and then combat the forces of demons.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The perfect combination of pretty animation and gripping plot makes Death Note a viewing pleasure from the beginning.
5. Death Note
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Episodes: 37
Why Watch?
If you are a fan of psychological thrillers, you have to watch Death Note. The plot is about Light Yagami, who finds a notebook where he can murder anyone by writing their name inside it. The cat-and-mouse chase between Light and detective L is gripping throughout.
Storyline: Light Yagami, a student, discovers the Death Note, a book capable of killing anyone whose name is written inside. He utilizes it to form a crime-free society, but a master detective by the name of L begins to suspect him.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The show's intelligent storyline and thrilling turns make it intriguing and thought-provoking.
6. Spy x Family
Genre: Action, Comedy
Episodes: 25+ (Ongoing)
Why Watch?
Spy x Family is action-filled but light-hearted. It revolves around a spy who establishes a pretend family for his operation but finds himself growing attached to them in the most unexpected ways. Its humor and heartwarming scenes make it ideal for first-time viewers.
Storyline: Twilight, an elite spy, needs to build a false family to carry out his assignment. He adopts a child, Anya, who possesses telepathic powers, and gets married to Yor, an assassin. As they pretend to be a family, they form genuine connections.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The mix of comedy and action, along with its cute characters, makes it simple to watch.
7. One Punch Man
Genre: Action, Comedy
Episodes: 24+ (Ongoing)
Why Watch
This funny anime tracks Saitama, a hero who can knock out any foe with a single punch but is bored because of his excessive strength. Its comedy and fresh approach to superhero conventions make it extremely enjoyable.
Plot: Saitama becomes a hero for amusement but discovers that his super strength makes his fights too simple. He looks for a suitable foe while coping with his disciple Genos and other heroes.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The comedic spin on the superhero genre is a welcome change and entertaining.
8. Hunter x Hunter
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy
Episodes: 148
Why Watch?
Hunter x Hunter is an action-packed story of Gon Freecss becoming a Hunter to search for his father. With its endearing characters and thrilling fights, it's a great pick for beginners who desire something engaging.
Storyline: Gon Freecss takes the Hunter Exam to become a Hunter, a prestigious title granted to those who have proven their courage and abilities. Along the way, he meets friends like Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The show's long-running story allows for deep character development and engaging plot arcs.
9. Cowboy Bebop
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
Episodes: 26
Why Watch?
Cowboy Bebop is an ageless masterpiece that combines action with jazz music and existential issues. It features bounty hunters roaming space aboard their ship Bebop. Due to its brief duration and episodic nature, it is easy to watch.
Plot: The show follows Spike Spiegel and his crew as they journey across space, working on bounty hunting jobs. Every episode tends to have varying themes and narratives.
Why It's Great for Newbies: The combination of music, action, and philosophical thought in the show is something new and interesting.
10. Jujutsu Kaisen
Genre: Action, Supernatural
Episodes: 48+ (Ongoing)
Why Watch?
Jujutsu Kaisen is the most popular anime today. It is based on the story of Yuji Itadori and his fight against cursed spirits through powerful skills. The show's rapid action sequences are great for keeping new viewers interested.
Storyline: Yuji Itadori gets entangled in a world of Jujutsu Sorcerers when he eats a cursed object. He enrolls in a sorcerer school to learn how to harness his abilities and battle cursed spirits.
Why It's Great for Beginners: The dark fantasy world and high-stakes action of the show make it exciting, while its characters are well-developed and relatable.
Tips for New Anime Fans
- Begin with Shorter Series: Death Note or Cowboy Bebop are good if you're not sure you want to commit to longer series.
- Experiment with Different Genres: Action comedy fantasy or romance to discover what you like best.
- Stream It: Crunchyroll Netflix or Hulu provide simple access to lots of anime.
- Don't Worry About Subtitles: Many have great English dubs if that's your preference.
- Participate in Online Forums: Discuss your opinion and receive suggestions on sites such as Reddit's r/anime.
Why Begin Watching Anime in 2025?
Anime has never been easier to access than now in 2025! Streaming websites have hundreds of titles, and new ones keep getting released so there's something for everyone be it for adventurous action or warm tales.
Anime is also distinct in its storytelling, separating it from other sources of entertainment. With everything from bittersweet character development to eye-popping scenes it's no surprise that millions of fans around the globe are addicted to anime.
The Perks of Anime Watching
Insight into Japanese Culture: Anime gives one a glimpse of the culture and value system of Japan.
Varied Storytelling: Anime includes a variety of genres and subject matter with intricate storytelling to suit any taste.
Community Involvement: Joining anime clubs can be a great way to find people who share similar interests.
Emotional Attachment: Most anime series focus on character development forming close emotional bonds with the viewer.
How to Choose the Right Anime
- Read Reviews and Synopses: Learn the plot and genre prior to viewing.
- Watch Trailers: Get a sense of the animation style and tone.
- Ask for Suggestions: Friends or online communities can suggest shows based on your interests.
- Start with Popular Shows: Dragon Ball or Naruto are good starting points.
Misconceptions about Anime
- All Anime is for Kids: While some anime is for kids many shows are meant for adults and address mature themes.
- Anime is Only Action-Oriented: Anime has a variety of genres, including romance, comedy, and drama.
- Anime is Hard to Get: Although there are some anime with complicated plots, most shows are simple and easy to understand.
Conclusion
Being a new viewer in 2025, deciding on which anime to watch can be daunting at first—but it doesn't have to be! Begin with starter anime such as Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Demon Slayer or My Hero Academia. These shows have great storytelling and down-to earth characters that will get you into the world of anime in the best possible way.
Don't forget to experiment with various genres and don't rush to discover what you enjoy most about anime it's worth it! Enjoy watching!
