Anime has quickly become a global phenomenon and has risen to the top of the animation world. Between intricate storylines, over-the-top animation, and mind-blowing world-building, anime has been the one place that guarantees that a short attention span is no problem.
For those new to the genre, getting comfortable reading subtitles is only one small barrier to unlocking an entirely new world. These anime series are great for people who are ready to take the first step into the genre but are still unsure of where to start. Ranging from the classics to more modern shows, there are a few critically acclaimed and best anime to watch for beginners. Fans who are looking for the next best show to binge-watch will be glad to know there's no shortage of popular anime for viewers to choose from. The best anime for beginners represent the aspects of the genre that fans know and love, without being too overwhelming.

45
'Vinland Saga' (2019 - )

Director: Shūhei Yabuta

Set in the Viking Age, Vinland Saga follows the transformative story of Thorfinn, a young warrior who is initially full of hatred and wanting revenge against his father’s killer. Over time, his arc changes as he learns to become a pacifist. At the same time as the protagonist’s journey, a dangerous power grows in the form of King Canute, whose villainous ways soon affect Thorfinn’s path.

44
'Shaman King' (2001 - 2005)

Director: Seiji Mizushima

Shaman King follows the misadventures of Yoh Asakura, a laid-back and carefree young boy who possesses the ability to communicate with spirits. Yoh later decides to take on a challenging task – to become the next Shaman King. In order to do this, he must train and go on a perilous journey to compete in the Shaman Fight and prove himself to be the best.
Yoh’s growth as a powerful shaman and an endearing character is the focus of the series, which blends mysticism with a healthy dose of action. For those new to anime or seeking an exhilarating blend of supernatural powers and personal growth, 

43
'The Future Diary' (2011 - 2012)

Director: Naoto Hosoda

Those looking for a psychologically thrilling anime will surely find solace in The Future Diary. In it, a lonesome teenager named Yukiteru Amano records his everyday life on his phone. Suddenly, he finds that the events he’s written down in his digital diary all come true.
Little does Yukiteru know that he’s entered a survival game against 11 more people who also have a prophetic diary. The winner will become the new god of time and space, with the ability to reshape reality as they see fit. The Future Diary is well-loved by anime fans for its intense twists and suspensefully dynamic fight sequences, so much so that some viewers compare the action sequences in The Future Diary with beloved horror anime shows. 

41
'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' (2023 - )

Director: Keiichirō Saitō

Image via Madhouse
Set in a medieval world full of magic and demons, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is an anime that follows an elf mage who is on a quest to find meaning in her life. Being a magical creature, Frieren has a considerably longer lifespan than her human friends. This causes her to confront the concept of mortality and go on a journey to explore the essence of living, which involves retrieving the Darkness Dragon Horns and taking on a war orphan as an apprentice.
As one of the best animes released in 2023, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a prime choice for those who have just started watching anime thanks to its poignant and moving storyline coupled with familiar fantasy landscapes. Unlike typical fantasy anime that leans a lot on action scenes, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End captivates with its focus on character-driven storytelling and thought-provoking dialogue, exploring what it truly means to be alive.

38
'Gurren Lagann' (2007)

Director: Hiroyuki Imaishi

Gurren Lagann is a mecha anime that takes the genre to the next level. The story begins with Simon and Kamina, two friends living in an underground village who are dreaming of a life on the surface. Their adventure starts when they find a small mecha known as Lagann, leading them to the surface world and a conflict with the oppressive Beastmen.
With its over-the-top action, epic mecha battles, and narrative that evolves from a simple rebellion to a cosmic-scale war, Gurren Lagann is a must-watch feature for new anime fans. Apart from that, Gurren Lagann’s visually stunning and exaggerated animation makes it a compelling watch. For fans who want more Gurren Lagann action, they can watch the 2009 film Gurren Lagann the Movie: The Lights in the Sky Are Stars, which is considered one of the best animated movies of the 2000s.
WATCH ON HULU

BUY ON AMAZON

'Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters' (2000 - 2004)

Director: Kunihisa Sugishima

Image via Konami
In Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters, a shy boy named Yugi Mutou becomes a skilled duelist after solving the ancient Egyptian Millennium Puzzle. Hosting the spirit of a pharaoh named Yami Yugi, Yugi goes on a journey to find his lost memories and explore the pharaoh’s past ⁠— all while battling powerful duelers along the way.
For beginners, Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters is an excellent start, especially for those interested in strategic games and Egyptian mythology. Its narrative and duel sequences are fluid and exciting, as well as give viewers a chance to familiarize themselves with the strategic depth of the namesake card game. What’s more, Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters has plenty of charismatic characters, like the white-haired boy Bakura Ryou and the persevering Joey Wheeler, both of whom are formidable duelers that the viewers will want to for.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters

TV-PGRelease Date
April 18, 2000
Creator
Kazuki Takahashi
Seasons
5

WATCH ON CRUNCHYROLL

33
'Code Geass' (2006 - 2008)

Director: Gorō Taniguchi

Image via Sunrise
Introducing fan-favorite characters from the 2000s, Code Geass is set in a world where the black prince Lelouch strives to create a new reality using the power of the Glass. Despite the oppressive Holy Britannian Empire’s destructive weapons helping maintain control, he still dares to go against the tyrannical leadership.
Full of political intrigue and mechanics battles, Code Geass is a thrilling series. It depicts Lelouch's dual identity as a brilliant student and a masked rebel leader called Zero, as well as his morally ambiguous decisions that can challenge viewers’ perspectives. It’s not clear-cut or black-and-white, which some audiences may not appreciate.

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006)

TV-14
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
October 6, 2006
Cast
Jun Fukuyama , Takahiro Sakurai , Johnny Yong Bosch , Ami Koshimizu
Seasons
2

32
'Neon Genesis Evangelion' (1995 - 1996)

Director: Hideaki Anno

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a legendary anime show that takes place in a world ruined by the cataclysmic Second Impact. Zooming in on Tokyo-3, it depicts Shinji Ikari’s journey after he’s recruited to an organization that uses mechanics called Evangelion – his objective is to fight beings called Angels. The show follows these pilots as they battle more and more Angels to prevent another cataclysm.
Known as a deconstruction of the mecha subgenre, Neon Genesis Evangelion has an unconventional narrative and also blends surreal dream sequences with philosophical monologues to deliver hard-hitting quotations about existence and power. It’s a gorgeous and complex story that has achieved wide renown, but it may also be too heavy and vague for those who are new to anime, especially its controversial convoluted ending (which had to be re-explained in a series of films).
WATCH ON NETFLIX

31
'The Melancholy of Harumi Suzumiya' (2006 - 2009)

Directors: Tatsuya Ishihara and Yutaka Yamamoto

One of the most popular anime in Japan, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is a must-watch for anime beginners. It tells the unlikely bond that forms between the seemingly ordinary high school student, Kyon, and the eccentric girl with an affinity for the supernatural, Haruhi Suzumiya. Together, they form a club called "SOS Brigade," short for "Spreading excitement all Over the world with Haruhi Suzumiya Brigade" and investigate paranormal and supernatural events.
As the series progresses, their small club grows into a formidable group, and it’s as if Haruhi Suzumiya will be about their fun adventures and deepening connections. However, the discovery of the nature of one of their powers soon threatens to destroy the very fabric of reality, and it’s up to them to protect the world. Things get even more wild from there – it’s a see-it-to-believe-it type of remarkable narrative.
WATCH ON FUNIMATION

29
'Kakegurui' (2017 - 2019)

Director: Yuichiro Hayashi

Kakegurui is an anime series with an intriguing premise. It revolves around a student with a gambling addiction, Yumeko Jabami, who’s transferred to the prestigious school Hyakkaou Private Academy. It’s a match made in heaven, as to advance socially in that school, students have to be gambling masters.
The series depicts high-stakes gambling matches between students, where the outcome determines who will act as subservient “house pets” to the winners. Yumeko disturbs established social norms in the school, as she fearlessly challenges the top gamblers, seeking bigger thrills and higher stakes each time. While its unique premise admittedly isn’t for everyone, those who watch Kakegurui can expect intensity in every episode, as well as fascinating and increasingly complex psychological mind games as the students do whatever’s necessary to come out on top.
WATCH ON NETFLIX

28
'Gintama' (2005 - 2021)

Directors: Shinji Takamatsu and Yōichi Fujita

One anime that will surely pique the interest of those new to the genre is Gintama. Set in an alternate history where humans have been invaded by aliens called Amanto, Gintama is a fun show that perfectly blends science fiction with some wicked samurai action fun. Following a lazy yet skilled samurai named Gintoki, the show sees a world where swords have been made illegal and aliens have ruled supreme. In order to survive and make ends meet, Gintoki and his group of friends take on eccentric jobs such as becoming bodyguards, barbers, and a stand-in for other people.
What makes the underrated Crunchyroll show great for beginners is its episodic structure, with each episode offering a self-contained story. This allows them to learn more about Gintoki and his antics without having to commit to understanding a complicated overarching plot. So despite its incredible length spanning over 367 episodes and a few OVAs, it’s easy to get lured into watching Gintama, no matter what season or episode you start with.

Gintama

'Sailor Moon' (1992 - 1997)

Directors: Junichi Sato, Kunihiko Ikuhara, Takuya Igarashi

Image via Toei Animation
An iconic ‘90s anime that everyone should be familiar with is Sailor Moon. Based on the manga created by Naoko Takeuchi, Sailor Moon is a show that tells the story of a teenage girl named Usagi Tsukino who magically transforms into the titular alter ego. As Sailor Moon and alongside other Sailor Guardians like Sailor Uranus, Sailor Neptune, and Sailor Pluto, Usagi fights evil forces including powerful otherworldly entities who want to obtain the legendary Silver Crystal.
Despite being a shonen anime and all about magical girls, Sailor Moon is well-loved by audiences, no matter their preferred anime genre or niche. That’s because of the show's incredible character-driven storytelling, charismatic characters, and narrative that explores self-discovery and friendship. What’s more, watching Sailor Moon will undoubtedly influence viewers and give them insight into the broader landscape of anime and its effect on modern Shoujo anime and fantasy shows. Apart from the original show, viewers should also check out the two-part 2023 film Sailor Moon Cosmos, which animates the Stars arc of the manga.

Sailor Moon (1992)

Release Date
September 11, 1995
Cast
Kotono Mitsuishi , Aya Hisakawa , Michie Tomizawa , Emi Shinohara , Rica Fukami , Tôru Furuya , Keiko Han , Johnny Yong Bosch
Seasons
5
WATCH ON HULU

23
'Detective Conan' (1996 - )

Directors: Kenji Kodama, Yasuichiro Yamamoto, and Masato Satō

There aren’t a lot of animes that are as enduring as Detective Conan. Also known as Case Closed, Detective Conan takes a look at the adventures and mysteries solved by Shinichi Kudo, an intelligent and intuitive high school detective who was unfortunately transformed into a child due to a mysterious poison. Despite his appearance, the iconic detective Conan persistently solves crimes and unravels intricate puzzles while looking for a remedy for his condition.
With a staggering episode count spanning over two decades, Detective Conan has become a fixture in the detective and mystery genre. Its intricate plotlines and acclaimed arcs such as the suspenseful Bourbon arc and intense Desperate Revival Arc have allowed it to maintain a consistent level of popularity amongst anime fans. In spite of its length, it’s easy for newcomers to jump in without feeling overwhelmed with Detective Conan as each episode presents a standalone case. It’s also fun to watch Conan use deductive reasoning to highlight mysteries in each episode.
WATCH ON CRUNCHYROLL

22
'Inuyasha' (2000 - 2004)

Directors: Masashi Ikeda and Yasunao Aoki

Kagome Higurashi is a typical modern-day schoolgirl whose life is forever changed when she is transported back in time to feudal Japan. There, she meets Inuyasha, a half-demon with a penchant for attracting dangerous and violent situations. The duo soon goes on a quest to retrieve the shards of the powerful Shikon Jewel, which has the power to grant someone anything their heart desires.
A darker anime series, Inuyasha is a beloved classic that took the world by storm in the early 2000s. It showcased a surprising level of violence, which was still tempered with well-timed comedic moments. Kagome and Inuyasha are, of course, at the heart of the show, and their budding romance keeps viewers coming back for more.
WATCH ON NETFLIX

21
'Cyberpunk: Edgerunners' (2022)

Director: Hiroyuki Imaishi

Image via Netflix/CD Projekt RED
Set in the same universe as the video game it's based on, Cyberpunk 2077, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is centered on the experiences of a talented protagonist named David, who is roped into the life of an "edgerunner." He becomes immersed in his career as a black-market mercenary, losing friends and forging complicated bonds along the way.
Aside from its striking dystopian cyberpunk setting, the series sets itself apart through an intensely emotional story that brings its incredibly complex characters through some tough times. Edgerunners' short length makes it the perfect anime to watch for beginners, but be warned, its hard-hitting themes and jarring moments are not for the faint of heart.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

TV-MARelease Date
September 13, 2022
Cast
Aoi Yuki , Kenichiro Ohashi , Kenjiro Tsuda , Kazuhiko Inoue
Seasons
1
WATCH ON NETFLIX

20
'Bleach' (2004 - 2012)

Director: Noriyuki Abe

Image via Adult Swim
Another series of the Big Three Shonen, Bleach is a classic good anime to watch for those who love action, adventure, and anything supernatural. Set around angsty teenager Ichigo Kurasaki, Bleach follows his journey as he inherits the abilities of a Soul Reaper and must harness these skills for good.
Filled with sword fights and one-too-many sexual innuendos, Bleach is a smug teenager’s fantasy. For a series that covers many themes rooted in graphic and heavy material, Bleach still manages to have a tongue-in-cheek air about it. Bleach may run for a lengthy 366 episodes, but is a reliant and essential viewing for those digging their teeth into anime culture.

Bleach

TV-14
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
September 9, 2006
Cast
Masakazu Morita , Fumiko Orikasa , Hiroki Yasumoto , Yuki Matsuoka , Noriaki Sugiyama , Kentarô Itô , Shinichirô Miki , Hisayoshi Suganuma
Seasons
16

19
'Castlevania' (2017 - 2021)

Creator: Warren Ellis

Image via Netflix
Castlevania, based on Konami's iconic eponymous Japanese video game franchise, is set in medieval Europe and follows Trevor, the only surviving member of the Belmont line, as he strives to defend Eastern Europe from extinction at the hands of Vlad Dracula Tepes.
Warren Ellis' series incorporates aspects of horror and fantasy while also tackling issues of family, faith, and the repercussions of one's choices. Castlevania is beloved by both critics and fans for its unique take on the classic vampire story that can be easily enjoyed by anime beginners. While Netflix's Castlevania: Nocturne hasn't managed to reach the original Castlevania show's heights, fans can always rewatch the original, which is guaranteed to provide great entertainment value.

Castlevania

TV-MA
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
July 7, 2017
Cast
Richard Armitage , James Callis , Malcolm McDowell , Bill Nighy , Marsha Thomason
Seasons
4

18

17
'My Hero Academia' (2016 - )

Directors: Kenji Nagasaki, Tomo Ōkubo, and Masahiro Mukai

My Hero Academia is an ongoing anime television series directed by Kenji Nagasaki. The show follows Izuku Midoriya, a young kid born without superpowers in a world where they are the standard, but who dreams of becoming a hero anyway. Izuku becomes the world's greatest hero's heir after meeting All Might, and enrolls at a high school for heroes in training.
Fans have commended My Hero Academia for its fantastic animation, but most of all, its lovable characters. The series, which has a big fan base, covers topics like as duty, power, and legacy. It's the perfect pick for beginners who want to jump in on something current.

My Hero Academia

TV-14
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
May 5, 2018
Cast
Daiki Yamashita , Justin Briner , Nobuhiko Okamoto , Ayane Sakura
Seasons
6

16
'
15
'Jujutsu Kaisen' (2020 - )

Directors: Sunghoo Park and Shōta Goshozono

Jujutsu Kaisen may be fresh off the press, but it has already made an impressive mark in the anime world. Released in late 2020, viewership of the show has skyrocketed past many of its current peers. Detailing a young sorcerer's journey to exorcise a demon he consumed, Jujutsu Kaisen also comments on deeper links between the soul and the body.
As a gripping dark fantasy, Jujutsu Kaisen is perfect for fans of the occult. Supplying an array of stunning animation, compelling characters, and gory fight scenes, Jujutsu Kaisen is suited for beginners entering the modern generation of anime. Viewers looking to sample the show could enjoy its prequel in film form, Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

Jujutsu Kaisen

TV-MA
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
October 2, 2020
Cast
Junya Enoki , Yuma Uchida , Yuichi Nakamura , Adam McArthur , Asami Seto
Seasons
3

14
'YuYu Hakusho' (1992 - 1994)

Director: Noriyuki Abe

YuYu Hakusho revolves around the experiences of teenage delinquent Yusuke Urameshi, whose life soon changes when he’s tasked with becoming a “Spirit Detective.” Before long, he’s facing off against terrifying ghosts, powerful demons, and other supernatural enemies. He also brings along loyal friends Kurama, Hiei, and Kuwabara.
A beloved supernatural TV series with a loyal fanbase, YuYu Hakusho is perfect for fans who enjoy more lighthearted shows (it set the bar high for shonen anime). There's also more buzz around the popular series, as a live-action adaptation of Yu Yu Hakusho premiered on Netflix and brought the anime to a wider audience.
WATCH ON NETFLIX

13
'Fruits Basket' (2001)

Director: Akitaro Daichi

Turning Red fans may want to check out Fruits Basket, a heartwarming series centered on the story of Tohru Honda. The orphan girl finds herself living with the enigmatic Sohma family after a trade, and soon discovers their bizarre curse – they’re possessed by the animals of the Chinese zodiac. Because of this, anytime the Sohma family members are stressed or weak, they turn into their respective animals.
The show depicts how the kind-hearted Tohru helps each family member heal past wounds, despite clear reluctance and challenging obstacles. In the process of doing so, Tohru learns more about herself and how her own past has shaped her outlook. Tohru’s heartfelt storyline (and romantic subplot) makes Fruits Basket a genuine standout in the genre, and is the perfect pick for newcomers looking for something emotional and profound.
WATCH ON HULU

12
'Demon Slayer: ​​Kimetsu no Yaiba' (2019 - )

Director: Haruo Sotozaki

With the first episode of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba released in 2019, the relatively new show has taken the world by storm and solidified itself as a modern classic. The series was first introduced to the world as a manga comic and quickly became a fan favorite through its TV series and film.
As a result of a demon epidemic, a young Tanjiro Kamado takes on the quest to avenge his family, all whilst searching for a cure for his sister. Besides the ambitious premise, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba pays homage to Japanese artistry and offers stunning visuals of sword choreography. With the release of its film, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train, now is not the time to miss out on something this good.

Demon Slayer

TV-MARelease Date
January 21, 2021
Cast
Natsuki Hanae , Zach Aguilar , Abby Trott , Yoshitsugu Matsuoka
Seasons
4
WATCH ON NETFLIX

11
'One Punch Man' (2015 - 2019)

Directors: Shingo Natsume and Chikara Sakurai

ONE developed One Punch Man, a Japanese webcomic that was later adapted into a manga and an anime series. The series revolves around Saitama, a superhero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch but has become bored with the lack of difficulty in his struggle against evil. One Punch Man mocks the conventional superhero and shōnen manga clichés.
The series has become a massively popular fan-favorite series thanks to its unique take on the superhero genre, outstanding animation, and hilarious tone. Saitama, the show's protagonist, garnered a big following for his deadpan humor and bizarre attitude about becoming a hero.

One Punch Man

TV-PGRelease Date
October 5, 2015
Cast
Makoto Furukawa , Kaito Ishikawa , Zach Aguilar , Robbie Daymond
Seasons
2
WATCH ON HULU

10
'Steins;Gate' (2011)

Directors: Hiroshi Hamasaki, Takuya Satō, and Tomoki Kobayashi

Perfect for science-fiction fans, Steins;Gate is a cerebral adventure on time travel, exploring the classic theory that something altered in the past will change its future. Situated in the gadgety Japanese district of Akihabara, three friends tip-toe into the future and send text messages back into the past to adjust their fates.
When one slip-up can trigger an entire butterfly effect, the choices made in Steins;Gate is nothing short of anxiety-inducing. Steins;Gate is a heartfelt thrill containing complex character dynamics and requires viewers to use active thinking.

Steins;Gate (2011)

TV-14
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
April 6, 2011
Cast
Mamoru Miyano , Ashly Burch , J. Michael Tatum , Kana Hanazawa
Seasons
3

9
'Naruto: Shippuden' (2007 - 2017)

Director: Hayato Date

Image via Viz Media
For those here for the long haul, Naruto: Shippuden is another classic that has carved out a league of its own in pop culture. Having a show run spanning a decade with exactly 500 episodes, Naruto: Shippuden is a part of the Big Three Shonen that globally popularized anime. The premise deals with Naruto's coming of age and his journey to master his skill as a ninja to become the head of his village.
Naruto sees the hero’s journey to its fullest extent, with many long-time fans voicing how growing up alongside this show has shaped who they are. Beyond its sentimentality, the show also boasts some of the most iconic hand-combat animation in anime history. Naruto: Shippuden is more easy-going and perfect as a starter to anime.

Naruto: Shippuden

TV-PGRelease Date
October 28, 2009
Cast
Alexandre Crepet , Junko Takeuchi , Maile Flanagan , Kate Higgins , Chie Nakamura , Dave Wittenberg
Seasons
21
WATCH ON CRUNCHYROLL

8
'Dragon Ball Z' (1989 - 1996)

Directors: Daisuke Nishio and Shigeyasu Yamauchi

Image via Toei Animation
Credited with inspiring numerous other shonen anime series, Dragon Ball Z is a legendary masterpiece set several years after the events of the original show. Goku and his friends fight against increasingly powerful villains who almost always seek to destroy the earth. At the same time, Goku continues to train to be the strongest warrior, mostly so he can defend the planet against intergalactic threats.
Dragon Ball Z is beloved for many reasons, which include its unique decision to show the characters aging (improving story arcs), its introduction of iconic characters (like Vegeta and Piccolo), and its larger-than-life battles and seemingly endless new techniques and transformations to keep up with the escalations. It's not surprising the series still has an active and vibrant fanbase today.

Dragon Ball Z (1989)

TV-PG
WHERE TO WATCH
*Availability in US

• Stream
• Rent
• Buy

Not available
Release Date
September 13, 1996
Cast
Christopher Sabat , Scott McNeil , Sean Schemmel , Brian Drummond
Seasons
9

7
'Cowboy Bebop' (1998 - 1999)

Director: Shinichirō Watanabe

Image via Funimation
As one of the classics, Cowboy Bebop has been unmoved among the highest-rated anime series of all time. Following a group of bounty hunters who hop across the Solar System in their ship, the Bebop, the show navigates ideas of existentialism and the search to belong amidst a collection of misfits. Described as a blend of sci-fi cyberpunk, Western, and neo-noir, the series is a chaotic mix of unexpecting and exciting.
Cowboy Bebop is easily binge-able, with 26 half-hour episodes in one compact season. Cowboy Bebop is easily accessible yet universally acclaimed, perfect for those looking to enter the world of anime.

Cowboy Bebop (1998)

5
'Death Note' (2006 - 2007)

Director: Tetsurō Araki

Another classic series that put anime on the map (and never missing when discussing anime recommendations), Death Note is a broody crime thriller that tinkers with life, mortality, and the idea of justice at the hands of karma. Light Yagami is a young vigilante who comes across the Death Note, a book in which any name inscribed will face death.
Alongside a Shinigami spirit (Grim Reaper equivalent), what Light does with the Death Note is a critical commentary on personal ethics and how power and ego influence the role of playing God. With elements of horror and thriller, the series entices viewers with just enough emotional damage to keep coming back. 

4
'Attack on Titan' (2013 - 2023)

Directors: Tetsurō Araki, Masashi Koizuka, Yuichiro Hayashi, and Jun Shishido

Attack on Titan is another wildly popular series that has taken the world by storm. The series explores darker and heavier themes, depicting a violent dystopia where humanity has walled off cities in a war with colossal, flesh-eating Titans. Gritty and heart-stopping, Attack on Titan is a mental challenge that takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster.
Visually unlike anything else, the series produces a dynamic space by experimenting with scale and size. Attack on Titan sports a more graphic aesthetic, where the uncanny humanoid titans and their barbaric nature border disturbing more than intriguing. As violent and brutal as the show may be, Attack on Titan's well-rounded nature and near-perfect acclaim have won many over as another modern classic.

Attack On Titan

3
'Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood' (2009 - 2010)

Director: Yasuhiro Irie

Image via Studio Bones
This steampunk dark fantasy series is a complex tale of grief, war, and moral ethics. Through alchemy, two brothers tamper with mortality and must seek to restore their physical bodies following the skewed experiment to bring their mother back to life.
With episodes only running for 12-18 minutes, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is quick yet effective with storytelling. It paces beautifully, with each character arc flowing freely into one another, and utilizes its time to detail the powerful bond between the brothers. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is here to impress and guaranteed to tug at heartstrings.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

TV-14

2
'Hunter x Hunter' (2011 - 2014)

Director: Kazuhiro Furuhashi

Image via Nippon TV
Hunter x Hunter is a must-see anime with a global fanbase, which follows the young Gon Freecss as he goes on a grueling journey to become a Hunter (or a special character tasked with seeking out rare objects and even information). He soon comes across fan-favorite characters like Killua and Netero, who contribute to his journey in unexpected ways.
With gorgeous animation to go with its surprisingly emotional stories, Hunter x Hunter is a captivating series that beginners will appreciate. Unlike some anime, the show tends to focus on its side and supporting characters – even the villains – giving them believable and even sympathetic stories that make its expansive world feel more real. Viewers who like uncertainty and intense fights will also appreciate the fact that many of Hunter x Hunter’s battles are high-octane sequences that are hard to predict. All of these combine to create a renowned anime series that's perfect for newcomers.

1
'Avatar: The Last Airbender' (2005 - 2008)

Creators: Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko

Avatar: The Last Airbender is a legendary series created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. Set in a fictional world where certain people can control the elements (water, earth, fire, and air) through a spiritual power known as "bending," the series chronicles the adventures of Aang, a young boy who is the titular Avatar and the only one who can bring balance to the world.
Avatar: The Last Airbender was praised for its animation, world-building, and portrayal of many cultures, as well as for its storyline, which introduced iconic characters like Toph and Zuko. Its ability to delve into complex and challenging topics like war, genocide, and tyranny proves that it's not just for kids. With a live-action adaptation set to premiere on Netflix sometime in the near future, it's the perfect time to catch up with the popular anime series.