So, you’re looking to start your weeb journey and want to get into anime, eh? We’ve got you covered! Here are the top 15 anime series that we here at Geek Observer love and highly recommend as great jumping on points for anyone who is a new anime fan, or anyone who wants to get into anime, but doesn’t know where to start.
Here are our top 15 anime recommendations, in no particular order.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Demon Slayer followsTanjiro Kamado, a determined young slayer, who embarks on a journey to avenge his family and save his sister Nezuko from a curse that turned her into a demon. This series has beautiful animation that vividly brings the battles to life and a narrative that balances action with emotional depth. Themes of family, perseverance, and sacrifice are explored, and draws viewers into a world that blends heart-wrenching moments with exhilarating fight sequences. Demon Slayer is an absolute must-watch for anyone seeking great action, incredible animation, excellent characters, and dramatic story-telling.
My Hero Academia
In the world of My Hero Academia, superpowers, or “quirks,” are the norm. This series follows Izuku Midoriya, who wants nothing more than to become a hero, but was born without a quirk. Beyond its awesome battles and action, the series resonates with viewers through its exploration of identity, determination, and the responsibility that comes with great power. The development of the diverse cast allows for strong emotional connections. The traditional norms of heroism are constantly challenged, making it an engaging and thought-provoking experience suitable for both newcomers and seasoned fans.
Dragon Ball Z
DBZ is an anime classic that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. The story follows the adventures of Goku and the other Z Warriors as they defend Earth from powerful villains and seek out the mystical Dragon Balls. It’s known for long, legendary battles and iconic transformations and powerups that have become ingrained in pop culture. Loyalty, friendship, and the constant pursuit of getting stronger to defeat the looming threats has made it a timeless gem that continues to captivate audiences even today.
Jujutsu Kaisen
When Yuji Itadori ingests a cursed object, he is thrust into a world of curses and sorcery. Jujutsu Kaisen combines action-packed sequences with moments of introspection that delve into the complexities of human emotions. The series boasts fluid animation and excellent combat choreography. It explores themes of camaraderie, the struggle against inner demons, and the blurred lines between good and evil, making it an exhilarating and visually stunning watch that transcends the boundaries of traditional shonen anime.
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is one of the best anime series ever. At its core, it is a space western and follows a crew of bounty hunters as they traverse the galaxy in pursuit of criminals. The fusion of jazz-infused aesthetics, mature themes, and character-driven storytelling creates a captivating atmosphere that explores the human condition through a sci-fi lens. The episodic structure allows for both action-packed adventures as well as moments of introspection. Blending action, adventure, and philosophical depth, Cowboy Bebop remains an essential watch!
Death Note
Enter a battle of wits between high school student Light Yagami and a detective known as L. Beyond the suspenseful cat-and-mouse plotline, Death Note delves deep into the moral dilemmas surrounding power, justice, and the consequences of playing god. The psychological complexity of the characters, combined with intricate mind games and ethical quandaries, provides an intellectually stimulating experience that will challenge your perceptions and keep you engaged from start to finish.
Attack on Titan
In a world besieged by towering humanoid creatures known as Titans, humanity fights for survival behind massive walls. With its visceral action and jaw-dropping animation, the series crafts a relentless narrative that delves into the horrors of war, the fragility of existence, and the lengths people will go to protect what they hold dear. The web of mysteries and character-driven arcs culminate in an emotionally charged saga that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Attack on Titan is a truly unforgettable experience.
Naruto
Naruto is a coming-of-age adventure following Naruto Uzumaki, an energetic ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest in his village. Featuring action-packed battles and signature jutsu techniques, the series explores loneliness, perseverance, and the search for acknowledgment. The sprawling world, diverse cast, and immersive lore provide a rich backdrop for the characters’ growth, ensuring that Naruto’s journey from an outcast to a hero is one that leaves an indelible mark on both its characters and viewers alike.
Spy x Family
A charming tale of espionage, family, and unexpected connections, Spy X Family sees a world on the brink of war. In order to complete a mission to preserve peace, a spy must form a makeshift family. This leads to a delightful mix of action, humor, and heartwarming moments. Spy x Family’s unique premise brings laughter and action, and explores the bonds that tie people together, the sacrifices they make for one another, and the transformative power of genuine relationships. This series is refreshing, emotionally rewarding and can’t be recommended enough.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers in an alchemical world, seek to reclaim their bodies after a failed experiment. Going beyond the intricate world-building and stunning action sequences, the series grapples with profound philosophical questions about the nature of humanity, the pursuit of knowledge, and the moral implications of wielding power. The engaging narrative is driven by multidimensional characters who evolve throughout their journey, turning Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood into a thought-provoking exploration of sacrifice, redemption, and the enduring bonds of family.
K-On!
Experience the slice-of-life joys of K-On! as a group of high school girls form a band and navigate the ups and downs of friendship, music, and adolescence. The series has heartwarming interactions and relatable characters, and captures the essence of fleeting moments that define youth. Through its light-hearted humor and genuine portrayals of camaraderie, K-On! provides a refreshing break from high-stakes drama, that will remind you of the beauty in simplicity and the lasting impact of shared memories.
Toradora!
This romantic comedy follows Ryuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka. Both have daunting appearances, so they team up to help each other win the affections of their respective crushes. Going beyond typical romantic tropes, Toradora! delves deep into the complexities of love, vulnerability, and personal growth. The well-rounded characters and their gradual development create a compelling narrative that will keep you emotionally invested, providing a relatable experience for anyone who has navigated the intricacies of relationships.
One Punch Man
One Punch Man is a superhero parody that follows Saitama, a hero who can defeat any opponent with one punch. Its action-packed battles and clever satire of the superhero genre will draw you in, but the series also explores themes of purpose, boredom, and the pursuit of challenges. The blend of comedic elements with introspective moments offers a fresh take on heroism that appeals to both action enthusiasts and those seeking something more philosophical.
Fire Force
In the world of Fire Force, pyrokinetic abilities are both a gift and a curse. Shinra Kusakabe, a new recruit of Special Fire Force Company 8, battles Infernals – beings turned into fire-wielding monsters – to uncover the truth behind his family’s death. The series excels in its world-building, diving into themes of corruption, identity, and the ethical dilemmas of wielding power. The dynamic action sequences are enhanced by the exploration of the psychological toll of fighting and the camaraderie that forms among the characters, making Fire Force a unique and compelling entry in the supernatural genre.
The Rising of the Shield Hero
Naofumi Iwatani is summoned to another world as the Shield Hero, burdened with wielding the least-respected weapon. After being betrayed and outcast, he must rise above adversity, forming unlikely alliances to save the world. Beyond its captivating isekai premise and action-packed battles, the series explores the themes of resilience, trust, and the power of self-discovery. The journey of Naofumi’s transformation from a reluctant hero to an inspiring leader is woven with intricate character dynamics, making The Rising of the Shield Hero an exciting tale of redemption and growth.
So that’s our list! Each one of these top 15 anime series is fantastic and make an excellent introduction to anyone looking to start watching anime. Let us know in the comments which of these series you’ve seen and/or which series you want to watch.
