Anime Recommendations for Beginners: What to Watch and What to Avoid

Starting your journey into the vast world of anime can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many options available. Here are some animes that are not recommended for beginners due to their complexity and content, along with some excellent choices that are perfect for newcomers.

What Animes Are Not Suitable for Beginners?

There are several animes that, while incredibly popular among avid fans, may not be the best choice for anime beginners due to various reasons such as references to other animes, complex storylines, violence, and other challenging aspects.

Gintama

Why to Avoid: Gintama is famous for its frequent references to other animes and popular culture. Understanding its jokes often requires familiarity with other animes or TV shows. Viewing it without at least 30-40 other well-loved animes first might lead to confusion and frustration.

Monster

Why to Avoid: While "Monster" is highly praised, its intricate plot and pacing might make it difficult for beginners. Patience and determination are required to enjoy the full experience, qualities that may be rare in novice viewers.

Berserk

Why to Avoid: With its graphic violence, Berserk is not for the faint of heart. However, if you're not sensitive to such content and are interested in exploring a classic in the genre, then the 1997 adaptation is a good start.

Why to Consider: Despite its challenging nature, Berserk ultimately has an engaging story and well-developed characters. It might be worth a watch for those who don't mind intense content.

Attack on Titan

Why to Consider: While it does have intense and sometimes gruesome scenes, Attack on Titan is also celebrated for its captivating story and dynamic characters. For beginners who can handle more complex narratives, it's highly recommended.

Top Recommendations for Anime Beginners

For those just starting their journey in the world of anime, here are some excellent series that are both enjoyable and accessible:

Naruto

Summary: This long-running series follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with a dream of becoming the strongest and earning the title of Hokage, the leader of his village. It combines action, adventure, and a deep story about friendship and perseverance.

User Ratings: 8.3/10 on MyAnimeList, 8.6/10 on IMDb

Death Note

Summary: Death Note centres on Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it. He aims to use it to rid the world of criminals, leading to a high-stakes game with the enigmatic detective L.

User Ratings: 8.6/10 on MyAnimeList, 9.0/10 on IMDb

Demon Slayer Kimetsu no Yaiba

Summary: This anime follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered and his sister is turned into a demon. Known for its stunning animation and intense battles, it's a must-see for any beginner.

User Ratings: 8.7/10 on MyAnimeList, 8.7/10 on IMDb

Attack on Titan Shingeki no Kyojin

Summary: Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, the story revolves around Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the military to fight back and uncover the mysteries behind the Titans.

User Ratings: 9.0/10 on MyAnimeList, 8.8/10 on IMDb

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Summary: This series follows the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, who use alchemy in their quest to find the Philosophers Stone and restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. Known for its deep storytelling and complex characters.

User Ratings: 9.2/10 on MyAnimeList, 9.1/10 on IMDb

Haikyuu!!

Summary: This sports anime revolves around Shoyo Hinata, a high school student who joins the volleyball team despite his short stature. Known for its exciting matches and the growth of its characters.

User Ratings: 8.8/10 on MyAnimeList, 8.5/10 on IMDb

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure

Summary: Known for its unique art style and imaginative storylines, this series follows the Joestar family across generations as they battle supernatural enemies using various unique abilities known as Stands.

User Ratings: 8.4/10 on MyAnimeList, 8.6/10 on IMDb

Jujutsu Kaisen

Summary: The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who gets involved in the world of Jujutsu Sorcerers after consuming a cursed object. Known for its dynamic action scenes and engaging supernatural elements.

User Ratings: 8.8/10 on MyAnimeList, 8.6/10 on IMDb

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Summary: This series follows the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, who use alchemy in their quest to find the Philosophers Stone and restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. Known for its deep storytelling and complex characters.

User Ratings: 9.2/10 on MyAnimeList, 9.1/10 on IMDb

These animes offer a variety of genres and narratives, providing something for everyone. Whether you're into action, adventure, supernatural, or sports, there's a perfect anime for your taste.