13 Best Anime Of All Great Genres For Beginners

Anime is has grown popular all over the world and there are so many different genres and categories within it.

Anime, for those living outside Japan, refers to animated film and television works produced in Japan. Anime is not cartoon as it has a distinct animated style that differs from the U.S.

Due to the huge variety of anime, I sometimes find it hard to decide what to start watching. Notably, this will be difficult if you're a beginner and don't know anything about anime.

For beginners, the best way to find an anime you'll like is to start with genres that you love and are interested in. 

If you're someone who wants to start watching anime but is unsure of where to start, here are great animes for beginners. 

13 Best Anime for beginners to start with:

1. My Hero Academia - Superhero, action

My Hero Academia is one of the most current, popular anime with multiple movies that I've seen in the cinema. My Hero Academia is directed by Kenji Nagasaki and the first episode was released on 3 April 2016. The characters have unique powers and are all diversely amazing. While we love most, fans hate Mineta Minrou because he is a pervert. 

Pros: This is perfect for people who love superhero action and school adventures with creative powers. It also has some comedy and it's suitable for kids and all ages. If people don't know if they'll like Japanese style of anime, this is good as it feels modern and is entertaining. 

Cons: Possibly the only thing I have to say for it being a first anime for someone is that it isn't a classic so they might not understand anime memes with classic shows but they can simply watch them after this one. 

My Hero Academia's plot

In a world where 80% of people are born with superpowers called 'Quirks', Izuku Midoriya is a boy born without a Quirk but wants to become a superhero. When he suddenly meets the number one hero, All Might, Izuku inherits his Quirk and works hard to join a school to become a superhero, UA High. He faces a difficult journey to become the number one hero, especially with multiple villains. 

2. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood - Adventure, fantasy, sci-fi, steampunk

A popular, iconic and loved anime is Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Firstly, many fans agree that it's great for beginners. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood is directed by Yasuhiro Irie and was broadcasted from 5 April 2009 - 4 July 2010. It has 64 episodes. 

Fullmetal Alchemist (FMA) is not the same as Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (FMAB). Also, you do not need to watch Fullmetal Alchemist first as FMAB is the second adaptation of the original FMA and is not a continuation nor sequel.

Brotherhood is the newer version made in 2009 that starts from the beginning and most fans think it's better than the FMA 2003 version since Brotherhood resembles the manga more and is more entertaining and longer with better animation. However, Fullmetal Alchemist and Brotherhood are both great and you should watch both if you like one.

Pros: This anime is great if you like adventure, dark fantasy, drama, magic and steampunk. It's been recommended as a show to start getting into anime. Notably, it has a great storyline with plot twists and great character development.

Cons: There's not really anything bad since it's praised for its great story but the only complaint someone had was that it's long, which I don't think was quite noteworthy or important since many other anime are longer than 100 episodes. But, I wouldn't recommend this anime for young kids since it has a mostly dark story. 

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood's plot

Two young brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric suffer greatly after trying human transmutation - the only forbidden work of alchemy, and it results in Edward no longer having his left leg and Alphonse losing his physical body. With Edward sacrificing his right arm so his brother's soul can live in an armour suit, they hope to gain their original bodies by metal limbs and being a state alchemist.

Through years of journey, they get help from Colonel Roy Mustang, Lieutenant Riza Hawkeye and Lieutenant Colonel Maes Hughes. However, the brothers' actions seem like they won't make them human again. In the controversy and dark history of their country, they're caught up in secrets of the Philosopher's Stone, catching a serial killer and more dangers. 

3. Bleach - Action, supernatural

One of my favourite and earliest anime I watched was Bleach. It's an enjoyable show that I love to rewatch because of the story concept, action and the amazing, diverse characters. Similarly, many reviews have shared that it is part of their childhood and they felt lots of emotions for it so it's worth watching.

Bleach is directed by Noriyuki Abe and released from 5 October 2004 - 27 March 2012. It is finished and has 366 episodes. 

Pros: It's perfect for people who love action, adventure, the supernatural and shounen. The fighting and storyline are great and it even has comedy. Additionally, it's kept interesting with different characters. It's one of the classic anime that a lot of people know.

Cons: For a first anime, it might be a bit much if you're not used to long shows since there's over 300 episodes. Furhermore, there are a lot of filler episodes (episodes that don't relate to the main narrative) which can make it boring and drag on as some fans say. 

Bleach's plot

When Ichigo Kurosaki is attacked by a Hollow (monsters that eat human souls), he becomes a Soul Reaper by taking Rukia Kuchiki's offer of absorbing her powers to save his family. With these powers, he defeats the various Hollows that appear and he's joined by his other supernatural friends - Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado and Uryuu Ishida. 

They go on many battles and journeys whilst making new friends. However, there are bigger enemies than the Hollows and their adventures even enter the Soul Society, where people live after they die.

4. Haikyu!! - Sport (Volleyball)

This is one of the most popular sports anime and it was what got one of my friends playing volleyball. Therefore, this inspiring, intense and interesting anime is a must-watch. Even I enjoyed it and I'm not a fan of sports. 

Haikyu!! is directed by Susumu Mitsunaka and was first broadcasted on 6 April 2014. While the manga of Haikyu!! is finished, fans are still eagerly waiting for season 5. 

Pros: Haikyu!! is perfect for people who love sports (especially volleyball), drama and comedy. Moreover, it'll get you invested in the suspense of sports games but with more cool, emphasised action. It's also not drastically unrealistic in their abilities like some sports anime so beginners wouldn't feel that the exaggerated powers are weird. 

Cons: However, it may be boring for people if they don't like sports and if they want more action anime.

Haikyu!!'s plot

Shouyou Hinata is a short boy who loves playing volleyball and makes it to the tournament in middle school but is badly defeated by Tobio Kageyama, "King of the Court". So Hinata plans on beating him but in high school, they end up in the same volleyball team at Karasuno high school. 

Miraculously, they appear to match well together, especially with Hinata's super high jumps. The duo must put aside their rivalry and learn to work together to become the best volleyball team.

5. Death Note - Mystery, psychological thriller

As one of the most iconic anime and concepts, Death Note is great for beginners to watch. I think the creativity of the story is great and it really hooks you in. Ultimately, fans claim that it may be the number 1 anime or at least near the top. 

Death Note was directed by Tetsuro Araki and broadcasted from 4 October 2006 - 27 June 2007. It is completed with 37 episodes. 

Pros: You'll love it if you enjoy mystery or a psychological thriller. Death Note is so good and popular because of the cleverly thought-out mind games between the amazing characters. Furthermore, it's good if you want something short yet memorable. 

Cons: It might be a bit scary for younger kids so Death Note is recommended for at least those over 11 years old. 

Death Note's plot

Ryuk, a god of death or shinigami, drops the Death Note into the human world due to curiosity of how a human would use it as it's a book that can kill anyone if you write their name in it and you've seen their face.

Light Yagami is a prodigy high school student who finds Death Note and after writing a criminal's name in it and seeing the man end up dead, he decides to get rid of all the criminals in the world. The police try to catch him, as a serial killer going after criminals, and they use the help of a young man called L, the best detective in the world. 

6. Naruto - Action, adventure

Possibly the most known, iconic and classic anime is Naruto. It's a good anime that is worth watching. Furthermore, it's one of my favourites and also the first one I watched when I was a child. However, it might not be the best for beginners since it's very long. 

Naruto was directed by Hayato Date and aired from 3 October 2002 - 8 February 2007. It has 220 episodes while the sequel (Naruto: Shippuden) has 500 episodes and finished in 2017. Next, there's a spin-off sequel called Boruto: Naruto Next Generations and the first episode was released on 5 April 2017.

Pros: Naruto is good for those who want action, adventure, martial arts and some comedy. It's a classic anime that basically everyone knows so you'll be quickly in on the Naruto memes. Additionally, the story is interesting and well made with lots of great characters. Also, it's now on Netflix.

Cons: Once again, it is a very long anime that keeps going in its sequels with more than 700 episodes. Therefore it can get tiring for those new to anime and there are lots of fillers (which people say you can skip).

Naruto's plot

Just before Naruto Uzumaki was born, the Nine-Tailed Fox demon, the Kyuubi, attacked the Hidden Leaf Village so to stop it, Fourth Hokage (the village's leader) sacrificed his life and sealed the demon inside Naruto. Growing up, Naruto is an outcast who is an energetic knucklehead and seems to be weak. However, he plans on being the Hokage and so starts his great journey with friends as they defeat many enemies. 

7. Seraph of the End - Vampire fantasy, post-apocalyptic, action

For people who are interested in vampires, Seraph of the End is one of my favourite and earliest animes. I've found it hard to find a good vampire anime and this one is definitely the best for the classical supernatural. The main characters have a strong bond that's almost romance as Mika is in love with Yuuichirou. Additionally, Yuuichirou turns into a demon later. 

Seraph of the End was aired on 4 April 2015 and directed by Hironori Aoyagi. There are 2 seasons and a total of 24 episodes. 

Pros: It's great for people who love vampire fantasy, apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic stories, action and emotional drama. There are great friendships and the amazing fighting of different abilities and weapons. I also love the different and good looks of the characters. 

Cons: It's not as popular so you might not find many other fans to talk to about it. Additionally, it's a shorter anime so as I was used to longer ones, I was sad that there wasn't more because I loved it. 

Seraph of the End's plot

When a virus kills everyone over 13, vampires come and enslave society and treat them like livestock, including Yuuichirou and Mikaela Hyakuya, two boys who were taken from an orphanage. Mikaela plans an escape but only Yuuichirou makes it out and is rescued by the Moon Demon Company, who exterminates the vampires in Japan.

Years later, Yuuichirou is part of the Japanese Imperial Demon Army and ready to kill the species that murdered his family. However, it seems that who he thought died isn't so dead after all. 

8. Your Lie in April - Romance

While romance anime might not be as popular or talked about, Your Lie in April is good and one of the most popular romance anime where Tsubaki is in love with Kousei. Your Lie in April is also a sad anime, despite the bright, colourful start. Many fans say it's one of the most emotional and heart-breaking anime where it'll make you cry. 

Your Lie in April is directed by Kazuya Iwata and broadcasted from 10 October 2014 - 20 March 2015. It has 22 episodes.

Pros: If you're looking for a romance anime, Your Lie in April is perfect for your first watch. Its genres also include music, drama and school. On the positive side, it's on Netflix. Fans note that the music is really good so music lovers will enjoy it.

Cons: It hasn't got the action and battles of classic anime so if you want action, this might not be as interesting or engaging for you. 

Your Lie in April's plot

Kousei Arima is a prodigy pianist and human metronome but after his mother passes away, he can't hear the sweet music of his piano. He still doesn't piano two years later and lives a boring life with his friends, Tsubaki Sawabe and Ryouta Watari. But when he meets the violinist, Kaori Miyazono, things change and he starts playing music again.

9. Assassination Classroom - Comedy, action

For comedy lovers, this is the one for you. Not only that, but it includes interesting action and many fans recommend it for beginners. It has an original, creative story with great characters. But it's important to realise that Assassination Classroom is not kid-friendly and it is recommended for those at least 13.

Assassination Classroom was aired from 10 January 2015 - 20 June 2015 and directed by Eiichiro Hasumi.

Pros: This is perfect if you want comedy, action and a school anime. It's also nice and not super long, which is ideal for the entry into anime. 

Cons: It's one of the more weird or unique anime so if you don't feel like a yellow octopus for a teacher, this might not be your cup of tea. Despite the colourful image, it's not suitable for younger kids. 

Assassination Classroom's plot

When the moon is cut into a crescent forever by an unknown monster, misfit students of class 3-E of Kunugigaoka Middle School must assassinate this creature to save the world. Surprisingly, the monster turns out to be the best teacher, Koro-sensei, and can fly at speeds up to Mach 20. So they must improve their assassination skills to defeat Koro-sensei. 

10. Tokyo Ghoul - Horror, supernatural

A popular anime is Tokyo Ghoul, that many of my friends have loved, even if they aren't into anime. Tokyo Ghoul is sad and psychological, containing depression. As a first anime, I recommend it for those who love scary gore and are mature as Tokyo Ghoul is scary and not for kids.

Tokyo Ghoul was directed by Shuhei Morita and broadcasted from 4 July 2014 - 19 September 2014.

Pros: You should watch this if you enjoy horror, supernatural, mystery, action and psychological shows. It's a great anime that'll hook you in with an interesting story. 

Cons: Consequently, this isn't suitable for people who hate scary, gory things. Although Tokyo Ghoul is rated 18+, 13-year-olds have watched it so it depends on your maturity; 13-years-olds can watch it if they're prepared but I don't recommend those younger than 13.

Tokyo Ghoul's plot

Tokyo becomes a cruel place where humans fear the bloodthirsty creatures that live alongside them - "ghouls" who eat human flesh but they also have the power to blend in as humans. Ken Kaneki is a shy college student who gets interested in the fellow book-lover, Rize Kamishiro, but she's not as she seems and Kaneki falls into the ghoul world. Saved by the waitress Touka Kirishima, Kaneki turns into a half-ghoul/half-human and faces his new, difficult reality. 

11. Demon Slayer - Action, supernatural

This is another really popular show at the moment and one of my favourites. Demon Slayer is worth watching and a reviewer said it was their first anime and they loved it.

Demon Slayer was broadcasted from 6 April 2019 - 28 September 2019 and directed by Haruo Sotozaki.

Pros: This is a great anime with action, supernatural, demons and some historical aspects. The main characters are some of the best characters. Furthermore, it's a recent anime that is still hyped with a recent movie.

Cons: The Demon Slayer anime is not finished so it's waiting for the next season. Being a shounen style anime, it's not made for kids so maybe those over 12 will enjoy it best. 

Demon Slayer's plot

In a world where flesh-eating demons go about at night, Tanjirou Kamado is a boy who looks after his family. One day, he returns home to find his whole family murdered, except for his sister, Nezuko, who has turned into a demon. Tanjirou stays with Nezuko to protect her humanity since she has never killed a human and plans to avenge his family with the Demon Slayer Corps, a group that kills Demons.

12. Code Geass - Mecha, action

An amazing anime is Code Geass for mecha action and great characters but while the immortal Lelouch can be considered a villain by some fans, I think he's more of an anti-hero. Lelouch is not in love with C.C., another immortal whose real name is Yuki Shiroi (Snow White). On top of interesting characters, the story and twists are deeply fantastic and Code Geass is definitely worth watching as I loved it.

Code Geass was first aired on 6 October 2006 and directed by Goro Taniguchi. You should watch it in the order of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion; Lelouch of the Rebellion Special - Black Rebellion; Akito the Exiled 1; Akito the Exiled 2; Akito the Exiled 3.

Pros: It's perfect for people who want a mecha anime with action, drama, superpowers and military. The anime is intriguing like most and I couldn't stop watching it. Moreover, many fans claim Lelouch is one of the best anime characters.

Cons: Code Geass is still waiting for season 3, which is said to be released in 2022. Additionally, one reviewer noted there were annoying fillers and many unexplained things. 

Code Geass' plot

In 2010, the Holy Empire of Britannia is a dominant military nation that has taken over Japan, now called Area 11, although Japan still tried to resist. Lelouch Lamperouge is a Britannian student who finds himself caught in a fight between Britannian and Area 11 rebel forces but he's saved by C.C., who gives him Geass, a power that makes people do what he says. Thus, he challenges Britannia as a masked anti-hero named Zero.

13. Sword Art Online - Game, action, adventure

Finally, this is a great anime for those who love games, such as League of Legends. It's a widely known anime with a great concept. I watched it when I was young and stopped because I was bored but when I rewatched it later, I enjoyed the ideas and stories. Also, I liked the romance where Kirito married Asuna and they do not break up, and Asuna doesn't die as some think.

Sword Art Online (SAO) was first aired on 8 July 2012 and directed by Tomohiko Ito. The anime has finished with 4 seasons and has a spinoff called Sword Art Online Alternative Gun Gale Online, which some fans think is better than SAO due to the variety of better characters.

Pros: This is the perfect anime for gamers with action, adventure and fantasy in a game world plus romance. A fan review claimed it was addictive and has great animation. 

Cons: Due to the M rating, it is not appropriate for kids and I wouldn't suggest it for those under 13 because it contains violence and sexual assault. Ultimately, the series has been critiqued by viewers for bad, unoriginal characters with no depth. 

Sword Art Online's plot

In 2022, Sword Art Online (SAO) is a virtual-reality game where you can control your player with just your thoughts. Kazuto Kirigaya ("Kirito") is one of the ten thousand players who find themselves trapped in the game world. They cannot escape the beautifully crafted world Aincrad until they succeed in level one hundred and if they die in there, they die in real life. Kirito must thus battle his way out to survive as he meets enemies and friends, like Asuna Yuuki.