Detective Conan, also known as Case Closed, follows Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant teen detective who’s turned into a child after being poisoned. Even in his new form, he keeps solving tough cases while secretly searching for a cure. With hundreds of episodes full of clever mysteries and standalone stories, it’s a long-running classic that’s surprisingly easy for newcomers to enjoy. | © Toho
Inuyasha follows Kagome, a modern schoolgirl pulled into feudal Japan, where she meets the half-demon Inuyasha. Together, they search for the shards of a powerful jewel that can grant any wish, facing danger at every turn. It’s a darker fantasy with moments of humor and a romance that made it one of the most beloved anime of the 2000s. | © Viz Media
Pokémon needs little introduction – this anime follows Ash Ketchum and his trusty Pikachu on a journey to become a Pokémon Master. Along the way, they explore a world full of incredible creatures, fierce battles, and plenty of heart. It’s fun, nostalgic, and endlessly watchable, the perfect place to start for anyone new to anime. | © Netflix
My Hero Academia centers on Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without powers in a world full of superheroes who refuses to give up on his dream. After meeting the legendary All Might, he inherits his strength and begins training at a school for future heroes. With great animation and a cast of characters fans genuinely care about, it’s an easy, exciting way to start watching anime. | © Toho Animation
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure lives up to its name, following generations of the Joestar family as they face off against evil using powers tied to an old family curse. Each part jumps to a new era, packed with stylish heroes, dramatic fights, and eccentric humor. Bold, strange, and wildly entertaining, it’s a great first taste of how inventive anime can be. | © Viz Media
Fruits Basket follows Tohru Honda, an orphaned girl who moves in with the strange Sohma family and learns they turn into animals of the Chinese zodiac. As she gets to know them, Tohru helps each family member face their fears and slowly open up. It’s a warm, emotional story that feels personal and easy to love, especially for anyone new to anime. | © Madman Entertainment
Steins;Gate is a mind-bending sci-fi story about a group of friends who accidentally discover how to send messages into the past. Set in Akihabara, it dives deep into the chaos theory of time travel, where one small change can change everything. Smart, tense, and unexpectedly emotional, it’s perfect for viewers who like stories that make them think. | © Funimation
Haikyuu!! follows Shoyo Hinata, a determined teenager who dreams of becoming a great volleyball player despite his short stature. Framed as a sports anime, it’s also a moving coming-of-age story about chasing goals and growing with every setback. Energetic, inspiring, and full of thrilling matches, Haikyuu!! is a perfect entry point for new fans. | © Crunchyroll
Death Note is a psychological thriller that trades flashy battles for a tense game of cat and mouse. When a student gains a notebook that lets him kill anyone by writing their name, he draws the attention of a genius detective known as L. Smart, suspenseful, and full of unexpected twists, it’s the perfect pick for anyone who loves mind games. | © Crunchyroll
Naruto: Shippuden stands as one of the most influential anime in history, running for a full decade and shaping generations of fans. It follows Naruto’s journey from a mischievous outcast to a skilled ninja determined to lead his village. Packed with emotion, friendship, and legendary fight scenes, this long-running classic is a great place for newcomers to start. | © Crunchyroll
Cowboy Bebop has long stood among the most celebrated anime ever made. It follows a group of bounty hunters traveling the Solar System in their ship, the Bebop, blending sci-fi, Western, and noir into one unforgettable adventure. Compact, stylish, and effortlessly cool, this 26-episode classic is the perfect gateway for anyone discovering anime. | © Crunchyroll
Spy x Family follows Twilight, a top spy who adopts a child and marries a woman to maintain his cover, unaware his new wife is an assassin and his daughter a telepath. Along with their psychic dog Bond, they form a chaotic yet lovable family. Mixing espionage, humor, and warmth, Spy x Family is the perfect gateway for new anime fans. | © TXN
Demon Slayer follows Tanjiro, a kind-hearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered and his sister is turned into a demon. The story might feel familiar, but it’s the execution that makes it special – stunning animation, breathtaking fights, and a lot of heart. Even those new to anime will find it impossible not to get swept up in its emotion and beauty. | © Tokyo MX
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood tells the story of two brothers who use alchemy to bring their mother back to life, only to pay a terrible price. Their journey to restore what they’ve lost becomes a gripping mix of action, philosophy, and emotion. Fast-paced yet deeply moving, this series blends world-building, moral depth, and brotherly love in a way that stays with you. | © Crunchyroll
Hunter x Hunter follows young Gon Freecs as he sets out to become a licensed Hunter and uncover the truth about his missing father. Along the way, he meets unforgettable allies and foes whose stories add real depth to the world. With its sharp writing, emotional arcs, and unpredictable battles, this is one of the best entry points for anyone new to anime. | © Madhouse
If you’ve ever wanted to get into anime but didn’t know where to start, this list is for you. These shows cover everything, from action and adventure to heartwarming drama and mystery, while staying easy to follow for newcomers. Whether you’re here for the stories, the art, or the characters, these 15 series make the perfect gateway into the world of anime.
