New to anime and not sure where to begin? This list of the best anime for beginners in 2025 is curated to help you dive into Japanese animation with ease.
These beginner-friendly anime titles are known for their engaging plots, emotional depth, and unforgettable visuals. Whether you’re into action, romance, mystery, or supernatural stories, there’s something here for everyone. All are available on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Crunchyroll, Prime Video, and more.
Why These Anime Are Perfect for Beginners
- Easy to follow with straightforward storytelling
- Short episode count or feature film format
- Variety of genres including romance, fantasy, thriller, and action
- Emotionally engaging characters and universal themes
1. Death Note
Episodes: 37
Genre: Supernatural, Thriller, Mystery
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Plot:
A brilliant student finds a notebook that allows him to kill anyone by writing their name. As he tries to cleanse the world of evil, a genius detective steps in to stop him. This psychological thriller is filled with tension, suspense, and ethical dilemmas.
2. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Episodes: 26 (Season 1)
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Drama
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Plot:
After his family is attacked by demons, a kind-hearted boy joins the Demon Slayer Corps to save his sister and fight evil. The anime is known for its stunning animation, emotional storytelling, and intense battles.
3. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) – Movie
Duration: 1 hr 47 min
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Slice of Life
Where to Watch: Netflix, Prime Video
Plot:
Two strangers mysteriously start switching bodies and form a connection across time and space. As they try to find each other, their emotional bond deepens. A beautiful and heartfelt film perfect for newcomers to anime.
4. One Punch Man
Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Superhero
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Plot:
A superhero who can defeat any enemy with a single punch struggles with boredom and the lack of a real challenge. This anime mixes over-the-top action with clever humor and satirical takes on superhero tropes.
5. My Hero Academia
Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
Genre: Action, Superhero, School Life
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, JioCinema
Plot:
In a world where nearly everyone has superpowers, a powerless boy dreams of becoming a hero. After gaining a unique ability, he enrolls in a school for aspiring heroes. It’s an inspiring, action-packed story of determination and growth.
6. Attack on Titan – Season 1
Episodes: 25
Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy, Thriller
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Plot:
Humanity lives behind enormous walls to protect itself from giant, man-eating creatures. When the walls fall, a group of young soldiers fights to uncover the truth about the Titans. This dark, suspenseful anime is full of mystery and emotional twists.
7. Spirited Away – Movie
Duration: 2 hrs 5 min
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Coming of Age
Where to Watch: Netflix, Prime Video
Plot:
A young girl is transported to a magical world where she must work in a bathhouse for spirits to save her parents. With beautiful animation and a unique setting, this film is a perfect entry into Studio Ghibli’s rich storytelling.
8. Tokyo Revengers
Episodes: 24 (Season 1)
Genre: Action, Time Travel, Youth Drama
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Plot:
A man travels back to his school days to stop a tragic future and save someone he once loved. In doing so, he gets pulled into gang rivalries and must rewrite the past. A compelling mix of sci-fi and emotional drama.
9. Blue Lock
Episodes: 24
Genre: Sports, Action, Psychological
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Plot:
To rebuild its national soccer team, Japan creates a program where only one striker will emerge victorious. Players must compete in a survival-style system designed to test ego, skill, and drive. A thrilling twist on traditional sports anime.
10. Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi)
Episodes: 12
Genre: Mystery, Drama, Time Travel
Where to Watch: Netflix
Plot:
After a personal tragedy, a man is sent back 18 years to his childhood to stop a series of kidnappings. This gripping story blends emotional depth with suspense and mystery. A short but impactful series perfect for beginners.
Still Not Sure Where to Start?
- Love mystery or suspense? Try Death Note, Erased, or Attack on Titan
- Prefer emotional stories? Watch Your Name or Demon Slayer
- Enjoy lighthearted fun with action? Go for One Punch Man or My Hero Academia
- Interested in magical settings? Choose Spirited Away
Can You Watch Anime for Free?
The best way to watch anime is through legal platforms like Netflix, Crunchyroll, Prime Video, Disney+, and JioCinema. These services offer subtitles, HD quality, and support the creators.
Final Thoughts
Getting into anime doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This list of the best anime for beginners in 2025 provides the perfect launchpad for new viewers. With a variety of genres, rich characters, and unforgettable moments, these anime titles will help you fall in love with the medium.
From suspenseful thrillers like Death Note to emotional gems like Your Name, there’s something here for every taste. Start watching today and begin your anime journey the right way.