Trying to get your friends into anime? You’re not alone. With thousands of shows out there, ranging from slice-of-life comedies to full-blown action epics, choosing that first anime can feel like walking through a minefield of niche references and 300-episode commitments. But don’t worry—we’ve handpicked these anime that are beginner-friendly, visually stunning, and emotionally gripping. These aren’t just good for those who are new to anime; they’re genuinely great shows, period.
1. Death Note
Genre: Psychological Thriller, Supernatural
Episodes: 37
This is the gateway classic. Death Note is intense, smart, and morally murky—in the best way possible. When high school prodigy Light Yagami finds a notebook that lets him kill anyone just by writing their name, he decides to reshape the world as its self-appointed god. But then comes L, a brilliant detective determined to stop him.
The result? A slow-burn cat-and-mouse chase full of brilliant mind games and “did he just do that?!” moments. No prior anime knowledge needed—just a love for suspense.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Shonen
Episodes: 47+ (ongoing)
If your friend’s into Marvel movies or high-octane shows, Jujutsu Kaisen is the perfect jump-in point. It’s got cursed spirits, sleek fight scenes, and one of the most stacked supporting casts in recent memory.
Yuji Itadori, our lead, accidentally eats a cursed finger (don’t ask) and ends up as the host for Ryomen Sukuna, the most dangerous curse of all time. Cue elite exorcist school, powerful friends, and some of the best fight animation you’ll find in modern anime. It’s a rollercoaster—and it only goes up.
3. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Genre: Fantasy, Drama, Slice-of-Life Adventure
Episodes: 28+ (ongoing)
This one flips the script. Most fantasy stories end when the Demon King is defeated—Frieren begins after that victory. Our protagonist, an elf mage named Frieren, outlives her party and begins a journey to understand what their bond actually meant.
It’s quiet, reflective, and deeply emotional. The storytelling is subtle but powerful, and its fantasy world is filled with beauty and melancholy. It’s not just our opinion—Frieren has achieved a remarkable 9.38 rating on MyAnimeList, surpassing long-standing favorites like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood to become the highest-rated anime on the platform.
4. Spy x Family
Genre: Action, Comedy, Slice-of-Life
Episodes: 25+ (ongoing)
Is your friend new to anime and is looking for something a bit more fun? Spy x Family is a blast. A master spy is forced to “build” a fake family for a mission—except his wife is a deadly assassin, and their adopted daughter can read minds (but no one knows that but her).
What follows is a mix of undercover chaos, domestic hijinks, and surprisingly wholesome family moments. It’s perfect for new viewers who want laughs, charm, and a break from darker or more serious stories.
5. Your Name (Movie)
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi, Drama
Runtime: ~1 hour 47 minutes
If your friend says they “don’t really watch anime,” show them Your Name. This Makoto Shinkai masterpiece has a simple premise—two teens inexplicably start switching bodies—but evolves into something much deeper and emotionally resonant.
It’s beautifully animated, packed with feeling, and doesn’t require any investment beyond a single sitting for those who are new to anime. A perfect one-and-done experience that leaves an impact.
The Hook is Set—Reel Them In
Each of these picks brings something special for anyone new to anime. More importantly, they’re accessible. No complicated timelines, no 100-episode prequels—just great stories that happen to be animated.
So if you’ve got a friend still on the fence about anime, this is your starter pack. All that’s left now? Grab some snacks, hit play, and watch them fall in love with the medium.
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