Anime to start watching! (Or to get your friend to start)

If you’ve never watched anime, it can be challenging to know where to start and to get used to its style. After all, the world of anime is vast, with genres, styles, and narratives to suit every taste. For those looking for a more “serious” introduction, similar to traditional TV series with captivating stories and well-constructed plots, we’ve selected anime that are perfect for new fans.

Whether you’re curious to explore this universe or simply looking for something new to watch, these anime are incredible choices to begin your journey.

Death Note

Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural

Studio: Madhouse

Synopsis: Light Yagami, a brilliant student, finds a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone simply by writing their name. Determined to create a perfect world, he soon engages in a psychological battle against L, an enigmatic detective.

Why watch?

With a plot full of twists and intellectual battles between its protagonists, Death Note is an absolute classic that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Perfect for fans of engaging mysteries and moral dilemmas.

Monster

Genre: Thriller, Drama, Mystery

Studio: Madhouse

Synopsis: Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon, saves the life of a young boy, only to discover later that the boy is a dangerous psychopath. Consumed by guilt, Tenma embarks on a journey to correct his mistake.

Why watch?

With a complex narrative and deeply developed characters, Monster is a masterpiece that explores human psychology and the consequences of our choices.

Steins;Gate

Genre: Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller

Studio: White Fox

Synopsis: Okabe Rintarou, a self-proclaimed mad scientist, accidentally discovers the ability to send messages to the past. But tampering with time has dire consequences, and Okabe must fix his mistakes before it’s too late.

Why watch?

Steins;Gate blends science fiction with emotional drama, delivering a unique and gripping time-travel story.

Violet Evergarden

Genre: Drama, Slice of Life

Studio: Kyoto Animation

Synopsis: Violet, a young ex-soldier, tries to adjust to civilian life while working as a ghostwriter for others. On her journey, she seeks to understand the true meaning of love.

Why watch?

With stunning animations and a deeply emotional narrative, Violet Evergarden is perfect for those looking for a touching and reflective experience.

Erased (Boku Dake ga Inai Machi)

Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural

Studio: A-1 Pictures

Synopsis: Satoru Fujinuma discovers he can travel through time and is sent back to his childhood to prevent a murder. He must uncover the culprit and save his friends.

Why watch?

An emotional anime that mixes mystery and nostalgia, ideal for fans of well-crafted and suspenseful stories.

Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)

Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy

Studio: Wit Studio/MAPPA

Synopsis: Humanity lives behind walls to protect itself from human-eating giants called Titans. When a colossal Titan breaches the wall, Eren Yeager and his friends vow to fight for freedom.

Why watch?

With epic action scenes and a plot full of mysteries and twists, Attack on Titan is an unforgettable experience.

The Promised Neverland (Season 1)

Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Drama

Studio: CloverWorks

Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect orphanage, Emma, Norman, and Ray discover a terrible secret and must devise an escape plan before it’s too late.

Why watch?

The first season of The Promised Neverland is a breathtaking psychological thriller, perfect for those who love suspense and tension. (Skip the second season, but the first is a gem!)

Psycho-Pass

Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Crime

Studio: Production I.G

Synopsis: In a dystopian future, society is controlled by the Sibyl System, which evaluates the criminal potential of every individual. Akane Tsunemori, a rookie inspector, discovers that not everything is as perfect as it seems.

Why watch?

Psycho-Pass is a thought-provoking work that questions morality and social control, with an intelligent and reflective narrative.

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day

Genre: Drama, Supernatural

Studio: A-1 Pictures

Synopsis: A group of childhood friends drifts apart after Menma’s death. Years later, her spirit appears to Jinta, asking for help to fulfill her final wish.

Why watch?

A heartfelt anime that tackles themes of loss, friendship, and redemption, touching even the most resistant hearts.

Black Lagoon

Genre: Action, Crime

Studio: Madhouse

Synopsis: Rokuro Okajima, an ordinary businessman, is kidnapped by a group of mercenaries called the Lagoon Company. He joins the group, diving into a world of crime and violence.

Why watch?

Black Lagoon delivers nonstop action and fascinating characters, making it an incredible choice for fans of more mature stories.

For those who’ve never watched anime, these works are the perfect gateway. After all, who hasn’t heard of Death Note? With well-constructed stories, memorable characters, and themes ranging from suspense to drama, there’s something for everyone.

Which one will you watch first? Or have you never seen any of them? If you’re familiar with some, share your experience in the comments!