What Are The Best Anime for Someone Who Doesn’t Like Anime?

Introducing anime to someone who doesn’t usually enjoy the medium can be challenging. However, there are plenty of titles that serve as perfect gateways, blending compelling stories, relatable characters, and accessible themes without relying on typical anime tropes. If you’re looking for the best anime to get someone into anime or the best anime to watch with someone who doesn’t like anime, this guide will help you find shows that appeal even to skeptics.

What Makes a Great Anime for Non-Anime Fans?

The best anime for someone who doesn’t like anime typically have:

• Engaging, universal stories that don’t feel “anime-specific.”
• Strong character development that draws viewers emotionally.
• Accessible art styles that aren’t overly stylized or exaggerated.
• Genres that appeal broadly, such as mystery, thriller, drama, or slice of life.
• Reasonable episode lengths to avoid overwhelming newcomers.

Top 7 Best Anime to Get Someone Into Anime

1. Death Note

Death Note is often cited as the ultimate gateway anime. It features a gripping cat-and-mouse thriller between a high school student who gains a deadly notebook and a genius detective trying to stop him. Its dark themes, moral questions, and fast-paced plot make it one of the best anime to watch with someone who doesn’t like anime. The show’s suspense and psychological intensity feel more like a crime drama than typical anime.

Top 5 Best Anime Like Death Note

2. Cowboy Bebop

This classic blends sci-fi, western, and noir elements with a jazzy soundtrack and episodic storytelling. Cowboy Bebop’s mature themes, stylish animation, and memorable characters make it highly accessible for newcomers. Its standalone episodes mean viewers can jump in anywhere, making it one of the best anime to get someone into anime.

3. One Punch Man

One Punch Man offers a humorous, action-packed take on superhero tropes. Its straightforward premise and comedic style appeal to fans of Western superhero stories and make it an easy introduction to anime’s unique charm. It’s often recommended as the best anime to watch with someone who doesn’t like anime because of its humor and accessible animation style.

4. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)

With intense action, complex characters, and a gripping mystery, Attack on Titan hooks viewers quickly. Its dramatic storytelling and high stakes resonate even with those unfamiliar with anime culture. It’s a strong pick for the best anime to get someone into anime due to its universal appeal and cinematic quality.

Top 10 Best Anime Like Attack On Titan

5. My Hero Academia

For fans of superhero stories, My Hero Academia combines relatable characters with exciting battles and heartfelt moments. Its school setting and themes of perseverance make it a great choice for newcomers, often listed among the best anime to watch with someone who doesn’t like anime.

6. Violet Evergarden

This beautifully animated drama explores themes of loss, healing, and human connection. Its emotional storytelling and stunning visuals make it highly accessible to viewers who appreciate heartfelt narratives, making it one of the best anime to get someone into anime who prefers drama over action.

7. Samurai Champloo

Mixing samurai action with hip-hop culture, Samurai Champloo offers a unique style and episodic storytelling that can appeal to those skeptical about anime. Its blend of humor, action, and music makes it a great introduction and one of the best anime to watch with someone who doesn’t like anime.

Tips for Introducing Anime to Non-Fans

• Start with shorter series or movies to avoid overwhelming newcomers.
• Choose genres aligned with their interests (thrillers, dramas, comedies).
• Watch together and discuss to help them appreciate cultural nuances.
• Avoid overly niche or long-running series initially.