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Must-Watch Animes, Reddit? Your Definitive Guide

The anime rabbit hole. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? You start with one recommendation, maybe from a friend, maybe from a stray post on Reddit, and suddenly you’re neck-deep in a world of vibrant colors, captivating stories, and characters you genuinely care about. But with so much out there, where do you even begin? Let’s cut to the chase: If you’re looking for anime that’s truly worth your time, you need a curated list of must-watch animes. Consider this your personalized initiation into the wider world of anime.

The Essentials: Anime You Simply Can’t Miss

Let’s break this down into categories because different viewers crave different things. I am deliberately selecting anime that are either essential for cultural literacy or represent truly high levels of quality across storytelling, art, and character development.

For the Shonen Fanatic: Action and Adventure Await

Attack on Titan: This isn’t just action; it’s a masterclass in suspense, mystery, and shocking twists. The animation is breathtaking, the soundtrack is iconic, and the story is undeniably gripping. It’s dark, it’s brutal, and it’s impossible to look away. It’s the perfect example of mature shonen.
Hunter x Hunter (2011): Don’t let the initial “monster-of-the-week” vibe fool you. Hunter x Hunter grows into a sophisticated and intricate power system anime, with incredibly well-developed characters and morally complex storylines. It’s also just got exceptional pacing.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: A nearly perfect adaptation of the manga, this story is a masterclass in world-building, character development, and emotional impact. Its themes of loss, redemption, and the consequences of ambition resonate deeply. It is a must-watch for shonen and non-shonen fans.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Worlds to Explore

Cowboy Bebop: A timeless classic that perfectly blends sci-fi with a jazzy, noir-inspired atmosphere. Its episodic format allows for compelling character studies, while the overarching narrative about running from the past keeps you invested. It’s cool, stylish, and surprisingly poignant.
Steins;Gate: Get ready for a mind-bending journey through time travel, alternate realities, and the weight of consequences. This anime starts slow but builds into a breathtaking and emotionally resonant experience. Just trust the process, it’s worth it. It’s often considered one of the greatest anime stories ever made.
Made in Abyss: On the surface, it looks like a cute adventure. However, Made in Abyss is a haunting, unforgettable tale about exploring the unknown, with disturbing and profound consequences. The visuals are stunning, and the world-building is second to none. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions.

Diving Deep: Stories That Stick With You

Violet Evergarden: Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged. This anime is a beautiful exploration of grief, healing, and the power of human connection. The animation is simply breathtaking, and the story is both emotionally resonant and thought-provoking.
Your Lie in April: This anime isn’t just about music; it’s about life, loss, and finding beauty in the face of adversity. It’s a powerful and emotionally charged story that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Make sure you have tissues handy.
Clannad: After Story: While you can begin with Clannad, its sequel is where the magic truly happens. Witnessing the characters grow, face hardships, and build a family is deeply moving and rewarding. Be prepared for an emotional investment.

Honorable Mentions: More Anime Worth Your Time

These aren’t quite as essential as the ones above, but they are worth watching based on taste:

Death Note: An early 2000s anime that is now a cultural phenomenon, Death Note explores questions of morality and power in a gripping cat-and-mouse game between a high school student and a genius detective.
Erased: A mystery thriller with a sci-fi twist. Erased combines time travel with a compelling murder plot, creating a suspenseful and emotional viewing experience.
Psycho-Pass: A dystopian world where your potential for crime is constantly monitored. This anime explores themes of justice, free will, and the dangers of a technologically advanced society.

Beyond the Hype: What Makes an Anime “Must-Watch”?

It’s not just about stunning animation or catchy opening themes. A truly must-watch anime transcends entertainment and becomes an experience. It’s the kind of story that stays with you, prompts reflection, and leaves a lasting impact. These criteria help:

Compelling Storytelling: A well-developed plot with engaging characters and meaningful themes.
Emotional Resonance: The ability to evoke genuine feelings and connect with the audience on a deeper level.
Memorable Characters: Characters that are complex, relatable, and leave a lasting impression.
High-Quality Animation and Sound Design: Visually stunning animation and a well-composed soundtrack that enhance the storytelling.
Cultural Impact: Anime that has influenced the medium and has been watched and talked about for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Must-Watch Anime

1. What if I don’t like anime with lots of fighting?

That’s perfectly fine! There are plenty of amazing anime that focus on other genres, such as slice-of-life, romance, drama, and mystery. Start with something like Violet Evergarden or Your Lie in April for an emotionally driven story with minimal action.

2. Is it necessary to watch anime in Japanese with subtitles?

While many purists will insist on watching in the original Japanese with subtitles, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you find that subtitles distract you from enjoying the animation, a good dub can be a great alternative.

3. How do I find more anime similar to the ones I like?

Websites like MyAnimeList (MAL) and Anilist are great resources for discovering new anime based on your preferences. You can also check out Reddit communities dedicated to specific genres or anime series.

4. What’s the difference between shonen and seinen anime?

Shonen anime is generally targeted towards a younger male audience, often featuring action-packed stories with a focus on friendship and self-improvement. Seinen anime is aimed at older male audiences and often explores more mature themes and complex characters.

5. How much time should I dedicate to watching anime each week?

That’s entirely up to you! Some people binge-watch entire series in a weekend, while others prefer to watch an episode or two per day. Set a schedule that works for your lifestyle and stick to it.

6. Is there any anime streaming service that is better than others?

Each streaming service has its own strengths and weaknesses. Crunchyroll has a vast library of anime, while Netflix offers a growing selection of exclusive series and classics. Hulu also offers a decent selection of anime.

7. Is it weird to watch anime as an adult?

Absolutely not! Anime is a medium, not a genre. There are anime series that appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. There is no age limit on enjoying good storytelling.

8. Should I watch anime movies or series first?

It depends on your preference. Movies offer a more concise and self-contained story, while series allow for deeper character development and world-building. Start with whatever interests you the most.

9. Are there any anime with strong female leads?

Definitely! Attack on Titan’s Mikasa Ackerman, Erased’s Kayo Hinazuki, and Psycho-Pass’s Akane Tsunemori are just a few examples of strong and compelling female characters in anime.

10. How can I avoid getting spoiled on anime?

Be careful when browsing online forums and social media. Avoid reading comments or reviews that might reveal plot details. If you’re really concerned about spoilers, consider watching the anime as soon as possible after it’s released.

11. Is there a specific order I should watch certain anime in?

Some anime series have prequels or sequels that should be watched in a particular order. For example, it’s best to watch the original Clannad before Clannad: After Story. Always research the correct order before starting a series.

12. What is the next big anime on the horizon?

That’s always hard to predict, but keep an eye out for new seasons of popular shows like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, as well as original anime projects from renowned studios like Studio Ghibli and MAPPA.