Anime has taken the world by storm in recent years, with fans of all ages and backgrounds flocking to watch their favorite series and characters come to life on screen. From action-packed adventures and epic fantasy stories to heartwarming romance and gut-wrenching drama, anime has something for everyone.
But for some people, the idea of watching anime is just not their cup of tea. Maybe they’ve never been interested in the genre, or perhaps they’ve only watched a few series and didn’t enjoy them. Whatever the reason, there are still plenty of people out there who haven’t fully exposed themselves to the anime craze.
If you’re one of those people, don’t worry! You don’t have to be a hardcore anime fan to appreciate the art form. In fact, there are plenty of amazing anime series out there that are perfect for people who don’t typically enjoy anime. These series offer a great introduction to the genre and are sure to keep you entertained with their engaging storylines, lovable characters, and beautiful animation.
So if you’re ready to give anime another chance, or if you’re just looking for something new to watch, check out our list of the best anime series for people who don’t like anime. We’ve compiled a diverse range of recommendations catering to various interests and tastes, so there’s sure to be something on this list for you.
Updated June 2023: If you want to try watching anime, you’re in luck. This article has been updated with additional content and entries by Danilo Raúl.
20 Prison School
If you want to dwell in the world of waifus for the first time, it doesn’t get any better than Prison School. This raunchy anime is directed by Tsutomu Mizushima and produced by J.C. Staff. It’s a comedy story with tons of ecchi elements. We follow the misadventures of five boys enrolled in a formerly all-girls high school and suddenly forced to do hard time in a cell as the school disciplinary system works like a real-life prison.
Mizushima has a knack for blending over-the-top humor with some of the most unexpected twists to keep viewers on their toes. If you’re unfamiliar with anime’s multiple comedy tropes, you’ll likely find them all here. It’s a show that pushes the boundaries of taste with weirdly paced situations and outrageous comedy, the story, while unlikely and fantastic, serves as a great setup to illustrate numerous tropes of Japanese society and their weird sense of humor.
19 Terror in Resonance
Terror in Resonance is Shinichirō Watanabe’s masterpiece. This show, produced by MAPPA, offers a story loaded with elements of some of the best Western psychological thrillers, exploring the consequences of terrorism and the nature of absolute justice. The show is an open critique of capitalism, integrated seamlessly into the motives behind the so-called terrorist who act on more than justifiable actions.
A single season of 11 episodes is more than enough to contain the gripping storyline and multiple thought-provoking themes. The show is designed to keep viewers guessing until the very end. If you’re unfamiliar with the immense potential of anime to offer social commentary, this show is right up your alley. It’s a great story, built on a complex narrative, with a simple delivery that helps illustrate the world’s complexity.
18 Violet Evergarden
.jpg?q=50&fit=crop&w=1500&dpr=1.5)
If you’re unfamiliar with anime as a medium to convey emotions, then Violet Evergarden is the anime for you. Directed by Taichi Ishidate and produced by Kyoto Animation, this visually stunning and emotionally resonant series is set in a post-war world. The story follows the journey of Violet, a former soldier who becomes an Auto Memory Doll, writing letters on behalf of others.
While the show explores the past of Violet and how she came to be the way she is, it’s the story of the people she helps, the one that’ll keep your feelings messing with your eyes. It’s a beautiful show exploring love, loss, and self-discovery themes. It’s likely the best offering in the ranking for the uninitiated, mainly because it combines powerful writing with enticing animation. The captivating narrative has 12 stellar episodes and a film.
17 Inuyashiki – Last Hero
Inuyashiki – Last Hero is the anime of choice for those who want to grasp just how weird the medium can get and how much it can get away with using the most outstanding premises. Directed by Keiichi Satou and produced by MAPPA, the story is a unique blend of science fiction and drama. We follow the life of an older man named Inuyashiki, who is suddenly transformed into a powerful cyborg after a mysterious incident.
Inuyashiki has always led a mediocre life; his newfound power helps him become something else. Unlike most shows with the same premise, we see a realistic depiction of the emotions someone conveys in such a situation. The plot explores themes of morality, humanity, and fulfillment. It’s an excellent watch for newcomers as it gets its message across in 11 episodes.
16 Legend of the Galactic Heroes
Legend of the Galactic Heroes is the largest space opera ever told in the story of Anime. The show is directed by Noboru Ishiguro and produced by Artland and Kitty Films. The story explores the generational war that has been waged for centuries between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance. The story begins with the war in a stalemate after 500 years, as the ruling class in the Galactic Empire is losing prestige, and the arrival of an upstart named Reinhard Von Lohengramm elevates the spirit of the Empire.
The tight pacing of the show leaves no room for fillers, and the animation is on point in the classic show. Pay no mind to the current remake, as the original show from 1988 offers the most accurate adaptation of the story. You won’t be feeling lost in a complicated sea of continuity, but you’ll soon learn how the stakes on this show are genuine, as they are no deus ex machina fixes here, and the people who die in this war stay dead for good. It’s a great offering to binge over a few weeks, as the show has 110 episodes and three films collecting the complete story.
15 Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga tells the tale of a young warrior named Thorfinn, who is on a quest for revenge after the infamous mercenary, Askeladd, kills his father. As he travels across medieval Europe with Askeladd’s band of mercenaries, Thorfinn must confront his own violent nature and struggle to find a place in a world filled with betrayal and greed.
This epic historical fiction series features breathtaking action scenes and complex, well-developed characters. Thorfinn is a relatable and tragic hero, and the supporting cast is equally well-written and fleshed out. The series also delves into themes of morality, faith, and the cost of war, making it a thought-provoking watch as well as an entertaining one.
14 Cowboy Bebop
.jpg?q=50&fit=crop&w=1500&dpr=1.5)
Cowboy Bebop follows a group of bounty hunters as they travel through space in search of their next big payday. Led by the laid-back, jazz-loving Spike Spiegel, the Bebop crew includes a diverse range of characters, including the intelligent and resourceful Faye Valentine, the loyal and skilled Jet Black, and the eccentric and unpredictable Edward.
This classic science fiction series is known for its stylish animation, memorable soundtrack, and compelling characters. Each member of the Bebop crew has their own complex backstory and motivations, and the series does an excellent job of exploring their relationships and development over the course of the show. With a mix of action, comedy, and drama, Cowboy Bebop is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.
13 Samurai Champloo
Samurai Champloo follows the journey of three unlikely companions – a brash and impulsive swordsman named Mugen, a calm and collected ronin named Jin, and a young, orphaned girl named Fuu — as they travel through feudal Japan in search of the “samurai who smells of sunflowers.” Along the way, they encounter a variety of colorful characters and get involved in all sorts of misadventures.
This stylish and unique series combines elements of action, comedy, and historical fiction to create a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. The animation is top-notch, and the music — which incorporates hip-hop and electronic elements — is just as memorable. The characters are also well-written and likable, with each of them having their own distinct personality and arc. Overall, Samurai Champloo is a must-watch for fans of action, adventure, and Samurai.
12 Cromartie High School
Cromartie High School follows the misadventures of a group of tough-looking high school students who are actually some of the dumbest, most absurd characters you’ll ever see on screen. From the school’s resident robot and talking monkey, to the delinquent who can’t even spell his own name, each episode is filled with bizarre and hilarious moments that will have you laughing out loud.
This surreal and absurd comedy series is a parody of the typical high school anime and manga genre, and it’s a must-watch for fans of offbeat humor. The characters are all memorable and ridiculous, and the series has a great sense of pacing and timing. With its unique blend of absurdity and heart, Cromartie High School is a must-watch for fans of comedy and absurdity.
11 Dragon Ball Z
Dragon Ball Z follows the story of Goku, a powerful warrior with a kind heart and a mysterious past, as he battles to protect the earth from a variety of threats. Along the way, he meets a diverse cast of characters, including his friends and allies, as well as his enemies and rivals. With its intense action scenes, memorable characters, and epic story arc, Dragon Ball Z has become a classic of the anime genre.
This iconic series is known for its over-the-top action and larger-than-life characters, as well as its memorable and memorable moments. From Goku’s battles with powerful foes like Frieza and Cell to his relationships with his friends and family, Dragon Ball Z is a rollercoaster ride of emotion and excitement. The animation is top-notch, and the character designs are iconic. With its memorable characters, epic story arc, and intense action scenes, it’s a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
10 Rainbow
Rainbow is a heart-wrenching tale of hope, resilience, and the power of friendship. Set in a juvenile detention center, the series follows a group of young inmates as they struggle to survive the harsh realities of life behind bars. Despite their varied backgrounds and personal demons, these kids form a close bond as they work to overcome their pasts and find a way forward.
At the heart of the series is protagonist Kudo, a tough-as-nails teenager who has spent most of his life bouncing from foster home to foster home. Kudo is fiercely independent and doesn’t trust anyone, but as he spends more time with his fellow inmates, he begins to open up and confront his own troubled past. Alongside Kudo is a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique struggles and strengths. From the resilient Hiroki to the kind-hearted Mitsuru, these characters will leave a lasting impression on viewers and make them root for their success.
Overall, Rainbow is a poignant and powerful series that explores some of the most pressing issues facing young people today. With its rich character development, emotionally charged plot, and beautiful animation, this is a series that will leave you inspired and moved.
9 Beastars
In a world where carnivorous and herbivorous animals live side-by-side, tensions are high and trust is hard to come by. This is the setting for Beastars, a thrilling and thought-provoking series that explores themes of identity, prejudice, and love.
At the center of the series is Legoshi, a timid wolf who is struggling to come to terms with his own nature. Despite his size and strength, Legoshi is a gentle soul who just wants to find his place in the world. Alongside Legoshi is a cast of diverse and complex characters, each with their own unique struggles and desires. From the ambitious rabbit Haru to the troubled red deer Louis, these characters will keep you invested in their stories and rooting for their success.
With its stylish animation, captivating plot, and well-developed characters, Beastars is a series that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. Whether you’re a fan of animal-based stories or just love a good character-driven drama, this is a series that you won’t want to miss.
8 Welcome to the N.H.K.
Welcome to the N.H.K. is a thought-provoking and deeply moving series that explores the struggles of modern adulthood. Set in Japan, the series follows protagonist Tatsuhiro Satou, a young man who has become a shut-in and lost all hope for the future.
As Tatsuhiro navigates the challenges of daily life, he meets a diverse cast of characters who help him confront his own demons and find a way forward. From the kind-hearted Misaki to the eccentric Kaoru, these characters will keep you invested in their stories and rooting for their success. With its engaging plot, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Welcome to the N.H.K. is a series that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
7 Monster
Monster is a gripping and suspenseful series that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Set in a world where science and the supernatural collide, the series follows protagonist Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant young doctor who becomes embroiled in a web of mystery and intrigue.
As Tenma navigates the dangers of his profession and the dark forces that threaten him, he meets a diverse cast of characters who help him unravel the mystery of a serial killer and the dark secrets that lie within his own past. From the tough-as-nails Inspector Lunge to the enigmatic Johan Liebert, these characters will keep you invested in their stories and rooting for their success.
6 The Tatami Galaxy
The Tatami Galaxy is a unique and captivating series that explores the twists and turns of fate and the many paths that life can take. Set in a surreal world of magic and mystery, the series follows protagonist Watashi, a young man who finds himself caught in a loop of time and fate.
As Watashi navigates the challenges of life and love, he meets a diverse cast of characters who help him confront his own demons and find a way forward. From the eccentric Ozu to the enigmatic Akashi, these characters will keep you hooked to their arcs. Whether you’re a fan of mind-bending stories or just love a good character-driven drama, this is a series that you won’t want to miss.
5 Death Note
When it comes to psychological thrillers, few anime series can match the intensity of Death Note. The story follows a high school student named Light Yagami who discovers a mysterious notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. As Light embarks on a killing spree, a cat-and-mouse game ensues between him and the brilliant detective tasked with catching him, known only as “L.”
What makes Death Note so compelling is its complex characters and moral dilemmas. Light is initially portrayed as a ruthless villain, but as the series progresses, the viewer is forced to question whether his actions are justified. Meanwhile, L is equally enigmatic, using his detective skills to track down Light while also grappling with his own sense of justice.
4 One Punch Man
If you’re in the mood for some superhero action, look no further than One Punch Man. The series follows the adventures of Saitama, a hero who can defeat any enemy with just one punch. Despite his godlike strength, Saitama is constantly overlooked and undervalued by the hero community, leading him to question whether he’s truly fulfilled his calling as a hero.
While One Punch Man may seem like a typical action series at first glance, it quickly subverts expectations with its comedic tone and self-aware humor. Saitama’s deadpan delivery and absurd powers make for some hilarious moments, and the series is packed with memorable characters and over-the-top action sequences. One Punch Man is a must-watch for fans of action and comedy, and it’s sure to leave you laughing and cheering as you follow Saitama’s journey to becoming the world’s greatest hero.
Fullmetal Alchemist is a classic anime series that has stood the test of time. The story follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who are on a quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone and restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. Along the way, they encounter a variety of allies and enemies and must navigate a world filled with political intrigue and dangerous alchemical secrets.
What sets Fullmetal Alchemist apart is its rich world-building and complex characters. The series tackles themes of loss, regret, and the dangers of power, and its well-developed cast of characters each have their own unique motivations and desires. The action is top-notch as well, with thrilling alchemical battles and imaginative creatures.
2 Naruto
If you’re a fan of shonen action, you can’t go wrong with Naruto. The series follows the adventures of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest ninja in his village. Along the way, he forms close bonds with his teammates and faces off against powerful foes as he trains to become a ninja worthy of recognition.
What sets Naruto apart is its well-developed cast of characters and heartwarming themes of friendship and perseverance. The series is packed with action-packed battles and heart-pumping moments, and its characters each have their own unique abilities and personalities that help make them stand out. Naruto’s epic journey and lovable cast of characters will keep you coming back for more.
1 Black Lagoon
Black Lagoon is a seinen action series about a group of mercenaries known as the Black Lagoon Company, who operate in the crime-ridden city of Roanapur. The series follows the adventures of the company’s members, including the main protagonist, Rokuro “Rock” Okajima, as they take on various jobs and battles.
The plot of Black Lagoon is fast-paced and action-packed, with a mix of drama, humor, and violence. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the world-building is impressive. The animation is top-notch, with some of the most impressive fight scenes in any anime.
