Top 10 Must-Watch Anime for Adult Beginners (English Dub List)

Are you new to the captivating world of anime and wondering where to start? Look no further because The Wright Anime is here for you! I have compiled a variety of what I consider to be the top 10 must-watch anime for beginners that will surely pique your interest and keep you hooked from start to finish! To make easier for you, I have made it a point to only select anime that have an English Dub version for your viewing pleasure. As you read ahead, keep in mind that I am not listing these recommendations in any particular order, as each one is exceptional in its own way.

Girl confused on what to do (AI Image)

1. Spirited Away (2001)

Starting off this list is the timeless anime movie Spirited Away, a perfect blend of fantasy, adventure, and heartfelt moments. Although considered a children's film, it is beloved by many for valid reasons. First, it was released by Studio Ghibli, often called Japan's version of Disney. Second, it was written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, who has a dedicated fanbase due to his successful and acclaimed animated films. The movie captivates viewers with its thoughtful character development, beautiful animation, and emotional depth.

The story follows 10-year-old Chihiro, who feels upset about moving away from her friends. During a drive, her parents explore what they think is an abandoned theme park and begin eating the food. Chihiro senses something unusual and urges them to leave, but by nightfall, her parents transform into pigs, and the park's ghostly inhabitants appear. Chihiro must find a way to save her parents and escape this otherworldly place. This is a must-watch!

2. Romantic Killer (2022)

Romantic Killer (2022) is a lighthearted and funny anime gem. With just 12 episodes, it excels as a rom-com, offering humor beyond typical anime. The female protagonist, Anzu Hoshino, stands out with her exaggerated masculine expressions and detachment from femininity, allowing her to be boyish and nerdy.Though it fits the reverse harem genre, often criticized for clichés, Romantic Killer overcomes this with well-developed character backstories and clever use of clichés to increase it's comedic value.

The story follows gamer Anzu Hoshino, uninterested in romance, who encounters a wizard from her game. Her beloved possessions are confiscated, forcing her into a dating simulation where she must find love. Anzu, however, aims to reclaim her belongings without falling for romance. This anime is worth a try for its unique charm!

3. My Hero Academia (2018)

If you love superhuman elements and thrilling battles, My Hero Academia (2018) is a must-watch. This anime offers an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you eager for the next season. Unlike typical protagonists with magical powers, Izuku Midoriya lives in a world where most have superpowers called "quirks," but he does not. Despite this, he dreams of becoming a hero like All Might, the top superhero. Determined to achieve his dream, Izuku's journey reveals a potential path to make it a reality.

The anime's unique and quirky art style stands out to many viewers. If you enjoy shonen anime with themes of resilience, self-love, and self-actualization, My Hero Academia is the perfect choice, even if you're not concerned about the series' length.

4. Erased (2016)

If you're a fan of mystery and suspense, then this anime is sure to captivate your attention. It is one of my all time favorites--Erased (2016). This anime is by far a wonderful way to dip your toe into the anime pool without having to swim in it as the series is only 12 episodes. It is captivating, suspenseful, emotional, and most likely will make you reminisce about your childhood.

The series is so alluring as the main protagonist Sataru Fujinuma experiences something quite unusual--he can go back to a past moment before something catastrophic occurs. He calls it revival, but his revivals typically only take him back moments before. His next revival will make you hang off the edge of your seat! Follow along as the characters unravel dark secrets and uncover hidden truths that will leave you wanting more.

5. A Sign of Affection (2024)

For those who appreciate a lighthearted series and enjoy a charming romance story, this upcoming anime is an ideal choice. A Sign of Affection (2024) is a recent release, yet it stands out as one of the finest romance, slice-of-life anime due to its ability to capture the essence of love, language, and friendship in a delightful package. With only 12 episodes, it's an easy series to watch. Above all, the anime is soothing, beautifully illustrated, and highly engaging.

The story follows Yuki Itose, a young female college student and our main protagonist, who is deaf. Despite her disability, Yuki manages to connect with both hearing and deaf peers. However, she sometimes encounters difficulties since she doesn't speak, and only uses sign language and writing to communicate. One day on a train, when a tourist seeks her help for directions, Yuki becomes anxious about how to assist him. Fortunately, upperclassman and seasoned traveler Itsuomi Nagi steps in to help. This fateful meeting on the train soon becomes the catalyst for both characters to broaden their perspectives on the world and its people. Join Yuki on her journey as she navigates life's challenges and triumphs while exploring the essence of new love.

6. Fruits Basket (2019)

Next, we have an anime that is both heartwarming and emotional, highlighting the power of self and the bonds that connect us. I'm talking about a beloved anime among shoujo fans—Fruits Basket (2019). This series begins with our adorable and charming high school student and female protagonist, Tohru Honda. Despite losing her parents and home, Tohru remains an exceptionally resilient and cheerful person. One day, a severe rainstorm destroys the tent that Tohru was living in, since she cannot afford to live in an apartment on her own. Fortunately, the popular Yuki Soma and his uncle, whose family owns the land where Tohru was staying, find her just in time before the storm could harm her. Grateful to the Somas for offering her shelter, Tohru helps out around their house in return. However, her stay soon leads to the revelation of the Soma family secret.

This anime is a must-watch for newcomers, as it truly connects viewers to Tohru and the Soma family in a unique way. Fruits Basket beautifully enables the audience to relate to each of the main and supporting characters. So, join Tohru and the others on their journey of self-discovery and growth as they face and endure the challenges that come with living with the Soma family secret.

7. Your Name (2016)

This next anime is a visual masterpiece, featuring stunning animation and breathtaking scenery. If you enjoy teen romance, fantasy, and the supernatural, this anime is undoubtedly a must-watch! This movie is loved and spoken so highly about for many reasons, as the movie itself was so well-constructed, and thoughtfully curated to produce exceptional characters, intricate plot developments, thoughtful background information, and beautiful artistry. Though, brace yourself for mind-bending twists and a thought-provoking storyline that will keep you guessing until the very end in this captivating movie--Your Name (2016).

This film follows the lives of Mitsuha Miyamizu, a highschool girl from the countryside of rural Japan, and Taki Tachibana, a highschool boy from the bustling city of Tokyo, Japan. While the two could not be any more different from each other, their lives become intertwined in the most unusual way when they wake up in each other's bodies. As time progresses, Mitsuha and Taki adapt to this strange phenomenon, going as far as to exchange updates via notes and texts to maintain the balance of their lives. Yet, an unknown circumstance is on the horizon, and the two must find a way to use this unique connection to alter fate. This film is without a doubt one of the best anime movies produced and released to date. So, do yourself an enormous favor and watch this film to learn why it has received a significant amount of praise!

8. Hunter x Hunter (2011)

Get ready to embark on a whirlwind adventure with this next anime, filled with epic battles, heartfelt friendships, and moments of laughter and tears. You won't be able to look away from the screen! This anime deserves a place in everyone's hearts, and it is none other than the 2011 remake--Hunter x Hunter (HxH). While this anime is considered shonen, Hunter x Hunter has the remarkable ability to transcend the typical boundaries of a shonen anime, as it also includes elements of crime, thriller, noir, dark fantasy, drama, and horror.

This anime chronicles the journey of young Gon Freecss, a 10 year old boy living with his aunt due to his father's absence. Gon's father is actually a hunter--hunters are very esteemed individuals, as they are respected globally, and revered for their exceptional talent and skill in hunting down rare objects and such. In addition, being a hunter signifies recognition by a powerful association of its peer known simply as the Hunter's Association. Inspired by his father's status, Gon resolves to become a hunter himself in order to find him! This marks the beginning of long and enduring journey for Gon as he strives to be a hunter to reunite with his father, and forms lasting friendships along the way... For newcomers to anime, this series is highly recommended and promises not to disappoint.

9. Haikyuu! (2014)

In this next anime, you'll delve into the intricate world of sports and competition, where characters strive to be the very best in their sport. I am talking about the beloved anime series--Haikyuu (2014). While I am not typically one for sports anime, this one in particular is easy to enjoy, and hard not to love! The character development involved is well beyond what I typically experience from sports anime, and concepts such as: teamwork, motivation, passion, achievement, and resilience are enduring themes found throughout the series.

With that said, this show follows the young Shoyo Hinata, a lover of volleyball. Despite being deemed too short for the sport, Shoyo draws inspiration from a short-statured professional player known as the "Little Giant" to fuel his ambition and dream of becoming a pro volleyball player himself. Unfortunately, Hinata's middle school volleyball team lacked the talent of their competitors, resulting in an unsuccessful tournament. Nevertheless, Hinata remains optimistic despite this setback, and arrives at Karasuno High School eager to join the their volleyball team, which was once renowned for its excellence. However, while Hinata is determined to do whatever it takes to achieve his ultimate dream, he realizes that he must first set his pride aside in order to get along with Tobio Kageyama, the "King of Court" who outright defeated him in middle school!

10. Death Note (2006)

Last but not least, we have a highly acclaimed anime that has garnered a massive following worldwide. While this anime contains the darkest themes out of any other anime on this list, I have chosen to put it on here because it is truly a masterpiece that is highly respected and loved within the anime community. Its intricate plot twists, thought-provoking themes, and well-developed characters make it a must-watch for any anime newcomer interested in psychological thrillers, horror, and crime. I am referring to none other than Death Note (2006).

This anime has the capacity to grab viewers right from the start, with the way in which we see our main protagonist, Light Yagami, who has a promising future, commit the absolute unthinkable when he discovers a journal that allows him to kill any person in any way he wishes as long as he writes their name in it. Not only is the anime exceptional for its masterful twists and turns, but it is also compelling to follow along with Light's battle of wits against one of the most remarkable characters in anime history: L. With that said, as Light continues to go down a dark path to hide his sinister secret from the world, accompanied by his apple-loving shinigami, viewers are compelled to keep watching to unearth the final truth.

Whether you're a seasoned anime enthusiast or just starting out, these top 10 must-watch anime for beginners are sure to captivate your imagination and leave you craving for more. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready for an unforgettable anime experience! Which one will you watch first? Let us know in the comments below.