Unbelievably Engaging Anime Series for Non-Anime Fans!

Though anime may not be for everyone, there exists a wide variety of series that have the potential to capture the interest of those who typically wouldn't be drawn to it. The expressive nature, artistic style, and unconventional storytelling are what make anime stand out and, consequently, serve as a barrier for some individuals.

Anime is an incredibly versatile medium, as it primarily refers to Japanese animation. Similar to Western animation, there is something within the world of anime that caters to various tastes and preferences. Surprisingly, there are numerous outstanding anime series that often go unnoticed by those who have little interest in the medium. These hidden gems can range from atypical shonen adventures to dark and thought-provoking psychological dramas.

10 Erased

Erased is arguably the most anime-like series, as it follows a manga writer with the ability to turn back time and prevent tragedy. When he learns that his mother was murdered by a serial killer, he travels back to his childhood to uncover the killer's identity and prevent a string of killings from happening. Despite its outlandish premise, Erased delivers a clever and suspenseful time-travel mystery. The story revolves around an elementary school detective who strives to protect a potential victim from becoming the killer's next target, adding an entertaining and tense element to the series.

9 One Punch Man

One Punch Man stands out for its satirical comedy, which is sure to appeal to fans of franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This action-packed comedy series follows the journey of Saitama, a hero with unmatched strength, capable of defeating any enemy with a single punch. However, Saitama's immense power has left him feeling bored and unchallenged, as he effortlessly surpasses all competition.

The series effectively captures Saitama's frustrations, allowing viewers to empathize with the monotony of a hero's life when their abilities surpass all rivals. This exploration of burnout and the realization that being the "best" isn't always fulfilling creates a thought-provoking discourse in the real world. Combined with entertaining superhero action, One Punch Man is a must-watch for anyone, even those who are not typically anime fans.

8 Junji Ito Maniac: Tales of the Japanese Macabre

Netflix's latest horror anthology, Junji Ito Maniac, showcases the chilling works of renowned horror author Junji Ito. Known for his mastery of the genre, Ito's stories are brought to life in this collection, offering a thrilling and terrifying experience. From the infamous Hanging Balloon to other spine-tingling tales, the clever use of sound intensifies the horror. Whether you're a seasoned horror fan or new to anime, this anthology guarantees a hair-raising ride with its multitude of nail-biting stories.

7 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

The video game Cyberpunk 2077, launched in 2020, has gained a notorious reputation. Despite ongoing updates to improve gameplay, fans unanimously agree that the anime adaptation based on the game's world, titled Edgerunners, has been a huge triumph.

Serving as a prequel to the main game, Edgerunners centers around a character named David. After enduring a devastating and seemingly intentional crime that cost him everything, David becomes an Edgerunner, a mercenary operating in the black market. This show, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, has received critical acclaim and numerous awards for its immersive exploration of the game's world and its captivating characters. It is a must-watch not only for fans of the video game, but also for those who appreciate exceptional storytelling and dynamic character interactions.

6 Danganronpa: The Animation

This anime, based on the visual novel of the same name, will undoubtedly captivate those intrigued by unique whodunit stories. Danganronpa chronicles the experiences of a group of exceptionally talented high school students who find themselves trapped inside Hope's Peak Academy.

Their only means of escape is if one of them successfully commits a murder and avoids being identified as the culprit in a "class trial". The murders are not only gruesome and intricately orchestrated, but the ensuing trials to determine the murderer are equally thrilling, filled with unexpected twists and turns. While the overarching plot ventures into eccentric territories that may deter certain viewers, the mystery aspect more than compensates for it.

5 Death Note

4 Aggretsuko

After stumbling upon a mysterious notebook known as the Death Note, Light Yagami discovers an unparalleled power - the ability to end anyone's life by simply inscribing their complete name and picturing their face in his mind. This marks the inception of a captivating game of wits, as Light endeavors to shape the world into a supposedly "safer" realm. Renowned for its intricately crafted dark personas and gripping narrative, Death Note has garnered a devoted following and lives up to its immense acclaim.

For those who enjoy shows depicting anthropomorphic animals living ordinary lives, Aggretsuko serves as an ideal introduction to the world of anime. Retsuko, a red panda, takes center stage as she confronts the challenges of adulthood by releasing her pent-up frustrations each night through a karaoke session infused with death metal.

3 Ghost Stories (English Dub)

: It's an incredible show that masterfully combines humor with the harsh realities of burnout, captivating audiences for a remarkable five seasons on the renowned platform, Netflix. Adding to its extraordinary charm, these captivating characters are brought to life by none other than Sanrio, the brilliant minds behind the beloved Hello Kitty. As a result, this series becomes an absolute must-watch for adult fans of these enchanting characters.

The anime Ghost Stories stands out not for its exceptional plot or characters. In fact, when viewed in Japanese, the show is rather subpar. However, the English dub transforms this ordinary supernatural series into a truly compelling watch that appeals to even non-anime enthusiasts.

2 Pokémon

When it was time for this series about a team of ghost hunters to receive an English dub, the voice actors and writers went above and beyond, completely reimagining the translation. The result? Ghost Stories became one of the most uproariously offensive, yet undeniably hilarious anime series to date. With no boundaries, the show takes its characters on a wild ride, transforming them into new personas that deliver outrageously funny lines. It's not just an anime; it's an unforgettable experience that you have to hear to believe.

While the widespread popularity of Pokémon in the Western world during the 90s may overshadow its true identity as an anime, it is important to acknowledge that it is indeed an animated series. Moreover, it is a remarkably captivating one that skillfully encompasses the essence of the corresponding video game.

1 Cowboy Bebop

Audiences are captivated by Ash's quest to become a Pokémon master, witnessing every exhilarating moment of his growth and each new challenge he bravely confronts. Recently, to the delight of fans across the globe, he finally achieved his long-held dream and emerged as a world champion. This captivating journey is not only for anime enthusiasts but also appeals to those who may not typically enjoy this genre, as it artfully brings the popular video games to life.

For 25 years, Cowboy Bebop has enthralled audiences with its captivating storyline. The show revolves around a group of bounty hunters who strive to survive and thrive in the vastness of space, constantly encountering existential challenges along the way. Regarded as the epitome of anime excellence, this series masterfully combines intelligent writing and a grand science fiction backdrop to delve into profound themes.

The main characters in Cowboy Bebop are incredibly complex and enjoyable, surpassing the standards of modern anime. They stand out as some of the most captivating characters on television. This show serves as the perfect emblem, showcasing how anime can captivate and engage viewers through its exceptional genre execution and brilliant writing, regardless of their preconceived notions about the medium.