Anime has become a popular medium of entertainment around the world, and a lot of people want to know how to get started with anime. Anime is a form of animation that originated in Japan and has now gained a massive following globally. it has various genres, including romance, action, adventure, horror, and many more. If you are new to the world of anime and want to explore this vibrant medium, this guide will help you get started with anime.
1. Find a Genre That Suits You
Anime has a wide range of genres, and each genre has its unique characteristics. It’s essential to find a genre that interests you, as it will keep you engaged and invested in the anime series you are watching. Some popular anime genres include action, romance, comedy, horror, and adventure. You can start by exploring different genres and watching a few episodes of each genre to see what you like. This will help you find a genre that resonates with you and that you will enjoy watching.
2. Pick a Streaming Platform
There are many streaming platforms where you can watch anime. Some popular streaming platforms include Netflix, Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Funimation. It’s important to choose a streaming platform based on your preferences and the availability of anime on the platform. Some streaming platforms offer more variety in terms of genres and anime series, while others may have exclusive licenses to certain anime shows. You can do some research to find the best streaming platform for you and your anime-watching needs.
3. Choose an Anime to Watch
Now, how to get started with anime? Once you have found a genre and a streaming platform, the next step is to choose an anime to watch. There are many popular anime series, such as Naruto, Attack on Titan, Fullmetal Alchemist, and One Piece. You can start with a popular anime series or choose a less popular one. It’s important to choose an anime that interests you and that you are excited to watch. This will keep you engaged and invested in the anime series throughout its run.
4. Watch Anime with Subtitles
Most anime is in Japanese, so you need to watch anime with subtitles. The subtitles will help you understand the plot and the dialogues. You can choose to watch anime with English subtitles or subtitles in your native language. Watching anime with subtitles will not only help you understand the plot and dialogues, but it will also help you learn new words and phrases in the language.
5. Engage with The Anime Community
Anime has a massive community of fans worldwide. You can join anime forums, social media groups, and subreddits to engage with the anime community. You can discuss anime with other fans, get recommendations, and learn more about the anime industry. Engaging with the anime community will not only help you find new anime to watch, but it will also help you connect with other fans who share the same interests as you.
6. Attend Anime Conventions
Anime conventions are events where fans gather to celebrate anime. You can attend an anime convention to meet other anime fans, buy anime merchandise, watch anime screenings, and attend panels. Attending anime conventions will give you a chance to immerse yourself in the anime culture, connect with other fans, and learn more about the anime industry.
7. Read Manga
Manga is the Japanese term for comics. Many popular anime series are adapted from manga. You can read manga to get a deeper understanding of the plot and the characters. Manga is available in bookstores, online stores, and on various manga websites. Reading manga will give you a more comprehensive understanding of the anime series, and it will also expose you to different art styles and storytelling techniques.
8. Explore Anime-related Hobbies
Anime has inspired many hobbies, such as cosplay, drawing, and writing fan fiction. You can explore these hobbies and express your love for anime through them. Cosplay is the practice of dressing up as a character from an anime series. Drawing is a hobby that can help you create your anime characters and art. Fan fiction is a form of writing where fans create stories based on their favorite anime series. Exploring these hobbies will help you connect with other fans, express your creativity, and engage with the anime culture in a unique way.
9. Watch Anime with Friends
Watching anime with friends can be a fun and enjoyable experience. You can discuss the plot and characters together, share your thoughts and opinions, and bond over your love for anime. Watching anime with friends will not only enhance your anime-watching experience, but it will also help you connect with others who share the same interests as you.
10. Watch Anime Movies
Anime movies are another great way to get started with anime. Anime movies are usually shorter than anime series, and they often tell a complete story in one sitting. Some popular anime movies include Your Name, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke. Watching anime movies can be a great way to experience anime in a condensed format, and it can also help you discover new anime series to watch.
11. Start With a Shorter Series
While there are many anime series with multiple seasons and hundreds of episodes, it can be overwhelming to start with such a lengthy commitment. Instead, consider starting with a shorter series, such as a one or two-season show. This will allow you to get a taste for the genre and the art style without investing too much time.
12. Research the Anime Before Watching it
Before starting a new anime series, it can be helpful to research it to get an idea of what to expect. You can read reviews or watch trailers to get an idea of the plot, characters, and animation style. This can help you avoid starting an anime series that you may not enjoy or that may not be a good fit for you.
13. Experiment with Different Animation Styles
Anime has a wide range of animation styles, from cute and colorful to dark and gritty. Experimenting with different animation styles can help you discover new anime series and genres that you may enjoy. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.
14. Take Breaks Between Series
Watching too much anime in one sitting can be overwhelming and can lead to burnout. It’s important to take breaks between series to give yourself time to process and digest what you have watched. This will help you avoid fatigue and ensure that you can continue to enjoy anime in the long term.
15. Explore the Anime Industry and Culture
Anime is not just a form of entertainment; it is also a cultural phenomenon. Taking the time to explore the anime industry and culture can help you gain a deeper appreciation for anime and its impact on society. You can research the history of anime, learn about the process of creating anime, and explore the various subcultures that have developed around anime.
Also Check : Best Animes for Beginners That Will Hook You from Episode One!
In conclusion, getting started with anime is all about finding a genre that suits you, choosing a streaming platform, selecting an anime to watch, engaging with the anime community, attending anime conventions, reading manga, exploring anime-related hobbies, watching anime with friends, and watching anime movies. By following these steps, you can immerse yourself in the world of anime and discover new stories, characters, and experiences.
