Anime Introduction
Choosing an anime to begin your anime journey can be an overwhelming experience. There are many genres, categories and styles of anime, which appeal to different crowds. The criteria for what is considered a good anime varies from person to person and asking for recommendations can be difficult if you’re unsure of where to begin. Although, the anime community is generally helpful and accepting, the bad apples can be quite harsh, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the staples of the anime community. Search Boku No Pico at your own risk. 😊
Certain animes are considered to be staples in the anime community. Many of these animes have withstood the test of time and laid the path for their respective genres going forward. Finding these animes that laid the groundwork for their genres is an excellent way to introduce and feel out a category to see if it is right for you.
For example, an anime that is believed to be a staple is Neon Genesis Evangelion. Neon Genesis Evangelion is a Mecha (robot) anime that was produced in the 90’s. This anime is one of the forefathers of Mecha anime and was considered revolutionary during its time. Even to this day many believe that Neon Genesis Evangelion is the standard for Mecha animes. Personally, even though the characters are dynamic and charismatic for its time period, I do not believe it is a must watch for newcomers. See my spreadsheet below for a small list of genres and recommendations.
When I first started watching anime, I did not know it was called anime, nor did I know there where mangas. I would watch shows such as Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball Z, Pokémon and Yu Gi Oh on TV. I was captivated by the stories and characters. It wasn’t until 5th or 6th grade when I found out more about the anime and manga communities through classmates and friends. There is a genre of anime for everybody. Watch what you enjoy, and don’t be afraid to dabble into other genres.
(Life as MMO Junkie)
There is also an ongoing debate within the anime community about the preference of dubbed (voice over) and subbed (subtitled) animes. In my experience, majority of the anime community frowns upon watching dubbed anime. This is because of inaccuracies in translation and the casting of voice actors. There have been incidents where dialogue does not make sense or it is misinterpreted when translated. There is also the issue of voice actors not fitting the character, making the character seem unbelievable or unrelatable because the voice does not match the character well. In my opinion, there is nothing wrong with dubbed anime. The conflict between dubbed and subbed anime really comes down to preference.
All in all, anime should be something you enjoy and find happiness in. The anime community is a place for you to learn more about the culture as well as learn about yourself and your preferences.
*(Some staple animes: Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball Z, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Yu Yu Hakusho, Inuyasha, Bleach, Naruto and One Piece)*
Genres of Anime
There are many genres of anime. I have added a few genres for you to explore. As well as some shows.
