Imagine this situation: You’re hanging out with your friends, and they keep dropping anime references. You feel sadly out of the loop, right? Then, while walking in the evening, you hear people in the park discussing anime, deepening that sense of exclusion.
The twist is you actually like anime but just don’t know where to start your binge. It’s a familiar struggle for many.
With millions of anime shows and films out there, all remarkable in their own right, it’s daunting. Deciding which anime suits your personality can be tricky, as each one has its unique theme.
That’s where we come in. We’ve put together some of the most popular anime titles ever released, each with a brief description.
This guide is designed to help you pinpoint your anime preferences without any spoilers. Moreover, if you’re a Hulu subscriber, you’re in for a treat. All these anime series are available on Hulu.
And if you don’t have Hulu, it’s worth exploring their plans. Subscribing to Hulu is beneficial beyond anime; it offers an extensive library of excellent films and TV shows.
So, it’s not just about anime; it’s about a wide range of entertainment options.
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure
“Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure,” created by Hirohiko Araki, is a cornerstone of Japan’s entertainment industry. This popular franchise began in the 1980s and continues to captivate audiences. Recently, it has gained popularity in Northern and Western countries, expanding its global fanbase.
The series chronicles the Joestar family across generations. Each season introduces a new ‘Jojo,’ offering a fresh perspective within the family’s saga. This structure allows the anime to explore various genres, keeping the content diverse and engaging.
The show’s ability to reinvent itself is remarkable. It avoids genre monotony, frequently changing protagonists and themes. Notably, “Stardust Crusaders” and “Diamond is Unbreakable” are among its most successful chapters.
“Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure” is renowned for its memorable characters and fashion. The characters’ styles are unique, potentially inspiring fashion enthusiasts. Additionally, the anime’s fight scenes are exceptionally crafted, blending excitement with the slice-of-life genre.
My Hero Academia
This anime, renowned for its popularity in both series and manga form, delves into a fictional universe. In this world, many people are born with unique superpowers, known as Quirks, which manifest in childhood.
The story primarily focuses on Izuku Midoriya, a regular boy born without any Quirk. Despite this, he harbors a deep admiration for superheroes and aspires to be like them.
The series takes a dramatic turn when All Might, the world’s strongest superhero, bestows his Quirk upon Izuku. This act irrevocably links Izuku to All Might and transforms his life.
Now possessing superpowers, Izuku faces the challenge of adapting to his new reality. He strives to understand and control his newfound abilities, a journey that is not without its struggles.
Unable to navigate this path alone, Izuku enrolls in U. A. High School. This institution specializes in training heroes, much like Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series, helping them harness their powers effectively.
While the series might initially seem targeted toward children, its narrative depth becomes apparent upon closer viewing. It’s a show that transcends age groups, offering a rich and engaging experience for a wide audience.
Cowboy Bepop
“Cowboy Bebop,” a classic anime beloved by 90s kids, still resonates with audiences today. Its enduring appeal lies in its timeless storytelling.
The series centers around Shinichiro Watanabe, a spacefarer, unlike typical superheroes or magical beings. It blends science fiction with the adventures of a group of bounty hunters and law-evaders, who traverse space.
While the premise may seem straightforward, the plot’s complexity has captivated fans for over two decades. This enduring popularity led Netflix to create a reboot, acknowledging the show’s significant impact.
However, the original “Cowboy Bebop” is available on Hulu for purists.
Each episode of “Cowboy Bebop” narrates a distinct story, yet maintains a coherent thread throughout the series. Its lasting charm is partly due to its exceptional background music, which enhances the connection to the characters.
“Cowboy Bebop” stands as a timeless masterpiece, consistently ranked among the greatest anime series, with a soundtrack that deeply resonates with its viewers.
Attack on Titan
“Attack on Titan” has become a staple in anime discussions, captivating fans across its three seasons with a masterful blend of action, drama, and emotional depth.
The anticipation for its fourth season has fans eagerly scouring the internet for any updates. Recognizing its popularity, both Netflix and Hulu have acquired streaming rights to the series. For those new to anime, “Attack on Titan” is an excellent starting point, readily available on Hulu.
The show’s allure lies in its unique and gripping storyline. Set in an alternate universe, humans are confined within massive walls, a defense against the terrifying Titans.
These colossal creatures resemble humans but pose a grave threat due to their insatiable hunger for human flesh. The narrative takes a dramatic turn in the first episode when the wall, humanity’s last line of defense, is breached.
From this moment, the story follows a group of protagonists tasked with the daunting challenge of protecting their race from these monstrous beings. “Attack on Titan” stands out for its intense plot, complex characters, and the constant tension of an impending catastrophe, making it a standout series in the anime genre.
Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto
Many anime series often focus on exceptionally powerful characters, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, “Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto” takes this concept and transforms it into an engaging and unique show.
The series revolves around Sakamoto, a high school teenager who excels at everything he does. This extraordinary talent makes him immensely popular among his peers.
The show’s opening song, with its catchy beat, aptly encapsulates Sakamoto’s proficiency in all areas, setting the tone for the series.
Initially, the idea of a character who is perfect at everything might seem overdone or annoying. Yet, “Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto” manages to spin this concept into an entertaining narrative filled with tension.
Sakamoto’s unparalleled abilities lead to jealousy among his classmates, resulting in bullying attempts. The bullies constantly try to undermine him, but Sakamoto effortlessly navigates these challenges with grace and intelligence.
What makes the show particularly enjoyable are Sakamoto’s ingenious solutions to these situations. His life, filled with extraordinary events like his friend’s mother falling for him, adds to the show’s charm.
The energy and vibrancy of “Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto” make it an ideal series for a light-hearted, fun evening watch. It’s a show that’s worth investing time in, offering a fresh and amusing perspective in the anime genre.
Death Parade
“Death Parade” stands out in the anime world for its blend of genres, seamlessly shifting from lighthearted moments to serious themes. This dynamism is key to its uniqueness.
The premise centers on a game played by the deceased. When two people die simultaneously, they are sent to a mysterious location to compete in a game. To intensify the competition, all memories of their past lives are erased, focusing their attention solely on winning.
The stakes in these games are high: the winner enjoys a luxurious afterlife, while the fate of the loser remains uncertain, vanishing from existence.
The concept of “Death Parade” might seem bizarre, but it’s this very eccentricity that makes the series so captivating. Watching characters unknowingly compete in games like air hockey, billiards, or Twister, all while fighting for their afterlife, adds a layer of intrigue and excitement.
The games in “Death Parade” are far from ordinary. For instance, in the billiards game, each ball is linked to a body part, causing pain upon impact.
But the show is not just about the games; it delves deeper, creating suspenseful atmospheres and exploring profound themes of life and death. Each episode unveils new stories, maintaining a consistently engaging narrative.
“Death Parade” is an excellent choice for those interested in themes of the afterlife and seeking a series that combines compelling storytelling with thought-provoking concepts.
It’s a series that keeps viewers intrigued, episode after episode, with its unique approach to exploring life’s ultimate questions.
Parasyte: The Maxim
From its very first episode, “Parasyte: The Maxim” grips viewers with its compelling narrative, setting the stage for an enthralling series. Centered around themes of extraterrestrial life and alien parasites, the plot unfolds with these beings landing on Earth, seeking human hosts for survival.
The protagonist, Shinichi Izumi, finds his life entangled in complexity when his right hand becomes possessed by one of these parasites.
This twist propels Shinichi on a quest to understand these alien entities. As he gains insight, he resolves to rid Earth of these dangerous creatures, all while protecting himself and his loved ones. The series often evokes a superhero-like ambiance, as the alien in Shinichi’s hand bestows him with supernatural abilities, aiding his mission.
“Parasyte: The Maxim” delves into Shinichi’s struggles as he navigates a world where he is part human, part alien. He must confront these extraterrestrial beings while grappling with the reality of sharing his biology with them. The show draws parallels to “Tokyo Ghoul,” with alien parasites taking the place of vampires and demons.
The series stands out for its deep narrative, striking visuals, and intense character development. Watching Shinichi’s journey as he combats the alien parasites offers a satisfying and engaging experience. The action scenes are particularly impactful, adding depth to the storyline.
One of the most intriguing aspects is Shinichi’s partnership with the parasite in his right hand, as they jointly combat their own kind.
“Parasyte: The Maxim” is a perfect choice for those seeking a series with a strong story and dynamic visuals. Available on Hulu, it’s an anime that promises a profound and exhilarating viewing experience.
Erased
“Erased” is an anime that demands your full attention and emotional investment, similar to deeply engaging shows like “Zodiac.” It combines a serial killer plot with a unique supernatural twist.
The protagonist possesses a rare ability to travel back in time for brief periods and has intuitions about impending disasters. This power takes a dramatic turn when he unexpectedly travels back 20 years, finding himself in the body of his eight-year-old self.
In this new reality, as a primary school student, he faces the daunting task of preventing a major crime. The challenge is heightened by his physical limitations as a child, but he remains determined to thwart a crime deeply rooted in the past.
“Erased” is highly addictive, with each episode compelling viewers to immediately watch the next. The series masterfully creates suspense, with the safety of children hanging in the balance. Despite some slow-paced scenes, “Erased” excels in both its visual presentation and storyline.
It skillfully intertwines emotional depth with supernatural elements, ensuring that viewers remain engaged and invested throughout. This anime is a standout for its ability to weave complex narratives and evoke strong emotional responses, making it a must-watch for fans of suspenseful, emotionally rich storytelling.
FLCL
“FLCL” is a teenage drama anime that resonates with both the experiences of adolescence and the complexities of growing up. It’s especially nostalgic for adults, evoking memories of their own youthful experiences.
The series sometimes leads you to feel lost in its plot, but this aspect contributes to its charm and appeal.
The story revolves around a teenager grappling with the uncertainties of the future and the challenges of adulthood. While the narrative may sometimes feel overwhelming, “FLCL” represents a powerful journey worth experiencing.
It skillfully mixes various themes, presenting them with exceptional animation. The relatable yet absurdly blended plot of “FLCL” ensures it remains captivating.
Regarded as one of the most unique and infamous anime in the entertainment industry, “FLCL” is perfect for reliving the highs and lows of adolescence, particularly with high school friends. Its animation style features a range of aesthetics, sometimes dreamlike, which adds to the show’s relaxing and immersive experience.
A word of caution: “FLCL” can be overwhelming, and its plot is not always straightforward. However, its charm and appeal are constant throughout the series. Its growing popularity led Adult Swim to co-produce two sequels, “FLCL: Progressive” and “FLCL: Alternative.”
While these sequels follow the original’s unique concept, they don’t quite capture the same magical essence as the original “FLCL.”
“FLCL” is a go-to series for times when you feel lost or overwhelmed. Its storyline offers comfort and reflection, and its soundtrack is notably addictive. This anime is a testament to the power of storytelling in capturing the complexities of adolescence and the journey to adulthood.
Assassination Classroom
“Assassination Classroom” presents a concept so whimsically absurd that it leaves viewers torn between laughter and seriousness. This anime exemplifies the medium’s ability to explore ideas that live-action series often cannot.
The main antagonist, an octopus-like alien, lands on Earth with a declaration of planetary destruction, contingent upon whether he is killed within a year. Despite his comical appearance, this alien is no joke; he’s already partially destroyed the moon and Earth is his next target.
In an intriguing twist, a group of teenagers at a school are tasked with becoming skilled assassins to eliminate this alien threat. As they embark on their training, they amass a billion-dollar bounty. However, the alien, known as Korosensei, serves as their teacher, creating a unique dynamic as he cannot harm his students.
Throughout the series, the relationship between Korosensei and his students, who are training to become his assassins, evolves intriguingly. Each episode reveals how Korosensei’s teachings enhance the students’ skills, beneficial for their growth but ultimately dangerous for him.
Despite the looming task of assassination, a deep mutual care develops between the students and Korosensei.
The show delves into the complexities of this relationship, balancing the humorous premise with emotional depth. The series’ resolution remains untold here, inviting viewers to discover it themselves on Hulu. “Assassination Classroom” is a standout anime, blending bizarre, comedic elements with heartfelt storytelling, making it a compelling watch.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba
Hulu boasts an impressive collection of anime, and among these, “Demon Slayer” stands out as a monumental hit. Since its release in 2019, the series has captivated fans with its unique concepts, stunning visuals, and compelling plot. “Demon Slayer” is celebrated not just for its story, but for the exceptional way it’s presented to the audience.
The series centers around a character known as the Demon Slayer, who embarks on a mission to eradicate the evil forces plaguing the world. The narrative is enriched with numerous plot twists, one of the most significant being the transformation of the protagonist’s sister into a demon.
This twist adds a layer of complexity, as she must conceal her identity from the Demon Slayer while seeking a cure for her condition.
“Demon Slayer” is renowned for its engaging characters and sleek animation style, which keeps viewers deeply immersed. The battle sequences are particularly noteworthy for their detailed and thrilling execution, adding to the overall excitement of the series.
While the core plot of “Demon Slayer” may seem familiar, it’s the show’s execution that sets it apart and has contributed to its widespread popularity. For those new to anime or seeking a starting point in the genre, “Demon Slayer” is an excellent choice.
Its availability on Hulu makes it easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of action, emotion, and visual splendor for both seasoned anime fans and newcomers alike.
Astra Lost in Space
“Astra Lost in Space” is a testament to the creative potential of anime, taking familiar elements from the entertainment world and transforming them into a unique and captivating narrative.
The story focuses on a group of kids on a space expedition, initially enjoying their break from routine. However, their adventure takes a harrowing turn when they are suddenly transported millions of light-years away, thrust into a desperate battle for survival.
The series channels a “Rick and Morty” vibe, with characters planet-hopping and using their wit and strength to combat challenges. However, as the story progresses, it reveals much deeper themes than just space exploration.
Upon its release, “Astra Lost in Space” surprised audiences with its innovative content and perfect blend of themes, exploring friendship and the wonders of the universe.
The Promised Neverland
“The Promised Neverland” stands out in the anime world for its masterful blend of mystery and thrill, gripping viewers from one episode to the next. Set in an isolated orphanage disconnected from the outside world, the show starts with a seemingly smooth operation.
The turning point comes when the children grow suspicious of their surroundings and the people caring for them. This curiosity plunges them into a life-or-death situation.
The series delves into the experiences and trials of the children, highlighting themes of friendship and mystery. “The Promised Neverland” impresses with its high-quality visuals and creative storytelling, leaving viewers in awe of its narrative and artistic execution.
Both “Astra Lost in Space” and “The Promised Neverland” showcase the diverse and profound storytelling capabilities of anime, offering viewers rich, immersive experiences.
Honorable Mention
Uchi no Otouto Maji de Dekain Dakedo Mi ni Konai
Nao, a young preteen, is caught in an embarrassing situation by his older sister Chiaki after an accident with his favorite action figure, Sakura-chan.
Instead of being upset, Chiaki is taken aback by an unexpected discovery about her brother and decides to share this news with her friends, humorously dubbing it “Giant Surprise.”
The next day, two friends named Nagisa and Yukiko come over to see what Chiaki has been talking about. With a mix of surprise and curiosity, they witness Chiaki revealing the “Giant Surprise.”
The group, intrigued by the discovery, decides to investigate further, leading to a series of humorous and unexpected events.
Harem in the Labyrinth of Another World
High school student Michio Kaga stumbles upon an unusual online game while surfing the internet. Unexpectedly, he finds himself transported into the game’s rural village setting, equipped with extraordinary skills and a formidable sword.
Initially disoriented, Michio quickly adapts to his surroundings, finding himself in conflicts with bandits. He soon discovers that logging out is not an option.
Accepting his new reality, Michio embarks on an adventurous journey. He embraces his life in the game world, exploring dungeons to accumulate wealth, and indulging in his quest to build a harem, fulfilling his desires.
Isekai Nonbiri Nouka
A man named Hiraku Machio, who spent his final years battling a terminal illness in a hospital bed, is given a second chance at life by a compassionate god.
He is reincarnated in a different world with the desire to pursue farming. To aid him in this new life, he receives a magical “Almighty Farming Tool,” capable of transforming into any agricultural implement he needs.
Hiraku finds himself in a remote forest, far from any civilization. With determination, he sets out to transform this barren land into a prosperous society, starting from the ground up with his farming and building skills.
Isekai Yarisaa
Kuroinu 2
This is fanart by みつどうえ of Nuns from Kuroinu 2. The fanart was published on Pixiv. It is worth noting that real stuff is way crazier than the fanart.
Toshishita Chin Kui Obasan
Onedari Twins [Kakao]
B*ngable Girl
My LandLady Noona
