Entertainment News

Home

Movies

Streaming

Music

Comic Books

Quizzes

Newsletter

5 Quick Crunchyroll Anime Perfect to Hook Friends New to Anime

Originally posted on Total Apex Entertainment
By Muzammil Awan | Last updated Aug 15, 2025 1:28 PM ET

Hooking friends on anime is not easy, but selecting the right show can make all the difference. Crunchyroll boasts an incredible library of titles, from solid storytelling to beautiful animation and relatable themes. Regardless of the genre, there are plenty of genres to share with your friends, like romance, comedy, action, or tear-jerking drama.

There’s a wonderful starting point that will hook them. On “Crunchyroll,” there are five quick-paced and engaging anime that are perfect for introducing newbies to the world of anime without getting them too bogged down are presented below.

Why Having the Right Starter Anime is Important

New viewers get lost in too convoluted storylines. A starter anime stays simple and keeps the audience hooked. Simple storytelling allows friends to easily connect with characters quickly. Quality animation also draws the viewer into the show. Humor and relatable emotions are the clinchers.

By not using super-specific tropes at the beginning, you make things engaging. Short shows are speedy binges without commitment. These decisions instill trust in anime’s storytelling power. Once hooked, friends will look for more in-depth and longer shows.

What Makes an Anime Beginner-Friendly on Crunchyroll

Beginner-friendly anime balance action, humor, and emotion. They don’t rely too much on anime-only references. The pacing is consistent without slowing down or rushing through events. Sub and dub availability help to increase accessibility.

Crunchyroll offers many short, full seasons that are easy to view. The shows share the same themes that include friendship and courage. Vibrant graphics draw in even the most skeptical viewers. With the right choice, your friend can be an anime addict for life.

1. My Dress-Up Darling

My dress-up darling anime has its charm with its endearing premise. It’s a story about a shy boy and a self-assured girl. They met through making cosplay costumes. Light humor keeps the cheerful tone.

The romance develops with ease, at a laid-back, welcoming pace. Vibrant colors create each setting with a vivid brush. Common passions of love and imagination abound. Ideal for enthusiasts of the slice-of-life genre.

2. One Punch Man (Season 1)

One Punch Man Season 1, Image Courtesy of Netflix

This action-parody series gets viewers hooked immediately. It traces the life of Saitama, a hero who is tired of being strong. Action sequences are over-the-top but are well-animated. Humor is a huge aspect throughout.

New viewers appreciate its straightforward narrative. Episodes strike a good balance between comedy and mind-blowing fight scenes. The brief season is an easy binge. It’s action-oriented without dense lore to remember.

3. Toradora!

This romantic comedy is both humorous and emotionally substantial. It’s about two high school misfits helping and encouraging each other. Their friendship slowly blossoms into a love affair. Sassy banter keeps things breezy and upbeat.

The characters are believable and endearing. The dramatic moments are on target without being forced. Its short stint keeps the story compact. Great for friends who enjoy romance and drama.

4. Your Lie in April

It is a strongly charged music-based anime that hits hard and quickly. It’s about a pianist finding her muse. Wonderful animation enhances its many performance numbers. The romance is subtle but impactful.

Though skimming the heavier topics, it is optimistic. The musical aspects resonate with a wide audience. Personal development for characters feels very satisfying. Perfect for friends who are willing to be emotionally invested. You can watch this anime on Crunchyroll.

5. The Devil is a Part-Timer!

This is a comedy anime on Crunchyroll that turns fantasy clichés on their head. A demon lord works in the fast food industry. Everyday situations are turned into laugh-out-loud adventures. The humor is for everyone and easy to enjoy.

Brief vignettes make it a breezy watch. Mild action keeps it going. Quirky but endearing characters from the beginning. Suitable for fans of workplace or situational comedy.

Picking the proper first anime has the power to make or break a person’s interest in the medium. The above five Crunchyroll suggestions have engaging stories, universal themes, and beautiful animation—experienced anime fans or not.

If your friend enjoys rom-com, action, music, or comedy, these shows are a gateway to the genre. After they’ve watched one of them, they’ll be asking for your next suggestion. The universe of anime is enormous, but with the proper starting shows, the adventure starts on the right track.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Entertainment and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: