Anime has really evolved over the years into a massive fandom. Originating from Japan, its crossed multiple cultural and language barriers over time to become the mainstream hit its become today. Whether it’s the animation style, deep plots, or relatable characters, anime offers an immersive experience that’s hard to match. Its an entertainment medium that can cater to all tastes and ages, with genres ranging from adventure, fantasy, romance, science fiction, comedy and everything in between.
Diving into the world of anime is like taking a journey into vast new landscapes of storytelling. Unlike typical TV dramas or cartoons, anime offers a unique blend of visual art with layered narratives that can range from hyper-realistic to surreal. Giving anime a chance has a potential to open a whole new dimension of entertainment that’s as awe-inspiring as it is enjoyable.
Growing Anime Communities Globally
As anime’s popularity continues to rise, its impact on culture has become more apparent than ever. As you may have noticed, communities around the world have been increasingly embracing anime and Japanese culture. There’s been a gradual uptick in people with anime car stickers, cosplayers, conventions, and people posting about their favorite shows and characters on social media.
Anime conventions were once small gatherings. Originally, they’d host about a few hundred guests that share a love with the hobby. Nowadays conventions have grown into massive events attended by tens of thousands of guests. According to LVL UP EXPO, in 2023 the convention saw over 102,000 attendees take part in the festivities at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Anime Is Accessible to All
Unlike in the 90’s where getting your hands on an anime was a fairly difficult task, accessing anime today has never been easier. Platforms like Crunchyroll, HIDIVE, Netflix, and Hulu offer vast libraries of titles that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned viewer or a curious newcomer, exploring different anime series has become very simple and convenient.
As you ponder giving whether to give anime a shot, here’s a few show recommendations that should be a good starting point for your journey: