20 Anime Watched? Find Your Next Obsession!

So, you've officially crossed the threshold – 20 anime down! That's a fantastic milestone, and it means you've likely developed a good sense of what you enjoy in the world of anime. But now comes the big question: what anime should you watch next? With so many amazing series out there, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming. But don't worry, guys! We're here to help you navigate the vast landscape of anime and discover your next obsession. Let's dive into some recommendations, hidden gems, and tips for finding anime that you'll absolutely love.

Exploring Genres and Themes: Finding Your Niche

One of the best ways to decide what anime should you watch next is to consider the genres and themes you've enjoyed in your previous viewings. Have you been captivated by the intricate plots and strategic battles of shonen anime like Naruto or My Hero Academia? Or maybe you've been drawn to the emotional depth and character-driven stories of slice-of-life or romance anime like Clannad or Your Lie in April. Identifying your preferred genres and themes is the first step in narrowing down your options.

• Shonen: This genre is known for its action-packed sequences, strong friendships, and underdog protagonists. If you've enjoyed series like One Piece, Attack on Titan, or Hunter x Hunter, you might want to explore other popular shonen titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, Demon Slayer, or Black Clover. These anime offer thrilling battles, compelling characters, and epic storylines that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Think about the specific elements you loved – was it the power-ups, the tournament arcs, or the strong sense of camaraderie?
• Shojo: Shojo anime typically focuses on romance and relationships, often with a female protagonist. If you've enjoyed series like Fruits Basket, Sailor Moon, or Yona of the Dawn, you might want to check out Kimi ni Todoke, Ouran High School Host Club, or Maid Sama! These anime offer heartwarming stories, charming characters, and plenty of romantic tension to keep you invested. Consider what aspects of shojo appealed to you – was it the love triangles, the strong female leads, or the focus on personal growth?
• Slice of Life: This genre offers a more relaxed and character-focused viewing experience, often depicting everyday life with heartwarming and relatable stories. If you've enjoyed series like K-On!, Yuru Camp, or Aggretsuko, you might appreciate Barakamon, Usagi Drop, or Flying Witch. These anime provide a comforting escape and a chance to connect with characters who feel like real people. What draws you to slice-of-life anime? Is it the humor, the sense of community, or the soothing atmosphere?
• Sci-Fi/Fantasy: These genres offer limitless possibilities for world-building, storytelling, and character development. If you've enjoyed series like Steins;Gate, Code Geass, or Made in Abyss, you might be interested in Psycho-Pass, Erased, or Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World. These anime often explore complex themes, ask thought-provoking questions, and deliver unforgettable experiences. Do you prefer futuristic settings, magical worlds, or stories that blend both?

By identifying your favorite genres and themes, you can start to build a list of anime that align with your interests. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things, but also don't hesitate to revisit familiar territory if that's what you enjoy.

Must-Watch Anime Recommendations: Classics and Modern Hits

Now that we've talked about genres and themes, let's dive into some specific recommendations. These are anime that are widely acclaimed and considered must-watches for any anime fan.

Classic Anime You Can't Miss

• Cowboy Bebop: A timeless space western with a stylish aesthetic, unforgettable characters, and a killer soundtrack. If you're looking for a series that blends action, drama, and a touch of existentialism, Cowboy Bebop is a must-see. The episodic format makes it easy to jump into, and the overarching story will keep you engaged. The characters are incredibly well-developed, and their struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. The music, composed by Yoko Kanno, is legendary and perfectly complements the series' atmosphere.
• Neon Genesis Evangelion: A psychological mecha anime that delves into complex themes of identity, trauma, and the human condition. Evangelion is known for its mind-bending plot twists, its symbolism, and its unforgettable characters. This series is not for the faint of heart, but it offers a deeply rewarding experience for those who are willing to grapple with its challenging themes. The animation is groundbreaking, and the story continues to be debated and analyzed by fans decades after its release.
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: A compelling fantasy adventure with a rich world, memorable characters, and a satisfying storyline. Brotherhood is praised for its excellent pacing, its well-developed characters, and its balance of action, humor, and drama. This series is a great entry point for newcomers to anime, but it also offers plenty of depth for seasoned fans. The themes of family, sacrifice, and redemption are powerfully explored, and the ending is widely considered to be one of the best in anime history.

Modern Hits Worth Watching

• Attack on Titan: A dark and intense action series set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. Attack on Titan is known for its thrilling plot twists, its stunning animation, and its complex characters. The series explores themes of freedom, oppression, and the cost of war. The world-building is exceptionally well-done, and the story keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Be warned, though, this series is not for the squeamish.
• Jujutsu Kaisen: A supernatural action anime with stylish animation, exciting fight scenes, and a compelling cast of characters. Jujutsu Kaisen blends elements of horror, comedy, and action to create a unique and engaging experience. The series is known for its dynamic fight choreography, its memorable characters, and its dark humor. The world of curses and sorcerers is fascinating, and the story is full of surprises.
• Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba: A visually stunning action anime with a heartwarming story about a young man who becomes a demon slayer to protect his sister. Demon Slayer is praised for its beautiful animation, its emotional story, and its likable characters. The series is a classic tale of good versus evil, but it's told with a fresh perspective and a lot of heart. The fight scenes are spectacular, and the music is incredibly moving.

Unearthing Hidden Gems: Anime You Might Have Missed

Beyond the mainstream hits, there's a whole world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These are anime that may not have the same level of hype, but they offer unique stories, compelling characters, and unforgettable experiences.

• Mushishi: A serene and atmospheric anime that follows a wandering expert who studies and interacts with supernatural beings called Mushi. Mushishi is known for its episodic format, its beautiful visuals, and its meditative tone. This series is perfect for those who appreciate slow-paced, character-driven stories. The world is richly detailed, and the stories are often thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
• Erased: A suspenseful thriller about a young man who can travel back in time to prevent tragedies. Erased is a gripping mystery with a compelling protagonist and a well-crafted plot. The series keeps you guessing until the very end, and the emotional stakes are high. The story explores themes of trauma, memory, and the power of connection.
• Kaiba: A visually striking and thought-provoking sci-fi anime that explores themes of identity, memory, and social inequality. Kaiba is known for its unique art style, its complex plot, and its challenging themes. This series is not for everyone, but it offers a truly unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

Where to Find Your Next Anime: Streaming Services and Recommendations

So, you've got some recommendations, but where do you actually watch these anime? Thankfully, there are several streaming services dedicated to anime, making it easier than ever to find your next favorite series.

• Crunchyroll: The go-to platform for anime streaming, offering a vast library of titles, from classics to the latest releases. Crunchyroll has a massive selection, and they simulcast many new anime episodes shortly after they air in Japan. They also offer a premium subscription that removes ads and provides access to more content.
• Funimation: Another major anime streaming service with a wide variety of titles, including many dubbed versions. Funimation is known for its high-quality dubs, and they offer a similar selection of anime to Crunchyroll. They also have a premium subscription option.
• Netflix: While not solely dedicated to anime, Netflix has a growing library of anime series, including some exclusive titles. Netflix is a great option for those who want a mix of anime and other content. They have invested heavily in anime production and distribution in recent years, so their library is constantly expanding.
• Hulu: Similar to Netflix, Hulu offers a selection of anime alongside its other content. Hulu often has anime that you can't find on other platforms, so it's worth checking out their selection. They also offer a live TV option, which can be a bonus for some viewers.

Beyond streaming services, there are other ways to find anime recommendations. Talking to friends, joining online communities, and reading reviews can all help you discover new series that you might enjoy. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something different – you never know when you'll find your next favorite anime!

Conclusion: The Adventure Continues

Reaching 20 anime is a significant achievement, but it's just the beginning of your anime journey. The world of anime is vast and diverse, offering something for everyone. By exploring different genres, seeking out recommendations, and trying new things, you'll continue to discover amazing series that you'll love. So, what anime should you watch next? The choice is yours, and the adventure awaits! Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the ride. Happy watching, guys!