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Anime fans have seen this happen on multiple occasions; a debut episode that is so cinematic, exciting, and full of surprises, making it truly unforgettable. Though there are many instances of this, here are the best first episodes from anime series that fans will never stop raving about.
Updated October 26, 2022 by Ritwik Mitra: With the sheer number of anime out right now, it’s only a given that new shows need to do everything in their power to hook as many new viewers as possible. While there’s no denying that marketing plays a huge role in ensuring how popular a series’ debut really is, there are times when the sheer quality of the first episode itself compels many viewers to go through an entire anime. Keeping this in mind, here are some anime that wowed viewers with a scintillating and captivating first episode.
15 Yu Yu Hakusho
Before working on Hunter x Hunter, Yoshihiro Togashi penned Yu Yu Hakusho. This anime started off on a strong note even if the conclusion was pretty rushed.
The first episode did a great job of getting viewers into the character Yusuke Urameshi. His selfless act to save a child got the attention of higher powers, leading to his being resurrected as a Spirit Detective.
14 Elfen Lied
Elfen Lied is a show that many people assume to be nothing more than a gorefest. People who have seen the first episode assume this to be the case, but then the show expands on many themes later on and lets everyone know why it’s remembered so fondly to this day.
That being said, there’s no denying that the incredible gore and carnage of the first episode do a great job of making Lucy seem like a psychotic individual. However, it’s the events she goes through that turn her into such a diabolical figure, with the anime slowly humanizing her character over time.
13 Tokyo Ghoul
It’s a shame that Tokyo Ghoul’s anime adaptation fell off the rails since the anime definitely started off on a high note. Watching the helpless Ken Kaneki almost be devoured by a ghoul before turning into one in a cruel twist of fate made for a masterfully crafted debut.
Over time, Kaneki goes through another traumatic experience that turns him into a cannibalistic ghoul who acquires the powers of most people he fights. This makes him one of the strongest characters by the end of the manga.
12 Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer is one of the biggest names in anime right now. The incredible wave of attention brought forth by episode 19 turned the anime into an extremely popular piece of media that fans absolutely loved.
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This coupled with the massive success of Demon Slayer: Mugen Train turned the anime into a stellar watch indeed. The first episode was more than enough to wow players, with the senseless killing of Tanjiro’s family being a truly shocking event that got many viewers interested in this shonen series.
11 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a show many people have heard of by this point. The anime has become a sensation, with David’s story of being Night City’s biggest edgerunner being equal parts epic and tragic.
The first episode tugs at a viewer’s emotional heartstrings, showing the depths of poverty where David is stuck. The needless death of his mother leads to him acquiring a Sandevistan and embarking on a path to become a legend of Night City.
10 Death Note
This dark crime show continues to be loved by countless fans, with its intense plot, incredible characters, and addicting cat-and-mouse chase. It all kicked off with a great debut episode that so effectively introduces the characters, storyline, and crazy obstacles.
The concept is unique and thrilling, it is no wonder that the first episode, and every episode onwards, is regarded as one of the best anime of all time.
9 Cowboy Bebop
Regarded as a masterpiece in the world of anime, Cowboy Bebop is filled with memorable episodes, including its debut. Each character is likable and unique, and the varying plot lines are so different and entertaining compared to a lot of anime from its era.
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The deep, powerful story is heightened with a beautiful score and enticing animation. The first episode truly captures the essence of the anime, being charming and emotional yet humorous and exciting at the same time.
8 Yuri On Ice!!!
Fans of romance shows can’t simply watch the debut episode of Yuri on Ice and not want to watch more. It’s charming, intoxicatingly sweet, and stunningly beautiful, topping the sports anime charts, along with the romance anime charts.
The absolute bop of a theme song alone will make viewers want to keep watching, just so they can listen to it all 12 times, once at the start of every episode. The first episode sets up the story wonderfully and will continue to be a fan favorite for years to come.
7 Fullmetal Alchemist
The first episode of this beloved shonen series is a great start that excitedly introduces viewers to the incredible world of Full Metal Alchemist. It also introduces the Elric brothers, their motivations, and their cool abilities.
Edward and Alphonse quickly become everyone’s favorite anime brothers while they work hard to thwart the plans of a rogue alchemist. The world and its intricacies are intriguing and fantastical, plus the animation is impressive. The music is impactful and the characters are fun to watch.
6 Akame Ga Kill
The major plot twist in this incredible one-season series hooked viewers immediately. The story starts off fairly straightforward and uplifting, with a naive yet relatable main character entering a world he thought he knew.
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Everything changes when dark secrets are revealed about the society he has entered, and things are exciting enough to get any action genre fan on the edge of their seats. Every episode that follows will shock fans, throwing curve balls and plot twists in just the right way.
5 Erased
The concept of this mystery anime isn’t exactly new. The Butterfly effect/time-traveling trope has been featured in plenty of movies and shows over the years. However, this show freshens up the concept with relatable characters, nail-biting high stakes, and a sense of urgency that keeps the viewer wanting more.
The show has gained plenty of praise for its great soundtrack, intense plot, and well-developed characters. It’s pretty fast-paced, but it really works out well in this binge-able, one-season series.
4 Attack On Titan
With such a unique concept unlike anything seen before, Attack on Titan did a fantastic job introducing its terrifying world of titans and humans. The debut was disturbing and scary, while accurately instilling the fear and hatred that Eren and his friends have for the titans into every viewer.
The first few episodes continue to effectively develop the main characters and the world’s setting, leading up to the mind-blowing 5th episode. From then on, the series cements itself as one of the best anime in years.
3 Code Geass
Though this show is popularly commended for having a great ending, it also debuts very strongly. Code Geass’ first episode masterfully sets up its world and introduces its key players, accompanied by stunning visuals and a fantastic opening theme.
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The one-of-a-kind fictional war rampaging its world is enough to get anyone fully engaged, along with each character’s intense personal conflicts and issues. Every episode has its strengths, but things all started with its fantastic debut.
2 To Your Eternity
This absolute masterpiece of a debut episode had fans in full-on tears from the very get-go. To Your Eternity was trending across all social media after the airing of its first episode left viewers in tears.
The entire series will pull on your heartstrings and is full of deep, emotional themes that separate it from other anime out there. The animation is stunning, the music is enchanting, and the story is definitely not one to miss. It’s a must-watch for any anime fan looking for a unique adventure.
1 The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland’s premise stood out for being out of the box and creative, while also being unpredictably disturbing and bone-chilling. What starts out as a very sweet, innocent, and adorable story of a group of children growing up in an orphanage run by their “mother”, takes a very quick and dark turn.
This first episode made viewers feel so many unsettling feelings, while simultaneously hooking their interest, making them want to know what various secrets and twists this anime had to offer.
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