10 Amazing Short Anime Series with Awesome Stories for Newbies

Anime is a fantastic world of storytelling, vibrant visuals, and unforgettable characters, but for beginners, diving into long-running series like One Piece or Naruto can feel overwhelming. If you're new to anime and looking for shorter series with captivating stories, this list of the top 10 must-watch short anime series is the perfect starting point. Each series here has a gripping plot, is relatively short (under 100 episodes), and offers a great introduction to the diverse genres anime has to offer. Let’s explore these beginner-friendly gems!

10. Your Lie in April (22 Episodes)

Your Lie in April is a beautiful blend of music, drama, and romance that’s perfect for beginners who enjoy emotional stories. The series follows Kosei Arima, a young piano prodigy who loses his ability to hear music after his mother’s death. His life changes when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a spirited violinist who helps him rediscover his love for music. With only 22 episodes, this anime delivers a heartfelt story about healing, friendship, and the power of music. The stunning animation of musical performances and the emotional depth make it a tearjerker that’s hard to forget. It’s an excellent pick for those who love stories that tug at the heartstrings.

9. Violet Evergarden (13 Episodes)

Violet Evergarden is a visually stunning series that explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The story centers on Violet, a former child soldier who becomes an Auto Memory Doll—a ghostwriter who helps people express their emotions through letters. As Violet travels and writes letters for others, she learns about human emotions and seeks to understand the last words spoken to her by her late mentor: “I love you.” With just 13 episodes, this anime packs a powerful emotional punch through its poetic storytelling and breathtaking animation. It’s a great choice for beginners who appreciate character-driven stories with a slower, reflective pace.

8. Monster (74 Episodes)

Monster is a gripping psychological thriller that stands out for its realistic storytelling. The series follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a skilled surgeon who saves a young boy’s life, only to discover later that the boy grows up to be a dangerous psychopath. As Tenma tries to stop the monster he unwittingly created, he’s drawn into a dark web of mystery and moral dilemmas. Though it has 74 episodes, Monster is shorter than many mainstream anime and offers a tightly woven plot with complex characters. Its grounded approach, focusing on human psychology rather than fantasy, makes it a unique entry point for beginners who enjoy suspense and thought-provoking narratives.

7. Steins;Gate (24 Episodes)

Steins;Gate is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller about time travel and its consequences. The story follows Rintaro Okabe, a quirky scientist who accidentally invents a time machine. What starts as a fun experiment spirals into a dangerous chain of events involving alternate timelines, shadowy organizations, and the risk of a dystopian future. With 24 episodes, Steins;Gate is a rollercoaster of suspense, emotion, and clever plot twists. The series starts slow but builds into an unforgettable story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s a fantastic pick for beginners who love science fiction and intricate storytelling.

6. Cowboy Bebop (26 Episodes)

Cowboy Bebop is a classic that blends action, adventure, and jazz in a futuristic setting. The series follows Spike Spiegel and his crew of bounty hunters as they chase criminals across the galaxy. Each episode bursts with vibrant animation, thrilling action, and a killer soundtrack by Yoko Kanno. Beneath the surface, the show explores themes of loneliness, redemption, and the search for purpose, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. With just 26 episodes, Cowboy Bebop is a perfect introduction to anime for beginners who enjoy a mix of episodic adventures and deeper character stories.

5. Attack on Titan (94 Episodes)

Attack on Titan is a dark fantasy epic that’s beginner-friendly despite its intensity. The story is set in a world where humanity lives behind walls to protect themselves from Titans—giant humanoid creatures that devour humans. When the walls are breached, Eren Yeager and his friends join the fight to uncover the truth about the Titans. With 94 episodes across four seasons, it’s on the longer side of this list but still manageable compared to many anime. The series is packed with shocking twists, intense battles, and deep themes about freedom and survival, making it a thrilling watch for newcomers who love action and mystery.

4. Jujutsu Kaisen (47 Episodes as of 2025)

Jujutsu Kaisen is a modern hit that combines supernatural action with humor and heart. The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high schooler who becomes a Jujutsu sorcerer after swallowing a cursed object—a finger of the powerful demon Sukuna. Yuji joins a team of sorcerers to hunt down cursed spirits while facing the threat of Sukuna’s influence. With 47 episodes so far, this series offers fast-paced action, lovable characters, and stunning animation. It’s an excellent choice for beginners who want a taste of the popular shonen genre without committing to hundreds of episodes.

3. Dr. Stone (59 Episodes as of 2025)

Dr. Stone is a unique anime that blends science with adventure. The story begins when a mysterious event turns all of humanity to stone. Thousands of years later, a genius teenager named Senku Ishigami awakens and vows to rebuild civilization using the power of science. With 59 episodes across three seasons, Dr. Stone is an inspiring tale of human ingenuity, teamwork, and determination. Its focus on scientific discovery sets it apart from typical anime, making it a refreshing pick for beginners who enjoy educational yet entertaining stories.

2. Demon Slayer (55 Episodes as of 2025)

Demon Slayer is a visually spectacular series that’s taken the anime world by storm. The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons, and his sister Nezuko is turned into one. Tanjiro’s journey to find a cure for Nezuko is filled with breathtaking battles, emotional moments, and stunning animation by Studio Ufotable. With 55 episodes so far, Demon Slayer is a perfect mix of action, drama, and heart, making it an ideal choice for beginners who want to experience anime at its most visually captivating.

1. Death Note (37 Episodes)

Death Note tops our list as the ultimate short anime for beginners. This psychological thriller follows Light Yagami, a brilliant high schooler who finds a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it. Light decides to use the Death Note to rid the world of criminals, but his actions draw the attention of L, a genius detective determined to catch him. With 37 episodes, Death Note is a masterclass in suspense, moral dilemmas, and strategic battles of wit. Its gripping plot and accessible themes make it a must-watch for anyone new to anime.

Conclusion

These 10 short anime series offer a fantastic introduction to the world of anime for beginners, each with a compelling story that won’t take months to finish. From the emotional depth of Your Lie in April and Violet Evergarden to the thrilling suspense of Death Note and Steins;Gate, there’s something for everyone. Cowboy Bebop and Demon Slayer bring action and adventure, while Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen deliver epic battles and mysteries. Dr. Stone adds a unique scientific twist, and Monster offers a darker, more grounded narrative. Together, these series showcase the diversity of anime, from heartwarming tales to edge-of-your-seat thrillers. So, grab some snacks, pick a series, and dive into the amazing world of anime—you won’t be disappointed!