12+ Essential Anime Categories For Beginners

For those new to the world of anime, navigating the vast array of genres and categories can be daunting. Anime, a style of Japanese animation, encompasses a wide range of themes, styles, and target audiences, making it diverse and rich in content. Understanding the different categories can help beginners find series that align with their interests and preferences. Here's a comprehensive guide to essential anime categories, designed to introduce newcomers to the fascinating realm of anime.

Introduction to Anime Genres

Anime genres are not mutually exclusive, and many series blend elements from multiple categories to create unique narratives. This blending of genres is part of what makes anime so appealing, as it can cater to a broad range of tastes. From action-packed adventures to heartfelt romances, and from science fiction to historical dramas, the diversity of anime ensures there’s something for everyone.

1. Action and Adventure

Action and adventure anime are characterized by their fast-paced, often violent, content. These series typically feature epic battles, intense fight scenes, and a heroic protagonist on a quest. Examples include Attack on Titan, known for its dark fantasy setting and suspenseful storyline, and Naruto, a classic coming-of-age tale with a blend of ninja action and personal growth.

2. Comedy

Anime comedies are designed to entertain and amuse, often using satire, parody, or absurdity. Comedy anime can range from slapstick humor to more subtle, witty dialogues. Ouran High School Host Club is a notable example, combining humor with elements of romance and social commentary, while Great Teacher Onizuka uses a more outrageous approach to comedy, focusing on a former biker gang leader turned high school teacher.

3. Drama

Drama anime focuses on character development and emotional depth, often exploring complex themes and relationships. These series can be highly emotional and thought-provoking, dealing with real-life issues or fantastical scenarios. A Silent Voice is a powerful drama that explores bullying, redemption, and the power of human connection, while Clannad follows a young man’s life journey, emphasizing family, friendship, and the passing of time.

4. Fantasy

Fantasy anime often involves supernatural or magical elements, alternate worlds, and mythical creatures. This genre can range from light-hearted and adventurous to dark and complex. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a seminal work in the fantasy genre, blending science fiction elements with a deep exploration of human nature and morality. Sword Art Online, on the other hand, explores the concept of virtual reality gaming and its psychological effects.

5. Historical

Historical anime is set in a specific historical time period, often incorporating real events or figures into the narrative. These series can provide unique insights into different cultures and historical contexts. Rurouni Kenshin is set in the Meiji era of Japan, following a former assassin as he vows to protect the people of Tokyo. The Rose of Versailles offers a glimpse into the French Revolution through the eyes of a woman raised as a man to become a royal guard.

6. Horror

Horror anime aims to evoke fear, anxiety, or unease in the audience. This genre can include elements of the supernatural, psychological terror, or gore. Tokyo Ghoul explores a world where ghouls, creatures that feed on humans, live among people in secret, delving into themes of identity and societal acceptance. Parasyte combines horror with science fiction, telling the story of a teenage boy whose right hand is taken over by a shape-shifting parasitic creature.

7. Idol/Tokusatsu

Idol anime typically focuses on the daily lives and performances of idols, often incorporating music and dance. Tokusatsu refers to live-action Japanese television dramas that focus on science fiction and superheroes. Love Live! School Idol Project is a popular example of the idol genre, following a group of high school girls as they become school idols to save their school from shutting down.

8. Josei

Josei anime is aimed at a female audience and often deals with more mature themes such as relationships, careers, and social issues. Nana is a classic josei series, exploring the complex lives of two young women, both named Nana, as they navigate love, music, and adulthood in Tokyo.

9. Kids/Family

Anime aimed at children and families tends to be educational, entertaining, and suitable for all ages. These series often feature adventure, friendship, and personal growth. Pokemon is a global phenomenon, following the adventures of a young boy and his Pokémon as they travel through different regions, battling gym leaders and learning valuable lessons about friendship and perseverance.

10. Mecha

Mecha anime features robots or mechs, often in a science fiction context. These series can range from action-oriented to more strategic and politically complex. Mobile Suit Gundam is a foundational series in the mecha genre, set in a future where humanity has colonized space and follows a young pilot as he becomes entangled in a war between Earth and the space colonies.

11. Romance

Romance anime focuses on the emotional journey of the characters as they develop romantic feelings for each other. These series can be light-hearted and comedic or serious and dramatic. Clannad (mentioned earlier) has strong romantic elements, while Toradora! explores the complex relationships and emotions of two high school students who become involved in each other’s lives.

12. Science Fiction

Science fiction anime explores the consequences of scientific or technological advancements, often set in the future or in space. Neon Genesis Evangelion is a critically acclaimed series that delves into psychological sci-fi, following a teenage boy who pilots a giant humanoid robot to fight against monstrous beings known as Angels. Psycho-Pass is set in a future where a person’s mental state can be measured and used to determine their likelihood of committing a crime, exploring themes of morality, free will, and societal control.