Any new show must kick off with an incredible debut episode that will keep viewers coming back for more. The first episode has the important role of laying out the show's premise, setting, main characters, and plot. When this is done effectively, it can get viewers absolutely hooked and ready to binge the entire series in a single sitting.
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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 top ten first episodes from anime series that fans will never stop raving about.
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.
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.
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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.
Everything changes when dark secrets are revealed about the society he has entered, and things 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.
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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.
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.
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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 ran 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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