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Do not trust a series just because it is popular. For any anime, watch the first three episodes. If you aren't hooked by the plot, characters, or aesthetic by the 70-minute mark, drop it. Your time is valuable.

: The gold standard. Two brothers lose their bodies to alchemy and embark on a journey of redemption. It’s a perfect loop of action, philosophy, and tears. Attack on Titan

★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – A solid starting point for newcomers, but veterans may find it too mainstream.

However, for those daunted by hundreds of episodes, the modern era offers streamlined masterpieces. (2013-2023) redefined shonen with its desperate, post-apocalyptic tone, moral complexity, and jaw-dropping plot twists. Jujutsu Kaisen (2020-present) delivers movie-quality animation and a tight, fast-paced story about exorcists using cursed energy. Demon Slayer (2019-present) became a cultural phenomenon through its emotional core—a boy fighting demons to cure his sister—and the breathtaking “fire breathing” sword fights animated by studio Ufotable. For pure, intelligent action with a scientific bent, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is widely considered a flawless masterpiece, following two brothers who commit the ultimate taboo in alchemy to resurrect their mother.