10 English Dubbed Anime For Those New To The Medium

The world of anime is filled with amazing series that have turned non-fans to die-hard stans. And curiosity has tickled you too many times not to explore what anime is. But you might ask yourself where to begin, especially if you’re looking for shows with English dubbing. Fear not, dear beginner, for you’ve stumbled upon the perfect guide to kickstart your anime adventure. 

What is Anime?

First, let’s address the giant robot in the room: What is anime? In the simplest terms, anime is a style of animation that originated in Japan and has since captured hearts worldwide. It encompasses many genres, so there’s something for everyone. And the best part? Many of these gems are available with English voiceovers, so you won’t miss a beat (or a subtitle) as you dive in.

What Sets Anime Apart

Unlike Western cartoons, anime often features complex storylines, in-depth character development, and a unique artistic flair. It’s an art form that can express a wide array of emotions and tackle various themes, from the lighthearted and comedic to the dark and philosophical.

Finding Your Anime Match

For those just starting their anime journey, here’s a tip: consider what genres you enjoy in other media.

Anime covers all the bases, from romance and drama to science fiction and fantasy. Think about your favorite movies, books, and TV shows, and seek out anime in similar genres. This will help you choose a series that resonates with you.

Top 10 English Dubbed Anime for Beginners

Now, let’s get down to business. Here are 10 must-watch English dubbed anime that are perfect for beginners, complete with a brief synopsis and reasons why they’re a great starting point:

1. My Hero Academia

Genre: Action
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Crunchyroll Store and Amazon

My Hero Academia is a popular anime series that takes viewers on a journey to a world where having superpowers, known as “quirks,” is the norm. Despite being born without a quirk, Izuku Midoriya strongly desires to become a hero and enrolls in the prestigious U.A. High School to pursue his goal. The series follows Izuku and his classmates as they undergo rigorous training to become professional heroes while facing off against various villains and overcoming personal challenges.

The anime is renowned for its dynamic action scenes, heartfelt moments, and humorous interactions, offering an emotionally rich viewing experience. The series is considered a quintessential shounen anime, introducing viewers to the genre’s tropes and themes while delivering a captivating story of heroism and perseverance.

The English dub of My Hero Academia is also highly regarded for its high quality and engaging voice performances, making it an ideal choice for those new to English dubbed anime. With its compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and vibrant animation, My Hero Academia has become a beloved favorite of anime fans worldwide.

2. Kaguya-sama: Love is War

Genre: Comedy
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Crunchyroll Store

Enter the world of Kaguya-sama: Love is War, where two brilliant minds, Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, engage in a hilarious and strategic battle of love. The story follows the lives of these two prestigious students at the Shuchiin Academy as they try to outwit each other in their attempts to make the other confess their feelings.

However, this is not your typical school drama. The show is a masterpiece of wit, humor, and unexpected plot twists, promising to keep you on the edge of your seat. With the perfect mix of romantic comedy and strategic warfare, you’ll never know what to expect next.

The English dubbed version of the show is a must-watch, with a voice cast that is nothing less than pure gold. Ian Sinclair‘s narration is spot on, making you laugh uncontrollably, while Aaron Dismuke and Alexis Tipton bring Shirogane and Kaguya’s complex characters to life.

Kaguya-sama: Love is War is a delightful anime that will undoubtedly sweep you off your feet. Its sharp humor, lovable characters, and clever banter make it an ideal gateway to the world of English dubbed anime.

3. Space Dandy

Genre: Comedy, Sci-Fi
Where to Watch: Hulu
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Amazon

Space Dandy is an animated series perfect for those new to the world of English dubbed anime. This high-energy and hilarious show follows the adventures of Dandy, an eccentric alien hunter, as he travels through the galaxy on various escapades. 

Each episode of Space Dandy is a surprise, with a new adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From battling robot zombies to exploring uncharted planets, Dandy and his team are always up for a challenge.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Space Dandy is the English cast, which takes the show’s comedic madness to new heights. Ian Sinclair’s portrayal of Dandy is an absolute triumph, with his quick wit and hilarious banter leaving audiences in stitches. Alison Viktorin and Joel McDonald also shine in their roles, delivering stellar performances that add to the show’s overall appeal.

In short, if you’re looking for a fresh and uproarious twist on the space opera genre, look no further than Space Dandy. With its high-octane action, rib-tickling humor, and talented voice cast, this show is one that you won’t want to miss.

4. Overlord

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Crunchyroll Store

Enter a mesmerizing fantasy realm where the lines between the real and the virtual blur. As the immersive game Yggdrasil shuts down, Momonga finds himself trapped inside as his mighty in-game persona, the formidable overlord known as Ainz Ooal Gown. 

The English dub of Overlord masterfully captures the essence of Ainz’s profound character evolution, enriching the story with its exceptional voice acting. You’ll witness Ainz grappling with the challenges of ruling over the game’s denizens, immersing yourself in a world brimming with enchantment and intrigue.

Prepare to be enthralled as you embark on a thrilling journey through the depths of Overlord’s spellbinding narrative. Revel in the seamless blend of magic and suspense, all expertly brought to life through dubbing. 

5. Noragami

Genre: Action, Fantasy
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Crunchyroll Store

Step into a world where gods and spirits are intertwined with the lives of humans as Noragami delivers a captivating blend of action, fantasy, and drama. The story follows the adventures of Yato, a humble “delivery god” with big dreams of setting up his own revered shrine.

The English dub of Noragami is known for its outstanding voice acting. The cast brings to life the vibrant characters and emotional moments of the series. As Yato, Yukine, and Hiyori embark on a journey filled with supernatural encounters and personal growth, those new to the series and dub are treated to a compelling narrative that delves into themes of identity and redemption.

6. That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Amazon

That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime follows the adventures of Satoru Mikami, who is reincarnated in a fantasy world as a powerful slime monster. Filled with humor, action, and heartwarming moments, the series chronicles Rimuru’s journey to build a new life and forge bonds with various creatures. 

The English rendition of the series captures its playful and comedic tone, with the voice actors Brittney Karbowski and Kristen McGuire delivering lively performances that enhance the viewing experience.

7. The Devil Is A Part-Timer!

Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
Where to Watch: Prime Video
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Amazon

The Devil Is A Part-Timer! is a refreshing and entertaining anime series that puts a unique spin on the isekai genre. The plot follows Satan, who is transported to modern-day Tokyo and is forced to adapt to human life. 

The show boasts a perfect blend of humor, fantasy, and drama, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of any genre. The protagonist, Sadao Maou, now works at a fast-food restaurant while secretly planning his return to power. 

The English dub of the series is exceptional, with each voice actor delivering their lines with wit and charm, bringing the characters to life in a fascinating way.

8. Your Lie in April

Genre: Drama, Romance
Where to Watch: Prime Video
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Amazon

Your Lie in April is a captivating and profoundly emotional anime series that explores themes of love, loss, and the power of music to heal and transform. The story follows the journey of Kosei Arima, a gifted pianist who has lost his passion for music after the tragic death of his abusive mother. However, everything changes when he meets the vivacious and free-spirited violinist, Kaori Miyazono. Through her unorthodox teaching methods and boundless energy, Kaori helps Kosei rediscover the joy of playing music and inspires him to pursue his dreams once again. 

As the story unfolds, we witness Kosei and Kaori’s complex and evolving relationship as they confront their past traumas and navigate their complicated feelings for each other. The series is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with heartwarming moments of growth and joy and heart-wrenching scenes of pain and loss. 

One of the most impressive aspects of Your Lie in April is the expertly crafted English dub, which captures the depth and nuance of the story. Each voice actor delivers a powerful and heartfelt performance that resonates with viewers and brings the characters to life in a powerful way. The animation is also stunning, with beautifully rendered scenes that capture the drama and emotion of the story.

9. Baccano!

Genre: Action, Mystery, Supernatural
Where to Watch: –
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Amazon

Baccano! is a fascinating anime series that takes place in 1930s America, where various characters from the underground world of crime and mystery are interconnected in complex ways. The story is marked by its unique blend of supernatural elements and non-linear storytelling, which makes for an engrossing viewing experience that keeps the audience hooked till the end. 

One of the standout features of the series is the exceptional English dub, which has been widely praised for its outstanding voice acting. The cast brings each diverse and complex character to life with nuance and depth, elevating the show’s overall impact. From the cunning and charismatic Isaac and Miria to the suave and mysterious Firo, the voice performances are a testament to the talent and dedication of the actors.

With its compelling storyline, intricate plot, and stellar dubbing, Baccano! is a must-watch for those venturing into English dubbed anime.

10. Perfect Blue

Genre: Avant-Garde, Drama, Horror
Where to Watch: –
Buy DVD/Blu-Ray: Amazon

Perfect Blue is a critically acclaimed psychological thriller that masterfully explores the sinister side of fame and obsession. The anime movie revolves around Mima Kirigoe, a former pop idol who decides to pursue acting, only to find herself embroiled in a series of unsettling events that begin to blur the lines between reality and fantasy. As the story progresses, you’re taken on a suspenseful journey through Mima’s unraveling mind as she struggles to come to terms with the dark and twisted world around her.

One of the standout features of Perfect Blue is its expertly crafted English dub, which has received widespread praise for its solid performances. Bridget Hoffman (Demon Slayer) and Wendee Lee (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders), in particular, deliver exceptional performances as Mima and Rumi, respectively, bring depth and nuance to their truly captivating characters.

By blending a gripping storyline with atmospheric dubbing, Perfect Blue is a must-watch for anyone looking to explore the world of English dubbed anime. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the genre, this captivating film is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Tips for Anime Beginners

As a newcomer to anime, it’s important to understand a few key concepts that will enhance your viewing experience. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Subs vs. Dubs: ‘Subs’ refers to subtitles, which means watching the anime in its original Japanese audio with English subtitles. ‘Dubs’ means the dialogue has been re-recorded in English. While subs can provide a more authentic experience, dubs are great for beginners who may not be used to reading subtitles.
• Genres and Demographics: Anime is categorized into various genres and demographics. Shounen is aimed at young males, Shoujo at young females, Seinen for adult men, and Josei for adult women. Knowing which demographic you fall into can help guide your anime selection.
• Cultural Nuances: Anime often includes cultural references and norms that may be unfamiliar. Don’t be afraid to look up terms or cultural aspects you don’t understand. This can deepen your appreciation of the medium.
• Community: The anime community is vast and welcoming. Joining forums, attending conventions, and engaging with other fans can enrich your anime experience and provide recommendations for what to watch next. We have an English Dubbed anime community and would be happy to have you join. 

Your Anime Journey

As you embark on your anime journey, remember to explore at your own pace. There’s a vast world of anime out there waiting for you. Whether you prefer to binge-watch or savor each episode, the most important thing is to enjoy the ride. Happy watching!