The first episode of an anime leaves a strong impression that many fans use to decide whether to continue a series. Some first episodes stun viewers with gorgeous animation, a unique premise, or memorable characters, while others may stumble with awkward pacing, a misleading atmosphere, or characters who just miss the mark.
However, despite openings that may alienate some viewers, there are anime that need a bit more time to find their narrative footing. Following its first impressions, this series often becomes a known hit that audiences swear by, promising that patience will pay off in the end. These anime stand out as proof that shaky introductions don’t define a series.
Gintama
Gintama takes place in an alternate Edo-period Japan where the Earth has been transformed under an alien occupation. The series follows Gintoki Sakata, a freelancing samurai who takes on odd jobs along with his apprentice, Shinpachi Shimura, and a powerful alien girl named Kagura. The opening episode drops audiences into their world, leaning into absurdity, humor, and cultural references.
Going into the series, many fans initially believe that Gintama is full of laughs; however, in time, the series does shift toward serious arcs and heartbreaking backstories to balance out the humor. Gintama stands as one of the highest-rated shōnen series, and audiences who felt alienated after the first episode need only to trust the series for rewarding experiences.
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Puella Magi Madoka Magica follows Madoka Kaname, a seemingly ordinary middle schooler whose life completely changes after she meets a mysterious creature named Kyubey. Kyubey offers her a contract to become a magical girl in exchange for any wish she wants granted; however, another magical girl, Homura Akemi, does everything in her power to prevent Madoka from taking Kyubey’s offer.
The series is known for subverting standard tropes and redefining the magical girl genre. However, its initial episode and deceptive innocence may deter some audiences who believe the series isn’t for them. By the end of the series, Madoka Magica proves itself to be a psychologically tense and complex series, allowing the anime to stand out as a masterpiece.
Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious
Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious centers on the goddess Ristarte after she summons Seiya Ryuuguuin, a hero tasked with saving the world from the Demon Lord. Yet, unlike traditional heroes, Seiya’s obsessive caution and continuous over-preparation for even minor threats often push him to go to absurd lengths.
While the first episode of Cautious Hero sets up the series’ premise and humor, it also gives off the impression that it’s just another one-note storyline. Then, by the end of the series, viewers are met with a twist that recontextualizes Seiya’s caution and reframes both himself and Ristarte in meaningful ways.
Zenshu
Zenshu centers on Natsuko Hirose, a young animator celebrated for her early success, who has taken on the job of directing a romantic comedy about first love despite never experiencing it. This leads to a creative block and friction among her team, yet the worst of her troubles comes when she mysteriously finds herself isekai-ed into her favorite film.
The first impression Zenshu offers is stunning animation and its unique premise and meta-commentary. However, many fans felt that the beginning of the series was slow-paced and rather inconsistent, leading to many viewers dropping the series before completing it, completely missing out on Natsuko’s character arc.
Steins;Gate
Steins;Gate follows Rintaro Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist who accidentally discovers that his Phone Microwave can send messages to the past. Initially, the experiments are fun and playful, but they quickly spiral into larger consequences. Determined to protect his friends, Okabe uses everything he has to his advantage to prevent tragedy.
The series stands out among anime as a complex and thrilling storyline that offers a rewarding payoff. However, after the first episode, some audiences choose not to continue the series due to confusing and unexplained events and slow pacing. Yet after its initial episode, Steins;Gate quickly becomes a gripping masterpiece.
Toradora!
Toradora! follows high schooler Ryuji Takasu, whose intimidating appearance hides a gentle personality, and Taiga Aisaka, a fierce yet short girl nicknamed Palmtop Tiger. The two form an unlikely alliance after discovering they have crushes on each other’s best friend, leading to a series of humorous, awkward schemes that only draw them closer together.
The series stands out for its humor and emotional depth as Ryuji and Taiga navigate personal insecurities, family, and misunderstandings. While the first episode can alienate some viewers with its exaggerated clichés and violence, it’s supposed to play off for laughs, but achieves the exact opposite reaction. Yet beyond its first impression, Toradora! becomes a stronger series as it unfolds.
Bungo Stray Dogs
Bungo Stray Dogs follows Atsushi Nakajima, an orphan who discovers he can transform into a white tiger and is recruited into the Armed Detective Agency, or ADA for short. The agency is filled with supernaturally gifted individuals who investigate new cases and clash with the Port Mafia and other organizations that threaten their city.
Initially, the series seems to lack an immediate plot and centers around unassuming characters with jarring tonal shifts that may alienate viewers. However, as the series unfolds, viewers find that the series explores deeper themes of trauma, self-worth, and belonging, and grows into a far more complex plot full of thrilling characters.
Black Clover
Black Clover centers on Asta, a determined orphan born without magic in a world where magical abilities define status. Alongside his talented rival Yuno, he dreams of becoming the Wizard King, leading to him earning a rare five-leaf grimoire that grants him anti-magic abilities. Joining with the Black Bulls, Asta begins his journey as a Magic Knight.
In the series’s earliest episodes, Asta comes across as an overly boisterous, one-note character. However, as the series goes on, his character grows in meaningful ways as the story explores its unique, rich world with intention. Black Clover may have a rough start, but it quickly becomes a thrilling, unforgettable adventure.
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