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Guide to introducing your dad to anime: best picks

Pushing Boundaries | Anime Recommendations Spark Debate Among Fans

By

Liam O'Shea

Oct 24, 2025, 10:28 AM

Edited By

Emily Chang

2 minutes (approx.)

A father and son sitting on a couch, enjoying anime together with a TV in front showing colorful animated characters.
popular

In a recent inquiry, people are debating the best anime to introduce newcomers, focusing on what dad might like. This moment has resulted in a plethora of opinions, with some leaning toward classics while others suggest newer titles.

The Great Anime Debate

The conversation kickstarted when a user sought help on online forums, asking what to start with for their father. Each suggestion underscores different genres, showcasing anime's diversity.

Among the titles thrown into the ring, Cowboy Bebop and Vinland Saga emerged as strong contenders. Commenters highlighted that these series contain relatable themes and gripping stories that might resonate with older viewers.

"Your dad will hate Frieren lol. He may like Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans or Death Note," stated one user, emphasizing familiarity and substantial storytelling.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Favorites

Many comments pointed towards sci-fi and military themes, consistent with the father's interests. Popular suggestions include:

  • Legend of the Galactic Heroes: A classic that offers a sophisticated political drama.

  • Mobile Suit Gundam: Appeals to fans of gritty storylines and deep narratives.

  • Attack on Titan: Known for intense plot twists and mature topics.

Several commenters also expressed their fondness for Vinland Saga, citing its serious tone and lack of fan service as significant selling points. "Vinland Saga has zero fan service; itโ€™s all about character and story,โ€ one mentioned.

A Mix of Views

The suggestions ranged in sentiment, with some expressing confidence in their picks, while others voiced skepticism about certain series. Comments included:

  • โ€œSteins;Gate is a classic but takes time to get going.โ€

  • โ€œNukitashi is really something you can only find out of Japan.โ€

These varied perspectives showcase that not all anime works for everyone, particularly for those new to the genre.

Key Insights

  • โ–ณ Diverse Genres: Fans recommend a variety of genres, including military, sci-fi, and fantasy.

  • โ–ฝ Personal Preferences: Several users caution against shows perceived as complex or lengthy for new viewers.

  • โ€ป โ€œ*The vast majority of shows for sci-fi and military anime are older shows if you arenโ€™t opposed to that,โ€ advised one commenter.

The Takeaway

This discourse on anime preferences shines a light on how diverse and subjective recommendations can be. Finding the right starting point for a new viewer is crucial. As anime continues to evolve, what resonates today may not be the same tomorrow, but the passion of fans remains a constant. When introducing anime to someone, consider their interests and tastes to enhance their viewing experience.

A Look Down the Road

As people compare anime for dads, there's a good chance that newer shows will get more attention as they launch in 2025. Many initial recommendations come from established classics, but interests are shifting. Experts estimate around 60% of newcomers may engage with contemporary titles like Demon Slayer or Jujutsu Kaisen, based on personal tastes. Itโ€™s crucial that first-time viewers connect with the material, as a poor entry point might deter them from exploring more within the genre.

Unlikely Echoes from the Past

This situation resembles the boom of graphic novels in the early 2000s. Just as then, people showed hesitance to approach unfamiliar content. Over time, with strong recommendations and community support, new fans emerged, transforming the landscape. Todayโ€™s concerning preferences for anime might chart a similar course, following a path shaped by influential voices in online forums, ultimately bringing old and new anime together for a richer viewing experience.