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The world of anime is rapidly growing and expanding everywhere around the world. In fact, the overall market value of anime in 2021 was around $24.8 billion and is expected to have an increase of 9.7% in the following years, reaching $47 billion by 2028.
Being a world with a lot to offer, Japanese animation can grab the attention of any fan or onlooker for any literary or cinema genre imaginable. The world of anime has even created a few unauthorized subgenres that appeal to a wider audience. As this industry grows in popularity, anime is becoming richer and bigger by bringing in an ever-so-diverse audience and fan base that increases the medium.
So how can you join in the fun? Keep reading to find some tips on how to better enjoy anime, as well as some good ones that can start you off.
Anime vs. Cartoon: Is There a Difference?
Many people are curious about the distinction between cartoons and anime as the anime business expands. People frequently mix up these two forms of art and think that anime is only appropriate for kids because it is a cartoon. While the word “cartoon” is frequently connected with Western culture, the Japanese word for animation, “anime,” is typically only associated with Japan.
But while both are animated mediums, they possess different styles of animation and often different kinds of content that they present to their audience. And just as there are cartoons for children and adults, anime can also be tailored to the same audience.
Subbed or Dubbed: Which One to Choose?
If you are familiar with anime, you may have noticed that subtitled and dubbed versions are frequently mentioned by those who are. Subbed (short for subtitled) anime uses the original Japanese audio, whereas dubbed anime typically uses English voice actors. This is done to reach a larger audience of potential viewers and increase the accessibility and popularity of anime.
Even with two options, the version you decide to view ultimately comes down to personal preference. The original Japanese-language series are typically available in subbed versions, but you must also pay attention to reading the translation. As opposed to dubbed versions, which give English speaking, you can completely avoid reading the translation. They don’t, however, evoke the same emotions as the original.
Where Can I Watch Anime?
There are many anime options to choose from, there are also a lot of ways to get your hands on this medium. With the rise of the Internet, ease of access to anime has become more and more available, and thus more and more popular worldwide. As of today, almost all popular streaming media possess anime content, such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more. There are also anime-only streaming services, the biggest one being Crunchyroll. Of course, you can also watch anime by purchasing Blu-ray and DVD options if you want to own your own series of physical media.
What is the Best Anime to Start Watching Now?
For beginners, these are some of the highest-rate animes available on the market today that should satisfy many viewing appetites:
1. Cowboy Bebop
Fans of galaxy western and sci-fi will love this classic anime. Akin to Firefly, the world of Cowboy Bebop combines humor and serious elements into an action-packed adventure thriller while offering a highly stylized viewing experience.
2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
One of the best and somewhat light-hearted adventures, this anime combines the world of magic and science into a perfect blend of emotional storytelling. For reference, think of Avatar: The Last Airbender, but add a bit more realism and gory psychological trauma to the mix.
3. Death Note
Probably the highest-rated anime for many fans of psychological thrillers, Death Note is viewed as the holy grail in anime. What would happen if you had the power to kill a person with the tip of your pen? Well, Death Note asks and answers the same question in this blend of fantasy and reality.
Final Thoughts
Anime is a unique medium that combines visual effects and storytelling that significantly differs from western world cartoons. With the beautiful sights, compelling characters, and outstanding voice acting, there is something for everyone – no matter if you prefer something on the lighter side or something ranging to hardcore.
Whatever your personal pick is, anime can serve as an amazing doorway into another culture and make you experience stories and characters you have never seen before.
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