Have you ever begun watching an anime that captivated you almost immediately, leaving you convinced within the first quarter of an hour that it was something extraordinary? It’s that magical moment when the opening episode grips you so tightly that you lose track of time – it could be 4 AM, and yet you find yourself still engrossed, thinking “just one more episode.” A truly outstanding debut not only sets the stage for the story but also immerses you in the series’ universe, stirring deep emotions within you. Before you realize it, you’re well and truly hooked.
Some anime manage to capture our attention so effectively in their opening episode that they remain etched in our memory forever. For instance, in “Demon Slayer,” Tanjiro is devastated upon discovering his entire family has been brutally murdered. Similarly, in “Attack on Titan,” Eren witnesses his mother being devoured by a titan. The premiere of “Blue Lock” initially leads us to believe one character is the main focus before unexpectedly flipping things around. “Death Note” lures us in as Light discovers a notebook with the power to kill anyone using just their name. These initial episodes offer a glimpse into the unique experiences that lie ahead, and without further ado, let’s explore 10 unforgettable anime premiere episodes that have stood the test of time.
1) Demon Slayer: “Cruelty”
The initial installment of Demon Slayer elicits viewer empathy for Tanjiro by showing his tranquil life and then upending it within a brief 24-minute timeframe, following the unfortunate turn of events in his family. This backstory serves to engage viewers with his purpose driving the story’s progression.
The episode carefully develops Tanjiro’s character instead of hastily delving into action scenes typical of many anime within the same genre. Tanjiro’s sister, Nezuko, undergoes a transformation into a demon yet retains some human qualities, adding complexity to the story as Tanjiro strives to cure his sister and takes up the role of a demon slayer to avenge his family. Despite adhering to familiar genre conventions and boasting likable characters, the exceptional animation is what truly sets Demon Slayer apart.
2) Blue Lock: “Dream”
In the debut of “Blue Lock,” conventional sports anime themes are subverted. Rather than emphasizing teamwork and camaraderie, the initial installment underscores the importance of individual drive and arrogance in Japanese football. This change is apparent from the outset as the main character, Isagi, sacrifices his friendship with Kira in the first episode, causing viewers to ponder whether they should support him or not.
The anime was launched around the same time as the 2022 World Cup, and when Japan beat Germany, social media was filled with memes such as “Blue Lock is indeed real!” These memes underscored how the anime’s concept struck a chord with viewers. Unlike typical sports anime, the facility resembling a prison and tense music contribute to an eerie psychological thriller ambiance. Furthermore, the intense competitive setting, along with its emphasis on individuality, made for an intriguing and distinctive first episode that is worthy of appreciation for daring to be unique.
3) Attack on Titan: “To You, in 2000 Years: The Fall of Shiganshina, Part 1”
In the beginning of Attack on Titan, one of the most shocking and violent scenes in anime occurs as Eren watches a Titan consume his mother. Prior to this moment, the initial episode creates an illusion of tranquility by depicting harmonious lives within towering walls. However, the sudden intrusion of Titans shatters this calm, ushering in pandemonium. Eren’s pledge for retribution at the conclusion of the episode foreshadows a character journey that is anything but ordinary, hinting that this isn’t your average “hero rescues the day” narrative, but rather a far more sinister tale.
Initially, when “Attack on Titan” premiered in 2013, some viewers thought it was just a typical action series featuring giant creatures. However, its eerie Titan designs and unexpectedly intense violence set it apart from other shows airing at that time. Online discussions about the show skyrocketed almost immediately as viewers were taken aback by its brutal and dark themes, which seemed to be unlike anything in a standard shonen series from the very beginning.
4) Death Note: “Rebirth”
In the initial episode of Death Note, the fundamental idea is swiftly introduced – a thought-provoking question about what would happen if one could cause death merely by jotting down someone’s name in a book. The series then delves into the complex moral ramifications of this premise. As the story progresses, the character Light undergoes a remarkable transformation, starting as an individual exploring the notebook’s potential and eventually claiming to be “the deity of this new realm.” Unlike many other shows that keep their major plot twists for later episodes, Death Note lays out its entire intriguing premise from the beginning, captivating viewers with psychological drama straight away.
In the year 2006, the release of “Death Note” left anime enthusiasts craving psychological suspense, and this series certainly met their demands. Its innovative narrative style paved the way for many subsequent productions. The impact of its debut episode is still palpable today, with “Death Note” continuing to be a top suggestion for newcomers in the world of anime, nearly two decades after its initial release.
5) Oshi No Ko: “Mother and Children”
In simple terms, the debut episode of “Oshi No Ko” lasts approximately 90 minutes and packs a punch with three unexpected plot twists that left viewers in awe. Initially, it seems like a standard idol story, but it takes an unsettling turn, making it one of the most shocking and impactful premieres ever. The narrative centers around idol Ai Hoshino and her twin offspring, Aqua and Ruby, but disclosing further details might ruin the overall experience for you.
In 2023, when the episode was released, fans went into a frenzy. Discussions on Twitter and Reddit blew up with responses, while TikTok videos attracted viewers intrigued by the idol anime genre, who hadn’t previously thought about watching it. The exceptionally long premiere episode quickly gave the series a “must-see” reputation, even surprising those who typically avoid idol-centric shows.
6) Made in Abyss: “The City of the Great Pit”
In the opening scene of “Made in Abyss”, young Riko, an orphan who longs for adventure beneath the treacherous pit known as the Abyss – a place where her mother vanished – stumbles upon an enigmatic robot boy hidden within the forest. At first glance, this world appears cheerful and colorful, populated by adorable creatures. However, as conversations unfold, whispers of the “Abyss Curse” begin to circulate, a chilling reminder of the perils awaiting those who attempt to climb back up from its depths.
When the show debuted in 2017, it wasn’t widely recognized except by dedicated manga readers. However, conversations about it soon started, as people discussed its unique blend of adventure themes with psychological horror aspects. Initially perceived as just another niche series, it transformed into a critically lauded success. Soon, “Made in Abyss” became essential viewing for those eager to explore a world that’s both visually stunning and eerie.
7) Yu Yu Hakusho: “Surprised To Be Dead”
The anime “Yu Yu Hakusho” begins with an unexpected turn: its main character, Yusuke Urameshi, is killed in the very first episode, but then granted a second chance at life as a “Ghost Investigator,” tasked with resolving otherworldly cases. This shocking twist distinguished the series when it debuted in 1992, taking viewers by surprise. As we witness Yusuke selflessly risk his life to save a child, our perspective on this seemingly reckless character begins to shift drastically.
In my early days as an avid anime fan, I vividly recall the moment when “Yu Yu Hakusho” graced our screens, a time when the world was just starting to embrace this incredible art form on a global scale. Little did we know that this groundbreaking series was about to redefine the very essence of what we had grown to love and expect from anime.
Before “Yu Yu Hakusho,” the genre was dominated by shows where heroes simply gained power and battled villains, with no room for emotional depth or human connection. It seemed that audiences were content with superficial storylines centered around raw strength and combat. But the first episode of “Yu Yu Hakusho” flipped that script on its head!
Instead of a traditional hero straight out of a comic book, we were introduced to an unlikely protagonist – a delinquent kid with problems of his own. Many of us initially scoffed at the idea, but the standout quality of this first episode was its ability to captivate viewers and make us care deeply about this character’s journey. It demonstrated that emotional investment could be fostered through exploring the humanity within our heroes, breaking free from the mold of two-dimensional warriors we had grown accustomed to.
To this day, I remain grateful for the impact “Yu Yu Hakusho” had on the anime genre and its ability to show us that there was more to these stories than just power and fights – it’s all about the characters, their growth, and the emotional connections we form with them.
8) Re:Zero: “The End of the Beginning and the Beginning of the End”
In the realm of isekai stories, Re:Zero distinguishes itself by focusing on Subaru Natsuki, a recluse who inexplicably finds himself whisked away to another world. At first, Subaru assumes this is just another run-of-the-mill transportation to a fantasy realm, where he assists a girl with silver hair in recovering her stolen emblem. Tragically, they both meet their untimely demise. However, there’s a twist-Subaru has the unique ability to rewind time each time he perishes, making him stand out among other isekai protagonists.
The initial episode generated a flurry of online conversations due to its grittier interpretation of the common “transported to another world” theme, during the peak isekai season. Many viewers were tired of dominant protagonists receiving unique powers. However, Re:Zero entered the scene and immediately distinguished itself by subjecting its lead character to hardships from the outset, offering a much darker narrative than the usual fantasy wish-fulfillment stories.
9) Code Geass: “The Day a New Demon was Born”
In the inaugural episode of Code Geass, viewers are immediately plunged into disorder as Japanese insurgents seize a puzzling artifact, and Lelouch unintentionally finds himself ensnared in the turmoil. The episode effectively introduces Lelouch to the audience, revealing his sharp intellect, strong sense of righteousness, and intense animosity towards Britannia. However, one pivotal sequence lingers in viewers’ minds long after the episode concludes: a spine-chilling scene depicting Lelouch standing among dead bodies with an eerie grin following his acquisition of Geass, ordering Britannian soldiers attempting to assassinate him to perish, and grasping the newfound realization that he now possesses the ability to demolish Britannia.
In 2006, when this hybrid of a political thriller/high school drama premiered, mecha shows were dominating the scene. However, few anticipated the significant impact it would have. The initial episode sparked comparisons with “Death Note” and “Gundam,” but it quickly distinguished itself due to its unique narrative twist. Interestingly, many viewers who usually shied away from mecha anime found themselves captivated by the psychological and political aspects before the robot battles commenced. This intrigue helped elevate the show from being just another mecha anime to a mainstream sensation.
10) To Your Eternity: “The Last One”
Experienceing the inaugural episode of To Your Eternity, I found myself captivated by a heartfelt 25-minute short film, where a boy’s silent perseverance while trudging through endless snowfields and conversing with his distant family during hunger struggles, builds an immediate and powerful emotional bond that many anime series take entire seasons to nurture. The poignant conclusion, in which he succumbs to the cold and thinks his journey was futile, only for the celestial orb to assume his identity and preserve his recollections, leaves behind a profound emptiness within my chest that lingers for days on end.
This remarkable debut episode left fans crying instantly, standing out among other premieres due to its immediate immersion into a deeply moving world. Its stunning animation, captivating music, and emotionally stirring narrative make it a must-see for any anime enthusiast seeking a one-of-a-kind and heartfelt adventure. To Your Eternity is certainly worth watching.
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2025-08-26 06:42