10 Iconic anime first episodes fans will never forget

Anime first episodes set the tone and introduce the world and characters that will hopefully hook viewers right from the start to be successful, making them crucial for viewer retention.

Some series have nailed it with strong, memorable opening episodes that leave a lasting impression, showcasing the power of anime first episodes. The first episode of an anime carries a lot of weight in getting viewers invested in the story and characters.

Many classic and popular anime series wasted no time pulling fans in with their anime first episodes. The following 10 series featured the first episodes that did everything right - they built fascinating worlds, established endearing characters, and set events in motion that kicked off riveting storylines.

10 anime first episodes that captivated fans

1. Fullmetal Alchemist

The first episode of Fullmetal Alchemist anime opens with the Elric brothers on a mission as State Alchemists, efficiently introducing Edward and Alphonse Elric while demonstrating their formidable alchemical powers.

Later, through flashbacks, we learn of their attempt at human transmutation, which led to Edward losing his leg and right arm and Alphonse losing his entire body. After this tragedy, their quest to regain what they lost is set up perfectly.

This premiere also brings in the first hint of the sinister truth behind the military organization Ed has joined as a State Alchemist. It's a thrilling 24 minutes that immediately establishes the show's emotional weight alongside the impending action and intrigue.

2. Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan (Image via Wit Studio/MAPPA)

The apocalyptic world of Attack on Titan anime is unveiled brutally in its instantly gripping first episode. Humanity's miserable plight hiding behind walls from man-eating Titans is witnessed through the eyes of Eren, Mikasa, and Armin, showcasing how anime first episodes can set dire stakes.

After years of uneasy peace, the status quo violently shatters when the Colossal Titan breaches the outer wall, letting other Titans flood in. The terrifying carnage that follows as the trio struggles to survive pulls no punches.

This shockingly bloody premiere hooked countless viewers, signaling that a dark, high-stakes story lay ahead.

3. Death Note

The sharp writing in Death Note anime is apparent right from the start, as genius high-schooler Light Yagami discovers the power of the supernatural Death Note.

He tests its ability to kill anyone whose name is written within its pages, embarking on a vigilante crusade. The mind games and moral dilemmas at the heart of the series instantly come into focus through Light's intricate schemes and internal debates on justice, demonstrating the effectiveness of anime first episodes.

His chillingly complex dynamic with the death god Ryuk is also fascinating. This cerebral cat-and-mouse game had viewers entranced straight away.

4. Cowboy Bebop

Jazzy and stylized, the first episode of sci-fi classic Cowboy Bebop anime introduces Spike Spiegel and Jet Black. While hunting a wanted criminal, Spike gets involved in a high-stakes pursuit and intense shootout.

The action and character dynamics pop off the screen, establishing the show's cool tone and personalities with plenty of action and humor. It proves how anime first episodes are important in hooking audiences. Each character made an instant impression that left fans eager to learn more.

5. Black Butler

The premiere of Black Butler anime plunges viewers straight into its dark supernatural Victorian murder mystery. It initially focuses on the resourceful 12-year-old Earl Ciel Phantomhive and his demon butler Sebastian.

Ciel's vow for revenge sets events in motion, leading to more beguiling questions than answers. Between its shadowy tone, Ciel's cunning, his imposing demon butler Sebastian, and hints at larger forces at play, this first episode was a mesmerizing and sinister affair that refused to let go.

6. Soul Eater

Soul Eater anime instantly sets up its offbeat supernatural world in its opener. At the mysterious Death Weapon Meister Academy, students train to defeat corrupted souls that could bring chaos.

Perky young scythe meister Maka works to turn aloof human scythe Soul into the ultimate weapon. Their poignant soul bond comes into focus when battling Blair, who proves to be a cat with strong magical powers, emphasizing the charm of anime first episodes.

The visual creativity of the fighting and the characters' powers shines through. Balancing slick action with emotional weight, this premiere neatly introduced the starring duo's skills and relationship to be integral to adventures ahead.

7. My Hero Academia

In the opening scene of My Hero Academia, viewers feel the emotional impact of protagonist Izuku Midoriya's heartfelt dream of becoming a superhero in a world full of unique Quirk abilities.

However, his hopes are crushed upon learning he's Quirkless while his childhood friend Katsuki Bakugo flaunts power. Still, a fateful meeting with legendary hero All Might changes everything for Izuku.

Familiar superhero elements are given enough fresh twists to show a unique vision that started strong and is on the way. This emotional, uplifting premiere made audiences instantly root for Izuku's underdog hero quest, showcasing the motivational power of anime first episodes.

8. Demon Slayer

The award-winning first episode of Demon Slayer shows hero Tanjiro Kamado's world turned upside down after finding his family slaughtered by demons, with only his sister Nezuko surviving.

But shockingly, she has become a demon, sparking Tanjiro's perilous vow to turn her human again. Their touching bond becomes the heart of the series.

Between its emotional core and exciting fight scenes conveying the frightening power of demons, this opener effortlessly invested viewers in Tanjiro and Nezuko's poignant journey.

9. The Promised Neverland

The Promised Neverland (Image via CloverWorks)

The deceptively sinister first episode of The Promised Neverland immerses viewers in a warm, wholesome-looking world. Protagonist Emma spends her days playing with fellow orphans under their caretaker "Mom," seemingly an ideal home full of bright children.

Eerie hints and details turn this comfort zone inside-out by revealing these children are actually being raised as food. Towards the end of the episode, Emma and other allies discover the dark truth and plan their bold, high-stakes escape.

This premiere lulled audiences into a false sense of security before ambushing them, sparking an immediate need to know what happens next, proving the suspenseful nature of anime first episodes.

10. Made in Abyss

After a mystifying prologue, the first full episode of the dark fantasy series Made in Abyss focuses on the day-to-day life of brave young orphan Riko. She resides in an orphanage within a city built around the Abyss - an otherworldly giant hole holding remnants of an ancient, advanced civilization.

When a robot boy named Reg with mysterious origins surfaces from the depths, Riko resolves to descend into the terrifying Abyss to find her long-lost mother, Lyza.

The inspired world-building also cleverly hides the horrors awaiting Riko beneath the surface, making her fateful quest into the unknown even more compelling. It showcases the impact and depth of anime first episodes.

Conclusion

A stellar opening episode can make or break an anime by determining whether viewers commit to the full journey. Many legendary series have demonstrated masterful premieres that instantly got fans invested, highlighting the success of their anime first episodes.

Gripping emotional moments, dynamic characters, clever introductions to distinct fantasy worlds, and direction-setting events were common first-episode ingredients that fueled fans' enduring passion and acclaim.

Whether through resonant drama, chilling action, smart twists, or aspirational uplift, these 10 anime will forever be remembered and admired for unforgettable anime first episodes that left viewers wanting more. Their unforgettable openers are a testament to the vital importance of meaningful, high-impact anime first episodes.

Related Links:

Edited by Ivanna Lalsangzuali