Best anime for beginners: Naruto vs Demon Slayer – which one should start your anime journey?

Diving into the vast world of anime can feel overwhelming. With thousands of series spanning every imaginable genre, the question every new fan asks is: Where do I start? Two of the most recommended titles for anime beginners are Naruto and Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba). Both are beloved shonen hits, packed with action, emotion, and unforgettable characters—but they take very different approaches to storytelling and tone.

Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, is a legendary long-running series that helped define modern shonen anime. With over 700 episodes across two series (Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden), it offers a sprawling world filled with ninjas, mystical powers, and character-driven arcs. It tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a lonely boy who dreams of becoming Hokage, the leader of his village, while overcoming the stigma of being the host of a dangerous tailed beast. Naruto is as much about perseverance, friendship, and identity as it is about epic battles.

Demon Slayer, adapted from Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga, exploded in popularity upon its release in 2019. With its breathtaking animation, intense fight scenes, and emotionally driven narrative, it quickly became a global sensation. It follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered and his sister Nezuko is turned into a demon. The story blends traditional Japanese folklore with modern animation excellence, making it both emotionally resonant and visually stunning.

So which of these powerhouses is the better starting point for anime newcomers? Let’s break it down across several essential aspects.

Story and Pacing

Naruto begins with a simple premise—an underdog ninja trying to prove himself—but gradually unfolds into a complex saga with deep lore, numerous characters, and layered arcs. The early episodes are lighter and often comedic, with a focus on Naruto’s growth and friendships. As the series progresses, the stakes rise, and the story becomes darker and more political. However, one major drawback is its length and infamous filler episodes, which can be daunting for newcomers.

Demon Slayer, in contrast, moves swiftly. The first episode immediately hooks viewers with tragedy and determination, and every subsequent episode pushes the narrative forward. With only a few seasons and movies (so far), it’s a much shorter, more digestible experience. It’s structured for modern viewers who prefer tight, focused storytelling.

Verdict: If you’re looking for a compact, emotionally engaging story with minimal filler, Demon Slayer is the better pick. If you’re ready to invest in a longer narrative with deep lore, Naruto offers a richer journey.

Characters and Development

Naruto boasts one of the most iconic casts in anime history. From Naruto’s personal growth to Sasuke’s dark descent and redemption, the series thrives on character arcs. Secondary characters like Kakashi, Hinata, and Gaara are well-developed and have their own defining journeys. The emotional payoffs after hundreds of episodes are incredibly satisfying because you watch these characters grow from children to adults.

Demon Slayer focuses more narrowly on a core group: Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke. Their personalities are immediately engaging—Tanjiro’s compassion, Zenitsu’s cowardice (and hidden strength), Inosuke’s wild behavior. The Hashira, or elite demon slayers, are introduced gradually, and each brings their own distinct flair. However, due to its shorter runtime, not all characters get the same depth as those in Naruto.

Verdict: For long-term emotional investment and wide character variety, Naruto wins. For strong central characters with emotional intensity, Demon Slayer delivers.

Animation and Visual Appeal

Here’s where Demon Slayer absolutely shines. Animated by Ufotable, the series is a visual masterpiece. Every battle is gorgeously choreographed, with stunning elemental effects and smooth motion. The blend of 2D and 3D animation enhances the action without feeling artificial. The iconic Episode 19 (Tanjiro’s Water-Breathing vs Rui) is often cited as one of the most beautifully animated sequences in anime history.

Naruto, animated by Studio Pierrot, varies in quality across its long run. Some arcs feature fluid, high-quality animation (especially major fights like Naruto vs Pain or Sasuke vs Itachi), but others can be choppy or inconsistent, especially in filler episodes. The older animation style may also feel dated to new viewers accustomed to modern visuals.

Verdict: For jaw-dropping animation and cinematic quality, Demon Slayer takes the crown.

Themes and Emotional Resonance

Naruto is deeply rooted in themes of perseverance, loneliness, forgiveness, and legacy. Naruto’s journey from social outcast to respected leader is inspirational and relatable. The story often explores the cyclical nature of hatred, the pain of loss, and the cost of war. These themes mature along with the characters and resonate powerfully by the end of the series.

Demon Slayer is more emotionally concentrated. Themes of family, grief, and humanity vs monstrosity drive every episode. Tanjiro’s kindness, even toward demons, creates poignant moments that elevate the action. The tragic backstories of demons often evoke sympathy, creating a morally grey atmosphere rarely seen in mainstream shonen.

Verdict: Naruto is better for long-term thematic exploration. Demon Slayer hits hard with focused, emotional storytelling.

Accessibility and Beginner Friendliness

Demon Slayer is incredibly beginner-friendly. It’s short, available in both sub and dub, and visually modern. Its fast pacing and clear storytelling make it easy to follow, even for those unfamiliar with anime tropes. It’s also currently ongoing, meaning newcomers can catch up easily and experience new releases in real time.

Naruto, while a fan favorite, is a massive time investment. With over 700 episodes and a lot of filler, it can be overwhelming. Still, it’s one of the most important anime of its generation and a gateway into larger anime culture. Many fans start with Naruto and never look back.

Verdict: Demon Slayer is the easier entry point for newcomers. Naruto is a rewarding commitment for those ready to dive deep.

Conclusion

So, which anime is the better choice for beginners: Naruto or Demon Slayer?

Choose Demon Slayer if you want:

• A visually stunning, emotionally resonant introduction to anime

• A shorter series with tight pacing and minimal filler

• Epic battles and fast-moving story arcs

• A modern experience that’s easy to binge

Choose Naruto if you want:

• A deep, expansive world filled with character growth and lore

• An iconic journey filled with ups, downs, and heartfelt payoffs

• A classic anime that’s shaped the genre

• A long-term story that evolves with its characters

Ultimately, both series are fantastic entry points—Demon Slayer for those dipping their toes in, and Naruto for those ready to dive headfirst. Whichever you choose, you’re about to embark on a journey filled with action, emotion, and unforgettable moments. Welcome to the world of anime!