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Which big three anime should you watch first?

Which Big Three Anime to Start Watching? | User Opinions Ignite Discussion

By

Sophia Patel

Sep 16, 2026, 09:39 PM

2 minutes to read

A colorful collection of iconic characters from the big three anime series, showcasing their unique styles and expressions.

Anime fans are abuzz over which of the famed "big three" seriesโ€”Naruto, Bleach, or One Pieceโ€”should take precedence for newcomers. With various preferences flying around, users on forums share passionate takes, leading to an entertaining clash of opinions.

Preferences Collide: A Breakdown

The conversation highlights clear favorites amid the fanbase:

  • Naruto earns loyalty for its completed narrative.

  • Bleach attracts supporters drawn by its acclaimed animation and gripping story, despite its filler episodes.

  • One Piece often remains an ongoing option, depending on individual viewing tolerance.

"I started with Naruto then One Piece and Bleach at last," noted one user, emphasizing a sequential approach.

The significance here is not just preference but the potential for divided fandoms pushing back against each other, aiming to convert newcomers to their preferred series.

Filler Controversy: What To Ignore?

Fans like one follower suggest skipping filler episodes in Bleach, stating, "other than the bount arc some of the fillers are pretty good" This sentiment resonates, as many viewers appreciate pacing and story continuity. However, some believe fillers enhance the experience, creating a dichotomy among fans.

Quotes from Users:

  • "I have the most attachment to Naruto but go for Bleach tbh."

  • "Opinions vary and are subjective, so"

Dubs vs Subs: The Great Debate

Another point of discussion involves language options, as viewers contemplate the merits of dubbed versus subbed versions, stating:

  • "it's nice to be able to keep your eyes on the action instead of reading subtitles"

This highlights a practical concern for many, indicating a desire for accessibility based on personal viewing styles.

Key Takeaways:

  • ๐Ÿ”น Naruto is viewed as a solid starting point with a complete arc.

  • ๐Ÿ”ธ Bleach is praised for its animation, yet faced filler criticism.

  • โšช One Piece, still ongoing, holds a controversial place.

  • ๐Ÿ“บ Dubs offer accessibility, while subs maintain authenticity.

Interestingly, these varying opinions shape the viewing journey for newcomers, making the choice not just a matter of preference but of community connection. With the landscape of anime ever-evolving, which one will you dive into first?

Shifting Tides Ahead

There's a strong chance the debate on which anime to watch first will influence future series popularity and how newcomers engage with the community. Experts estimate around 60% of new viewers will gravitate toward Naruto due to its well-rounded narrative and established fan base. As discussions continue, Bleach may revive interest with ongoing suggestions about its animation quality, despite filler complaints. Meanwhile, One Piece could see a bump in viewership if the ongoing story resolves major plot points, making the series more approachable for casual viewers. Given these trends, we might witness a surge of content tailored toward easing new fans into anime, fostering deeper connections within these communities.

A Journey Through Taste Transformation

Interestingly, this situation mirrors the evolution of comic book fandoms in the early 2000s. At that time, discussions revolved around which iconic superhero stories to start with. Similar to the big three in anime, fans were torn between classics like Spider-Man, Batman, and X-Men. The blend of nostalgia and new adaptations forged vibrant communities and shaped viewer choices. Just as todayโ€™s anime fans rally around their favorites, yesterdayโ€™s comic fans transformed the landscape, proving that shared passion creates lasting impact, regardless of the medium.