Anime has become popular in the U.S. And it's not just for high school kids. Adults are enjoying the opportunity to leave the pandemic world and enter a fantasy world. It's a time to immerse in the rich colors and good versus evil plots where the good guys win.
There are many streaming platforms that offer anime content. The big three, Netflix, Hulu and Amazon, all offer anime shows. But what are the best streaming services for anime?
What Is Anime?
Pokemon, Sailor Moon and Cowboy Bebop are examples of anime. "Animation from Japan" is the true meaning of the word anime. In America, anime refers to Japanese cartoons. Anime movies go beyond traditional TV shows or cartoons. They build worlds that only exist in dreams.
The characters in these Japanese cartoons often have huge eyes and wildly colorful hair. They also tend to have long legs and arms. The overall look allows the character to be extremely expressive. This goes well with their complex personalities, dramatic plots and action scenes.
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Anime Popularity on the Rise
Anime is one of the most popular forms of entertainment worldwide. Its popularity has been growing in America for the last 20 years.
Children's favorite shows like "Pokemon" and "Dragon Ball Z" helped usher in a new generation of anime fans. As adults, they can now find these shows on HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime video, Netflix and more.
It also goes beyond anime movies. Manga, its cousin, is also popular in Japan and the U.S. Manga is anime's e-book or paper version. It has similar themes and drawing styles. Manga is extremely popular in Japan and is a part of their culture.
Anime is popular among adults and children. But many anime series are geared toward adults. It can be violent and sexually explicit. So, you might want to research titles and content before any children watch. There are many popular streaming sites. But the best anime streaming service is Crunchyroll.
Anime is one of the most popular forms of entertainment worldwide.
Crunchyroll Has Biggest Anime Library
Touting the world's largest anime library, Crunchyroll is the Netflix of anime. With Crunchyroll, you can watch the latest anime titles an hour after they air in Japan. You'll have access to ad-free anime.
Crunchyroll provides classic anime as well as original anime.
Dozens of Manga titles, such as "My Hero Academia," are also available. But they are only in English.
Streaming Crunchyroll anime is easy on:
- desktop
- mobile
- gaming consoles
- Apple TV
- Roku
- Android
- iOS
- Xbox
- PS4
There are three plans available, starting at $7.99 per month.
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Funimation Moving to Crunchyroll
Taking Crunchyroll to the next level, Funimation is moving to Crunchyroll. It takes some great perks with it. With Funimation's Subs and Dubs program, you'll receive simultaneous streams straight from Japan. You'll also receive new episodes dubbed within two weeks of the Japanese broadcast.
Funimation also can be streamed on their app. It also provides offline downloads.
Netflix Popular Anime
Netflix currently has four seasons of "Aggretsuko." This is comedic anime and rated PG. Nine seasons of "Naruto," which is fantasy anime, are also provided. Netflix plans start at $9.99 per month. Netflix also offers original content.
VRV Bundles Streaming Services
VRV, which is pronounced verve, is another popular anime streaming service. It specializes in anime, gaming content and nostalgic cartoons. Owned by Otter Media, a subsidiary of AT&T Warner Media Brands, it has access to a lot of content.
The best part is that they also bundle with Crunchyroll. VRV's plan is $9.99 per month.
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