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What is anime?
The term anime [a·nuh·mei] is a Japanese colloquialism used as an abbreviation for the term “animation.” Generally in Japan, the word anime (anime in Japanese: アニメ) is synonymous with animation of any kind from anywhere. Internationally, however, anime is typically referred to as Japanese animation, distinguishing it from other forms of animated media around the world. The distinction between anime and cartoons is more cultural than it is technical, with stylistic elements often serving as an anime identifier tracing back over 100 years.

The history of anime
The first confirmed example of anime was produced in 1917, titled Namakura Gatana, with a runtime of only four minutes, marking an early step in shaping the anime definition we recognize today. Over time, it has had its highs and lows, facing various obstacles both within Japan and internationally.
This video by Screen Rant summarizes the history of anime and how it evolved from its 1917 origins to the diverse anime styles we see today.

How anime genres define anime’s style
Anime spans a vast range of genres, and understanding the definition of anime helps explain how these unique storytelling styles have developed over time. The variety of anime art styles allows for vastly different tones, from the exaggerated expressions of comedy anime to the refined realism of dramatic films. One of the most recognizable traits of anime characters is the use of large eyes to enhance emotional expression and storytelling. —especially in the depiction of the classic anime girl, often characterized by expressive features and emotionally driven arcs.

Here’s a breakdown of the most prominent genres along with essential examples:

Shonen (少年) – “For Young Boys”
Focused on action, adventure, and friendship.

Examples: Naruto, One Piece, My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan

Shojo (少女) – “For Young Girls”
Romance and emotional character development are central themes, frequently centered on the emotional journey of an anime girl navigating love, friendship, and personal growth.

Examples: Sailor Moon, Cardcaptor Sakura, Fruits Basket

Seinen (青年) – “For Adult Men”
Darker, more mature themes with complex storytelling.

Examples: Berserk, Ghost in the Shell, Monster, Vinland Saga

Josei (女性) – “For Adult Women”
More realistic romance and slice-of-life elements.

Examples: Nana, Paradise Kiss, Honey and Clover

Mecha (Giant Robots)
Stories centered on giant robots, often with philosophical undertones.

Examples: Mobile Suit Gundam, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Code Geass

Isekai (異世界) – “Other World”
A character is transported to a fantasy or alternate universe.

Examples: Sword Art Online, Re:Zero, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime

Anime’s diverse genres cater to various audiences, each offering unique storytelling styles and thematic depth. Whether it’s the high-energy battles of shonen, the emotional depth of shojo, or the intricate narratives of seinen and josei, these types of anime continue to push creative boundaries. But behind every stunning scene and compelling story lies an intricate and demanding production process.

Bringing these imaginative worlds to life requires immense effort, meticulous planning, and the dedication of entire animation studios. From scripting and storyboarding to voice acting and final animation, every step is crucial in crafting the anime we love. Let’s take a closer look at the complex workflow that makes anime possible.