If you’re just now joining the streaming anime bandwagon, it can be a bit overwhelming when you look at the absolute wealth of options. Netflix? Hulu? Funimation? Crunchyroll? Viewster? Some other streaming service that has two or three options? And that doesn’t even scratch the surface of stuff like Manga Entertainment’s old dubs on YouTube. There’s just so much that’s legally available, and there’s no easy way of telling what’s good and what’s worth paying for.
So, should you pay extra for anime? It’s a tricky question, especially for those that maybe don’t have a whole bunch of disposable income. That mostly depends on what exactly you’re looking to do. Are you looking to dip your toe in, try out this “anime thing” you’ve heard so much about? Are you specifically looking for older titles to get a good idea of the classics? Or have you heard about an anime that’s currently airing, and you’re wanting to watch it as it does?
One answer that folks are likely to suggest here, and which I will always dismiss outright, is to pirate the shows. For every single instance and situation, that’s the one inevitable suggestion that crops up. If it’s within your means, there’s no reason to completely remove yourself from whatever monetization scheme is involved. This is people’s livelihood we’re talking about here, and, honestly, it’s the respectful thing to do if you actually enjoy watching this stuff.
That being said, about 90% of the time there actually is one clear solution: do not pay extra for anime. Seriously. There’s just no reason. Most of the older streaming stuff you could possibly want to stream is available via one of three major platforms--all of which you most likely have access to right now.
First and foremost is Netflix
Though Netflix itself costs money, there’s a good chance you already have access to an account either because a) you have one yourself or b) you share an account with family or friends. Multiple Netflix profiles are a godsend, and it makes it easier than ever to have multiple people using the same account. So I feel pretty confident in saying that if you don’t have one, you have access to one.
And Netflix offers a surprisingly robust selection of anime. There’s even a decent attempt at English subtitles with Japanese language audio tracks, which can be a dealbreaker if dubs aren’t really your thing. Even better perhaps is the Netflix-exclusive Knights of Sidonia, which at least makes it clear that the company has put some focus on the medium. There’s a lot to work through on the streaming service, and a fair amount of it is quite good.
Secondly, Crunchyroll
The service is all about anime, and includes a variety of seasonal simulcasts so that you can stay updated with what’s new and hot. Now, to do this on a weekly basis, Crunchyroll requires a subscription, but those willing to wait will eventually be able to stream everything the service has given time. That seems like a pretty fair trade given that it’s a free account.
The one downside is that Crunchyroll requires a subscription if you want to watch via app on something like a tablet or using a video game console like the PlayStation 4. This can be frustrating when you want to watch anime while sitting in bed, for example. But even so, that's just one annoying aspect of what is otherwise a pretty good deal. In fact, if it weren't for the prevalence of Netflix subscriptions, Crunchyroll would probably be my first suggestion.
Last but not least is Hulu
The service is third partly because its offerings are nowhere near as robust as the first two, and partly because of the incessant ads present in all but the most expensive subscription. The free account is the worst account, but it does let folks watch some anime that are otherwise unavailable. Hulu can sometimes be more trouble than it’s worth, so your mileage may vary.
Nine times out of ten, the above suggestions will cover everything you could possibility want. A free Crunchyroll account and a little patience alone are enough to keep you wallowing in anime for several weeks at the very least. Add in the theoretical Netflix and Hulu accounts, and you’re set for some time. That said, you’re never going to find everything available to stream. A number of classics are only available via physical media, which tends to cost an arm and a leg.
But who knows, maybe some of the new stuff will quickly become part of the classics. Or maybe you’ll discover a favorite studio, like Trigger, and want to consume everything they’ve put out previously. You’ve got a whole bunch of options at your fingertips, so why not just go exploring? Who knows what you’ll find.
