As anime explodes in popularity, more and more curious viewers are trying to find out where to even watch it. Though many popular shows are available on major streaming platforms (especially Netflix and Hulu), the market is dominated by the anime-only streaming service, Crunchyroll. Readers, we have some good news: In an effort to hook potential anime fans, Crunchyroll just announced that an astounding amount of its library—including many titles from Esquire's Best Anime of 2022 list—is now available to stream for free. So far, the list includes Chainsaw Man, SPY x FAMILY, BLUELOCK, Golden Kamuy, Ranking of Kings, My Dress-up Darling, Vinland Saga, and more.
For those not glued to the anime world, this is a massive move. Movie lovers, this is on the level of every Star Wars title showing up on Disney Plus. Gamers, imagine that Elden Ring dropped on Xbox Game Pass. And sports fans? NFL Sunday Ticket... for free. Some of the best anime on television is now yours, as long as you're OK with watching a couple ads. Crunchyroll already offers up popular series such as One Piece and Demon Slayer on its free-to-watch, ad-supported subscription tier—which will be included alongside the new, massive slate of free shows.
Thankfully, this summer is a great opportunity to give yourself on an anime crash course. Season Two of SPY x FAMILY will return later this October—and many of the free-to-watch series—including Chainsaw Man, Demon Slayer, Vinland Saga, Ranking of Kings, BLUELOCK, and My Dress-up Darling—recently finished their latest seasons. If there was ever a time to join the club, you're looking at it.
