New to Detective Conan? You’re not alone—millions around the world are hooked on the clever mysteries, heartwarming characters, and ever-evolving plotlines of this beloved anime. Known as Case Closed in English, the series has been airing continuously since 1996, making it one of the longest-running and most recognizable Japanese anime titles globally. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get started—whether you want to dive deep or just sample a few episodes.
1. Why Detective Conan Is Still a Global Hit After 25+ Years
So what makes this series stay fresh and popular for more than two decades?
- Cross-genre storytelling: Mystery is the core, but fans also love the action scenes, emotional subplots, romantic tension, and subtle humor.
- Smart and accessible cases: Many episodes are single-case stories, making it easy for anyone to enjoy the series from almost anywhere in the timeline.
- Long-term world-building: The mystery of the Black Organization and Shinichi’s transformation into Conan tie the series together across hundreds of episodes.
Interestingly, Detective Conan is also used in Japanese schools and language programs to promote logical thinking and reading comprehension—further proof of its intellectual appeal.
2. What Is Detective Conan (Case Closed)?
© Gosho Aoyama / Shogakukan/YTV/TMS 1996
The story begins with Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant high school detective who is poisoned by two mysterious men in black. Instead of dying, he’s shrunk into a child and adopts a new identity: Conan Edogawa. While keeping his transformation a secret, he continues to solve crimes, hoping to expose the organization that altered his life.
Main Characters You’ll Meet Early On
- Conan Edogawa: The child form of Shinichi, highly intelligent and resourceful.
- Ran Mouri: His loyal friend (and love interest), unaware of Conan’s true identity.
- Kogoro Mouri: Ran’s father, a bumbling private detective often helped unknowingly by Conan.
What sets Conan apart from other mystery anime is its continuous plot intertwined with character development, allowing both casual viewers and die-hard fans to stay engaged.
3. How to Watch Detective Conan in English
English-Dubbed (FUNimation)
- Series Title: Case Closed
- Dubbed Episodes: 1–130, plus a few movies
- Platforms: Amazon Prime (in select regions), DVDs, and older streaming archives
English-Subtitled (Most Recommended)
- Platform: Crunchyroll (episodes vary over time)
- Languages: Japanese with English subtitles
Availability is region-dependent and often changes. Some fans use VPNs to access different catalogs, and many rely on fan-made episode lists to catch essential content. Subtitled episodes generally offer more faithful translations and better continuity.
4. Should You Start from Episode 1 or Jump into Recent Episodes?
You don’t have to watch all 1,000+ episodes to enjoy Detective Conan. Many fans use one of the following two approaches:
Option 1: Follow the Main Plot Arcs
To experience the heart of the story, watch the “Black Organization” episodes, major character revelations, and two-part specials. Guides online can point out which episodes are key.
Option 2: Start with Stand-Alone Fan Favorites
Try these beginner-friendly episodes:
- Episode 6: “The Valentine Murder Case” – a classic emotional mystery
- Episode 118: “The Naniwa Serial Murder Case” – introduces fan-favorite Heiji Hattori
- Episode 345: “Head-to-Head Match with the Black Organization” – high-stakes drama
This hybrid method gives you the excitement of the long-term plot and the satisfaction of quick standalone stories.
5. Common Themes and Why People Love the Series
Beneath the crime-solving lies emotional and philosophical depth:
- Dual Identity: Conan constantly navigates life as a child while holding onto adult responsibilities and memories.
- Character Growth: We watch friendships evolve, rivalries build, and romantic feelings deepen—especially between Shinichi and Ran.
- Ethical Dilemmas: The series explores justice, guilt, redemption, and consequences of crime.
6. Where to Go Next: Join the Conan Community
Once you’re hooked, there’s a huge international fanbase to explore!
Top Online Communities
- Reddit (r/DetectiveConan) – episode discussions, memes, and theories
- Discord servers – live rewatch groups, fan subs, and event watch parties
- Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram – daily fan art, cosplay, and commentary
- Detective Conan Wiki – extensive case archives and character profiles
Many fans also contribute to translations, fan fiction, AMVs (anime music videos), and cosplay—making the Conan fandom a creative hub in its own right.
Conclusion: Start Your Detective Conan Journey Today
It’s never too late to get into Detective Conan. Whether you’re watching casually or diving into the long-term plot, the world of Conan Edogawa is welcoming, addictive, and filled with unforgettable stories. Choose your path, press play, and enjoy the ride.
Who knows—you might become the next great detective yourself.
