If you calculate the entertainment cost per hour, watching anime is actually much cheaper than going to the movies. $220 for dozens of anime series vs. $100 for a single movie.
The one I almost missed is Haikyuu!!. I thought it was a typical sports anime, but it turned out to be one of the best works in recent years.
What I remember most is the year JUMP announced that "all series are ending." The fans' reactions were hilarious.
I only watch shonen anime, so about 3-5 series per season. 6-8 hours a week, relaxing and satisfying.
Everyone who has heard Linked Horizon's "Guren no Yumiya" live says it's so powerful it gives them goosebumps.
Honestly... I do skip sometimes. Especially with webtoons that have a lot of nonsense dialogue. But for classic works, I definitely read every single word.
Attack on Titan's layer-by-layer reveal is indeed a masterclass in world-building presentation.
I only watch shonen anime, so I don't have this problem😂 But I understand the OP's concern. Quality is indeed more important than quantity.
Kirito × Asuna as the most classic couple in light novel adaptations, their romance is much better than most harem works.
The talent gap is indeed a major problem. Many newcomers change careers after just two or three years because they cannot support themselves.