Hmm you dislike the darker style, I guess F/Z is not your type then, just went with a recommendation that is more popular to the western audience.
Some typical series that might pique your interest. These are merely series that is typically liked by the general public and considered decent gateway anime, that seems match your interest. Take what you will.
Accel World - Placed in the future of SAO where technology advances a lot more. Where VR games got to the point where the time in the world equates to mere seconds of the real world.
Cons - MC is not very likeable, personality and character design wise.
http://myanimelist.net/anime/11759/Accel_World
Chuunibyou - More romance, no adventure, kinda fantasy like. Takes place in highschool and focuses on the main character for is trying to get past his super nerdy past, otherwise known as the eighth grade syndrome, where a peron acts like a character from an anime all the time. He then gains a new neighbor who is currently going through that phase and is reminding himself of his shameful past. Cons, kinda? - less action more comedy and the characters acting cute to be cute, mainly based on your taste.
http://myanimelist.net/anime/14741/C..._Koi_ga_****ai
Gate - More focus on the fantasy and action portion, but have a decent amount of romance. Modern Tokyo Japan had a random appearance of a gate that lead to another fantasy world. As they fight off the invasion, the Japanese military then sets out a mission to enter the other side of the gate and establish control in the otherworld. Focuses on an military ace who is known as an Otaku or anime geek and values his hobby over work anytime. Cons - Slower beginning, a bit darker the further you get, has some to do with politics and the military(based on taste too).
http://myanimelist.net/anime/28907/G...Kaku_Tatakaeri
Devil is a Part Timer - opposite to gate where the demon lord comes to modern Japan. More comedy and romance. Quite a funny comedy that focuses on the Demon Lord who became a human trying to co-exist in Japan working part time for McDonalds. Con - Comedy may differ to each person.
http://myanimelist.net/anime/15809/Hataraku_Maou-sama
Gurren Lagann - In the vast future where humans were forced to live underground as the outside have grown into horrible condition. Focuses on two character that was done with the sheltered life and wants to aim to the top. As they reach the top they found out that there is a large scale battle between humans and the wildlife using giant mechs. Cons - a large amount of Deus ex Machines. A wish maker type series that should not be taking series, just enjoy the ride.
http://myanimelist.net/anime/2001/Te..._Gurren_Lagann
Seven Deadly Sins - A fantasy world where holy knights protects the empire, however there is rumored corruption in the kingdom and the leader of the seven deadly sins, known to be the strongest group is out to find the rest of his members that had separated after their exile from the kingdom. Cons- uh, if you don't like the standard adventure style and OP characters, you won't like this I guess.
http://myanimelist.net/anime/23755/Nanatsu_no_Taizai