2025 stands out as a landmark year in the anime world, blending the return of beloved franchises with bold new stories that push the medium’s boundaries.
From high-octane action and supernatural horror to heartwarming romance and clever comedy, this year’s anime lineup is as diverse as it is impressive.
Whether you’re a long-time otaku or a newcomer looking for a gateway series, our curated list of the top 10 anime 2025 will help you discover the most essential shows—complete with detailed summaries, streaming platforms, and reasons to add each to your watchlist.
1. Solo Leveling Season 2
Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Airing Time: January 4, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Summary: Following the explosive events of the Shadow Monarch arc, Sung Jinwoo’s saga continues as he faces new global S-Rank hunters and uncovers deeper mysteries behind the gates threatening humanity. A-1 Pictures returns with even more breathtaking animation, delivering fluid battle sequences and emotionally charged moments as Jinwoo grapples with the burden of his unparalleled power.
Why Watch: If you crave relentless action, dark fantasy, and a compelling underdog-to-hero story, Solo Leveling Season 2 is 2025’s must-watch series. Its world-building and character depth set a new standard for the genre.
2. My Dress-Up Darling Season 2
Platform: Crunchyroll
Airing Time: July 5, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life
Summary: Marin and Gojo’s cosplay adventures return, diving deeper into the creative process and the emotional nuances of their growing relationship. CloverWorks’ meticulous animation brings each costume and heartfelt moment to life, exploring new cosplay challenges and the evolving bond between the leads.
Why Watch: A celebration of creativity and self-discovery, this season is perfect for fans of heartfelt romance, slice-of-life storytelling, and stunning visual detail.
3. Dan Da Dan Season 2
Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu
Airing Time: July 3, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
Summary: Okarun and Momo’s wild exploits continue, blending alien encounters, ghostly battles, and offbeat humor. Science SARU’s experimental animation style enhances the unpredictability, making each episode a visually and narratively surprising experience.
Why Watch: For those seeking fresh storytelling and boundary-pushing animation, Dan Da Dan is a genre-defying ride you won’t forget.
4. Gachiakuta
Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Airing Time: July 6, 2025 – December 14, 2025 (24 episodes, uninterrupted)Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy, Drama
Summary: Rudo, falsely accused and exiled to “The Pit,” must survive a world of monstrous refuse and social outcasts. Bones Film’s gritty animation and inventive world-building highlight themes of environmental decay, redemption, and the fight for survival.
Why Watch: A dark, thought-provoking series with inventive action and a unique dystopian setting.
5. The Summer Hikaru Died
Platform: Netflix
Airing Time: July 5, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Supernatural
Summary: Yoshiki’s best friend Hikaru is replaced by an otherworldly being, sparking a chilling tale of grief, identity, and acceptance. CygamesPictures’ adaptation is lauded for its atmospheric tension and emotional storytelling, making it one of the year’s most psychologically rich anime.
Why Watch: Ideal for fans of psychological horror and character-driven narratives that linger long after the credits roll.
6. Kaiju No. 8 Season 2
Platform: Crunchyroll
Airing Time: July 19, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Military
Summary: Kafka Hibino faces new kaiju threats and personal dilemmas as his dual identity is tested. Production I.G. delivers jaw-dropping monster battles and military intrigue, expanding the sci-fi world and deepening character arcs.
Why Watch: For spectacular kaiju action and nuanced character drama in a militarized sci-fi setting.
7. My Hero Academia Season 8 (Final Season)
Platform: Crunchyroll
Airing Time: October 4, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Action, Superhero, Shonen
Summary: The “Final War” arc brings Deku’s journey to its epic conclusion, with heroes and villains clashing for the fate of society. Studio Bones delivers the culmination of years of world-building and character growth in this generation-defining shonen.
Why Watch: The end of an era—unmissable for long-time fans and newcomers alike.
8. One Punch Man Season 3
Platform: Crunchyroll
Airing Time: October 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Action, Comedy, Superhero
Summary: Saitama returns after a long hiatus for the Monster Association arc, with J.C. Staff tackling large-scale battles and satirical hero antics. This season promises to explore deeper aspects of Saitama’s character while delivering the signature blend of action and comedy.
Why Watch: For a clever deconstruction of superhero tropes and some of the best action-comedy in anime.
9. Spy x Family Season 3
Platform: Crunchyroll
Airing Time: October 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Action, Comedy, Family
Summary: The Forger family’s secret-laden antics continue with more espionage, school shenanigans, and heartwarming moments. Wit Studio and CloverWorks maintain top-tier animation and storytelling, making each episode a joy for fans of all ages.
Why Watch: A perfect blend of family comedy, spy action, and heartwarming moments.
10. The Apothecary Diaries Season 2
Platform: Crunchyroll
Airing Time: January 10, 2025 – Ongoing
Genre: Historical, Mystery, Drama
Summary: Maomao returns to navigate palace politics and solve intricate mysteries using her herbal knowledge. The series stands out for its intellectual intrigue and immersive historical detail, with beautifully realized settings and smart storytelling.
Why Watch: For those who love smart heroines, palace intrigue, and beautifully realized historical settings.
Honorable Mentions: More Anime to Watch in 2025
Takopi’s Original Sin: A unique blend of sci-fi, tragedy, and hope, exploring childhood trauma and redemption.
Sakamoto Days: Retired assassin turned convenience store owner battles his past in this action-comedy hit.
Tougen Anki: Action-packed supernatural drama with inventive combat.
Bullet, The Water Magician, Clevatess: Innovative storytelling and experimental visuals for those seeking something new.
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