14 Best Anime of 2025

We are already approaching the halfway point of the 2020s, when anime as a form of content has become even more widespread all over the world. Then, what kind of lineup of anime series awaits us in 2025, right in the middle of such an era?

Anime fans around the world can rest assured this year as well. That’s because, in addition to new seasons of hugely popular series, we can expect adaptation of beloved manga and light novels and even completely original anime. Many of these works will be produced by skilled anime studios and their talented staff. In Japan, they will be broadcast on TV, while globally, they will be distributed through major video platforms.

So, which anime titles should we pay attention to? In this article, I will introduce masterpieces that are expected to be called the best anime of 2025. Along with that, I will also provide background information such as the number of episodes and the production studio so that even newcomers to anime will understand how to enjoy these later anime series.

Additionally, at the bottom of the article, I will also introduce this year’s “worst anime.” However, I want to make it clear that the intention is not to blindly criticize these works. The “worst anime” mentioned here includes titles that failed to meet extremely high expectations or attempted something meaningful but couldn’t quite succeed, for example. In other words, these are still anime worth discussing.

▶ For those who want to experience the essence of anime throughout history, check out this 30 Best Anime of All Time list!

Selection Criteria for the Best Anime of 2025

The anime scene in 2025 is more highly anticipated than ever. When selecting the Best Anime of 2025, it’s not just about popularity; overall quality and originality also play a crucial role. I focus on titles that excel in one or more of these criteria, and naturally, only anime scheduled for release in 2025 are considered. Even for anime that have not yet aired, they have been included in this Best Anime of 2025 list based on factors such as anticipation, the track record of the production studio, and the reputation of the original work. Below, I’ve divided the main criteria for choosing these standout titles into four key categories.

1. Popularity & Anticipation

How much buzz a series generates among anime fans, or how much attention it garners even before its release, is a vital factor in determining the best anime of 2025. In practical terms, the number of views on official trailers and the level of engagement on social media platforms, and the extent of promotional campaigns both in Japan and worldwide serve as important indicators. Furthermore, if the anime is adapted from a well-known source material such as a manga, light novel, or video game, there is often already an established fan community, leading to higher anticipation.

2. Studio & Staff

The track record of the studio handling the animation is a major clue when it comes to gauging the overall quality of a series. Studios like Mappa, Ufotable and Kyoto Animation are renowned for their high-quality visuals and distinctive direction, having produced numerous hit titles over the years.

Additionally, the background and skills of the director and scriptwriter should not be overlooked. When a team that has a history of creating successful works comes together, viewers can expect a high level of storytelling and animation, directly impacting the final quality of the anime.

3. Story

A series that delivers both a compelling narrative and a sense of novelty leaves a strong impression. A well-crafted storyline that draws viewers in, as well as innovative settings not found in other anime, are significant factors in capturing the hearts of fans. Additionally, moments of natural humor that genuinely make you laugh and heart-wrenching sadness that pierces the soul can intensify the emotional impact, further immersing audiences in the story. Moreover, whether the characters have depth and undergo development throughout the story is also crucial in determining whether viewers can truly connect with the work.

4. Genre Representation

When compiling a list of must-watch anime for 2025, it’s important to consider a variety of genres. From action and fantasy to romance and science fiction, offering a lineup that appeals to a wide range of viewers is key. Recently, anime has been offering fresh experiences by combining genres that have rarely intersected before, pushing the boundaries of what the medium can achieve. If the quality of the series is high, it might even encourage people who typically stick to a specific genre to explore something new.

List of the Best Anime Series of 2025

By carefully evaluating these four criteria above (Popularity & Anticipation, Studio & Staff, Story and Genre Representation), you can uncover the anime that truly deserves your attention in 2025. By taking into account the work’s overall production quality, fan support, the strength of its production team, and the depth of its narrative, you’re sure to discover a series that becomes your personal favorite.

Don’t forget to keep these points in mind so you won’t miss out on the Best Anime of 2025!

Best Anime of Winter 2025 (Jan-Mar)

1. Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World (Season 3)

Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World (Re:ゼロから始める異世界生活), which is the most famous and popular Isekai anime series among both anime beginners and lovers, has released its third and newest season since October last year. After the first season broadcast in 2016 and the second in 2020 and 2021, the third season of Re:Zero consists of two parts: 8 episodes as the Attack Arc in Autumn 2024 and another 8 episodes as the Counterattack Arc in Winter 2025. White Fox is responsible for the animation production throughout the entire season.

The latest part airing from February 2025 focuses on the epic battle between the Subaru side and the side of four Sin Archbishops of the Witch Cult. The candidates and their allies are competing within the grand framework of the Royal Selection. At the same time, they must join forces to fight against an external enemy, the Sin Archbishops of the Witch Cult. This dual structure makes the anime even more thrilling for viewers. If you have not watches the Re:Zero past episodes ever, 2025 is not too late for you to bear witness to this great series.

Season: Autumn of 2024 / Winter of 2025

2. Sakamoto Days

Blending comedy, action, and slice-of-life elements, Sakamoto Days follows Taro Sakamoto, a former legendary hitman who retires to run a convenience store at peace with his wife and kid. At the same time, he finds himself constantly pulled back into his old life. With a unique no-kill rule and an arsenal of clever tactics, Sakamoto fends off assassins while maintaining his peaceful life. The manga’s fast-paced action and humor with various cool characters have made it a fan-favorite.

Many fans initially believed that the true star of the Winter 2025 anime season would be Sakamoto Days, and to be fair, it is an entertaining anime. However, given the popularity of the original manga, it wouldn’t have been surprising if it had completely dominated this season. That being said, the general impression so far is that it remains in the realm of “a well-made anime” rather than standing out as an absolute hit. With major manga like My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen coming to an end, Sakamoto Days has taken on the role of representing Weekly Shonen Jump.

Of course, only the introductory episodes have aired so far, so there’s still plenty of room for its reputation to grow depending on how the adaptation unfolds. Let’s look forward to seeing how it develops. And don’t get the wrong idea: this is undoubtedly one of the must-watch anime of the year.

Another half of the first season of Sakamoto Days is set to air from July 2025.

Season: Winter of 2025 / Summer of 2025

3. The Apothecary Diaries (Season 2)

In an era where anime categories have become more clearly defined, The Apothecary Diaries (薬屋のひとりごと) stands out as a somewhat unique presence. It is not just a mystery, nor just a comedy, romance, or historical drama—it is a fusion of all these elements. The first season of The Apothecary Diaries launched with 24 episodes in 2023 and 2024, adapted from Natsu Hyuga’s light novel series. And, the second season came back in the beginning of 2025.

Maomao’s sharp analysis of various incidents and power struggles, often involving mysterious deaths within the imperial harem, remains unchanged from the first season, almost as if she were a detective. Another key highlight of the new arc is the evolving relationship and shifting distance between her and Jinshi, the eunuch who serves as the other main character.

Additionally, the story casts a spotlight on foreign relations with this Chinese country and introduce new supporting characters, promising plenty of intriguing developments ahead. With its compelling contrast between serious cases and peaceful, comedic everyday moments, this anime is definitely worth keeping an eye on this year.

Season: Winter of 2025

4. Dr. Stone: Science Future (Season 4)

The finest science-fantasy anime that transcends 3,700 years, which first began in 2019, has finally entered its final chapter. Titled Dr. Stone: Science Future, the fourth season started airing in January 2025. It has also been confirmed that this final season will be divided into multiple cours. Originally concluding the run of its manga series in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2022, Dr. Stone is now on the verge of having all 27 volumes adapted into anime by TMS Entertainment.

While Dr. Stone is driven by rational science, it carries a sense of wonder that almost feels like fantasy. In the Stone World, Senku and his allies have embarked on an ambitious project to build a spaceship from scratch. However, an enemy awaits at the end of their great voyage, where every achievement from their long journey will be put to the test. It has harnesses the power of science, which had once been Senku’s greatest advantage in this era.

Season: Winter of 2025

5. Medalist

There are some successful anime that has a theme of figure skating, and Medalist (メダリスト) has the potential to be the most highly acclaimed in its genre, just like Yuri on Ice. Adapted from Tsurumaikada’s manga series published since 2020, it seems that this anime production by the studio ENGI has been warmly received among fans.

Medalist tells a story about how the dream of becoming a top figure skater can be realized, or whether it’s even possible at all. Moreover, the presence of parents and coaches, who may struggle just as much, if not more, than the skater themselves, enhances the realism of this anime.

Season: Winter of 2025

6. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth (チ。-地球の運動について-) is one of the best anime airing in 2025, whose first half actually began in end of 2024. In recent years, its original manga by Uoto has rapidly gained attention, and this particular work has been one of the most highly anticipated adaptations since then. Now that the anime has begun, the very first episode has already demonstrated a world of remarkable depth, fully meeting those high expectations.

Madhouse adapted the story up to volume 8 of the manga and condensed it into a single 25-episode season, which is a great decision. This structure ensures that even anime beginners will find it easy to follow.

Set in an era when the geocentric theory was endorsed by the Church, a highly intelligent boy named Rafal has a passion for astronomy. However, his surroundings expect him to study theology instead. Everything changes when he meets Hubert, a man branded a heretic, and learns that he is determined to prove the heliocentrism, which is being strictly forbidden. Their pursuit of a truth punishable by death shows a powerful aesthetic of intellectual defiance. This anime possesses a one-of-a-kind-uniqueness unlike anything seen before.

Season: Autumn of 2024 / Winter of 2025

7. Blue Box

Though it is not purely an anime that began in 2025, Blue Box (アオのハコ) is one of the best features in the firs period this year, airing as the second cour following the first part that started in the last autumn. It is the romantic-comedy anime adaptation based on the popular manga serialized on Weekly Shonen Jump, which has brought to the world with unusual quality by Telecom Animation Film. It is also well known among manga fans that the original comic book is created by female mangaka Kouji Miura.

Blue Box mainly depicts high school students’ love life and club activities, and the love triangle between these three is interesting: Taiki, Chinatsu and Hina. There are certainly inner conflicts within each character, but there is no ugliness at all, which is what makes it so impressive. By the way, the surnames of these three characters represent “Ino Shika Cho” (Boar, Deer and Butterfly), a traditional card combination in the Japanese game Hanafuda. This trio is often associated with balance and harmony, but when applied to human relationships, it can also symbolize a delicate and sometimes unstable triangular dynamic.

Season: Autumn of 2024 / Winter of 2025

Best Anime of Spring 2025 (April-June)

8. Lycoris Recoil: Friends are thieves of time. (Short Movies)

Lycoris Recoil aired in 2022 as a completely original anime series with no source material, and quickly became known as one of the best anime of the year. Since then, a new project has been officially announced, and while fans await its release, a short series titled Lycoris Recoil: Friends are thieves of time. (『リコリス・リコイル』Friends are thieves of time.) will be released as a prelude. The series will consist of six episodes and will be available on streaming platforms starting April 16, 2025.

According to the announcement, the story will depict small everyday moments at Café LycoReco, so we likely won’t see intense action scenes or major developments in the main storyline. That said, for fans, it’s precisely the daily lives of Chisato and Takina that are the most enjoyable to watch.

For those who haven’t seen the original yet, the main series is only 13 episodes long—making it an easy and highly recommended entry point even for anime newcomers. As a personal prediction, the next major installment continuing the main storyline feels more likely to come in the form of a feature-length anime film rather than another TV series. Either way, we’ll be keeping a close eye on future developments in the Lycoris Recoil project.

Season: Spring of 2025

Best Anime of Summer 2025 (July-September)

9. Dandadan (Season 2)

Dandadan (ダンダダン) is originally a manga by Yukinobu Tatsu that has been serialized on Shoen Jump+, the most dynamic online manga platform today (which is known as Manga Plus globally), since 2021. In the autumn 2025 season, the first season of the Dandadan anime adaptation was released by Science Saru, becoming of the most memorable anime of the year for fans worldwide. The animation quality was so exceptional that the series could be praised as entertaining purely from a visual standpoint.

Dandadan has a simple plot: following high school students Okarun and Momo as they face supernatural beings like aliens and ghosts. However, the hottest anime series delivers emotionally impactful episodes alongside its stunning animation quality.

Immediately after the final episode of the first season (Episode 12), it was announced that a second season was in production, set to air in July 2025. In the latter half of the first season, Momo’s childhood friend Jiji joined the cast. When Momo and Okarun visit his house, a new threat awaits them. The story hints at even stronger enemies ahead, promising even more intense and action-packed scenes.

Season: Summer of 2025

10. City the Animation

Fans of the beloved slice-of-life comedy Nichijou, the wait is finally over! City the Animation, the highly anticipated series associated with it, is set to air starting July 2025. If the trailer instantly reminded you of the 2011 anime series Nichijou, you’re not alone. That’s because City the Animation is based on CITY, a manga created by Keiichi Arawi, the same manga artist behind Nichijou. And just like Nichijou, the animation is being produced by Kyoto Animation. There’s no way this won’t be amazing.

CITY the Animation follows the chaotic daily lives of three quirky university students: Midori, a broke and lazy ex-athlete; Niikura, a sharp-witted photography student and Midori’s unlikely best friend; and Wako, an eccentric genius with a love for routines and odd hobbies. Living in the same rundown apartment building, the trio tumbles through bizarre encounters and unpredictable adventures in the city. Backed by Kyoto Animation, the series promises fast-paced comedy, surreal charm, and heartfelt moments woven into everyday absurdity.

Season: Summer of 2025

11. Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus (Season 2)

Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus (青春ブタ野郎はサンタクロースの夢を見ない) is the latest anime installment in the Rascal Does Not Dream series, which began in 2018 with Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai. Adapted from an overwhelmingly popular light novel series, the story is finally entering its final stages. While Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus is considered the second season of the anime series, it continues the story after the following anime films, which followed the first season in 2018: Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl (2019), Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out (2023) and Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid (2023).

The title comes from volume 13 of the original light novel, and it is expected that this anime will cover volumes 10 through 13. Since the entire story of the light novel series concludes with volume 15, there’s a possibility that the remaining two volumes (14 and 15) will follow the same pattern and be adapted into anime films. Although the title brings winter to mind, the series is scheduled to air in the summer, starting in July.

Sakuta Azusagawa, now a university student, continues to face strange “Adolescence Syndrome” cases—mysterious phenomena tied to unstable emotions. Alongside his girlfriend, the famous actress Mai Sakurajima, he starts a new life at a university in Kanazawa-Hakkei. One day, he encounters a mini-skirted Santa girl on campus—someone only he can see. She introduces herself as Touko Kirishima and claims to be “delivering Adolescence Syndrome.” As unsettling incidents unfold—prophetic dreams trending on social media, a mysterious net singer, and poltergeists—Sakuta is drawn once again into a world where emotional struggles become supernatural mysteries. Adolescence isn’t over yet.

Season: Summer of 2025

Best Anime of Autumn 2025 (October-December)

12. Spy × Family (Season 3)

A defining action-comedy anime of the 2020s, Spy × Family, is returning with the third season in October 2025. Tatsuya Endo’s manga, which has been enjoying strong serialization since 2019, was first adapted into a 25-episode anime in 2022. The following year, the second season aired, followed by the anime movie Spy × Family Code: White. As expected, the upcoming third season will once again be produced through the collaboration of Wit Studio and CloverWorks.

The story continues to revolve around the fake family created by the spy Loid including Anya and Yor. While the overarching mission to prevent international conflict looms in the background, the series focuses on their daily through a more intimate lens. At the heart of the story are the school-related troubles Anya faces, which the spy Loid and the assassin Yor solve using their extraordinary skills. That results in both thrilling and hilarious moments. While Spy × Family may not be a grand epic that will go down in anime history, it can be looked on as the perfect gateway anime for newcomers.

Season: Autumn of 2025

13. My Hero Academia Final Season (Season 8)

At last, My Hero Academia, the world’s most beloved action-hero anime, is coming to its conclusion with its eighth season in the autumn of 2025. While the manga series already ended in 2024, the anime has been running since its first season premiered in 2016, reaching a total of 159 episodes by the seventh season in 2024.

What began as the story of an unremarkable boy Deku growing into a hero has evolved into a tale filled with lots of cool and cute heroes and a diverse array of villains surrounding him. Season 7 focused on each hero facing their own battles against their rivals, and of course, the clashes between Deku and Tomura Shigaraki, as well as All Might versus All For One, have only just began. In the eighth and final installment Final Season, these battles will finally reach their conclusion.

Both the manga and anime have followed these heroes’ journeys for nearly a decade. Be sure to witness their story through to the very end with its production partner Bones.

Season: Autumn of 2025

14. One-Punch Man (Season 3)

If this anime is released as scheduled this year, it will undoubtedly be one of the best anime of 2025. Since its first season aired in 2015 and its second season followed in 2019, One-Punch Man (ワンパンマン) Season 3 has been one of the most highly anticipated sequels worldwide. As of 2025, the original manga series has already reached 33 volumes and continued progressing smoothly, yet fans had been left waiting for the anime’s return. Finally, the series is making a comeback, once again produced by J.C.Staff, the same studio behind Season 2.

No matter how powerful the enemy, Saitama, a hero who has surpassed human limits through overwhelming effort, defeats them with a single punch. The anime masterfully blends that sheer strength with top-tier comedy. However, despite having an invincible protagonist, the series never feels dull, thanks to its diverse cast of standout heroes and villains.

In the third season, the focus remains on Garo, known as the Hero Hunter. Can a mere human like him attain the same absolute power as Saitama? That question will keep viewers eagerly watching.

Season: Autumn of 2025

▶︎For more details on One-Punch Man Season 3, please check here.

Worst Anime of 2025

Zenshu

It’s disappointing to have to name Zenshu (全修。) as one of the “worst” anime of 2025. That being said, it’s not the absolute worst anime out there. The reason it’s being mentioned here is that, despite sky-high expectations before its release, it ultimately failed to meet them. Back in March 2024, Mappa, the anime studio behind recent mega-hits like Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man, announced that they would be producing a completely original anime. Naturally, many anime fans were incredibly excited.

The title Zenshu refers to a term in the Japanese anime industry meaning “complete revision” or “all retakes.” Early teasers and promotional materials suggested that the anime would depict the world of anime production. Many people, including me, expected something in the vein of that kind of anime like Shirobako.

However, when Zenshu finally aired, it turned out to be yet another Isekai anime, lacking much originality. The animation and worldbuilding are well done, and there are certainly viewers who will enjoy it. But given the hype surrounding it, many had hoped for something more unique and innovative. I’ll say it again. Being labeled as a “worst” here simply means that it is an anime worth discussing.

Best Anime Movies of 2025

This article focuses solely on anime series, but many highly anticipated anime movies are also set to be released in 2025. In particular, there are numerous cases where sequels to anime series are being produced as movies. For example, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle and Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc are on the way. Additionally, the latest installment of the 2011 anime series Puella Magi Madoka Magica, titled Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie -Walpurgisnacht Rising-, is scheduled for release in the winter of 2025.

Be sure to check out the list of the best anime movies coming in 2025, too!

This article will be updated each season as new potential anime are released. Stay tuned for the latest developments in 2025 anime.

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If you are interested in the best anime in these past few years, check these articles below!

▶ 2o Best Anime of 2024 from Dandadan to Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc

▶ 23 Best Anime of 2023 from Oshi no Ko to Attack on Titan Season 4 Part 3

▶ 23 Best Anime of 2022 from Lycoris Recoil to Chainsaw Man

▶ 20 Best Anime of 2021 from Mushoku Tensei to 86