Best Anime of 2026: Must-Watch Titles From New Hits to Major Returning Series

The year 2026 is already proving to be a strong one for anime, with titles like Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3, and Oshi no Ko Season 3 setting a high bar from the very beginning. By highlighting the must-watch releases of 2026 and presenting them as a curated Best Anime list, this guide aims to help both beginners and intermediate viewers navigate what to watch this year. For advanced fans, comparing your own impressions with the evaluations in this article may also offer deeper insights.

Below is our independently curated list of the Best Anime from 2020 through 2026. Which titles will earn their place this year?

*This article is written with care to avoid including any major spoilers from the newest episodes as much as possible.

Separately, we have been updating the Most Anticipated Anime of 2026 article since last year, but this Best Anime of 2026 list incorporates impressions after actually watching each title. The goal is to refine the list into a more accurate and reliable watch guide.

What Kind of Year Was 2025 for Anime?

2025 delivered strong results, with many highly anticipated titles meeting expectations and several works setting the stage for major releases in 2026. Series such as Medalist, Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World, and Dr. Stone already have new seasons scheduled for this year.

Well-known titles also saw successful new installments, including: Dandadan Season 2, The Apothecary Diaries Season 2, Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus, and Spy × Family Season 3. My Hero Academia Final Season also marked the long-running franchise’s conclusion in anime form.

There were also comments from some viewers suggesting that certain globally anticipated titles, such as Lazarus (from the director of Cowboy Bebop) and One-Punch Man Season 3, may not have fully met expectations.

At the same time, several new titles were welcomed with surprise and excitement among anime fans. Takopi’s Original Sin, a short manga of about two volumes adapted into a six-episode anime, received strong acclaim. New series such as Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Blue Box, Food for the Soul, Apocalypse Hotel, and Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX also gained significant attention.

Anime movies saw major momentum as well, led by Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Part 1 Akaza Returns, Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, and Scarlet.

Outlook for Anime in 2026

It would not be an exaggeration to say that 2026 is shaping up to be an even more remarkable year for anime than 2025. To begin with, a wave of highly popular series will be returning with new seasons.

To mention just a few, viewers can look forward to new installments of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, Jujutsu Kaisen, Oshi no Ko, Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World, Bleach Thousand-Year Blood War, and Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation.

New anime adaptations of popular manga are also worth close attention. Titles include Akane-banashi, which blends the traditional Japanese art of rakugo with elements of Shonen Jump, the latest work from the Fullmetal Alchemist creator, Daemons of the Shadow Realm, and Steel Ball Run from the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure franchise.

Another recent trend is the rebirth of classic manga and previously adapted works through full reboots. In 2026, both Fist of the North Star and Ghost in the Shell will return in new forms.

With many more titles expected to be announced, 2026 is likely to become a standout year for anime fans, offering a rare lineup that should not be missed.

Could 2026 Be the Year of Netflix Anime?

For anime fans, 2026 is shaping up to be a year in which Netflix becomes one of the must-have streaming platforms. The reason is simple: several anime titles released exclusively or early on Netflix have already proven to be exceptionally strong in both quality and originality.

One early example is the anime film 100 Meters, which began worldwide streaming on Netflix at the end of December 2025. The original manga was created by Uoto, the same author behind Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, an anime series that has recently received high praise. Animated by Madhouse, 100 Meters uses the 100-meter sprint as its core theme, portraying a powerful coming-of-age drama that follows two boys into adulthood while confronting the harsh realities of the world.

Another standout is Cosmic Princess Kaguya!, which has been distributed by Netflix and has already made a strong impression since its release in January. As discussed in more detail in the Best Anime Movies of 2026 section below, this is a work that every anime fan should experience.

Starting in March, the latest entry in the t series, Steel Ball Run, will also be released as a Netflix-exclusive early stream. Designed to be accessible even for viewers new to JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, the story is set across North America and is likely to attract even broader global interest.

In addition, 20 Seiki Denki Mokuroku, which Kyoto Animation announced back in 2018 but was later delayed, is finally scheduled for exclusive release on Netflix starting in July. Set in early 20th-century Kyoto and centered on the rise of electrical technology, it promises to be a uniquely distinctive work.

Taken together, these titles strongly suggest that 2026 may well be remembered as a defining year for Netflix in the anime world.

Best Anime of 2026: The Definitive List

To make each anime accessible to all viewers, this article explains why each title is worth watching and which points to pay attention to. It also provides basic information about previous seasons and introduces the key creators behind each series.

1. Jujutsu Kaisen: The Culling Game Part 1 (Season 3)

Release: Winter 2026 (Jan–Mar)

What Are the Highlights This Season?

Jujutsu Kaisen: The Culling Game Part 1 (呪術廻戦 死滅回游 前編) is unquestionably one of the strongest contenders for the Best Anime of 2026. Even though the anime series is still ongoing, it has already earned high ratings and secured a place on our 30 Best Anime of All Time list.

Across all previous seasons, the story has centered on the sealing of the strongest sorcerer, Satoru Gojo. Season 3 finally enters The Culling Game. The overall animation quality and direction remain at the high level viewers expect. Especially, in recent years, staying faithful to the original manga has become the standard for a successful adaptation, yet this season includes noticeable cuts and anime-original interpretations. Episode 4: Perfect Preparation (Episode 51 in total) in particular sparked active debate among fans.

Considering the number of chapters in the manga, adapting the entire Culling Game arc would likely require around 30 episodes. Part 1 is expected to cover roughly half of that. When Part 2 will air is another key point to watch. Once it concludes, the anime will move into its final stage, with only the ultimate showdown, The Shinjuku Showdown arc, remaining.

Looking Back at Previous Seasons

Season 1 aired with 24 episodes from 2020 to 2021, followed by Season 2 with 23 episodes in 2023. If you still have not watched Jujutsu Kaisen, it is absolutely worth your time. With fewer than 50 episodes so far, it is still easy to catch up.

Who Are the Creators?

The series continues to be produced by Mappa, with Shota Goshozono returning as director after Season 2. He received the Best Director award at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024.

2. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2

Release: Winter 2026 (Jan–Mar)

What Are the Highlights This Season?

Following its globally acclaimed first season, the second season of the fantasy adventure Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (葬送のフリーレン) is once again positioned as one of the strongest contenders for the best anime of 2026, even of the 2020s.

Season 1 covered Frieren’s encounters with Fern and Stark and continued through the First-Class Mage Exam Arc. Season 2 begins with the Continued Northern Travels Arc, intertwining Frieren’s current journey with her party and the memories of her past travels with Himmel and his companions.

The emotional journey that Frieren continues to follow, combined with breathtaking landscapes and a score composed by Evan Call, will likely earn this season continued praise as a quiet and beautifully crafted anime.

When Did the Previous Season Air?

Season 1 aired as a continuous two-cour series from 2023 to 2024, totaling 28 episodes. This time, the season is scheduled for a single cour, so it will most likely consist of around 12 episodes.

Who Are the Creators?

The production studio remains Madhouse, but the director has changed from Keiichiro Saito to Tomoya Kitagawa. The main staff in charge of character design has also been updated, yet the series continues to maintain its high level of quality across seasons.

3. Oshi no Ko Season 3

Release: Winter 2026 (Jan–Mar)

What Are the Highlights This Season?

Oshi no Ko (【推しの子】) is a suspense-driven series that also explores a wide range of contemporary entertainment themes, including idols, romance reality shows, and 2.5D stage productions. It is one of the rare titles that consistently lives up to its high expectations and often exceeds them. Season 3 continues this trend, delivering exceptional quality. Beyond the impressive OP and ED animation, the subtle character motions in key dramatic scenes are remarkably smooth and expressive.

Although Aqua’s storyline reached a temporary pause in Season 2, the series maintains its impressive spiral of revealing answers while introducing new mysteries. In Season 3, Ruby learns the truth about Goro, setting the stage for her own path of revenge. With Aqua and Akane’s relationship progressing, the season also places greater focus on the tragic arc of Kana Arima.

With the original manga consisting of 16 volumes, Season 3 effectively marks the beginning of the second half of the story. The larger schemes leading toward the climax begin to unfold.

Looking Back at Previous Seasons

Season 1 aired with 11 episodes in 2023, followed by Season 2 with 13 episodes in 2024. Since both seasons were single-cour series, Season 3 will most likely follow the same format with around 11 to 13 episodes. Given the pacing of the original story, it is highly likely that the anime will reach its conclusion with a future Season 4.

Who Are the Creators?

Season 3 is once again produced by Doga Kobo, the studio behind the series from the very beginning, with Daisuke Hiramaki continuing his role as director. It is clear that the season inherits the exceptional animation quality established in previous installments.

4. Medalist Season 2

Release: Winter 2026 (Jan–Mar)

What Are the Highlights This Season?

Medalist (メダリスト), which made a strong impact as a new anime last year, returns quickly with its second season in 2026. Despite focusing on figure skating, a theme not often spotlighted in mainstream anime, many viewers connected deeply with Inori, as well as with her coach, Tsukasa. The series resonates because it presents a universally relatable story of personal growth and perseverance.

The delicate movements of figure skating are beautifully adapted into animation, but the true highlight lies in the human drama surrounding the young skaters and the adults who guide them. In Season 2, Inori takes on a new challenge as she advances to the Novice Class, where she must compete against skaters who have been training rigorously since childhood.

It has also been announced that the story will continue with a theatrical film set for release in 2027.

When Did the Previous Season Air?

Season 1 aired with 13 episodes in early 2025. This Season 2 is distributed exclusively on Disney Plus, which may cause some hesitation among general anime viewers who prefer broader platform access. Hopefully, this exclusive release will not become an obstacle for such an excellent series.

Who Are the Creators?

The production studio remains Engi, as in Season 1, with Yasutaka Yamamoto returning as director. The script is again handled by Jukki Hanada, forming a stable creative team that promises another season filled with emotionally compelling storytelling.

5. Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku

Release: Winter 2026 (Jan–Mar)

What Are the Highlights This Season?

Whether Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku (地獄楽) Season 2 should be counted among the best anime of the year may vary by viewer, but we consider it worthy of being included.

With the number of survivors on the island dwindling, the story places a stronger focus on the core characters, including the duo of Gabimaru and Sagiri, as well as Yuzuriha, Aza Chobei, and a few others. Their expanded backstories and the shifts in their relationships add meaningful depth to the narrative. Above all, the battles against the Tensen, the most formidable enemy characters in the series, continue to escalate in intensity.

When Did the Previous Season Air?

The first season aired with 13 episodes in 2023, and the current season is expected to follow a similar episode count. Considering the volume of the original manga, it is likely that the anime will conclude with a third season.

Who Are the Creators?

As with Season 1, the series is produced by Mappa, one of the most prominent studios today. Even while working on Jujutsu Kaisen: The Culling Game Part 1 during the same season, the studio has maintained high quality on both titles without any noticeable compromise, which is commendable.

6. Journal with Witch

Release: Winter 2026 (Jan–Mar)

What Are the Highlights of This Series?

We would like to include one drama-focused title with a distinctly different tone in this Best Anime of 2026 list, and Journal with Witch (違国日記) is a series that truly deserves wider global attention. It offers a quiet, intimate look at everyday life, centering on two relatives of different ages and personalities as they gradually learn to live together.

The story is as follows: After the sudden death of her older sister and brother-in-law, novelist Makio Takadai becomes the guardian of their daughter, Asa. Makio is awkward and uncomfortable around others, while Asa is a middle school girl who tends to read the room too much. With different values and completely different rhythms to their daily lives, the two slowly begin to bridge the distance between them under the same roof. As they grow closer, each learns to confront their own pain and vulnerabilities. It is a gentle coming-of-age story that quietly explores family, blood ties, and the difficulties of finding one’s place in the world.

About the Original Work

This anime is based on the manga by Tomoko Yamashita. The series was serialized in the women’s manga magazine Feel Young from 2017 to 2023 and consists of 11 volumes in total. It was also adapted into a live-action film in 2024.

Who Are the Creators?

The anime is produced by Shuka, a studio known for its work on parts of the Durarara series and the Natsume’s Book of Friends series. The music, which plays an especially important role given the nature of the story, is composed by Kensuke Ushio, whose notable works include A Silent Voice, Chainsaw Man, Dandadan, and Orb: On the Movements of the Earth.

Other Strong Contenders for the Best Anime of 2026

This list includes titles that have not yet been released or whose evaluations are still taking shape, but that hold clear potential to become candidates for the Best Anime of 2026. In other words, these series are also must-watch titles for the year. Feel free to use this list as a reference for the months ahead.

Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World Season 4

Release: Spring 2026 (Apr–Jun)

Why Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World Season 4 Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

Season 3 of Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World (Re:ゼロから始める異世界生活) was released just last year, bringing the story to an exciting new stage. Season 4 may finally reveal whether Rem, one of the series’ most beloved heroines, will be able to wake up, a question long anticipated by fans. With its powerful character-driven storytelling and enduring appeal, this hallmark of isekai anime is simply impossible to overlook.

Akane-banashi

Release: Spring 2026 (Apr–Jun)

Why Akane-banashi Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

Akane-banashi (あかね噺) is a new anime adaptation of the popular Shonen Jump manga that has been serialized since 2022. While the series centers on rakugo, a traditional Japanese performing art centered on spoken storytelling, it also incorporates the spirit of a classic action series as the characters face one challenge after another.

Depending on the quality of the adaptation, it has more than enough potential to become one of the biggest anime series of 2026. Do not be put off by the niche theme — give it a try and see for yourself just how compelling it can be.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run

Release: Spring 2026 (From March)

Why JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

The seventh part of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Steel Ball Run, will be released as Season 6 of the anime series, streaming exclusively worldwide on Netflix starting March, 2026. Don’t be put off by the “Season 6” label, this installment tells a completely new story that is easy to enjoy even for first-time JoJo viewers.

The premise is bold yet simple: a horseback race across the North American continent. As with previous seasons, the anime is produced by David Production, a studio with a proven track record, making this adaptation highly trustworthy.

Dr. Stone: Science Future Part 3

Release: Spring 2026 (Apr–Jun)

Why Dr. Stone: Science Future Part 3 Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

The popular sci-fi adventure series Dr. Stone, which began its anime adaptation in 2019, finally reaches its conclusion this year. Part 3 of Dr. Stone: Science Future, the fourth and final season structured as a three-cour release, will begin airing in April.

With a constantly engaging, momentum-driven story and a total episode count that remains under 100 across the entire series, Dr. Stone is also highly recommended for anyone looking to binge a complete anime from start to finish.

Daemons of the Shadow Realm

Release: Spring & Summer 2026 (Apr–Sep)

Why Daemons of the Shadow Realm Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

Daemons of the Shadow Realm (黄泉のツガイ) is one of the most anticipated new anime adaptations in 2026, based on a fantasy adventure manga that began serialization in 2021. Much of the excitement comes from the strength of the original work itself. The manga is written by Hiromu Arakawa, the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist, and the anime adaptation is being produced by Bones Film, a studio born from the same legacy that brought that legendary dark-fantasy series to life. Since a continuous two-cour broadcast has been confirmed, around 24 episodes are expected to air consecutively from April through September.

For anyone looking for a brand-new anime to start from episode one, Daemons of the Shadow Realm is an unmissable title.

Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict

Release: Summer 2026 (Jul–Sep)

Why Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (BLEACH 千年血戦篇), the final arc of the series that began airing in 2022 and has consistently delivered outstanding quality, finally reaches its conclusion this year.

While the production has remained under Studio Pierrot throughout, starting with Part 3: The Conflict, the project has been handled by the studio’s newly established label, Pierrot Films. With the full creative force of Pierrot Films dedicated to bringing Bleach to its long-awaited finale, this final chapter is not to be missed.

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3

Release: Summer 2026 (Jul–Sep)

Why Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 (無職転生Ⅲ ～異世界行ったら本気だす～), the latest entry in the fantasy adventure series that some fans already consider worthy of the title Best Anime of All Time, is scheduled for release in summer 2026.

The previous two seasons consistently delivered high-quality storytelling and animation, but according to many light novel readers, the story truly begins to reach its peak starting with Season 3. Production once again remains in the hands of Studio Bind, which has been responsible for the anime adaptation since its debut in 2021, leaving little doubt that expectations will be met.

The Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2

Release: 2026

Why The Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2 Is a Must-Watch Anime in 2026?

One of the most popular anime titles to go years without any sequel news has been The Saga of Tanya the Evil (幼女戦記). Nine years after its original anime adaptation in 2017, Season 2 finally arrives in 2026. With its unusual premise that blends intense military combat and isekai elements, all centered around a child protagonist, the announcement of this long-awaited sequel has already delighted many fans.

At the same time, such a long gap between seasons naturally raises some concerns about whether the production quality can live up to expectations. For that reason, its inclusion as a Best Anime of 2026 contender will be judged with careful consideration. That said, this is a good time to catch up by watching the 12 episodes of Season 1 and the anime film released in 2019.

Best Anime Movies of 2026: Must-Watch Titles of the Year

At this point, it is still unclear whether anime movies in 2026 will be as abundant as anime series.

That said, it is already confirmed that several long-anticipated sequels will be released, and entirely new animated works have surprised anime fans early in the year. Let’s take a look at some of the notable anime films of 2026.

1. Cosmic Princess Kaguya!

Release: January 2026

Cosmic Princess Kaguya! (超かぐや姫!) was a title that received relatively little pre-release buzz, largely due to the unknown track record of its production team. One of the co-producing studios, Studio Colorido, is known for works such as Penguin Highway (2018), but the other studio, Studio Chromato, is a newly formed team. On top of that, director Shingo Yamashita, who leads the project, is making his feature-length animated film debut with this work.

However, once it began streaming on Netflix in January, it quickly became a major talking point among anime fans. It feels fresh in many ways. The concept itself is compelling, blending the classic Japanese folktale The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter with cutting-edge entertainment elements such as virtual worlds and VTubers. More than that, the animation, screenplay, and character dialogue all display an unmistakable sense of style and sharp creative instinct.

From the opening, the animation makes striking use of the left and right edges of the screen, paired with high-quality Vocaloid music. Characters drawn with thin, hand-drawn-style lines move with remarkable fluidity, while beautifully rendered CG visuals quietly support the imagery beneath the surface. The narration is witty and playful, and the exaggerated, almost comedic character movements add to the fun.

It is an anime film deeply rooted in the present moment, and it is unclear whether it was designed with long-term viewing in mind. Still, that is hardly a concern for a work this boldly differentiated and creatively confident.

2. Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie -Walpurgisnacht Rising-

Release: Originally scheduled for February 2026, now officially delayed

Because Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie -Walpurgisnacht Rising- (劇場版 魔法少女まどか☆マギカ〈ワルプルギスの廻天〉) is a sequel within an existing franchise, it is sometimes assumed to appeal only to a limited fanbase. However, the series itself is still relatively short, making it an anime that new viewers can easily start from the beginning and catch up with even now.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica is directed by Akiyuki Shinbo of Studio Shaft, also known for the Monogatari Series. The franchise began in 2011 as a 12-episode original TV anime, followed by the theatrical film Rebellion in 2013. Walpurgisnacht Rising is positioned as the direct continuation of that story.

This film has faced multiple delays, including the postponement of its originally planned February release. While all we can do now is hope to see it within 2026, it would be preferable for the production to prioritize complete polish and quality over speed.

Do not be misled by the cute appearance of its magical girl characters. Beneath the surface lies a world filled with deep human darkness and overwhelming despair.

3. Grotesqqque

Release: 2026

Among anime films slated for 2026, Grotesqqque (GROTESQQQUE-グロテスク-) stands out as one of the most highly anticipated yet most unpredictable titles. The film is directed by Atsushi Nishigori and produced by CloverWorks, a studio that has delivered a string of recent hits. Nishigori made his directorial debut with The Idolmaster in 2011, went on to direct Darling in the Franxx in 2018, and later participated in Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time as chief animation director and character designer.

Grotesqqque consists of a trilogy of short films titled Aeliens, 4649 Girl, and Nocturn: En Cette Nuit Grotesque. With their unpredictable structure and striking visual style, some viewers may be reminded of Katsuhiro Otomo’s 1995 anthology film Memories.

This highly original animated film is one of those titles anime fans simply cannot afford to miss in 2026.

Best Anime Lists of the 2020s

Looking back at the standout anime of the 2020s offers valuable context for understanding how the trends of 2026 took shape. Explore our year-by-year Best Anime guides to revisit the major hits, critical favorites, and genre-defining titles that defined this remarkable decade.

▶ 21 Best Anime of 2025 from Takopi’s Original Sin to My Hero Academia Final Season

▶ 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

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