All the Best Anime of 2025

• ‘My Hero Academia’

Animated by Studio Bones, My Hero Academia’s final season closes a nine-year journey that defined an era of Shonen anime. Balancing spectacle with emotion, the series concludes as both a commercial powerhouse and a critical success, cementing its place as a modern classic.

• ‘My Hero Academia: Vigilantes‘

Also animated by Studio Bones, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes delivered a strong first season as a prequel spin-off. The series expands the MHA world through grounded storytelling and street-level heroics. It also gives fans brand new perspectives while keeping them invested. Season 2 is scheduled to arrive in January 2026, ensuring the franchise’s legacy continues.

• ‘Gachiakuta‘

From a newly formed film subsidiary of Studio Bones, Gachiakuta emerged as one of 2025’s standout series. Its gritty story, bold world-building, and striking visual identity set it apart immediately, positioning it as a breakout hit with massive fan potential. The animation ranks among the year’s best, complemented by a powerful score, sharp sound design, and strong voice performances.

• ‘Sakamoto Days‘

Sakamoto Days blends slice-of-life comedy with stylish action in its first season. The series thrives on charm, timing, and strong voice performances, offering a consistently entertaining experience. The second season leans further into action while maintaining its lighthearted tone. Its balance of humor and combat made it one of the most accessible and enjoyable series of the year, and it is animated by TMS Entertainment.

• ‘Solo Leveling: Arise from the Shadow‘

Animated by A-1 Pictures, Solo Leveling: Arise from the Shadow became one of 2025’s most dominant anime releases. Adapted from the globally popular webtoon, the series translates its power fantasy into stunning animation, sharp pacing, and large-scale action. The series is now resonating with longtime fans and newcomers alike. Its widespread acclaim culminated in multiple Anime Awards wins, including Anime of the Year, cementing its place as a defining series of the modern anime era.

• ‘Fire Force‘

Fire Force Season 3 Part 1 continues to explore the series’ heavy religious symbolism and philosophical themes. The narrative leans into questions of faith, destruction, and rebirth, while pushing its characters toward emotional and ideological breaking points. Combining with striking animation, booming sound effects, and an intense musical score, the season reinforces why Fire Force remains visually and thematically distinct, with Part 2 arriving in January 2026. The series is animated by David Production.

• ‘Kaiju No. 8‘

Kaiju No. 8 delivers high-intensity action paired with strong character development. The series balances military-scale battles with personal stakes, supported by a powerful score that heightens each kaiju encounter. The series, animated by Production I.G., has an impact that is further amplified by the manga’s conclusion later in the year. Ending both stories within the same timeframe gave fans a rare sense of narrative closure across media. Together, the anime and manga solidified Kaiju No. 8 as one of the most influential franchises of the year.

• ‘One Punch Man‘

Animated by J.C.Staff, One Punch Man Season 3 returned after a long wait, bringing both anticipation and scrutiny. While excitement surrounded its comeback, the animation received mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. The director publicly addressed the negative reception, acknowledging expectations while emphasizing the challenges behind production, with the second part of Season 3 set for 2027.

What are the Best Anime Movies of 2025?

• ‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle‘

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle delivers what many consider the pinnacle of anime, animated by ufotable. The film expands upon the manga’s story while elevating its emotional and visual impact. Its massive commercial and critical success broke records, surpassing Pokémon: The First Movie, and marked the beginning of a trilogy finale for the franchise.

• ‘Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc‘

Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc continued directly from the anime series. The film blended action with themes of love, manipulation, and emotional vulnerability, supported by powerful voice performances. MAPPA’s animation elevated the story’s intensity, contributing to its strong critical and commercial reception.

Anime to Look Forward to in 2026

• ‘Jujutsu Kaisen‘

Also animated by MAPPA, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 is set to arrive along with a recap movie covering parts of Season 2 and the premiere episode of the new season. The franchise remains one of the most anticipated anime returns, with expectations high following its previous arcs. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 arrives January 8th.

• ‘Hell’s Paradise‘

Another MAPPA production, Hell’s Paradise Season 2, marks the series’ return after a lengthy hiatus. Fans can expect intensified action, deeper exploration of its brutal world, and continued character development. Its return positions it as one of 2026’s most anticipated releases, arriving January 11th.

2025 proved to be a landmark year for anime, defined by record-breaking successes, emotional conclusions, and bold new stories. Long-running series reached their finales while new franchises rose to prominence, shaping conversations across the anime community. With an already packed January ahead and major titles streaming on platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, and Hulu, the momentum heading into 2026 signals an even bigger year for anime fans worldwide.