How Anime Captured Hearts in 2025
Anime’s rise in Western culture feels unstoppable, and 2025 was a landmark year showing just how far it’s come. With Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle raking in $780 million, the medium has cemented its place in mainstream entertainment. Yet, the question lingers: are audiences only drawn to the flashiest titles, or are they starting to appreciate the deeper, artistic narratives that anime has cultivated over decades?
The State of Anime in 2025
Let’s face it, in an age where AI-generated content threatens to transform the landscape of animation, it’s refreshing—and a bit heartening—to see packed theaters filled with fans eager for human-made artistry. But as we applaud these big-budget films, a subtle concern arises: are the most beloved titles merely touching the surface?
Television, it seems, is where the true magic happens. The best anime often challenge conventions, pushing boundaries of storytelling in ways live action can’t match. Shows like Dan Da Dan and City the Animation embrace the medium’s unique strengths, experimenting with visuals and humor that make them standouts. While some series get lost in the shuffle of seasonal premieres—over 30 a semester—others shine, revealing anime’s limitless potential.
In a world that often rushes through life, there’s something comforting about these narratives that prompt us to pause and reflect.
Top Anime of 2025
Let’s dive into the 20 best anime series of the year that exemplify this diversity, creativity, and emotional depth. Here are the highlights, each showcasing the unique tapestry of narratives offered by the medium.
1. Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX taps into nostalgia while welcoming newcomers. It frames its plot around Amate Yuzuriha, a high school student who steals a prototype Gundam, leading her into underground mech duels. The series balances layers of complex character development with moments of pure sci-fi thrill, making it grow as a richly-developed world. Though the series stumbles towards a hasty conclusion, the journey there is electrifying, promising fans a taste of something both familiar and new.
2. Medalist
In its portrayal of a burned-out ice dancer attempting a comeback through coaching a young girl, Medalist masterfully tugs at heartstrings. Tsukasa’s struggle to rekindle his own dreams reflects a universal theme: the power of mentorship. The chemistry between the characters is endearing, making it easy for viewers to root for their success both on and off the rink.
3. May I Ask for One Final Thing?
This unconventional comedy features Scarlet, the Duchess’s daughter, who breaks from societal expectations upon betrayal. Instead of wallowing, she unleashes her fury in delightfully bizarre ways. The series seamlessly blends humor with a narrative about self-liberation, presenting a refreshing twist on traditional romance tropes.
4. Sanda
If you’re looking for a Christmas-themed series that packs a punch, Sanda stands out—not for children, but neither is it unapproachable. Set in a dystopian landscape where Christmas is banned, the series lends itself both to dark humor and joyous undertones, making it a celebration of resilience and unity.
5. Zenshu
In Zenshu, an animator finds herself transported into the world of her childhood fantasy film. This meta-commentary on creativity and artistic ambition speaks to the struggles many face in the creative industry. Its affection for anime history is palpable, reminding us of the joy it brings—even when the road is challenging.
6. My Dress-Up Darling Season 2
Continuing its exploration of self-expression and identity, My Dress-Up Darling evolves by expanding into the vibrant world of cosplay culture. The evolving relationship between Wakana and Marin deepens, allowing for richer character exploration and a continuous dialogue about creativity and individuality.
7. A Ninja and an Assassin Under One Roof
This series delivers big laughs by juxtaposing the incompetent ninja Satoko with the cold-hearted assassin Konoha. The combination of quirky humor and action-packed sequences makes it a delightful watch, showcasing how contrasting character types can amplify comedic elements.
8. Anne Shirley
Anime’s take on the classic Anne of Green Gables draws from Japanese cultural appreciation for the story. While it may not surpass its predecessors, this adaptation features the beloved themes of imagination and resilience, allowing audiences to connect deeply.
9. The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity
This romantic story highlights a sweet relationship blossoming between opposites, featuring delightful chemistry and genuine character development. Its charm lies in the relatable struggles of youth as barriers are broken through open communication and heartfelt connection.
10. Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty
This coming-of-age tale of rockstars in the making is both thrilling and relatable. Lilisa and Otoha’s journey to express themselves despite societal constraints offers not just laughs but inspiration for chasing dreams against the odds.
11. Apocalypse Hotel
Anticipation mixed with melancholy defines Apocalypse Hotel, where service robots on a deserted Earth navigate their unique existence devoid of humans. It’s an intriguing commentary on purpose, hope, and finding joy in tasks—even in loneliness.
12. The Apothecary Diaries Season 2
A mix of medical intrigue and romance, The Apothecary Diaries thrives in its detailed storytelling. This season has taken on heavier subjects while navigating the complexities of its historical setting, providing viewers with sharp narratives and emotional depth.
13. To Be Hero X
Despite its origins as a Chinese production, this series presents an engaging critique of heroism balanced against corporate interests. The visuals alone, a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics, make it a must-watch.
14. Kowloon Generic Romance
This odd title belies a uniquely intricate narrative set against a dense backdrop seeking to challenge nostalgia. Its love story, wrapped in layers of mystery, feels refreshingly unique, elevating it beyond typical romance tales.
15. Tatsuki Fujimoto: 17-26
Fujimoto, acclaimed for Chainsaw Man, showcases his earlier works in this anthology. Each story—distinctive yet thematically linked—explores young adulthood’s emotional complexities with a mix of humor and depth.
16. Takopi’s Original Sin
Despite its cheerful character design, Takopi’s Original Sin takes bold turns into their darker themes. This mix of cute and heartbreaking makes it memorable and thought-provoking.
17. Dan Da Dan Season 2
Packed with unexpected and hilarious scenarios, Dan Da Dan continues providing thrills with its refusal to fit comfortably in any single genre. Its animated joy resonates with both adventure lovers and romantics.
18. City the Animation
With stunning visuals and sharp comedic timing, this series shines. Kyoto Animation’s prowess comes through in its ability to blend humor and beauty, crafting situations that feel relatable despite their absurdist backdrop.
19. The Summer Hikaru Died
Through exploration of grief and identity, The Summer Hikaru Died introduces spiritual elements that drive poignant narrative themes. Its quiet, emotional moments blend seamlessly with startling visual artistry.
20. New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt
Resurrecting a beloved classic, this follow-up does justice to its predecessor. The humor remains as sharp and absurd, making it feel fresh and timely, even after years of absence.
Reflecting on 2025: More than Entertainment
As we wrap up this exploration of 2025’s best anime, one thing connects all these series: they resonate in deeply human ways. From narratives about love and identity to broader conversations about art, creativity, and societal constructs, these stories push beyond mere entertainment; they engage us in reflection and self-discovery.
So what does this mean for you, the viewer? As anime consistently proves its capacity for profound storytelling, perhaps you’ll dig deeper and seek out the hidden gems next time you scroll through your streaming platform. After all, each series carries a lesson, a little piece of wisdom designed to shake you awake or simply comfort you in those quiet moments.
Anime isn’t just a phase; it’s a growing, vital expression of culture that speaks volumes about the human experience. 2025 stands testament to an art form evolving yet deeply rooted, making every fan’s journey a worthwhile exploration. What will your next adventure in anime be?
