It’s been a long year, and one of the bright spots is anime. From Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix, and HIDIVE, there were many new series and seasons, making distilling it down to the top anime of 2025 an especially hard task for our anime section.
To wrap up a year of anime, we asked, But Why Tho? writing staff and editors to rank their top anime of 2025. Using the rankings and the number of times each anime appeared across the list, we came up with our best 25 anime across genres and platforms in 2025.
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In order to be included on the Top Anime of 2025 list, the series had to have been legally watchable in the United States in the calendar year of 2025 and be a full season or cour. This means that we did not include the “feature films,” which were episodes of television for Demon Slayer or Jujutsu Kaisen. Additionally, they must be a television series and can not be feature films; for those, you can read our Top Animated Movies of 2025 list.
We also did not restrict “anime” to only focus on Japanese animated television series because of the inclusion of Chinese donghua (which is streamable only through Crunchyroll, an anime streamer)and series that are either marketed as anime by their production studios (looking at you, Netflix).
Top Anime of 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020
So, settle in and check out our Top Anime of 2025 below:
25. Ranma 1/2 Season 2
Studio: MAPPA
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Ranma 1/2 triumphs in its second season, which manages to surpass the first. A remake of the original anime, based on the work of writer and illustrator Rumiko Takahashi, the series continues to charm with its playful, absurd humor.
MAPPA ensures that the action shares the spotlight with the comedy, with smooth, kinetic sequences that highlight Ranma’s innate skill as a fighter and the ludicrous situations he’s put in. Season 2 also introduces the character’s main weakness (an over-the-top fear of cats) that allows others to defeat him, where once he’d proved too strong. The voice acting is superb as always, and the colors match the nostalgic throwback of the setting and stylings.
But the best aspect of Season 2 is Ranma himself. Or, rather, herself, as Ranma spends a large portion of the season in her girl form. And, for the most part, seems perfectly at ease with it to the point where Ranma’s ability to change between forms is accepted by the school/community around him. It adds a touch of progressiveness that’s necessary to such a story, rather than playing in reductive territories. It also allows them to shine better, as boy Ranma and girl Ranma offer distinctive personality traits of the same character.” – Allyson Johnson
24. Witch Watch
Studio: Bibury Animation Studios
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“From the pacing to the character specificities and the vignette-style stories, it all adds up to a series that draws from the past while instilling its own personality.
Possessing endless laughs and a fun, lighthearted atmosphere, Witch Watch delights. While the overall style has room for improvement, the humor is so boisterous and contentious that it makes it easy to forget its shortcomings. With lovable characters enduring heightened comedic scenarios, Witch Watch will win you over.” – Allyson Johnson
23. City the Animation
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Where to Watch: Amazon
“From the consistently superb studio Kyoto Animation comes the nonsensical and delightful City the Animation. The spiritual successor to Nichijou, the series seeks a balance between quirky, unlikely animation styles and broad comedy, with a richly depicted ensemble of characters.
There’s no pausing during the series that relentlessly bombards us with sight gags and one-liners, as the characters at the center bob and weave together, creating an unlikely group of townsfolk. And, despite the deliberately simplified character drawings with their basic shapes and fundamentals, the animation surrounding is still gorgeous.
There’s a singularity to the compositions that breathe even further life into the series about an oddball group of slackers and weirdos. The contrasting colors of the backgrounds with the almost crude physical animation lend it a pop-up artist appeal. It’s all very cartoony, but the series understands that’s the point. It’s larger than life and silly, as colorful in dialogue as it is in the city lights and cobblestones that adorn the titular neighborhood.” – Allyson Johnson
22. Lazarus
Studio: MAPPA
Where to Watch: HBO Max
“MAPPA has shown its ability to blend animation styles with background elements and technological environments, coming forward, like 3D renderings. However, unlike other series, these elements don’t feel intrusive, primarily because MAPPA gives ample attention to every detail in their 2D art.
This can be seen in the characters, their clothes, and, more particularly, how Axel’s clothing moves with him. The attention to detail during the chase sequences captures the beauty of the animation and helps create a unique aesthetic that edges on modernity with 3D elements, yet values the animation of the past. Even the simplistic frames made to capture the in-between movements of large action and chase sequences feel like MAPPA at its best.” – Kate Sánchez
21. Arknights Rise From Ember
Studio: Yostar Pictures
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“If there is one thing that demands respect in storytelling, it’s when a narrative knows what it wants to be and goes for it. Despite possibly making it off-putting to some, it embraces the greatest strengths of what it has to offer, unwilling to compromise its best elements to broaden its appeal. Arknights Rise From Ember walks this path with a dogged determination that would make both its heroes and villains proud.
At the heart of what makes the story of Arknights compelling is the grand emotions that infuse every character and their motivations. Despite existing in a desolate, post-apocalyptic sci-fi world, every major character and moment is saturated with an air of the dramatic that frequently feels Shakespearean.” – Charles Hartford
2o. See You Tomorrow at the Food Court
Studio: AtelierPontdarc
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“A huge part of what makes See You Tomorrow at the Food Court work is its commitment to only being at the food court. Only a few moments exist outside this space. The singular focus on the girls in their preferred locale helps both them and their setting become familiar much faster than would be possible otherwise. Allowing the audience to absorb everything the series has to offer without the distraction of guest characters or shifting locations.
See You Tomorrow at the Food Court delivers a quirky, fun slice-of-life that offers viewers a seat at the comfest booth in the food court. Wada and Yamamoto bring a wonderful, balanced chemistry to the show that allows for both meaningful character exploration and ridiculous fun. This makes it a small but fun surprise from this summer’s anime season.” – Charles Hartford
19. Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers
Studio: SANZIGEN Inc.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“Guilt Gear Strive: Dual Rulers keeps its biggest visual moments for the climactic final battle. The scope of the power wielded comes through with incredible potency as the heroes pour their all into the final attacks. The only thing that tops the raw punch of the attack visuals in this sequence is the presentation of the big bad. There are a couple of moments with this monster that are pure nightmare fuel. The unearthly way the bad guy twists and turns into itself is unsettling perfection—a truly memorable moment.
Guilt Gear Strive: Dual Rulers skillfully balances the heart that keeps its story rolling with the absurd nature of its world and combat. There are a few moments where filling in details creates more confusion than clarity; however, anyone looking for an exciting power fantasy that allows room for character growth and hopeful determination will find plenty to enjoy in this series’ story.” – Charles Hartford
18. Sakamoto Days
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Sakamoto Days rides the fine line between thriving through and being hindered by its gimmick. The series knows just when to step back from its core concept of a hitman-turned-family man to let more of its story unfold. With top-tier action animation, a unique visual style, and a perfectly sized ensemble cast, Sakamoto Days was one of the best anime of the year.
The series continuously captures levity and high stakes without ever forgetting its action or comedy roots. Sakamoto Days stands as an action-comedy shonen series that deeply understands its genre and demographic but always takes itself one step further past expectations. Never resting on its laurels, this is a series for everyone.”
17. Apothecary Diaries Season 2
Studio: OLM, Inc. and TOHO Animation STUDIO
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“In Season 2 of the marvelous The Apothecary Diaries, the world expands as the wickedly clever and charismatic Maomao must face the reality of the company she keeps. One of the strengths of the series is the writing that layers intrigue and secrecy across the tumultuous narrative. An occurrence that takes place early in the season, where Maomao resolves a mystery regarding foreign guests, is pivotal to significant plot developments in the finale.
Every beat, each character possesses more knowledge than they’re willing to readily forfeit, making the moment the truth is revealed all the more poignant. From Jinshi’s real heritage to Shisui’s inner court ties, the story develops as Maomao, unwittingly, pieces together the threads.
Beyond the writing, the animation continues to stun with its rich tapestry of color stories, eschewing more standard, complementary pallets for contrasting ones, such as the royal purples and burnt oranges that signify status and station. The score is a key part of the story’s cinematic overture. At the same time, voice actors Aoi Yūki and Takeo Ōtsuka do tremendous work in offering dual versions of their characters. The series stuns through its ability to make the epic personal.” —Allyson Johnson
16. Dragon Ball Daima
“Once battles start, Dragon Ball DAIMA delivers the fights through some of the best camerawork the series has seen. This is especially true of the grand melees that cap the season. Seeing the perspective zoom between fighters and rock pillars as explosions burst all around brings lots of great energy and excitement with it.
Dragon Ball DAIMA succeeds far more than it fails. It brings action, characters, and humor that largely succeed. It manages to move the franchise forward while also largely honoring what came before and serves as a worthy final entry in Toriyama’s body of work.”
15. Call Of The Night Season 2
Studio: LIDENFILMS
Where to Watch: HiDive
“Call of the Night Season 2 is also a visual marvel. Each scene features amazing animation from LIDENFILMS, along with picturesque, highly detailed, and colourful backgrounds. Like the first season, all these elements succeed in flawlessly evoking the atmospheric aesthetic of walking through a city at night.
The very few action scenes and intense moments in the season also feature impeccable animation, precise movements, and detailed, emotive facial expressions. All these result in an astounding viewing experience.
All in all, Call of the Night Season 2 is one of the best anime of the year, thanks to its immaculate storytelling, pacing, and dialogue. The season offers one of the most emotional and enjoyable viewing experiences in the medium, making it easy to recommend the anime to those willing to start from the first season.” —Abdul Saad
14. Clevatess
Studio: Lay-duce
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“Clevatess asks hard questions about humanity, good, and evil. Through both the dispassionate eyes of the title character and the emotional view of his companion, Alicia. As the duo face monsters and evils only mankind can wrought, questions about the world meld into the high fantasy story like dragon’s breath into a hero’s armor. Blood, betrayal, and sacrifice are the marks that Clevatess uses to showcase its complex narrative and great characters. ”
13. Zenshu
Studio: MAPPA
Where to Watch: HiDive
” ZENSHU demonstrates an excellent way to end a series as its ending upholds its themes and messages and maintains its characters’ development. While not necessary at all, it also leaves a potential for a second season that could explain some still-unexplained details.
The anime sports an amazing art direction, mesmerizing visual effects, intricate character designs, and fluid motions. Despite this, the anime was never delayed either, which is impressive, especially given the studio’s shaky past.
Overall, ZENSHU is a fantastic, highly engaging, and memorable series. The anime features an interesting concept and endearing characters. It maintained incredible production quality throughout and wrapped everything up satisfactorily, which is more than we’ve been able to say in past seasons. ZENSHU sets a new standard for original anime series.” —Abdul Saad
12. Blue Box
Studio: Telecom Animation Film
Where to Watch: Netflix
“Frequently, when two people fall in love in fiction, they become each other’s world. Any day without the other is inherently darker by their absence. This is not always the case. Couples like Karen and Haryu exist, and seeing this style of love portrayed positively is a meaningful inclusion to the show as a whole and pertinent to Taiki and Chinatsu. After all, if they do get together, it’s impossible to see them having any other kind of relationship.
The one constant is its undeniably gorgeous animation throughout the roller coaster of emotions and complex social problems that Blue Box Season 1 Cour 2 weaves. From athletic competitions that capture the stress and strain of harsh physical exertion to presenting the elegance of a warm smile and joyful laughter of the perfect day at the beach, the animation makes every memorable moment pulsate with a greater sense of emotion and excitement than it would otherwise.
Despite failing to push much in the way of the plot, Blue Box Season 1 Cour 2 manages to bring more than enough emotion to make up for its slow pace. Its characters continue to charm, and the series once more brings the deep, thoughtful explorations of love and friendship it has since episode one.” — Charles Hartford
11. Spy x Family Season 3
Studio: WIT Studio and CloverWorks
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“With its energetic pacing and lovably silly protagonist in Anya, it’s easy to forget the darker foundation SpyxFamily builds itself off of. In Season 3, the series reminds us. From the fight between Loid and Yuri, to the bus hijacking that puts a group of school children at risk, the threats are everywhere, both on a small and large scale.
But it’s most notable in the mini-arc at the start of the season, which details Loid’s past and his rise from child soldier to an espionage asset. It’s a gorgeous, unexpectedly haunting work that makes the silliness of his home interactions all the sweeter, with the motif of finding a future where kids don’t cry from being alone due to warfare inching its way into both the OP and ED.
The series wouldn’t have the same charm without its humor. And it’s that balancing act that makes it such an endless source of entertainment. Because yes, the bus hijacking is a terrifying story element on paper. But then you have Anya, smug, banging on the “bomb” that only she knows is a fake to mess with Damian, and it’s the hardest you’ll laugh in days.
The mix of writing, animation, and voice acting gives these comedic moments fantastic pacing and timing, punctuating the serious story elements with bouts of brightness. This aligns with the series’ motto: to find a better tomorrow through the wreckage.” – Allyson Johnson
10. Takopi’s Original Sin
Studio: Enishiya
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“Layered in a sugary coat of deceit, Takopi’s Original Sin bleeds us dry in an effort to depict the very best and worst of humanity through the eyes of children and a hapless, naive alien. Directed by Shinya Iino, the series depicts the life of one girl as she endures countless slights against her existence, from apathetic parents to ruthless bullying by her schoolmate.
Upon Takopi’s arrival, any other series might’ve pivoted to allow the alien’s friendly, hopeful demeanor to dictate the tone of the show going forward. Takopi’s Original Sin, meanwhile, only doubles down on the misery wrought by the hands of innocents who have no guidance or support from adults.
The story itself is, obviously, a marvel in how it balances the bleakness of its narrative with the faintest lines of hope drawn in the sand. But it is the artistry and unlikely animation style that truly help elevate it, along with some deeply evocative voice performances from the Japanese cast.
The roughly drawn line work adds color to the character animation and physicality, a potent reminder of both their youth and the impulsivity that guides them. It’s a vital, all-encompassing work that has a true handle on the source material and knows how to bring it to life without either smoothing its edges or forcing easy conclusions. The series is messy, and the visuals, beautifully, echo it.” – Allyson Johnson
9. To Be Hero X
Studio: Studio LAN, Paper Plane Animation Studio, and PB Animation
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“To Be Hero X is a Chinese animated series that pushes its audience to question all of the tropes they know in shonen and superhero stories. The series narratively pushes viewers to understand hyperbole, betrayal, and hopelessness while also aiming to capture their hearts.
Filled with charisma and charm as well as hard-hitting narrative shocks, To Be Hero X is a convergence of series like Invincible, The Boys, and even My Hero Academia. And all of it is pushed forward by the use of multiple animation styles. Cell-shaded, painterly, 3D CGI, traditional ‘anime,’ the series oscillates in its style to build atmosphere. The visual notes of the series are as strong a narrative tool as dialogue is in telling the story.” – Charles Hartford
8. Kowloon Generic Romance
Studio: Arvo Animation
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“Directed by Yoshiaki Iwasaki, the genius magic trick of Kowloon Generic Romance is found in its inherent design. What appeals to the characters appeals to the viewers too – the nostalgia. The series embraces a ’90s style aesthetic, with busy urban backgrounds, distinctive colors, and muted grayish palettes that ground the narrative in its timeless yet out-of-time sense of place. There’s a roughness to the backdrops that is severely lacking in modern anime.
Because while there’s plenty of spectacular modern anime (very notable this season in particular), there’s not much that manages to evoke the specificities of ’90s animation quite like Kowloon has managed to. It’s not all perfect, but the effect is striking, making us yearn for the grit and tactility of series and films of that era.
An emotionally stirring depiction of our desire to hold on to the past while seeking absolution and total agency, Kowloon Generic Romance is a stunner. An enriching world populated by engaging and mystifying characters, the series unfolds with a patient clip that understands that the best part of a mystery is the unraveling of its pieces, allowing viewers the time to build their conclusions before an explosive, cathartic reveal.” – Allyson Johnson
7. One Piece – Egghead Arc
Studio: TOEI Animation
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“Ever since the arrival in Wano and its multicourse arc, it’s been easy to pile on the praise for the One Piece adaptation. However, getting to the futuristic island, Egghead, and meeting Dr. Vegapunk marks the start of a new era for the series.
We’ve reached beyond Luffy’s “peak” as he settles more frequently into Gear 5 and begins to learn more about the lore of what his image means, from the hope and promise of liberation of the Sun God Nika to the capability of destruction tied to Joy Boy.
But Egghead is where so many story elements begin to come together, demonstrating the expansive world map that creator Eiichiro Oda has laid out. From the reveal of Bonney’s true age, to Kuma’s backstory and how it ties to some of the most integral pieces of the series’ story, to the arrival of old foes and looming figures come to devastating fruition, Egghead delivers a nonstop barrage of action and anticipation.
It helps that the series has never looked better. From the airborne whirlpool that first welcomes us to Egghead, to Luffy’s reunion brawl with Rob Lucci, the evocative, emotional landslide of Kuma’s past, to Gear 5 Luffy staring down the transformed, monstrous Five Elders, the series, like its protagonist, is hitting its peak. Epic and kinetic in a way the story has always deserved.” — Allyson Johnson
6. My Hero Academia Final Season
Studio: bones
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“The final battle between Midoriya and Shigaraki takes place as much in the mental realm as the physical one. My Hero Academia Season 8 stays true to Midoriya’s character by having him try to save the “crying child” within Shigaraki rather than simply destroying him. It is a risky narrative choice, but it pays off. It creates a finale that is distinct from other action series. It posits that true strength comes from empathy, not violence.
My Hero Academia Season 8 is a massive achievement that balances dozens of character arcs, heavy social themes, and high-octane action without collapsing under its own weight. While the pacing can be frantic at times, the emotional beats always land.
It is a season that respects its audience and its characters, delivering a conclusion that feels both inevitable and surprising. My Hero Academia Season 8 closes the book on Class 1-A, leaving the audience with a message that will endure.” — Kyle Foley
5. Gachiakuta
Studio: bones
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“To say ‘Gachiakuta goes hard’ is a severe understatement. The series has begun as a stark take on class consciousness, the joy of falling in line for the circus that is a public execution, and how the rich will always find a way to rig the system in their favor. This anime is aggressively anti-capitalist and anti-consumption in the best ways. And it’s all elevated by its gorgeous animation.
While many series in the Summer 2025 season embrace more nuances and atmospheric approaches to using 3DCG animation, Gachiakuta stands out as one of the best. And it can only get better with the sharpest and most impressive examples coming in the last moments of the premiere episode’s last minutes, as Rudo is saved from the garbage. It’s hands-down some of Bones’ best work.
Gachiakuta is revamping expectations for Shonen anime, and it’s doing so with a style and messaging that we need right now. We’ll have to see if the series can stick the landing, but for now, it’s excellently setting the stage.” — Kate Sanchez
4. My Dress Up Darling Season 2
Studio: CloverWorks
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“Most helped by the great animation efforts of CloverWorks is Marin herself. The excitable cosplayer is brought to life perfectly to deliver all of her hyperactive antics. Her joy, frequent embarrassment, and lovable charm all shine whenever she has the spotlight.
My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 delivers an altogether enjoyable time. The humor and charm resonate through each episode, making it a joy, even when it occasionally stumbles. Despite a frustrating lack of progress on the romance side of the equation, spending time with Gojo, Marin, and their growing circle of cosplay enthusiast friends is as fun as it’s ever been. And that’s saying a lot.” — Charles Hartford
3. DanDaDan Season 2
Studio: Science Saru
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
“As they grow closer, Momo and Okarun’s circle expands. From just the two of them, to Aira’s unlikely joining, then Jiji, and now Kinta, their adventures are punctuated by those who scramble on the rickety board along the way. Yes, there’s mayhem throughout, and the series loves itself some big, broad comedy. But none of it would matter or have the same effect if we didn’t care deeply about these characters.
DanDaDan Season 2 is a resounding success that delivers on our expectations following the exuberance of Season 1. Here is a perfect example of what an adaptation should strive to achieve when bringing a manga to life in animation. Justify its existence and, if possible, create something that manga can’t replicate. Both can shine in areas where the other can’t.
Make it cinematic. Stick to the story and the source, but bring it alive in ways that only the animated medium can. Because otherwise, what’s the point? DanDaDan shows genuine love for the source while finding new, surprising ways to breathe new life into the story.” — Allyson Johnson
2. The Summer Hikaru Died
Studio: CygamesPictures
Where to Watch: Netflix
“The Summer Hikaru Died is a horror anime, a sci-fi anime, and a slice of life coming-of-age series about young love and grief. It is all of those things in one package, and its ability to maneuver among all three genres comes directly from the character on screen and the growth they undergo. The series starts tragically, and the somber nature of the young love on display doesn’t fade as the series progresses, even as the danger posed by the fake Hikaru becomes increasingly apparent.
As much as our protagonist comes to terms with his romantic feelings toward Hikaru when he was alive, the series isn’t about a new love for this new Hikaru. Instead, The Summer Hikaru Died is about Yoshiki grieving the friend he lost, the future he hoped to have, and choosing to take the next step away from the past and let Hikaru go.
While the story itself lives and breathes in horror and science fiction, the intimacy on-screen is what grounds every fear, decision, and worry that Yoshiki has. As this new Hikaru clings to a memory he doesn’t have and makes new ones for himself, the distance he has to cross to touch Yoshiki’s heart is vast. But in doing so, he helps Yoshiki process his loss as a whole. The narrative pushes the audience to grieve but ultimately to move forward with their lives, holding onto those they loved without letting it destroy their future.” — Kate Sanchez
1. The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity
Studio:
Where to Watch:
“Rintaro is such a loveable character, and Yoshinori Nakayama delivers such a charismatic performance that it’s easy for Kaoruko to be eclipsed in the central romance. And Nakayama is particularly wonderful in moments of shock, his embarrassment clear in his thunderous “huhs?!” that gives more personality and playfulness to a character who so often defaults to a baritone mumble. But Kaoruko gets her moment in the sun in the finale, which beautifully twists the story, pivoting it into the “she fell first, but he fell harder” trope.
The world is lived in and doesn’t rely on space or implausible vacancy. It might not fill the world to the brim with surprising details like other notable works, but the landscapes and exterior shots are beautiful and add to the overall sense of romance. That, plus a sweet, twinkling score from composer Moeki Harada, creates a sweeping, youthful love story in atmosphere and narrative.
The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity Season 1, will catch you by surprise. While it plays in a familiar sandbox, the way in which the writing highlights small character interactions, the significance of friendships, and the clumsy steps towards first love culminate in an infectious coming-of-age story. Yes, we’ve seen pieces of it before. But when the execution is this precise, this wholesome, and overladen with lovable characters, it hardly matters—familiarity soars when quality is high.” — Allyson Johnson
The Top Anime of 2025 crossed demographic and genre, and highlights how vast the medium is. Much like any animation, the exploration of universal themes and embrace of the fantastical help make anime as important as ever. With old favorites, new original stories, and so much more, anime is already looking good for 2026. Did your favorite series make the top anime of 2025 list? What would you like to include? Let us know on social media, @butwhytho.net on BlueSky and @butwhythopc, everywhere else.
