While it remains to be seen whether animanga enthusiasts are experiencing a renaissance, recent years have unveiled a stellar selection of releases. From significant adaptations like Dandadan to hidden treasures such as Orb: On the Movements of the Earth and Bartender: Kami no Glass, 2024 has offered a treasure trove of anime that merits the attention of every viewer. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to uphold this quality, boasting an impressive lineup of titles that are difficult to narrow down. The winter season of 2025 is particularly brimming with exciting new anime.
There are numerous noteworthy mentions to consider, including the anticipated second season of Dandadan and the much-awaited returns of iconic franchises like Lupin the Third and KATSEYE. The impressive array of releases throughout the year makes it feel almost unjust to leave any out, yet a selection has been made. Dive into this thoughtfully curated list of the top anime scheduled for release in 2025.
10
Re:Zero (Season 3, Part 2)
Release Date: February 5, 2025
The highly anticipated continuation of Re:Zero kicks off with the second part of its stellar third season. For those unfamiliar, Re:Zero breaks genre conventions by blending elements of drama, romance, and psychological intrigue. Following the journey of Subaru Natsuki, whose unique ability, “Return by Death,”enables him to navigate a complex world, this series is a must-watch. Its ability to evoke powerful emotions is beyond words, encouraging newcomers to give it a chance.
The first segment of the third season provided outstanding character development and world-building, transforming Subaru from a frustrating protagonist to a formidable leader. The narrative also shines a spotlight on the strength of Emilia and its broad supporting cast, setting Re:Zero apart from typical isekai offerings. As this season concluded with a dramatic counterattack against the Witch Cultists in Priestella, anticipation is high for the upcoming “Counterattack” arc beginning on February 25.
9
Solo Leveling (Season 2)
Release Date: January 5, 2025
Solo Leveling, alongside Tower of God, has made significant contributions to the manhwa landscape, traditionally dominated by Japanese titles. Its seemingly simple premise—Sung Jin-woo’s extraordinary combat growth—belies the series’ dynamic action, engaging narrative, and endearing characters. The first season established its reputation as a powerhouse within the manhwa community.
8
My Hero Academia (Season 7)
Release Window: Fall 2025
Addressing the elephant in the room: My Hero Academia‘s controversial conclusion. While the epilogue is debated, many still found the original ending engaging, though perhaps unexpected for long-time followers. As the final season prepares to air, viewers are eager to experience the upcoming “Star and Stripes,””UA,”and “Final War”arcs. Although specific release details are still forthcoming, fans can expect the series to return in Fall 2025.
7
Lazarus
Release Date: 2025
Among the highly anticipated projects for 2025 is Lazarus, an original series from the visionary behind Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. Developed in partnership with the creators behind John Wick, this upcoming title is expected to embody the same spirit that made Cowboy Bebop a classic.
With such an impressive team behind it, Lazarus is already generating excitement among fans. While information remains limited, the initial glimpses have left audiences eager for its release sometime in 2025.
6
The Rose of Versailles
Release Date: January 31, 2025
The Rose of Versailles stands as a landmark shoujo series, pioneering discussions that pushed boundaries in the genre. Its engaging narrative continues to resonate, representing the evolution of modern shoujo storytelling.
Although its profound impact has persisted since its adaptation in the late 1970s, audiences are set to experience it anew thanks to MAPPA, the studio behind renowned titles like Attack on Titan and Chainsaw Man. The upcoming film, premiering on January 31, 2025, has already captivated viewers with its stunning trailer, promising to infuse this iconic story with fresh life.
5
Kaiju no. 8 (Season 2)
Release Window: July 2025
Kaiju no. 8 presents a narrative that may feel familiar to fans of Attack on Titan, featuring a protagonist who can transform into a monster in a world besieged by supernatural enemies. However, the series offers a distinct charm and has captivated audiences during its first season. Viewers were left at a critical moment, with protagonist Kafka taken into custody, setting the stage for an electrifying second season.
The upcoming season will launch in July 2025, continuing Kafka’s compelling journey as his strategic value enhances the stakes, raising the intensity of the plot.
4
Dr. Stone: Science Future
Release Date: January 9, 2025
Dr. Stone has captured the hearts of fans with its innovative take on science fiction within a shonen framework, chronicling genius Senku Ishigami’s quest to reinstate modern technology in a post-apocalyptic world. The preceding seasons have been exceptional, and the anticipation is high for the fourth installment.
Premiering on January 9, 2025, Dr. Stone: Science Future promises a multipart season rich in lore and character evolution, as the team embarks on the beloved South America arc, pushing the series closer to revealing the mystery of humanity’s petrification.
3
The Apothecary Diaries (Season 2)
Release Date: January 10, 2025
The eagerly awaited second season has premiered on January 10, 2025. The series continues to explore its central themes, showcasing women navigating a patriarchal landscape, captivating viewers with its rich storytelling and sociocultural commentary.
2
Zenshu
Release Date: January 5, 2025
An intriguing entry from 2024 was the announcement from the acclaimed creator of Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! advocating for a sequel to that series. While Zenshu is not a direct continuation, it shares a similar premise centered around the craft of manga and anime. This MAPPA production is garnering attention as it features a protagonist drawn into her own created universe, delivering a thought-provoking take on the isekai genre.
Comparisons are already being made to fan-favorite characters like Gojo Satoru from Jujutsu Kaisen. As of its premiere on January 5, 2025, Zenshu showcases MAPPA’s trademark stunning animation and dedication to the art form, promising to be a must-watch this year.
1
Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc
Release Window: 2025
Since the initial season of Chainsaw Man debuted in 2022, fans have eagerly awaited new content. The finale of the first season left viewers teased with the upcoming Reze arc, in which Denji navigates complex feelings for Reze amid the looming threat of the Bomb Devil.
Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc is a highly anticipated adaptation of a beloved manga arc, poised to deliver intense action and emotional depth. While a specific release date for Japanese theaters remains unannounced, 2025 promises to bring exciting developments for fans.
Leave a Reply