I get filled with bliss every time a new anime season rolls around—but also an overwhelming sense of dread. The former, because new anime means new shows to watch, obviously! I love to see new IPs or adaptations hit my monitor, whether I binge or watch weekly. However, the dread comes when I realize just how many shows are airing. For example, this Summer 2025 anime season features over 50 anime (more if you count ongoing series). Even with a few days off, I can’t possibly watch them all. Luckily, you have us here at SunsetNerdVerse with a helpful list of the 10 best shows—in our opinion—airing this summer. Trust us, there’s something on this list for every fan!

10. To Be Hero X

Studios: Pb Animation, LAN Studio, Paper Plane Animation Studio
Episode Count: 24

To Be Hero X is a standout returning anime (technically a donghua) that asks a unique question: what if popularity determined your powers? With quirky heroes and villains, a dual art style, and one of the best OPs ever, it’s a fun and surprising watch for fans of super-powered action.

9. Call of the Night Season 2

Studio: LIDENFILMS
Episode Count: 12

Call of the Night returns with more romantic tension between Kou and the vampire Nazuna. Stylish animation, incredible music, and a supernatural twist make this season just as captivating as the first. Just don’t go vampire hunting after dark.

8. Witch Watch

Studio: Bibury Animation Studios
Episode Count: 25

Still airing weekly on Netflix, Witch Watch balances supernatural comedy with heartfelt moments. The jokes land, the antics are absurd, and our protagonist witch is an adorable disaster. Binge it now before the finale!

Read our first impressions here.

7. Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus

Studio: CloverWorks
Episode Count: 13

Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai returns with a sequel season. Sakuta is now in college, but Adolescence Syndrome still haunts him. A supernatural romance that hits just the right emotional notes—prepare to feel all the feels again.

6. Clevatess

Studio: Lay-duce
Episode Count: 12

Clevatess surprised me with its originality. After Alicia, a hero, dies and is revived by a demon king to care for a baby, the story becomes oddly compelling. It’s weird—but weird in a good way. Give this underdog fantasy a shot.

5. Kaiju No. 8 Season 2

Studio: Production I.G
Episode Count: 11

Kafka Hibino is back! Kaiju No. 8 continues with more epic monster fights and higher stakes. If you missed Season 1, now’s your chance to catch up. Season 2 is already delivering huge action and emotional beats.

4. Gachiakuta

Studio: Bones Film
Episode Count: 24

Gritty, intense, and full of stunning animation, Gachiakuta follows Rudo as he’s tossed into a brutal world called the Abyss. Think Deadman Wonderland meets Made in Abyss—you don’t want to miss this sleeper hit.

3. City The Animation

Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episode Count: 13

Don’t judge a book by its art style—City The Animation is comedy gold. Every episode is packed with detail and visual gags. It’s got heart, wit, and a tone that’ll have you rewatching just to catch what you missed.

2. My Dress-Up Darling Season 2

Studio: CloverWorks
Episode Count: 12

My Dress-Up Darling is back and more adorable than ever. Marin and Gojou’s relationship deepens, and the cosplay moments are better than ever. Romance and passion collide in this must-watch sequel.

1. Dandadan 2nd Season

Studio: Science SARU
Episode Count: 12

Dandadan Season 2 is everything we hoped for—action, laughs, and even a bit of romance. With stunning animation and chaotic energy, this series continues to push the envelope of what anime can be. Available on Netflix and Crunchyroll, so you have no excuse not to watch it.

Conclusion

This Summer 2025 anime season is jam-packed, but we hope our top 10 picks help you decide what to watch. Whether you’re into romance, comedy, action, or something supernatural, there’s something on this list for everyone. Let us know in the comments which shows you’re loving—or if we missed your favorite!

ーAaron