Introduction

I swear, it feels like I just finished talking with fellow anime enthusiasts about which shows we would be watching during the 2025 anime season. Yet here we are—another year has come and gone. Thankfully, anime fans were not left disappointed in the slightest. The 2025 anime year delivered several legendary titles, and while there were a few misfires, the overall quality was excellent. Let’s take a journey through some of our favorite anime here at SunsetNerdVerse in our aptly titled Top 10 Anime of 2025.

Honorable Mention: Kaiju No. 8 – Season 2

Studio: Production I.G
Episode Count: 11

Kaiju No. 8 Season 2 doesn’t quite reach the heights of its first season and struggles with pacing early on, which is especially noticeable with a shorter episode count. Still, it remains an exciting and entertaining kaiju anime. Kafka returns in a new unit and begins questioning himself due to the events of season one. Once the action ramps up, the stellar animation and blend of action and comedy shine through. While it just missed our main list, it easily earns an honorable mention.

10. Takopii no Genzai (Takopi’s Original Sin)

Studio: Enishiya
Episode Count: 6

Takopi’s Original Sin is a six-episode emotional rollercoaster filled with dark themes and harsh real-world issues such as bullying and social isolation. Despite its colorful alien protagonist, this anime pulls no punches. While its short length and minor narrative issues hold it back from ranking higher, its emotional impact alone earns it a spot on this list. Fair warning—the content warnings exist for a reason.

9. My Dress-Up Darling – Season 2

Studio: CloverWorks
Episode Count: 12

The return of Wakana Gojo and Marin Kitagawa delivers another solid romance-comedy season. While Season 2 doesn’t quite match the near-perfect first season and shifts focus toward side characters, it still explores meaningful themes surrounding cosplay culture and identity. The toned-down ecchi elements and slower pacing may divide fans, but it remains one of the better romance anime of 2025.

8. Gachiakuta

Studio: Bones Film
Episode Count: 24

Gachiakuta surprised many viewers with its striking visuals, intriguing world-building, and compelling power systems. What begins as a visually stylish anime quickly reveals deeper storytelling and engaging themes. The announcement of a second season ensures this series won’t be a one-and-done—and that’s a very good thing.

7. The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity

Studio: CloverWorks
Episode Count: 13

This heartfelt romance anime overcomes familiar tropes by grounding its story in realistic emotions and character growth. Rintaro Tsumugi and Kaoruko Waguri’s relationship blossoms despite their schools’ rivalry, creating a touching and immersive experience. While the English dub received mixed reactions, the animation and original performances elevate this title into one of the year’s best romances.

6. Dandadan – Season 2

Studio: Science SARU
Episode Count: 12

Dandadan Season 2 doubles down on its chaotic mix of sci-fi, romance, supernatural absurdity, and heartfelt moments. From giant Buddha mechs to emotional character beats, every episode delivers something memorable. With a third season confirmed, fans have a lot to look forward to—even if the wait hurts.

5. Umamusume: Cinderella Gray

Studio: CygamesPictures
Episode Count: 23

What started as a niche gacha game adaptation continues to surprise. Umamusume: Cinderella Gray offers stunning animation, exciting races, and surprisingly emotional storytelling. Even viewers unfamiliar with the franchise will find plenty to enjoy in this high-energy sequel.

4. Solo Leveling – Season 2: Arise from the Shadow

Studio: A-1 Pictures
Episode Count: 13

Sung Jin-woo’s rise to power continues with jaw-dropping animation and some of the best action scenes of the year. A-1 Pictures delivers visually spectacular battles—including the unforgettable Ant King fight—paired with excellent music and pacing. This season is a must-watch for action anime fans.

3. Call of the Night – Season 2

Studio: LIDENFILMS
Episode Count: 12

Season 2 of Call of the Night enhances everything that made the original special: moody visuals, emotional depth, and a stronger narrative focus. While its anime-original ending may divide fans, this sequel solidifies the series as one of the standout anime of 2025.

2. My Hero Academia – Final Season

Studio: Bones Film
Episode Count: 11

The final season of My Hero Academia delivers an emotionally charged conclusion that honors the manga while elevating it through animation. From nostalgic callbacks to a climactic finale, this season provides a fitting and satisfying end to a beloved franchise.

1. To Be Hero X

Studio: Pb Animation, LAN Studio, Paper Plane Animation Studio, B.COOL Studio
Episode Count: 24

To Be Hero X stands as the undisputed highlight of the 2025 anime year. With breathtaking visuals, genre-defying storytelling, and a powerful soundtrack composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, this series redefines the hero narrative. Its innovative blend of 2D and 3D animation, trust-based power system, and interconnected arcs make it a masterpiece that simply cannot be ignored.

Conclusion

Looking ahead, the 2026 anime season already shows incredible promise. While it’s impossible to watch everything with real-life responsibilities in the way, we did our best to experience a wide range of anime this year. Did we miss a favorite of yours, or do you agree with our rankings? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned for more anime coverage here at SunsetNerdVerse.

—Aaron