2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for anime fans, with a mix of highly anticipated sequels, fresh adaptations, and original stories hitting screens. From action-packed shonen to quirky comedies and emotional dramas, there’s something for everyone. Below, we dive into the most trending anime releases of 2025, based on recent buzz and fan excitement, complete with release dates and platforms where available.
1. Solo Leveling: Season 2
- Release Date: January 2025
- Platform: Crunchyroll
- Why It’s Trending: After its explosive debut in 2024, Solo Leveling returns with Season 2, following Sung Jinwoo’s journey as the Shadow Monarch. The Red Gate Arc promises even more intense battles and stunning animation from A-1 Pictures. Fans are hyped for Jinwoo’s continued power progression and the darker, world-threatening stakes. This South Korean manhwa adaptation has captivated audiences with its RPG-like progression and jaw-dropping visuals.
2. Sakamoto Days
- Release Date: January 2025
- Platform: Netflix
- Why It’s Trending: Adapted from Yuto Suzuki’s hit manga, Sakamoto Days blends action, humor, and slice-of-life moments. The story follows Taro Sakamoto, a retired hitman trying to live a quiet life, only to be pulled back into the world of assassins. TMS Entertainment’s production has fans buzzing for its high-energy fight sequences and comedic charm. Its popularity has skyrocketed, with many calling it a standout shonen of 2025.
3. Dandadan: Evil Eye (Movie & Season 2)
- Release Date: June 6, 2025 (Movie, theatrical release); Season 2 ongoing in Summer 2025
- Platform: Theaters (Movie), Crunchyroll/Netflix (Series)
- Why It’s Trending: Dandadan took the anime world by storm in 2024 with its wild mix of ghosts, aliens, and quirky humor. The Evil Eye movie, covering the first three episodes of Season 2, hits theaters globally in June, kicking off the new arc. Fans are raving about Science SARU’s vibrant animation and the show’s unique blend of supernatural chaos and heartfelt moments.
4. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle (Movie Trilogy)
- Release Date: First movie, July 18, 2025 (Japan), September 12, 2025 (North America/Europe)
- Platform: Theaters
- Why It’s Trending: Demon Slayer continues its reign as a global phenomenon with a cinematic trilogy adapting the Infinity Castle arc, the epic finale of Tanjiro’s journey. Ufotable’s breathtaking animation and emotional storytelling have fans eagerly awaiting this theatrical event. The first film broke box office records in Japan, signaling massive hype for its international rollout.
5. Kaiju No. 8: Season 2
- Release Date: July 2025
- Platform: Crunchyroll
- Why It’s Trending: Kafka Hibino’s transformation into a kaiju-fighting hero captured fans in 2024, and Season 2 is set to deliver more high-octane battles and emotional growth. Produced by Production I.G., this shonen hit is praised for its slick animation and relatable characters. Its confirmation at Jump Festa 2025 has kept it trending among action anime fans.
6. Witch Hat Atelier
- Release Date: 2025 (TBA)
- Platform: Crunchyroll
- Why It’s Trending: Kamome Shirahama’s enchanting manga gets its anime adaptation from Studio BUG FILMS, directed by Ayumu Watanabe. This magical tale of a young girl’s journey to become a witch is generating buzz for its unique art style and heartfelt narrative. Fans expect a visually stunning series that could be a defining fantasy anime of 2025.
7. Fire Force: Season 3
- Release Date: April 2025
- Platform: Crunchyroll
- Why It’s Trending: After a long wait, Fire Force returns with its third season, diving into the Stigma Arc. Shinra Kusakabe’s quest to uncover the truth behind the Evangelist and the Adolla Burst continues, with potential ties to Soul Eater adding intrigue. The series’ fiery action and David Production’s animation keep it a fan favorite.
8. Chainsaw Man: The Movie
- Release Date: September 19, 2025 (Japan), October 29, 2025 (North America)
- Platform: Theaters
- Why It’s Trending: MAPPA’s adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga stunned fans with its first season, and the upcoming film, covering a major arc, is one of 2025’s most anticipated releases. Its blend of gruesome action, dark humor, and emotional depth has kept fans talking since its announcement.
9. The Apothecary Diaries: Season 2
- Release Date: January 2025
- Platform: Crunchyroll
- Why It’s Trending: Maomao’s medical mysteries and palace intrigue return in Season 2, continuing her journey in the imperial court. Toho Animation and OLM’s gorgeous visuals and the series’ blend of mystery, romance, and historical drama have made it a standout. Fans are excited for more of Maomao’s sharp wit and evolving relationship with Jinshi.
10. Takopi’s Original Sin
- Release Date: Summer 2025 (concluded with Episode 6)
- Platform: TBA
- Why It’s Trending: This short series has taken the anime world by storm with its high production quality and emotional storytelling. With a 9.3/10 rating on IMDb, it’s being hailed as one of 2025’s best, despite its brief six-episode run. Fans on X are calling it untouchable in terms of quality this year.
Why 2025 Is a Big Year for Anime
The anime industry is thriving, with 2025 delivering a diverse lineup of genres and styles. From the global dominance of Demon Slayer and Chainsaw Man to fresh takes like Witch Hat Atelier and Takopi’s Original Sin, there’s no shortage of stories to explore. Streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix are making these releases more accessible than ever, while theatrical releases add to the excitement. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to anime, 2025’s trending releases are sure to leave a lasting impression.