Looking for the best anime to binge this season? Whether you’re a long-time fan or just figuring out that “Naruto” isn’t a type of sushi, you’re in the right place. In this curated anime list 2025, we’ll cover the top 10 anime worth your screen time, plus sneak peeks into the most anticipated upcoming series that’ll blow your socks (and maybe your emotions) off.
Table of Contents
So… What Is Anime (And How’s It Not Just Cartoons With Bigger Eyes)?
Let’s clear it up: anime is Japanese animation that serves drama, action, romance, horror—you name it—with serious style. Unlike typical cartoons where characters fall off cliffs and bounce back (we’re looking at you, Wile E. Coyote), anime deals with real emotions, wild plots, and character growth that’ll have you questioning your existence. Manga anime adaptations like Jujutsu Kaisen manga and Spy X Family manga hit you with layered plots, epic arcs, and the kind of animation that makes you question reality. Cartoons go “boing,” anime goes “Itachi-level backstory reveal.”
4 REASONS WHY ANIME IS NOT A CARTOON
The 10 Best Anime to Watch in 2025
Here’s your top anime list for this season. From heart-pounding action to slow-burn romance, these are the best anime to watch in 2025.
1. Sakamoto Days
Sakamoto was once the world’s deadliest hitman—now, he’s a humble convenience store owner with a dad bod and a heart of gold. But old enemies don’t forget easily. When danger returns, Sakamoto kicks back into action mode—with creative combat and lots of stealth snacks. It’s hilarious, stylish, and surprisingly wholesome, proving that action heroes can retire… sort of. With the anime now officially out, Sakamoto Days is living up to the expectations set by its manga, which has already sold over 3 million copies in Japan. It’s quickly becoming one of the top anime series of the year.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
2. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Forget saving the world—Frieren asks what happens after the hero’s journey ends. This elf mage watched her companions grow old and die while she remained unchanged. It’s quiet, poetic, and full of soul-searching. Frieren explores memory, legacy, and how we connect with others—even across centuries. A must for fans of slow-burn storytelling and emotional depth.
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
3. Chainsaw Man
The Chainsaw Man manga was already a sensation, and the anime slashes through expectations (literally). Denji merges with a chainsaw demon to fight hellish creatures for a shot at a normal life. The series is brutally violent but oddly touching—perfect for fans who like their horror with a side of heartbreak.
- Where to Watch: Hulu / Crunchyroll , Netflix
4. Solo Leveling
If you haven’t read Solo Leveling Chapter 1, do it now. The anime adaptation delivers jaw-dropping animation and a power progression fantasy that feels like a gaming dream come true. Jin-Woo starts out weaker than a tutorial boss, but his mysterious leveling system turns him into humanity’s greatest weapon. With Solo Leveling Season 2 released this year, buzz around the Solo Leveling Season 3 release date is already heating up; now’s the perfect time to join the hype.
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
5. The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) is a must-read for fans of historical drama with a strong female lead and subtle romance. Set in a fictional empire reminiscent of ancient China, the story follows Maomao, a brilliant and independent-minded apothecary who is forced into service at the imperial court. As she navigates palace intrigue, uncovers secrets, and applies her extensive medicinal knowledge, she gains favor with key figures—especially the enigmatic court eunuch, Jinshi.
If you’re looking for intriguing mysteries, strong-willed heroines, and a backdrop rich in ancient drama, The Apothecary Diaries is an excellent choice!
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Netflix, Crunchyroll
6. Naruto (Classic + Shippuden)
When it comes to the best anime to watch, Naruto continues to stand tall in 2025. This iconic series follows Naruto Uzumaki, a once-rejected orphan with a dream of becoming Hokage—the village’s greatest ninja. It’s more than just epic fights and flashy jutsu; Naruto is a journey through pain, friendship, and the pursuit of acceptance. From emotional rivalries to unforgettable arcs, this series keeps fans coming back.
Whether you’re diving in for the first time or revisiting it with Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm or Naruto Ultimate Storm, this classic earns its spot on every anime list in 2025. A true legend among the top anime series and still one of the best anime picks of the decade.
- Where to Watch: Netflix , Hulu, Crunchyroll
7. My Happy Marriage
A slow-bloom romance about a girl with no power who finds love and strength in a world where arranged marriage meets magic. Gentle and slow-paced, My Happy Marriage is a supernatural period romance where love grows in the most unlikely of places. Miyo, an abused girl with no powers, finds strength and a kind husband—in a cruel world. Beautiful, moving, and quietly powerful.
Where to Watch: Netflix
8. Demon Slayer
A boy joins a secret corps to slay demons after his family is killed and his sister becomes one of them. Now, the saga reaches its peak with Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, premiering September 12, 2025. This highly anticipated film sets Tanjiro against Muzan Kibutsuji, leading to an epic showdown.
Get ready for visually stunning fights, emotional moments, and the beginning of the end for the Demon Slayer Corps. The final battle begins—will humanity prevail? Let me know if you’d like any tweaks!
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
9. Jujutsu Kaisen
Cursed spirits. Sorcerer showdowns. Heartbreaking arcs. Jujutsu Kaisen takes dark fantasy to new levels. If you’re a fan of the Jujutsu Kaisen manga, the anime brings those battles to life with fluid animation and intense pacing. A definite watch for anyone who loves the mix of grit and grace.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
10. Dandadan
You won’t know what hit you with Dandadan. Aliens? Ghosts? Psychic fights? It’s absurd, intense, and wildly unpredictable—but you’ll love every second of it. Set to release fully in late 2025, this one’s already a fan favorite.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Most Anticipated Anime of 2025
Some anime aren’t out yet—but they’re already trending:
Lord of the Mysteries—A dark, mysterious, steampunk-style anime with occult vibes. Fans of dark magic and secret societies will love this one.
Other Must-See Anime
Not part of the main top 10, but still worth every minute:
- Spy X Family— A spy, an assassin, and a telepath pretend to be a normal family. Emphasis on pretend.
- Hunter X Hunter—one of the most intelligent and emotional shounen series ever made.
- Blue Eye Samurai—beautiful, brutal, and bold. Western-style storytelling meets anime brilliance.
- My Hero Academia—because superpowers in school is a genre we never want to end.
Where to Watch Anime for Free (Legally)
If your wallet’s feeling light, you can still enjoy the best anime without piracy guilt:
- Crunchyroll (Free tier)
- Tubi TV
- 9Anime.com
- RetroCrush—for that classic anime vibe.
- YouTube—Check out channels like Muse Asia or Ani-One for free legal episodes.
About Unleavables
Don’t just watch anime, live it. At Unleavables, you’ll find everything from Naruto T Shirts to Goku L collectibles, plus exclusive drops for true anime lovers. It’s more than merch—it’s a fandom experience.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate top anime list of 2025. Whether you’re into cursed energy, ninja battles, or romantic slow-burns, this anime list 2025 is your passport to the best stories Japan has to offer. Now that you know the best anime to watch, all that’s left is to grab a snack, open your favorite streaming app, and hit “play.”
FAQs
Which anime has the best animation ?
There are so many anime that are visually stunning; one of them is Violet Evergarden, which has gorgeous, fluid animation with breathtaking scenery. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba with exceptional fighting sequences.
Which is the best anime in the world?
Attack on Titan, with its 9.1 IMDb rating, makes it the most popular anime, followed by One Piece and Demon Slayer.
How many episodes are in Solo Leveling season 2 ?
Solo Leveling Season 2, titled “Arise from the Shadow,” has 13 episodes. The anime premiered on January 5, 2025, and follows a weekly release schedule every Sunday at 12 AM JST.
Where to watch Solo Leveling?
Solo Leveling is available on Crunchyroll.
Who is the strongest anime character of all time ?
Well, it’s debatable when it comes to the most powerful character in the anime universe, but here are some top contenders: Zeno from Dragon Ball Super can erase the whole universe effortlessly. Saitama (One Punch Man) is able to defeat any opponent with a single punch. Muzan Kibutsuji (Demon Slayer): The progenitor of demons with immense regeneration and combat skills.
