The year 2025 exploded onto the anime scene with a slew of masterpieces spanning cinema and TV. Whether it’s the spirit world, Saiyan warriors, or demon hunters, fans were treated to breathtaking action spectacles.
Picking the best battles was never easy. This list combines graphic techniques, fight choreography, and emotional impact. Familiar faces appear alongside surprising contenders that will catch you off guard.
Here are the 10 most earth-shattering battles of the year:
10. Solo Leveling: Jinwoo vs Beru
The most anticipated fight of season 2 also sparked debate. Beru, the Black Ant King, appeared terrifying, sweeping through hunters like autumn leaves. While the clash between Sung Jinwoo and this insect warrior was visually stunning, it ended too quickly. Jinwoo’s near-effortless victory left fans feeling a bit let down after the long wait.
9. Dragon Ball Daima: Goku SSJ4 vs Gomah
Though not the strongest in choreography, the battle between adult Son Goku and Demon King Gomah carried historic weight. Goku’s transformation into Super Saiyan 4 to protect the Demon Realm perfectly captured the heroic spirit of Dragon Ball Z. Gomah may not be as fearsome as Frieza or Cell, but this fight thrilled longtime fans.
8. Clevatess: Alicia Glenfall vs Dorel
Clevatess presents a dark world where heroine Alicia is resurrected by the very monster that killed her. The brutal, raw showdown with Dorel is full of artistic flair. Though it lacks the massive fanbase of One Piece or Demon Slayer, this fight deserves praise for its unique graphic style.
7. Demon Slayer (Infinity Castle): Doma vs Shinobu
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle helped Ufotable rake in hundreds of millions with its top-tier performances. Shinobu Kocho poured her soul into avenging her sister. The contrast between the carefree, mocking Upper Moon Two Doma and the fierce Hashira created a tragic scene, though its ending left many heartbroken.
6. One Piece: Zoro vs Rob Lucci
On Future Island, the rematch between Zoro and CP0 assassin Rob Lucci showcased Toei Animation’s remarkable progress. Earth-shaking sword strikes, lightning-fast moves, and dazzling light effects sometimes made viewers think they were watching a Dragon Ball battle. Zoro once again proved why he’s the future “strongest swordsman in the world.”
5. Demon Slayer (Infinity Castle): Zenitsu vs Kaigaku
This was Zenitsu’s brightest moment ever. Shedding his timid image, he faced his former comrade turned demon. The Thunder Breathing techniques were breathtakingly recreated on the big screen, accompanied by the pain of losing their master, making every strike carry immense weight.
4. One Piece: Luffy and Friends vs Saturn
For the first time, a Five Elders directly joined the fight at Egghead, causing a seismic shock. Saturn’s spider-like monstrous form embodied the World Government’s brutality. This chaotic battle not only showcased Luffy’s Gear 5 power but also highlighted the Straw Hats’ unity against a vastly superior foe.
3. One Piece: Luffy vs Kizaru
After years of being bullied by Admiral Kizaru, Luffy finally had his chance for revenge. Kizaru’s light clashed with the pure freedom of Gear 5 in a spectacular light show spanning multiple episodes. This unprecedented battle blurred the lines between raw natural power (Logia) and mythical abilities.
2. Demon Slayer (Infinity Castle): Tanjiro and Giyu vs Akaza
There’s almost nothing to fault in this rematch. Since the death of Flame Hashira Rengoku, fans have longed to see Akaza pay for his crimes. The teamwork of Tanjiro and Water Hashira Giyu within the shifting space of the Infinity Castle represents the pinnacle of 2025 anime graphics. Yet, one even crazier battle took the top spot.
1. Chainsaw Man The Movie (Reze Arc): Denji vs Reze
Studio MAPPA truly created a cinematic marvel with the Reze arc. The love triangle between Denji, Reze, and Makima explodes when Reze reveals herself as the Bomb Devil. This battle devastates entire city blocks, wild and chaotic yet meticulously crafted in every frame. Not only the best fight of the year, Chainsaw Man The Movie is hailed as the finest anime film of 2025.