Solo Leveling Season 2 is expected to be the biggest hit of 2025. That means 2026 will need truly spectacular titles to match its impact and widespread popularity. Let’s take a look at the most promising anime set to make waves next year.
1. Frieren: Beyond The Journey’s End Season 2 (Winter 2026)
Set to kick off 2026 perfectly, Frieren: Beyond The Journey’s End returns with another fantastic blend of slow-life fantasy, intricate world-building, and stunning action. Season 1 set an incredibly high bar, praised as Madhouse’s strongest anime in a decade and one of the best series ever.
The anime has only covered about half of Kanehito Yamada’s ongoing manga, so there’s plenty of material for a full second season. If it lives up to expectations, Frieren Season 2 could be the biggest and best anime of 2026.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 (Winter 2026)
Jujutsu Kaisen is a special case. Although this shonen series has been globally popular since 2020, studio MAPPA prioritizes quality over rushing releases. Following previous seasons, Season 3 is likely to arrive after a 2.5-year break. This gap not only allows MAPPA to deliver top-tier animation but also builds fans’ anticipation for Yuji’s return.
Season 3 will adapt the Itadori’s Extermination and Perfect Preparation arcs, then begin the Culling Game arc. Whether the Culling Game concludes this season depends on the episode count.
3. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity (2026)
A decade ago, Bleach seemed destined to remain unfinished. Then in 2022, Pierrot revived this giant, bringing Ichigo back into the spotlight and delivering one of anime’s greatest comebacks.
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War has been exceptional so far, especially in animation quality. It’s widely regarded as the current pinnacle of anime action. The Calamity will bring Bleach to a close, giving the series the ending it deserves.
4. The Ghost in the Shell (2026)
While new Ghost in the Shell projects aren’t rare, this upcoming release stands out. If done well, it could rival the classic Stand Alone Complex series.
The most exciting part is that Science Saru, the studio behind some of the best anime in recent years like Dandadan and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! (2020), is producing it. Expect stunning visuals and a fresh artistic style perfectly suited for a cyberpunk setting.
5. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run (2026)
Although the release date isn’t confirmed, Netflix has announced Steel Ball Run (Part 7) will debut in 2026, exciting fans worldwide. Hirohiko Araki’s JoJo’s arcs are all incredible, but Part 7 is often hailed as one of the best thanks to its unique setting and fantastic characters. Steel Ball Run can be enjoyed even by newcomers, though watching previous parts is recommended.
6. Tokyo Revengers: Three Deities Arc (2026)
Tokyo Revengers’ reputation has dipped on Western platforms, with mixed reviews for recent seasons. However, it remains hugely popular in Japan, making its upcoming season one of 2026’s biggest domestic anime. The story is entering its final saga, covering the Three Deities and Kanto Manji arcs.
The 2026 season is named after the Three Deities arc but will likely include the Bonten arc first, which precedes the final saga. This means Tokyo Revengers may need another season to cover the lengthy Kanto Manji arc, spanning over 40 manga chapters.
7. Black Clover Season 2 (2026)
Considering it was once mocked, Black Clover’s comeback is remarkable. After 170 episodes, it comfortably ranks among the best modern shonen battle anime. The adaptation paused due to catching up with the manga, causing a nearly five-year break.
That wait ends in 2026 when Asta and the Black Bulls return, covering at least the Spade Kingdom Raid arc. Despite the hiatus, Black Clover is now more beloved than during its original run.
8. Eleceed (2026)
Eleceed is a major name in the manhwa industry, with Son Je-ho’s webtoon delivering high-quality content since 2018. The story follows an unusual duo: Jiwoo, a boy with electric powers, teams up with Kayden, a man trapped in a cat’s body.
Together, they work as a unit trying to make a positive impact while facing off against Awakeners with sinister intentions. Humor plays a big role in Eleceed’s success formula.