The Summer 2026 anime lineup is gearing up for a fierce invasion of fresh hits. Alongside returning big-name franchises, July will showcase standout newcomers, ranging from popular manga adaptations to promising original works.
10. Thunder 3
Based on Yuki Ikeda’s original manga, this anime follows three friends on a mission to rescue a younger sister. The series delivers a major plot twist right from episode one. Released on Netflix, Thunder 3 is poised to become a social media sensation this summer if the production team maintains the quality of the source material.
9. Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games
Set at an elite all-girls academy where video games are strictly banned, two young ladies secretly compete in fighting game tournaments. The series captures intense competition by featuring licensed visuals and real matches from professional Street Fighter 6 players.
8. Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia
This deep historical fantasy centers on a young girl sold into slavery. After her family is invaded by Mongol forces, she embarks on a path of revenge using her knowledge. Produced by Science SARU, the studio behind the hit DAN DA DAN, it promises unique and visually stunning storytelling.
7. The World Is Dancing
Kazuto Mihara’s historical fantasy follows Oniyasha, a boy determined to break traditional barriers and carve his own path in the demanding art of dance. Produced by Cypic, the studio behind Kagurabachi, this anime promises a visual feast.
6. Tomb Raider King
If you’re looking to fill the void left by Solo Leveling, this Korean webtoon adaptation is the perfect pick. It follows a protagonist betrayed in mysterious dungeons who is reincarnated ten years in the past. Using future knowledge, he raids tombs, grows stronger, and seeks revenge.
5. Though I Am an Inept Villainess
A great alternative for fans of palace intrigue like The Apothecary Diaries. Set in ancient Chinese imperial courts, it tells the story of a magical body swap between the beloved princess and the despised villainess. However, events unfold in completely unpredictable ways.
4. Sparks of Tomorrow
Set in an alternate history where technology halts at the steam age, this anime follows a boy dreaming of building a world powered by electricity. Marking Kyoto Animation’s return after the tragic fire, the studio’s name alone guarantees breathtaking visuals down to every frame.
3. Black Torch
Originally canceled by Shonen Jump after fewer than 20 chapters, this shinobi and cursed soul manga is making a surprising comeback as an anime after eight years. Creator Tsuyoshi Takaki will personally oversee production to deliver the most complete and faithful adaptation yet.
2. The Ghost in the Shell
The legendary cyberpunk franchise returns with its 10th anime adaptation. This time, Science SARU brings the series back to its roots with character designs and color schemes closely matching Masamune Shirow’s original manga, aiming to restore the franchise’s former glory.
1. Smoking Behind the Supermarket With You
A gentle slice-of-life story about an overworked office man who finds solace in conversations and smoking sessions with a mysterious young woman behind a supermarket. Despite some minor controversies, this series is set to be one of the most captivating titles on Crunchyroll this July.