The first half of 2025 has been packed with amazing anime, from blockbuster shōnen hits to the latest seasons of beloved series. While social media buzz and streaming charts often focus on just a handful of titles, dozens of other outstanding shows quietly win over devoted fans.
The 10 series below prove that some of the best stories this year can be found even if they aren’t the most famous.
10. Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You
This romantic drama blends nostalgic school days with the sweet uncertainty of young love. Following a close-knit group of childhood friends as they start to realize their feelings for each other, the series unfolds its romance slowly but irresistibly.
Every emotion and plot point feels genuine and intense, capturing the charm of classic melodrama with modern appeal. It’s an emotionally healing show that deserves wider recognition.
9. Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective
Combining medical drama with detective mystery, Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective stands out as one of 2025’s most inventive shows. The brilliant doctor uses deep medical knowledge to solve unusual cases, mixing suspense with heartfelt storytelling.
Each episode presents a new medical mystery, while an overarching conspiracy slowly unfolds, reminiscent of The Apothecary Diaries. The series tackles complex ethical issues, making it both thrilling and thought-provoking.
8. Medalist
Medalist elevates sports anime by focusing on figure skating, a sport rarely explored in anime. It tells the story of a young skater and her passionate coach as they face challenges on and off the ice.
The competition scenes are breathtakingly animated, capturing the elegance and spirit of the sport with cinematic flair. Medalist feels like the spiritual successor to Yuri!!! on Ice, blending athleticism and emotion to earn a gold medal.
7. ZENSHU
After high school, Natsuko Hirose dives into the animation world and quickly rises as a star. Her debut work becomes an instant hit, but her second project, a romantic comedy about first love, hits a snag because she’s never truly experienced love herself.
Lacking personal experience, Natsuko struggles to capture the emotional nuances of the story. This forces her on an introspective journey to understand love, both for her work and herself. ZENSHU blends the realities of the animation industry with emotional vulnerability, making it a compelling and relatable watch for dreamers and creatives.
6. Moonrise
In the near future, humanity lives under the watch of Sapientia, an AI network managing global affairs. While Earth enjoys peace, Sapientia’s lunar development program turns the Moon into a dumping ground for criminals and pollution, leaving its residents in extreme poverty. Tensions escalate into a brutal conflict between Earth and the Moon.
Jacob “Jack” Shadow, who lost his family in a Moon rebel bombing, joins Earth’s military seeking revenge. But his reconnaissance mission forces him to confront the cost of war and an unexpected resistance leader. Moonrise delivers political drama, intense action, and deep reflections on justice and morality.
5. Honey Lemon Soda
Based on the popular shojo manga, Honey Lemon Soda is as refreshing as its name. The story follows shy Uka as she tries to change herself in high school with help from a charming boy whose personality matches his bright hair color.
It’s a romance about confidence and embracing change. The series stands out for its sincerity, capturing the feelings of personal growth and blending lighthearted moments with deeper emotions.
4. I Have a Crush at Work
Workplace romances can be tricky to portray without clichés, but I Have a Crush at Work succeeds with charm and maturity. It focuses on coworkers Yui Mitsuya and Masugu Tateishi, who develop feelings for each other.
The series strikes a delicate balance between personal emotions and professional boundaries. Its strength lies in realistic dialogue and relatable situations, offering a fresh take compared to typical school romances.
3. Anne Shirley
A remake of the classic Anne of Green Gables story, Anne Shirley offers stunning visuals and a modern touch to the beloved tale. The anime preserves Anne’s boundless imagination and determination while providing fresh interpretations of familiar events and relationships.
It’s rare for a literary adaptation to feel this vibrant, and Anne Shirley achieves it effortlessly. Unfortunately, its quiet charm has been overshadowed by more popular action and fantasy titles this year.
2. My Melody & Kuromi
In Mariland, My Melody opens a charming bakery after discovering a mysterious heart in the forest, sparking a magical chain of events. Across the street, Kuromi’s Japanese sweets shop struggles with few customers, and she’s determined to uncover the secret behind My Melody’s irresistible treats.
The two rivals prepare for a major baking contest judged by world-famous pastry chef Pistachio, but the competition unexpectedly threatens Mariland’s fate. With vivid visuals, adorable characters, and a quirky yet dramatic plot, My Melody & Kuromi proves Sanrio’s world is more than just cute.
1. Rurouni Kenshin, Kyoto Disturbance
The second season of Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan brings one of the manga’s most legendary arcs to life with renewed emotional depth. Kenshin embarks on a journey to Kyoto to stop Shishio Makoto, a fearsome enemy determined to overthrow the Meiji government and plunge Japan into chaos.
The Kyoto Disturbance arc delivers intense sword fights, complex moral debates, and quiet human moments balanced with action. With stunning animation and a faithful yet nuanced story, this season cements itself as a highlight of 2025’s anime lineup and a must-watch for fans of historical action.