Anime is kicking off 2025 on a thrilling note, with several sequels and ongoing hits leading the charge this winter. As we transition into spring, a fresh slate of anime awaits, featuring series that avid fans simply cannot overlook. Fortunately, many of the season’s most anticipated titles will be available for simulcast on Crunchyroll, allowing viewers to stream episodes the same day they air in Japan.
Beyond this spring’s fresh offerings, 2025 promises to be a landmark year for anime enthusiasts, packed with series that fans should catch up on before new seasons or films debut. Crunchyroll is not just about upcoming releases; it also hosts some of the most popular titles, ensuring viewers have plenty to choose from while gearing up for the new season.
10 Solo Leveling
Animated by A-1 Pictures, Based on the Web Novel by Chugong
Solo Leveling has made a striking comeback in 2025, dominating early discussions about potential anime of the year. Its second season, titled “Arise from the Shadows,”has broken streaming records and significantly widened its already sizable fan base from its debut. For those who haven’t seen it yet, now is the ideal time to catch up on this critically acclaimed series.
The saga of Sung Jinwoo, dubbed “the world’s weakest hunter,”brings viewers on an exhilarating power fantasy filled with breathtaking visuals that rival even cinematic releases. Having recently skyrocketed to become Crunchyroll’s most popular title, fans new to anime can catch up by streaming both seasons on the platform.
9 The Apothecary Diaries
Animated by OLM and Toho Animation Studio, Based on the Light Novel Series by Natsu Hyuga
The winter anime season is not devoid of other sensations, with The Apothecary Diaries rapidly gaining popularity since its initial two-cour season aired in 2023. Its second season kicked off in January and will continue until early June 2025, with the second half starting on April 4.
Following the journey of Maomao, who transitions from working as an apothecary in the red-light district of a historically inspired setting to serving in the Imperial Palace, this series combines elements of drama, romance, and comedy that keep viewers eagerly tuning in each week. With still more episodes on the way, it’s the perfect time for newcomers to delve into this captivating series.
8 Kaiju no. 8
Animated by Production I.G, Based on the Manga by Naoya Matsumoto
Another notable hit from 2024, Kaiju no. 8, is all set for its second season release in July 2025. Receiving accolades for its engaging debut season, it stands out among Shōnen Jump offerings, providing plenty of sci-fi action for genre enthusiasts. Its popularity surged with the airing of its anime adaptation, even becoming part of a Fortnite partnership.
Unlike traditional teenage protagonists, Kafka Hibino, at 32 years old, takes center stage in a world where kaiju regularly disrupt normal life. This unique premise, along with its characters and tone, sets the series apart, making it a must-watch ahead of its return.
7 Chainsaw Man
Animated by MAPPA, Based on the Manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto
Nearly three years have passed since the groundbreaking debut of Chainsaw Man, and fans are finally treated to the long-anticipated follow-up, set for release in September 2025. The upcoming movie, *Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc*, will seamlessly pick up from where the anime concluded in 2022, adapting one of the series’ fan-favorite arcs.
This series has revolutionized modern shōnen manga, reshaping the landscape of Shōnen Jump. With the movie’s release approaching, now is the time for fans to reconnect with the chilling yet thrilling world of Chainsaw Man and revisit beloved characters like Denji, Aki, and Power.
6 Dandadan
Animated by Science Saru, Based on the Manga by Yukinobu Tatsu
Debuting in October 2024, Dandadan quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences and dominating discussions online. With its first season ending on a suspenseful cliffhanger, it is set to return in July 2025, with many predicting it could very well clinch anime of the year honors.
The upcoming season will focus on the manga’s Evil Eye arc, presenting challenges for Science Saru due to its intricate battle scenes and detailed artwork. Given the first season’s acclaim, fans are hopeful that the studio will continue to deliver exceptional adaptations. Until the summer arrives, viewers can stream the first season to catch up.
5 mono
Animated by Soigne and Aniplex, Based on the Manga by Afro
A new slice-of-life series titled mono is set to debut on Crunchyroll on April 12, 2025. This quieter release centers on the experiences of Satsuki, An, and Sakurako, whose Photography and Cinema Clubs merge into one Cinephoto Club.
If it follows a similar vibe to Laid-Back Camp, viewers can expect a soothing and heartwarming experience, infused with light comedy. The original mono manga’s four-panel format provides studios with creative flexibility, and recent adaptations of similar formats, like Bocchi the Rock!, have been successful.
4 My Hero Academia: Vigilantes
Animated by Bones, Based on the Manga by Hideyuki Furuhashi and Betten Court
As My Hero Academia approaches its concluding season, the spin-off series My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is set to premiere on April 7, 2025. This series takes place five years before the main narrative, exploring the universe further and addressing long-standing questions from dedicated fans.
Following protagonist Koichi Haimawari, who turns to vigilantism after failing to become a licensed hero, the anime will also feature familiar faces like All Might and Eraserhead. My Hero Academia: Vigilantes promises to be a critical addition for anyone invested in the overarching story.
3 Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc
Animated by CloverWorks, Based on the Manga by Yana Toboso
Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc, returning on April 5, 2025, is highly anticipated among fans of this enduring franchise. The storyline takes Ciel and his demon butler Sebastian into a haunting village and plans to adapt one of the spookiest story arcs from Yana Toboso’s original manga. The season is expected to feature around 10 to 13 episodes, similar to its previous arcs.
Fans are eager for a close adaptation of the source material, especially following some deviations in earlier seasons. This upcoming season promises an eerie and supernatural adventure, capturing the essence of the nearly two-decade-long series.
2 Fire Force
Animated by David Production, Based on the Manga by Atsushi Ohkubo
Fire Force Season Three is set to adapt one of the most compelling segments of Atsushi Ohkubo’s beloved manga, premiering on April 5, 2025. This final season is divided into two cours, with the latter set to air in January 2026, and will resume from where the previous season left off, diving into the Obi Rescue arc.
While some fans worry about whether a split season can adequately cover the remaining storylines, the latest trailer promises to deliver outstanding visual quality, ensuring that the series concludes with a flourish.
1 One Piece
Animated by Toei Animation, Based on the Manga by Eiichiro Oda
After an extraordinary hiatus since October of last year, One Piece is set to return on April 6, 2025, with the continuation of its Egghead arc. This eagerly awaited comeback will include the airing of episodes #1123 and #1124, alongside an 83-minute recap of the Egghead arc’s most significant moments.
With 2025 shaping up to be an exhilarating year for anime, fans are excited to see that One Piece will reclaim its place at the forefront this spring.
For a complete look at Crunchyroll’s spring 2025 lineup, check out here.