Top Summer 2025 Anime Picks
The 2025 Summer Anime Season Recommendations is bursting with thrilling new shows, we have the usual Isekai, but there is lots of horror this season too! Grab your snacks, kick back, and get ready to dive into the hottest anime of the season. Ready to discover what’s in store? Itadakimasu!
Recommended Returning Anime
This season marks the return of huge favourite series such as Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon, The Rising of the Shield Hero (Season 4 already?!), and Kaiju No. 8 with its second season! We can’t wait to reunite with these series and adventure alongside our heroes once again! This season is going to be a blast!
Call of the Night Season 2
DAN DA DAN Season 2
Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE Cour 2
Grand Blue Dreaming Season 2
I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability Season 2
Jigoku Sensei Nube
Kaiju No. 8 Season 2
Mr. Osomatsu 4th Season
My Dress-Up Darling Season 2
New PANTY & STOCKING with GARTERBELT
Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon Season 2
Rent-a-Girlfriend Season 4
SAKAMOTO DAYS Cour 2
The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 4
Toilet-bound Hanako-kun 2 Part 2
Our Top 10 SummerAnime Recommendations
Apocalypse Bringer Mynoghra: World Conquest Starts with the Civilization of Ruin
(Isekai Mokushiroku Mynoghra ~Hametsu no Bunmei de Hajimeru Sekai Seifuku~)
- Anime House: MAHO FILM
- Based on: Light Novel
- Genre: Adventure Fantasy Isekai
- Release Date: Jul 6, 2025
Takuto Ira, a terminally ill young man and expert player of the strategy game Eternal Nations, suddenly awakens within its world, only now as the dark god and ruler of Mynoghra, a feared “evil” civilisation. With his loyal demonic retainer, the enigmatic Sludge Witch Atou, at his side, Takuto establishes a settlement in the forest.
Refugees of various races, persecuted by racist human nations, flock to his banner. Faced with hostile powers and treacherous terrain, he must methodically explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate to reclaim The Eternal Nations and protect his people.
Clevatess
(Clevatess -Majuu no Ou to Akago to Shikabane no Yuusha-)
- Anime House: Lay-duce
- Based on: Manga
- Genre: Fantasy
- Release Date: Jul 2, 2025
Clevatess follows Alicia, a young woman who dreams of heroism and joins a group of 13 warriors sent to defeat Clevatess, the feared Beast King wielding a legendary sword. When their attempt fails catastrophically, threatening humanity, the only hope lies in entrusting a human infant to the Beast King.
As Clevatess reluctantly becomes the child’s guardian, this dark fantasy explores whether a ruthless monster can learn compassion through caring for a baby. With epic battles, moral quandaries, and emotional depth, the series from Lay‑duce promises a thrilling July premiere.
Nyaight of the Living Cat
- Anime House: OLM
- Based on: Manga
- Genre: Action Horror
- Release Date: Jul 6, 2025
In a bizarre, post‑apocalyptic “nyandemic,” a mysterious virus spreads by cat cuddles, anyone who pets a cat transforms into one. Humanity teeters on the edge as felines dominate the world. Amid the chaos, amnesiac yet cat‑obsessed Kunagi fights to resist his overwhelming urge to cuddle cats and mutate.
Alongside a ragtag group of survivors, he navigates a surreal survival landscape where every affectionate moment could be fatal. Directed by Tomohiro Kamitani with legendary filmmaker Takashi Miike as chief director, the dark comedy‑horror series blends suspense, absurdity, and feline charm.
Private Tutor to the Duke's Daughter
(Koujo Denka no Kateikyoushi)
- Anime House: Studio Blanc.
- Based on: Light Novel
- Genre: Fantasy Magic
- Release Date: July 5, 2025
After failing his royal court sorcerer exam, Allen can’t afford the journey home. His only option: become a private tutor for Tina, the Duke’s brilliant yet magically incapacitated daughter. With the prestigious Royal Academy entrance exams looming, Tina must master magic, but no conventional instructor can crack her spellcasting barrier.
Enter Allen, whose gentle teaching and unique magical insight may be the key to unlocking her latent talent. Amid heartwarming mentor‑student bonds, subtle romance, and occasional harem shenanigans, this fantasy series explores whether kindness can break through even the most stubborn magical blockades.
Secrets of the Silent Witch
(Silent Witch: Chinmoku no Majo no Kakushigoto)
- Anime House:Studio Gokumi
- Based on: Light Novel
- Genre: Fantasy School
- Release Date: Jul 4, 2025
Secrets of the Silent Witch follows Monica Everett, a shy genius and the only mage capable of casting “chantless” magic, who secretly defeated a legendary black dragon. Despite her unparalleled talent, her crippling social anxiety led her to avoid speaking aloud. Now thrust into a covert mission, Monica is assigned to protect the kingdom’s second prince while posing as a student at the prestigious Serendia Academy.
With her taciturn nature and magical prowess, she must navigate both social interactions and hidden threats. As she grows more confident and forges unexpected bonds, this high‑fantasy tale blends action, mystery, and heartfelt character growth.
The Shy Hero and the Assassin Princesses
(Kizetsu Yuusha to Ansatsu Hime)
- Anime House: CONNECT
- Based on: Manga
- Genre: Action Comedy Fantasy
- Release Date: Jul 5, 2025
Toto is a powerful E‑rank adventurer whose crippling shyness leaves him unable to form a party, until three stunning women, Ciel, Anemone, and Gore, approach him under the pretence of friendship. Unbeknownst to him, each is secretly an assassin princess planning to kill him… and they take turns scheming his demise on every quest.
Blending action, fantasy, romantic‑comedy, and dark humour, this “harem death rom‑com” follows Toto’s misadventures as he remains oblivious to the deadly intentions of his comrades. Directed by Noriaki Akitaya with Connect studio.
The Summer Hikaru Died
(Hikaru ga Shinda Natsu)
- Anime House: Cygames Pictures
- Based on: Digital Manga
- Genre: Horror Mystery Supernatural
- Release Date: Jul 5, 2025
In rural Japan, best friends Yoshiki and Hikaru share a tight bond, until Hikaru disappears on a mountain hike. Months later, he returns unchanged in appearance but consumed by an otherworldly entity. Though “Hikaru” retains memories and feelings, Yoshiki senses something deeply unnerving beneath the surface.
Torn between loyalty and fear, Yoshiki chooses to stay by his friend’s side as bizarre supernatural events unsettle their village. Directed and penned by Ryōhei Takeshita (Jujutsu Kaisen), animated by CygamesPictures, this haunting psychological horror explores identity, grief, and the uncanny with chilling restraint.
The Water Magician
(Mizu Zokusei no Mahoutsukai Daiichibu)
- Anime House: Typhoon Graphics x Wonderland
- Based on: Light Novel
- Genre: Adventure Fantasy Isekai
- Release Date: Jul 3, 2025
Reborn as Ryo in the mystical land of Phi, a carefree soul awakens to newfound water magic, and the rare blessing of eternal youth. Expecting a peaceful life, he soon confronts monstrous beasts: headless knights, assassin hawks, and dragons. Over two decades, Ryo trains in solitude, mastering his elemental craft in the wild.
His quiet existence is upended upon meeting Abel, a genius swordsman, and Sera, an elven archer. Together, they journey from the backwoods to the centre of power, transforming Ryo from a lone mage into a world‑shaping hero.
TOUGEN ANKI
- Anime House: Studio HIBARI
- Based on: Manga
- Genre: Action Fantasy Mythology
- Release Date: Jul 11, 2025
Shiki Ichinose is an ordinary teenager until a brutal Momotaro attack reveals his Oni bloodline, his father’s secret. Enrolling at the secretive Rasetsu Academy, Shiki begins mastering his demonic “Blood Release” abilities under powerful mentors.
Torn between the violent legacy of the Oni and the centuries‑old conflict with the Momotaro Agency, he embarks on a dark hero’s journey, driven by vengeance and self‑discovery. As alliances shift and hidden truths emerge, Shiki must decide whether to embrace his cursed heritage or forge a new destiny.
Welcome to the Outcast's Restaurant!
(Tsuihousha Shokudou e Youkoso!)
- Anime House: OLM x Team Yoshioka
- Based on: Light Novel
- Genre: Fantasy
- Release Date: Jul 3, 2025
After being unceremoniously expelled from the elite Silverwing Battalion, renowned adventurer Dennis finds himself adrift, until he meets Atelier, a former slave seeking a fresh start. Together, they open the Adventurers’ Diner, welcoming exiles and oddballs who share tales of hardship over nourishing meals.
In this warm-hearted isekai–gourmet fantasy, Dennis uses his culinary skills to heal more than physical hunger, building emotional bonds and solving his patrons’ personal struggles. With each dish served, he rediscovers his own purpose. Animated by OLM Team Yoshioka and directed by Jōji Shimura, the series blends comfort, camaraderie, and a touch of adventure.
Honourable Mentions
Our Honorable Mentions feature anime that came very close to making our top 2025 Summer Anime season recommendations list. However, due to the limited space of our top recommendations, we’ve included them here as they could be the enjoyable watch you’ve been seeking!
Dekin no Mogura: The Earthbound Mole (Dekin no Mogura)
University students Magi and Yaeko witness a bizarre accident: a dictionary falls on a mysterious hermit named Momoyuki Mogura, who refuses help despite bleeding. Shortly after, the pair begin seeing ghosts and eerie apparitions.
Mogura, cursed and “banned from the afterlife”, wanders collecting spirits’ light in his lantern, seeking redemption. As supernatural phenomena intensify, Magi and Yaeko are drawn into his strange world. This darkly comedic, ghostly mystery from Brain’s Base blends the mundane with the uncanny.
Fermat Kitchen (Fermat no Ryouri)
Math prodigy Gaku Kitada’s dream dies with his scholarship, until enigmatic chef Kai Asakura recruits him at a café. Together, they blend mathematical precision and culinary creativity, crafting dishes as elegant formulas. This inspiring “math-meets-cooking” anime serves up flavour, friendship, and late‑night inspiration.
GACHIAKUTA
Rudo, a slum‑born orphan falsely accused of murder, is exiled into the filthy Abyss. There, he discovers he can wield power by animating discarded objects called “Vital Instruments.” Joining the Cleaner brigade, he fights monstrous Trash Beasts, seeking redemption, vengeance, and a harsh path to justice.
Hotel Inhumans
In a luxury hotel catering exclusively to assassins, concierges Ikurō and Sara are bound by a strict “never say no” rule. They fulfil clandestine requests, from forged identities to weaponry and corpse disposal, while navigating intense moral drama at the perilous edge of life and death.
New Saga (Tsuyokute New Saga)
After slaying the Demon King, magic knight Kyle Lenard awakens four years in the past, reborn before the cataclysm. Armed with future memories and power, he resolves to prevent war, reunite with loved ones, and rewrite history. This time-looped fantasy blends redemption, strategy, and epic adventure.
Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus (Seishun Buta Yarou wa Santa Claus no Yume wo Minai)
Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus is an upcoming instalment in the beloved Rascal Does Not Dream series. Set during the holiday season, it blends romance, supernatural elements, and emotional drama as Sakuta faces new challenges with Mai. Fans can expect heartfelt moments, festive atmosphere, and thought-provoking storytelling.
Ruri Rocks (Ruri no Houseki)
High schooler Ruri, obsessed with gemstones and jewellery, meets mineralogy grad student Nagi and dives head‑first into real rock‑hunting adventures. From mountain caves to riverbeds, she learns scientific techniques, hammering, panning, mapping, growing from casual collector into a confident explorer. A charming science‑slice‑of‑life with genuine geological wonder.
Solo Camping for Two (Futari Solo Camp)
Seasoned solo camper Gen Kinokura cherishes solitude, until he meets eager beginner Shizuku Kusano during one of his trips. Despite his initial reluctance, the duo embarks on “solo camping for two,” forming a gentle bond through cooking, storytelling, and shared discovery under nature’s vast sky.
Uglymug, Epicfighter (Busamen Gachi Fighter)
Shigeru Yoshioka, an ex-salesman cursed with -255 looks and agonising contact, is isekai’d into a fantasy realm where violence brings power. Despite his grotesque curse, he becomes absurdly strong. It’s a darkly comedic and action-packed journey of self-worth and unexpected heroism.
Watari-kun's ****** Is About to Collapse (Watari-kun no xx ga Houkai Sunzen)
Bereaved high schooler Naoto leads a quiet life, caring only for his younger sister, earning a reputation as a “siscon.” But when childhood friend-turned-enigma Satsuki transfers in, buried secrets bubble to the surface. His fragile world teeters between romance, drama, and psychological chaos.
Our top Movie recommendations
LUPIN THE IIIRD THE MOVIE The Immortal Bloodline (LUPIN THE IIIRD THE MOVIE Fujimi no Ketsuzoku)
Lupin and his crew voyage to a mysterious Bermuda Triangle island in search of legendary treasure, guided by cryptic clues. Facing deadly traps, shadowy adversaries, and perhaps an immortal bloodline, they must rely on cunning and camaraderie to survive. This is the first full-length traditional 2D Lupin film in almost 30 years.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle (Kimetsu no Yaiba Movie: Mugen-jou-hen)
Trapped within the labyrinthine lair of Muzan Kibutsuji, Tanjiro and the Hashira descend into the fearsome Infinity Castle. Surrounded by Upper Rank demons, they face their ultimate battle for humanity’s fate. This first film of a cinematic trilogy promises high-stakes action, epic visuals, and emotional depth.
Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid: A lonely dragon wants to be loved (Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon: Samishigariya no Ryu)
When Kanna’s long‑absent dragon father, Kimun Kamui, appears, she faces a heartbreaking choice between her Earth‑bound family, Kobayashi and Tohru, and her birth home. This Kyoto Animation feature adapts the emotional “Kamui Arc,” blending warmth, nostalgia, and touching family drama.
VIRGIN PUNK
In dystopian 2099, cybernetic bounty hunter Ubu navigates a fractured world of mechanical decay and moral ambiguity. Created by veteran director Yasuomi Umetsu and Studio SHAFT, Clockwork Girl dives deep into her inner turmoil, explosive action, and the brutal interplay of desire and chaos.
Top Ten Lists Videos from YouTube
Curious about other Top Ten Lists? Check out these videos for more Top Ten Spring anime suggestions.
Our top OVA recommendations
BULLET/BULLET
In a shattered, junk-filled wasteland, boy mechanic Gear, joined by a gambling polar bear and a multi‑personality robot, runs a “theft-for-hire” service retrieving stolen relics. When mysterious client Noa recruits them, they uncover a secret that propels them into explosive chases, deadly confrontations, and high‑octane rebellion.
Leviathan
In alternative 1914, runaway Prince Aleksandar and cross‑dressing pilot Deryn Sharp board a living bio‑engineered airship, the HMS Leviathan. As World War I looms, this unlikely duo must steer between diesel‑punk war machines and genetically‑crafted beastships, forging an extraordinary bond that could tilt history’s fate.
2024 Spring Anime the AnimeFanatika Team watched.
Takeshi Season Round-up
Lazurus
I really enjoyed this anime with it’s punchy story line and gripping graphics.
This anime makes simple little things that seem to have no meaning in the story tie in with each other further along to weave a compelling intriguing web as our hereos race against the clock before people start to die.
Teogonia
This anime was something really different.
It took the “Isekai” genre and flipped it on it’s head with our Hero never quite realising he is from another world and does not start off with special abilities or overpowered but in his own way, steals them.
Wind Breaker Season 2
After enjoying season 1, I was wondering if season 2 would be able to keep my interest and it was sugoi and a good continuition of season 1.
Our “hero” starts to see the value of relying on other people and the anime starts to ground him and his new role as Class Captain and not just a solo fighter.
The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows
I never planned to watch this anime but after Shiro recommended it, I am sure glad I did.
It was fantastic. I enjoyed how our hero is totally overpowered but doesn’t even realise it and it shocked when he finds out what he thinks is normal is WAY above average. Has a good story line and will definately keep you on the edge of your seat.
From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman: My Hotshot Disciples Are All Grown Up Now, and They Won’t Leave Me Alone
I left the best for last. This anime is super sugoi and I loved it from start to finish. Definately my number 1 pick of the season. It is a bit of a slow burn anime which I really enjoyed but with an deep storyline and lots of twists.
Our Hero is also above average but very shocked when people acknowledge him as being a superior swordsman. The fight scenes are well animated and the characters will pull you deeper into the anime over time.
Will our Country Bumpkin ever form his harem, I hope not. Way more fun to see his shocked expressions when his former students show any interest in him.
Ookami Season Round-up
Lazarus
Take art that reminds you of Cowboy Bebop, add great parkour and fighting scenes and a gripping story of a group of people searching for well, a scientist to prevent global human extinction. Add that it has slight Suicide Squad vibes. Add great voice acting and music. That is Lazarus. You have to watch this.
I'm the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire
It is a Isekai Mecha anime with magic elements. Some of the episodes were hilarious but others had dark themes interwoven. If I would rate this out of ten, this anime is a seven.
Gorilla God's Go-to Girl
A cute little fantasy with a reverse harem theme and an interesting concept where every person has an animal soul and ability traits because of that animal. For an anime mostly directed towards female viewers, this one was actually good. Lots of action and funny moments to enjoy.
From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman
It was sheer agony to wait a week for the next episode. I really related to the main character, who is seen as this expert and hero in his disciples eyes, yet he suffers from imposter syndrome.
Shiro Season Round-up
Rock is a Lady's Modesty.
A feelgood slice-of-life music anime about the joys of metal-core music. Basically K-On, with the nasty bits left in.
The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows
A healer gets shunned by his former teammates, who undervalues him, so he returns to the slums and starts an unlicenced clinic. I liked the darker take on the genre
I'm the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!
Yet another reincarnation anime, this time of a pushover office worker who, tired of being the ‘nice-guy’, in his previous life, decides he is going to be an evil tyrant. hilarity ensues.
From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman
An ‘ordinary’ swordsmanship teacher in the country. Important life lessons on appreciating your worth.
The Beginning After the End I am undecided on this one.
Even though I watched the full series(as an existing fan of the webtoon), I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. (pacing and such)
Retara Season Round-up
Beginning after the end.
Nice slow anime with potential. Probably the one I didn’t think I’ll enjoy but ended up really enjoying.
Gorilla God's Go-to Girl.
Great premise, funny story, romance felt a little shoehorned, but that can be because it’s adapted from works that have time to develop things.
The brilliant healer's new life in the shadows.
Not bad, first half is good.
I'm the evil lord of an intergalactic empire.
I’m only on episode 4 because I can only watch it in Japanese, but it is keeping with the light novel so far. I’m excited to see how it turns out as it just gets funnier from here.
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