Top Winter 2026 Anime Picks

The 2026 Winter Anime Season Recommendations is bursting with thrilling new shows, we have the usual Isekai, but there is lots of supernatural anime 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 the much awaited Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2 and UNDEAD UNLUCK Winter Arc 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! Here is AnimeFanatika’s top list of returning Anime for the Winter 2026 Season

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2 - Sousou no Frieren 2nd Season

Blue Orchestra Season 2 - Ao no Orchestra Season 2

Fire Force Season 3 Part 2 - Enn Enn no Shouboutai San no Shou Cour 2

JUJUTSU KAISEN The Culling Game Part 1 - JUJUTSU KAISEN Shimetsu Kaiyu Zenpen

Medalist 2nd Season

MF GHOST 3rd Season

OSHI NO KO Season 3

'Tis Time for "Torture," Princess Season 2 - Hime-sama "Goumon" no Jikan desu 2nd Season

TRIGUN STARGAZE

UNDEAD UNLUCK Winter Arc - UNDEAD UNLUCK Winter-hen

Our Top 10 Winter Anime Recommendations

Dead Account

Dead Account is an upcoming supernatural action anime adapted from Shizumu Watanabe’s manga, blending modern technology with dark occult themes. The story follows Soji Enishiro, a high school student and online streamer whose digital presence becomes the gateway to gaining spiritual powers.

After encountering dangerous digital spirits known as “ghosts of the internet,” Soji enrols at Miden Academy, a specialised school that trains students to exorcise these supernatural threats. With intense battles, urban fantasy elements, and commentary on online culture, Dead Account seems like just the right dose of supernatural to start off 2026!

Easygoing Territory Defense by the Optimistic Lord - Okiraku Ryoushu no Tanoshii Ryouchi Bouei: Seisankei Majutsu de Na mo Naki Mura wo Saikyou no Jousai Toshi ni

Easygoing Territory Defence by the Optimistic Lord is an upcoming fantasy anime, adapted from the popular light novel series Easygoing Territory Defence by the Optimistic Lord: Production Magic Turns a Nameless Village into the Strongest Fortified City.

The story follows Van, a reincarnated noble with unique production magic who is banished to a struggling village and uses his optimism, creativity, and newfound powers to rebuild and defend the territory, offering a refreshing twist on the isekai and fantasy genre rich in world-building and character-driven adventure.

HELL MODE - Hell Mode: Yarikomizuki no Gamer wa Hai Settei no Isekai de Musou suru

HELL MODE is an upcoming isekai action anime, based on the hit light novel HELL MODE: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing.

The story follows a lifelong MMORPG enthusiast who, after choosing the toughest “Hell Mode” difficulty, is reincarnated into a fantasy world as a serf named Allen, where he must master the mysterious Summoner class, overcome brutal challenges, and forge his own path to power in this high-difficulty world.

Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary - Kaya-chan wa Kowakunai

Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary is an upcoming horror-comedy anime adapted from Tarō Yuri’s manga, blending cute character designs with surprisingly intense supernatural action. The story centres on Kaya, an energetic kindergarten girl who can see evil spirits and isn’t afraid to confront them head-on—often with her fists.

Her unusual abilities are discovered by her teacher, Chie, who becomes involved in protecting Kaya while uncovering the dark entities haunting their school. Balancing unsettling horror elements with humour and charm, Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary offers a fresh take on the supernatural anime genre that will appeal to fans of quirky horror and offbeat storytelling.

Kunon the Sorcerer Can See - Majutsushi Kunon wa Mieteiru

Kunon the Sorcerer Can See is an upcoming fantasy anime adaptation of the popular light novel series by Umikaze Minamino. The story centres on Kunon Gurion, a blind young magician whose goal is to use water magic to create eyes and overcome his disability, rapidly surpassing his mentors with innovative spells and earning recognition at the royal court.

With high-fantasy themes, character growth, and magical creativity, this anime is highly anticipated by fans of thoughtful fantasy storytelling and inspiring protagonists.

Love Through a Prism - Prism Rondo

The story follows Lili Ichijoin, a Japanese exchange student who travels to England to study at the prestigious Saint Thomas Art Academy. Determined to become a top painter, she faces immense pressure from her parents to excel within six months or return home. At the academy, Lili meets Kit Church, a talented aristocratic student whose dedication to painting is unmatched.

Though initially distant, Kit is gradually influenced by Lili’s sincerity and perseverance. Their shared passion for art sparks a compelling connection that transforms their lives and draws the attention of peers, creating drama, romance, and inspiration within the elite art school.

Reincarnated as a Dragon Hatchling - Tensei shitara Dragon no Tamago datta

Reincarnated as a Dragon Hatchling follows a young protagonist who awakens in a fantasy world reborn as a baby dragon. Vulnerable yet curious, the hatchling must survive a dangerous landscape, learning to grow, master newfound powers, and forge bonds with humans and mythical creatures alike.

With action-packed battles, humorous interactions, and heartwarming moments, this isekai fantasy anime explores themes of identity, growth, and courage. Fans of dragon adventures, epic fantasy worlds, and transformational journeys will enjoy watching the protagonist rise from a fragile hatchling to a formidable dragon capable of influencing the fate of the realm.

Sentenced to Be a Hero - Yuusha-kei ni Shosu: Choubatsu Yuusha 9004-tai Keimu Kiroku

Sentenced to Be a Hero follows an ordinary young man summoned to a fantasy world to fight as the legendary hero. Cursed with a paradoxical fate, he must balance immense responsibility with his desire for normalcy. Facing deadly monsters, political intrigue, and moral dilemmas, he navigates a world that constantly tests his courage and strategy.

Packed with intense battles, strategic thinking, and character development, this fantasy action anime explores the burden of heroism, the cost of choices, and the struggle between personal desire and destiny. Fans of heroic adventures and tactical fantasy will find it thrilling.

THE DARWIN INCIDENT - Darwin Jihen

The Animal Liberation Alliance, a radical eco-terrorist group, rescues a pregnant chimpanzee from an experimental lab, resulting in the birth of Charlie, a rare half-human, half-chimpanzee “humanzee.” Fifteen years later, Charlie is ready to experience a normal life and enrolls in high school, where he befriends a kind-hearted human girl named Lucy.

As Charlie navigates the challenges of adolescence and forming friendships, the ALA’s extremist agenda escalates, putting him in danger. This upcoming anime combines suspense, emotional drama, and thought-provoking ethical questions, appealing to fans of thrilling stories about identity, belonging, and the clash between humanity and radical ideology.

Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers

Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers revives the epic tale of five elite samurai warriors bound by mystical armour and duty to protect the world from dark forces. Each samurai wields unique powers and faces personal challenges while defending humanity from evil conspiracies and supernatural threats. Combining breathtaking sword battles, strategic teamwork, and rich character backstories, this anime blends action, adventure, and traditional samurai lore.

Fans of classic mecha and samurai anime, thrilling combat sequences, and ensemble hero stories will be captivated by the courage, loyalty, and mystical adventures of the Samurai Troopers in Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers.

Honourable Mentions

Our Honourable Mentions feature anime that came very close to making our top 2026 Winter 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!

An Adventurer’s Daily Grind at Age 29 - 29-sai Dokushin Chuuken Boukensha no Nichijou

After surviving a harsh childhood in the slums, Hajime Shinonome lives a peaceful life as a resident adventurer in Komai Village until a dungeon quest leads him to rescue an abandoned girl named Lirui from a slime, changing his quiet fantasy life forever.

It is a blend of slice-of-life storytelling with classic fantasy elements, the series offers a refreshing take on adventurer life, burnout, and perseverance, making it a must-watch for fans of mature anime narratives.

A Gentle Noble's Vacation Recommendation - Odayaka Kizoku no Kyuuka no Susume.

Lizel, a brilliant young chancellor in a fantasy world, is suddenly transported to another world, where he calmly uses his sharp intellect to adapt and decides to treat the situation as a relaxing vacation.

Teaming up with Gil, a powerful lone-wolf adventurer, A Gentle Noble’s Vacation Recommendation follows their laid-back isekai fantasy journey filled with exploration, wholesome fantasy storytelling, and slow-life adventure.

A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans - Jingai Kyoushitsu no Ningengirai Kyoushi

Rei Hitoma is a self-described misanthrope who, after taking a teaching job in the mountains to escape people, discovers he has been assigned to educate demi-human students striving to become fully human

A Misanthrope Teaches a Class for Demi-Humans is a fantasy school anime that blends character-driven storytelling, gentle humour, and emotional growth as teacher and students alike learn what it truly means to be human.

Does It Count If You Lose Your Virginity to an Android? - Android wa Keiken Ninzuu ni Hairimasu ka??

Tsuda Akane is a brilliant and indispensable employee at a robotics company, but behind her professional image she hides a chaotic private life and a disastrously messy apartment.

Her life takes an unexpected turn when a drunken online purchase delivers an advanced android maid, setting up Does It Count If You Lose Your Virginity to an Android? as a sci-fi romantic comedy exploring intimacy, technology, and modern relationships.

In the Clear Moonlit Dusk - Uruwashi no Yoi no Tsuki

Yoi Takiguchi, a strikingly handsome high school girl nicknamed “Prince,” has long gone unnoticed for her true gender, until she meets the equally charismatic ‘prince’ Ichimura-senpai, who sees her for who she really is.

In the Clear Moonlit Dusk is a shōjo romance anime that explores identity, first love, and the unique bond between two “princes” navigating high school life together.

Fate/strange Fake

In a Holy Grail War, mages known as Masters summon powerful Heroic Spirits called Servants to battle for the omnipotent Holy Grail, a wish-granting artifact capable of fulfilling any desire.

Years after the Fifth Holy Grail War in Japan, ominous signs hint at a new Grail emerging in the snowy western American city of Snowfield, setting the stage for the next epic Fate series.

Jack-of-All-Trades, Party of None - Yuusha Party wo Oidasareta Kiyou binbou

Betrayed by his childhood friend and cast out of the Hero Party, Orhun Dura, once their loyal Enchanter, is branded by his former comrades as “a jack-of-all-trades but a master of none.”

Alone, he sets out to forge a new path as a solo adventurer. His journey sparks explosive battles, deadly rivals, and unexpected allies, and he’ll rise to shatter every expectation. Watch him rock the solo adventuring life!

Journal with Witch - Ikoku Nikki

After 35-year-old novelist KODAI Makio loses her sister in a car accident, she becomes the guardian of her niece, TAKUMI Asa.

Struggling with the loss of her parents and a new, uncertain life, Asa begins searching for the person she wants to become, eventually exploring her passion for music.

Noble Reincarnation - Kizoku Tensei: Megumareta Umare kara Saikyou no Chikara wo Eru

In his previous life, Noa was an unremarkable young villager, but after reincarnating as the 13th prince of a powerful empire, his fate takes a dramatic turn.

With a unique ability that lets him grow stronger the more loyal followers he commands, this upcoming fantasy isekai anime follows Noa’s ruthless rise to power as he ensures those who serve him do so for life.

SHIBOYUGI: Playing Death Games to Put Food on the Table - Shibou Yuugi de Meshi wo Kuu.

Yuki awakens in a mysterious manor wearing a maid uniform, only to learn she and five other girls are trapped in the deadly Ghost House, where survival depends on clearing brutal traps and lethal death games.

Unlike the others, Yuki remains calm, as this dark survival anime reveals that playing life-or-death games is her unusual profession at just seventeen years old.

Our top Movie recommendations

ALL YOU NEED IS KILL

Set in the year 20XX, ALL YOU NEED IS KILL follows Rita, a young woman volunteering to rebuild Japan after the alien flower Darol appears.

Killed during a catastrophic invasion, she becomes trapped in a time loop and joins fellow survivor Keiji to fight repeated deaths, alien monsters, and fate itself.

Cosmic Princess Kaguya! - Chou Kaguya-hime!

Set in Tokyo, this upcoming anime follows Iroha Sakayori, a hardworking high school student who escapes into the virtual world Tsukuyomi, where creativity thrives.

After discovering a mysterious girl named Kaguya with ties to the moon, Iroha helps her become a streamer, unknowingly drawing the attention of ominous forces.

Please note, this movie will be available on Netflix from January 22.

MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM HATHAWAY The Sorcery of Nymph Circe - Kidou Senshi Gundam: Senkou no Hathaway - Circe no Majo

Set in U.C.0105, twelve years after Char’s Rebellion, Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway follows Hathaway Noa, secret leader of the anti-Federation group MAFTY, as he plans a deadly attack on the Adelaide Conference.

Haunted by trauma and drawn to the mysterious Gigi Andalusia, Hathaway is pulled toward an unavoidable clash of ideals, duty, and fate.

Peleliu: Guernica of Paradise - Peleliu: Rakuen no Guernica

Based on real historical events, this war manga is set during the Battle of Peleliu in the Pacific War and follows Tamaru, a 22-year-old Japanese soldier and aspiring cartoonist experiencing combat for the first time.

Through his eyes, the story explores the harsh realities of war, youth, and survival during one of history’s brutal conflicts.

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken Movie: Sokai no Namida-hen

After the founding of the Demon Kingdom Federation Tempest, Rimuru and his companions are invited by Celestial Emperor Elmesia of the Magi Dynasty Sarion to a private resort island for a brief vacation.

Their peaceful getaway is disrupted when a mysterious woman named Yura appears, setting the stage for a new incident in That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime anime.

Our top OVA recommendations

Star Blazers: Space Battleship Yamato 3199 - Yamato yo Towa ni: Rebel 3199

Set in the year 2207, two years after the disappearance of Gamilas and Iscandar, a massive entity known as the “Grand Reverse” invades Earth, overwhelming its defences and seizing the capital with advanced forces.

As humanity faces extinction, the legendary Yamato crew is given a secret mission, embarking on a perilous voyage across unknown dimensions in this epic sci-fi anime sequel.

Record of Ragnarok III - Shuumatsu no Walküre III

The saga continues with 13 brutal one-on-one battles that determine the survival of humanity, as gods face off against legendary humans from across the world.

The seventh match becomes the decisive showdown to break the 3–3 tie, delivering explosive action, clashing ideals, and high-stakes combat in this intense battle anime.

The Daily Life of the Immortal King Season 5 - Xian Wang de Richang Shenghuo 5

Wang Ling’s peaceful family life is disrupted by the arrival of his immensely powerful younger sister, Wang Nuan, whom he vows to personally train to control her strength.

When her abilities draw the attention of the sinister Ye Kui organisation and the dangerous prisoner Bai Zhe, The Daily Life of the Immortal King returns with high-stakes action as Wang Ling takes his sister along to confront these new threats.

Yu-Gi-Oh! CARD GAME THE CHRONICLES

Yu-Gi-Oh! CARD GAME THE CHRONICLES is a new short-form promotional anime series by Konami, released monthly to bring the Yu-Gi-Oh! trading card game lore to life.

Featuring popular themes such as Sky Striker and Albaz, the series expands the franchise’s storytelling beyond the main anime while supporting related Structure Deck releases.

2025 Fall Anime the AnimeFanatika Team watched.

Takeshi Season Round-up

Mechanical Marie - 7/10

Lighthearted fun with a clever twist

A fun series built around a clever premise. The story centers on a girl who pretends to be a robot while working for her employer, who gradually develops feelings for her, forcing her to maintain the deception. This setup creates a steady mix of humor and tension, resulting in an entertaining and engaging watch throughout the season.

One-Punch Man 3 - 7/10

Ignore the haters!

Yes, yes, yes. Season 3 got a lot of hate, but I actually enjoyed it. The story kept me hooked, and the simple “Power-Point” animation style didn’t bother me much. The fight scenes still hit hard where it mattered. Best advice: skip the “before you watch” videos and just dive in.

Hero Without a Class: Who Even Needs Skills?! - 8/10

When you put you mind to it, you can achieve incredible things!

No skills? No problem! Our hero starts with nothing but determination and advice from his superpowered parents to prove he can beat the odds. And he does, in style. Fun, uplifting, and totally worth a watch.

My Gift Lvl 9999 Unlimited Gacha: Backstabbed in a Backwater Dungeon, I'm Out for Revenge! 8/10

Revenge most delicious!

Abandoned, betrayed, and left for dead. Our hero comes back stronger than anyone could imagine, with one goal: REVENGE!

Packed with twists, a clever play on the Gacha system, and nonstop payback, this one’s a thrilling watch from start to finish.

Sanda - 9/10

What happened to this world!

A world without Santa? Chaos guaranteed. Sanda finds out he’s a descendant of Santa after a near-death attack by his classmate and suddenly he’s dodging assassins and running around half naked while trying to bring belief back to kids who aren’t allowed to grow up. Weird, wild, and totally unforgettable. A must-watch

Ookami Season Round-up

Pass the Monster Meat, Milady! (Akujiki Reijou to Kyouketsu Koushaku)

If you are a romantic, you will love this. It IS an anime about a noble woman’s love for monster cuisine and the research there-off, but also her budding romance with Duke Aristide. It is a very good Fantasy Romance Cooking show and definitely an 8.5 out of 10 for me.

My Status as an Assassin Obviously Exceeds the Hero's (Ansatsusha de Aru Ore no Status ga Yuusha yori mo Akiraka ni Tsuyoi no da ga)

If you are looking for a lekker revenge story with a dark brooding hero, a kawaii sidekick or two, a dash of romance, great storylines and happen to like Isekai, this anime is for you. I happily score it an 8 out of 10.

Dad is a hero, Mom is a spirit, I'm a reincarnator (Chichi wa Eiyuu, Haha wa Seirei, Musume no Watashi wa Tenseisha.)

To me, it is Game of Throne-esque without the cussing and ‘mature’ themes, but it has court intrigue and instead of getting control of a throne, the antagonists, the royal family, want to control a noble family blessed by the gods and spirits. If you love the intrigue of the court and family curses, I recommend this anime. A solid 7 out of 10.

A Gatherer's Adventure in Isekai (Sozai Saishuka no Isekai Ryokouki)

It seemed like a generic Isekai, but there are aspects of the anime I liked, such as the storyline about the main character, Takeru’s “horse” which also is part of a storyline to heal an important person from illness. But enough vague spoilers from me. If you are tired of generic Isekai, watch this a few episodes. Takeru gets interesting party members, which made me hooked on this anime. This anime is a definite 7 out of 10.

BAKA anime of the season -I Saved Myself with a Potion!: Life in Another World (Potion, Wagami wo Tasukeru)

This anime is probably the most disappointing anime of 2025. It has a great story, great magic system and a lot of promise, but the animation is rubbish. Imagine someone made an anime using Flash (The program, not the superhero), only imagine it a million times worse. I refuse to talk more about it, I may start spitting out colourful language. I give it -3 out of ten. If you actually liked this anime, please don’t come after me.

Shiro Season Round-up

My Status as an Assassin Obviously Exceeds the Hero's

This one surprised me. it’s not a typical overpowered protagonist Isekai. along with the gorgeous artwork, the writing and philosophical aspects were a welcome addition

My Gift Lvl 9999 Unlimited Gacha: Backstabbed in a Backwater Dungeon

This was a nice wholesome revenge-fantasy

Hero Without a Class: Who Even Needs Skills?!

an anime about a boy that was born without skills. instead of wallowing in self-pity, he acquires his skill the old-fashioned way, though hard work and determination

BAKA anime of the season - Twisted Wonderland

This was a mediocre attempt at a high school drama that relies on pretty visuals and classical Disney nostalgia to carry the show. The characters are shallow and the world building is forgettable.

Retara Season Round-up

As we know, Japan is crazy this time of the year, especially for teachers, but we’re glad Retara had a chance to get some anime to watch this season. In his own words:

‘I watched “Backstabbed in a ~” yeah great anime, felt like they actually read the books for a change. Unfortunately, I’m behind in watching it so can’t comment on the end. Anyways, the season was crazy busy for me so that’s all I watched from this season…’

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Hero Image from frieren-anime.jp