10 Anime Shows We Can't Wait To Watch in 2025

The upcoming year is set to be an exciting one for anime, with a slew of new series and highly anticipated sequels. Not only are legendary creators like Shinichiro Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop) and Kazuya Tsurumaki (FLCL) returning with fresh content, but several fan-favorite shows are making their comeback. While this list highlights ten of the most exciting anime titles set for 2025, it barely scratches the surface of the packed anime schedule ahead, especially with many other notable releases in January, like My Happy Marriage season two and Sakamoto Days. Here are the ten anime we’re most eager to watch in 2025.

1. Sorairo Utility – January 3, 2025

A new sports anime focusing on golf, Sorairo Utility offers a calmer take compared to Birdie Wing. It centers on Minami, a high school student who discovers her love for golf while searching for something she excels at. Directed by Kengo Saitō, who helmed the original short film in 2021, the series promises to be a lighthearted, feel-good story with charming visuals and relaxing vibes.

2. The Apothecary Diaries, Season 2 – January 10, 2025

The Apothecary Diaries captivated audiences with its unique blend of historical intrigue and medical mystery. The second season is set to continue the adventures of MaoMao, the palace apothecary-turned-detective, as she uses her extensive knowledge of poisons and remedies to solve the palace’s latest scandals. Fans of the first season can look forward to more clever twists and captivating character moments when this series returns in January.

3. Fire Force, Season 3 – April 2025

Returning with its third and final season, Fire Force continues its explosive battles between pyrokinetic firefighters and demonic infernals. Directed by Tatsuma Minamikawa and produced by David Production, this season is split into two parts, with more high-octane action and a deepening storyline surrounding the mysterious Tokyo Empire. With its striking animation and thrilling combat scenes, Fire Force promises a fitting conclusion to the series.

4. Yaiba: Samurai Legend – TBA 2025

This exciting remake of Yaiba from Gosho Aoyama (creator of Case Closed) reintroduces the story of a young samurai on a quest to defeat his rival who has turned into a demon. Directed by Takahiro Hasui (Mob Psycho 100 season 3), with stunning animation by Wit Studio, this retelling is expected to revive interest in the original series and bring new life to the samurai-action genre.

5. CITY: The Animation – TBA 2025

Keiichi Arawi’s CITY follows in the footsteps of his hit series Nichijou, delivering a quirky and surreal comedy about the chaotic life of college student Midori. Directed by Taichi Ishidate and produced by Kyoto Animation, this series promises the same humor and whimsy as Nichijou, but with a slightly older cast and more urban shenanigans.

6. Lazarus – TBA 2025

From Cowboy Bebop creator Shinichiro Watanabe comes Lazarus, an original sci-fi series with action design by John Wick’s Chad Stahelski and a score by Kamasi Washington, Floating Points, and Bonobo. Set in a future where a miracle drug has cured all diseases, only to later cause mass deaths, the series follows the "Lazarus" task force as they scramble to find a cure for this deadly medicine. With its incredible talent roster and unique premise, Lazarus is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most intriguing new shows.

7. Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX – TBA 2025

Sunrise’s latest installment in the Mobile Suit Gndam franchise, GQuuuuuuX, boasts an all-star creative team, including Hideaki Anno (Neon Genesis Evangelion) and Kazuya Tsurumaki (FLCL). Set in a space colony with an underground mech-fighting ring, the series promises intense battles and a gripping storyline. The hype for this new Gundam project is at an all-time high, with fans eagerly awaiting the premiere.

8. New Panty & Stocking With Garterbelt – TBA 2025

A long-awaited sequel to the raunchy and over-the-top Panty & Stocking With Garterbelt is on the horizon, with much of the original staff returning. Directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi, this series follows the outrageous adventures of the Anarchy sisters as they continue their battle against supernatural threats. With its bold visuals and irreverent humor, this sequel is sure to please fans of the original.

9. The Summer Hikaru Died – TBA 2025

The Summer Hikaru Died brings a dark, Lovecraftian twist to a story of friendship. After the death of his friend Hikaru, protagonist Yoshiki realizes that something otherworldly has taken Hikaru’s place. Directed by Ryohei Takeshita and produced by Cygames Pictures, the anime is expected to deliver a haunting narrative filled with supernatural tension and psychological horror.

10. Witch Hat Atelier – TBA 2025

One of the most anticipated adaptations of the year, Witch Hat Atelier is based on the beautifully illustrated manga by Kamome Shirahama. Directed by Ayumu Watanabe and produced by Bug Films, the series follows Coco, a young girl who dreams of becoming a witch in a world where magic is rare and dangerous. With stunning visuals and a heartwarming yet bittersweet story, Witch Hat Atelier is set to be a visual and emotional masterpiece.

Conclusion

With such a wide variety of shows on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for anime fans. From highly anticipated sequels like Fire Force and The Apothecary Diaries to bold new originals like Lazarus and Witch Hat Atelier, the year promises something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of action, comedy, sci-fi, or fantasy. With so many talented creators involved, the future of anime looks brighter than ever, and we can’t wait to dive into these incredible stories.