Spring is in the air, and as the Winter 2025 anime season comes to a close, it's time to reflect on the best shows of the season. While sequels dominated this batch, there were plenty of exciting new stories across genres like sports, historical fiction, and even musical drama. If you missed any of these standout series, now is the perfect time to catch up. Let's dive into the top anime of Winter 2025.
Honorable Mentions
Dragon Ball Daima
One of the most iconic anime franchises returned with Dragon Ball Daima, a series that ties together elements from Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, and GT. This adventure-filled installment delivers stunning animation, nostalgic battles, and a fast-paced storyline that makes it a must-watch for fans of the franchise. With its exhilarating fights and heartfelt moments, it's a worthy send-off to the legendary creator Akira Toriyama.
From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad’s Been Reincarnated!
This unique isekai comedy takes an absurd premise and turns it into a heartfelt story. Kenzaburo Tondabayashi, a middle-aged office worker, finds himself reincarnated as the villainess in an otome game. However, rather than playing the role of a scheming antagonist, he becomes an unexpected father figure to those around him, making for a hilarious yet touching watch.
Dr. Stone: Science vs. Strength
The latest installment of Dr. Stone continues its fascinating blend of science and shonen action. With Senku and his allies facing off against a rival group of American “science users,” this season explores the double-edged nature of technological progress. It's educational, action-packed, and full of dramatic stakes, making it a must-watch for fans of adventure anime.
5. Blue Box
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Genre: Sports, Romance
Combining the intensity of sports anime with heartfelt romance, Blue Box has flourished over its 25-episode run. Following freshman badminton player Taiki and basketball ace Chinatsu, the series beautifully captures their shared passion for sports while weaving in a well-developed love triangle. Telecom Animation Film delivers fluid animation and strong character designs, making this a standout in the romance and sports genres.
4. Medalist
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+
- Genre: Sports, Drama
Medalist brings figure skating to life with breathtaking animation and deeply emotional storytelling. The series follows Inori, a middle schooler who begins skating later than her peers, and her energetic coach Tsukasa. Their mentor-student relationship forms the heart of the series, blending passion, hardship, and perseverance. ENGI Studio’s mix of 3D CGI and traditional animation makes each skating performance visually stunning.
3. Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast –
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
- Genre: Music, Drama, Psychological
A sequel to the surprise hit BanG Dream! It’s MyGO!!!!!, Ave Mujica takes the music drama genre to new heights (and depths). This time, the focus shifts to the volatile band Ave Mujica, whose personal struggles lead to a chaotic yet mesmerizing journey. The series pushes its characters to emotional extremes, blending psychological tension with avant-garde visual storytelling. If you enjoy watching complex characters navigate intense personal conflicts, this is a must-watch.
2. The Apothecary Diaries
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
- Genre: Historical, Mystery, Drama
Continuing its reign as one of the most compelling anime of recent years, The Apothecary Diaries returns with its second season. Set in a fictionalized version of Imperial China’s Inner Palace, the story follows Maomao, a sharp-witted apothecary who unravels medical and political mysteries. This season deepens the intrigue, balancing humor, suspense, and social commentary. With its gorgeous animation and well-crafted storytelling, The Apothecary Diaries remains a top-tier historical drama.
1. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Genre: Historical, Drama, Science
Taking the top spot, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth tells a gripping tale of scientific discovery and defiance. Set in an alternate medieval Europe, the series follows scholars fighting to prove the heliocentric model against the oppressive rule of the Church. Over its 25-episode run, Orb showcases the sacrifices made in the pursuit of truth, blending intellectual debates with powerful character arcs. This series masterfully balances historical accuracy, philosophical depth, and emotional storytelling—an absolute must-watch for history and science enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Winter 2025 delivered an impressive lineup of anime across multiple genres. From intense sports stories to deep historical dramas and psychological character studies, there was something for everyone. Whether you're looking for heartwarming romance (Blue Box), inspiring underdog stories (Medalist), or thought-provoking historical narratives (Orb: On the Movements of the Earth), this season had it all. Make sure to catch up on these top-tier series before the Spring 2025 season begins!
What Was Your Favorite Anime of Winter 2025?
Let us know in the comments which anime stood out to you this season. Don't forget to share this list with fellow anime fans!
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