by Summer 2025 Anime Season: Your Ultimate Guide to the Most Anticipated Releases
The summer of 2025 promises to be a vibrant period for anime enthusiasts worldwide, packed with highly anticipated returns and exciting new series across various genres. Following a relatively quieter spring, the momentum is building for a season brimming with captivating stories, stunning animation, and fan-favorite characters. This guide delves into the must-watch titles, offering a comprehensive look at what makes this summer’s lineup truly special.
Introduction
As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, so does the excitement for the Summer 2025 anime season. After a period that saw fewer blockbuster premieres, the upcoming months are set to reignite the passion of anime fans. From the explosive action of returning shōnen hits to the heartwarming charm of beloved romance series, there’s a diverse array of shows vying for viewers’ attention. Drawing on recent surveys and official announcements, we’ve compiled a list of the most awaited titles, ensuring you’re ready to dive into the summer’s best.
The Most Anticipated Returns: Fan Favorites Take Center Stage
The summer lineup is heavily dominated by sequels to series that have already captivated global audiences, a testament to their enduring popularity and compelling narratives.
Dandadan Season 2: Supernatural Mayhem Continues
- Release Date: Weekly streaming begins July 3, 2025 (Theatrical premiere of first three episodes on June 6, 2025, in some regions).
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix.
- Synopsis: The quirky supernatural action-comedy
Dandadanis set to return with its second season, promising more bizarre encounters with spirits and extraterrestrial invaders. The first season was a breakout hit, reaching Netflix’s top 10 lists and attracting a broad audience. Season 2 is expected to cover the manga’s intense Evil Eye arc, featuring some of the series’ most visually spectacular battles and introducing a new formidable villain. Its blend of horror, comedy, and mystery makes it a unique and highly anticipated entry.
Kaiju No. 8 Season 2: More Monster Action
- Release Date: July 19, 2025 (JST 23:30).
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, X (formerly Twitter) for global real-time simulcast.
- Synopsis:
Kaiju No. 8made a massive impact with its animated debut, and fans are eager for the next chapter of Kafka Hibino’s journey. The second season promises more colossal kaiju, large-scale destruction, and emotional developments as the mysteries of this monster-plagued world continue to unravel. A special extra episode focusing on Vice-Captain Soshiro Hoshina, titled “Hoshina’s Day Off,” is also set to release on July 5, 2025.
My Dress-Up Darling Season 2: A Cosplay Romance Returns
- Release Date: July 5, 2025 (JST 24:00, effectively July 6).
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll.
- Synopsis: Announced almost three years ago, the return of
My Dress-Up Darlinghas been a long-awaited moment for romance anime fans. The series follows the endearing relationship between Wakana Gojo, an aspiring Hina doll craftsman, and Marin Kitagawa, a vibrant high school girl passionate about cosplay. Season 2 will continue their “friends-to-lovers” story, exploring their growing bond and shared interests, promising more heartwarming moments and stunning cosplay transformations.
Other Notable Returning Series:
- Dr. Stone: Science Future (Season 4, Part 2): Continues Senku’s ambitious scientific endeavors.
- Call of the Night Season 2: Delivers more supernatural romance.
- The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 4: Continues Naofumi’s epic fantasy journey.
- Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus: A new installment in the beloved supernatural drama series.
- I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability Season 2: More Isekai adventures.
- Sakamoto Days Part 2: The action-packed saga of the retired hitman continues.
- The Summer Hikaru Died: A unique and intriguing title based on its name and genre.
Diverse Genres and Fresh Narratives
The Summer 2025 season truly offers something for everyone, showcasing a healthy mix of action, romance, drama, and unique concepts. The survey by Animate Times revealed a strong preference for a variety of genres, highlighting the breadth of appeal within the anime community.
While shōnen action titles like Dandadan and Kaiju No. 8 are leading the charge, the significant anticipation for romance series like My Dress-Up Darling and the Rascal Does Not Dream series demonstrates the strong demand for character-driven narratives and emotional depth.
Beyond Summer: A Look Ahead at 2025
The excitement doesn’t end with the summer season. 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for anime, with major releases slated for later in the year. Fans can look forward to the return of iconic series like:
- Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 4 (Final Arc): The conclusion to the long-running shōnen epic.
- Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3: More cursed energy and dark fantasy action.
- Spy x Family Season 3: The delightful mix of comedy, spy capers, and family drama continues in Fall 2025.
Additionally, new and original anime projects are on the horizon, including Netflix’s Devil May Cry anime, Shinichirō Watanabe’s Lazarus, and WIT Studio’s Moonrise, promising fresh and innovative stories to explore. The highly anticipated One Piece remake of the East Blue saga also offers a chance for new viewers to experience the classic with modern animation.
Conclusion
The Summer 2025 anime season is poised to be an unforgettable period for fans, delivering a rich tapestry of stories that cater to diverse tastes. With major sequels, thrilling new adaptations, and a continued emphasis on high-quality production, the industry continues to push boundaries and provide captivating entertainment. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a curious newcomer, prepare your watchlists, because this summer’s anime offerings are set to provide countless hours of engaging storytelling and unforgettable moments.
