Winter 2025 Anime Preview: Top 10 Must-Watch Series
The Winter 2025 anime season has arrived with an incredible lineup that’s already proving to be one of the strongest in recent memory. From highly anticipated sequels to exciting new adaptations, this season offers something for every anime fan. Here are the top 10 must-watch series that are defining Winter 2025.
1. Sakamoto Days (January 11, 2025)
Studio: TMS Entertainment | Platform: Netflix
The most anticipated anime of the entire year has finally arrived. Sakamoto Days follows Taro Sakamoto, once the world’s most feared hitman who retired to live a peaceful life running a convenience store with his beloved wife Aoi. However, his peaceful days are disrupted when old enemies resurface, forcing him to use his deadly skills to protect his new life and loved ones.
What makes this series special is its perfect blend of action and comedy. The anime will be split into two parts, with the first premiering in January and the second airing in July, totaling 22 episodes for the first season. The manga’s popularity and the stellar animation quality make this an absolute must-watch.
Why You Should Watch: Think John Wick meets slice-of-life comedy, with some of the best action choreography we’ve seen in recent anime.
2. Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise From The Shadow (January 5, 2025)
Studio: A-1 Pictures | Release Date: January 5, 2025
The phenomenon continues as Jinwoo Sung returns for the highly anticipated second season. After the massive success of the first season, fans have been eagerly waiting to see more of Jinwoo’s journey from the weakest hunter to potentially the strongest.
Season 2 promises to delve deeper into the shadow monarch powers and introduce more complex dungeon scenarios. The first season’s stunning animation and epic fight sequences set incredibly high expectations that this season looks poised to meet.
Why You Should Watch: If you loved the power fantasy and incredible action of season one, season two takes everything to the next level.
3. The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 (January 10, 2025)
Studio: Toho Animation Studio & OLM | Release Date: January 10, 2025
Maomao returns for another season of palace intrigue and medical mysteries. The first season captivated audiences with its unique blend of historical drama, mystery, and the brilliant characterization of our protagonist pharmacist.
Season 2 continues Maomao’s adventures in the imperial palace, promising more complex cases and deeper character development. The series has gained critical acclaim for its intelligent writing and strong female protagonist.
Why You Should Watch: Perfect for fans of mystery, historical drama, and strong character-driven narratives.
4. My Happy Marriage Season 2 (January 6, 2025)
Studio: Kinema Citrus | Release Date: January 6, 2025
The romantic drama that captured hearts worldwide returns for its second season. Following Miyo and Kiyoka’s developing relationship, season 2 promises to explore their bond further while introducing new supernatural elements.
The first season was praised for its beautiful animation, compelling character development, and its thoughtful handling of difficult themes like abuse and self-worth.
Why You Should Watch: A beautifully crafted romance with supernatural elements and meaningful character growth.
5. Dr. Stone: Science Future (January 9, 2025)
Studio: TMS Entertainment | Release Date: January 9, 2025
Senku and the gang return for another season of science-powered adventures. Dr. Stone has consistently delivered educational content wrapped in exciting storytelling, making science accessible and fun.
This new season promises to push the boundaries of what the Kingdom of Science can achieve, with new inventions and greater challenges ahead.
Why You Should Watch: Educational, entertaining, and inspiring – perfect for anyone who loves science or just great storytelling.
6. I’m Getting Married to a Girl I Hate in My Class (January 3, 2025)
Release Date: January 3, 2025
This romantic comedy follows two high school students in an arranged marriage who initially harbor mutual disdain. As they navigate their secret partnership, their relationship evolves, leading to unforeseen personal developments.
The series offers a fresh take on the enemies-to-lovers trope within the school setting, promising plenty of comedic moments and character development.
Why You Should Watch: A fresh take on romantic comedy with an interesting premise that subverts expectations.
7. Magic Maker: How to Create Magic in Another World
Studio: Studio Deen | Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Following a protagonist who gets transported to another world but focuses on the systematic creation and study of magic rather than typical isekai power fantasies. This series promises a more intellectual approach to the isekai genre.
Why You Should Watch: Perfect for fans who want a more thoughtful and systematic approach to magic systems in fantasy anime.
8. Twinkling Watermelon
Genre: Romance, Drama | Platform: Various
A unique romantic drama that combines music, time travel elements, and coming-of-age storytelling. The series has garnered attention for its creative premise and emotional depth.
Why You Should Watch: Offers something different from the typical seasonal lineup with its unique blend of genres.
9. The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor
Studio: J.C. Staff | Genre: Fantasy, Romance
An isekai series with a twist – the female protagonist gets multiple chances to change her fate and must navigate political intrigue while dealing with a powerful Dragon Emperor.
Why You Should Watch: A female-led isekai that focuses on political strategy and romance over typical power fantasy elements.
10. Orient Season 2
Studio: A.C.G.T | Genre: Action, Historical Fantasy
The samurai demon-fighting series returns for its second season, continuing the story of warriors fighting against demon-possessed swords in an alternate historical Japan.
Why You Should Watch: Great action sequences and an interesting take on historical fantasy with demon elements.
What Makes Winter 2025 Special?
This Winter 2025 season stands out for its impressive mix of highly anticipated sequels like Solo Leveling and original content like Sakamoto Days, creating a diverse lineup that caters to all anime preferences. The season has delivered an exceptional quality across multiple genres, from action-packed adventures to thoughtful dramas.
The production values across these series have been consistently high, with studios clearly investing significant resources into making these adaptations shine. Whether you’re into action, romance, comedy, or mystery, Winter 2025 has delivered series that are already being talked about as potential anime of the year candidates.
Streaming Platforms
Most of these series are available across major streaming platforms:
- Netflix: Sakamoto Days
- Crunchyroll: Solo Leveling Season 2, The Apothecary Diaries Season 2, Dr. Stone: Science Future
- Funimation/Crunchyroll: My Happy Marriage Season 2
- Various platforms: Check your local streaming services for availability
Final Thoughts
Winter 2025 is shaping up to be a legendary anime season that fans will remember for years to come. With powerhouse series like Sakamoto Days and Solo Leveling Season 2 leading the charge, supported by quality sequels and intriguing new series, there’s never been a better time to be an anime fan.
Whether you’re a long-time otaku or just getting into anime, these series offer the perfect entry points into different genres and storytelling styles. Make sure to add these to your watchlist – you won’t want to miss what could be one of the best anime seasons in recent history.
Which Winter 2025 anime are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments below!