Summer 2025 Anime Preview: Must-Watch List

A Guide to the Most Anticipated Anime of the Summer 2025 Season

As summer reaches its peak, the anime world is buzzing with excitement for the latest season. From returning favorites to fresh new titles, there's something for every viewer. This article highlights some of the most notable series in the Summer 2025 lineup and explores what makes them worth watching or avoiding.

My Dress-Up Darling Season 2

Animation Studio: CloverWorks
Synopsis: Marin and Gojo are back, diving deeper into their shared passion for cosplay. Their journey is a mix of comedy and romance, exploring the complexities of high school love.

What Works: The balance between humor and character development is well-executed. While the focus remains on the main duo, the show also expands to include more characters, adding depth to the narrative.

What Doesn’t: Some episodes attempt to shift the tone by focusing on Marin’s interests, which can be hit or miss. These changes sometimes feel unnecessary or slow down the story.

Odds of Success: High

To Be Hero X

Animation Studio: Studio LAN, Pb Animation, Paper Plane
Synopsis: In this Chinese animation, heroes gain power from public belief. The second half of the season delves into the origins of some of the world’s top heroes.

What Works: The animation is visually stunning, and the diverse cast of characters adds depth. Each character has a unique personality that stands out.

What Doesn’t: After 17 episodes, the plot lacks a clear direction. The transitions between origin stories can feel repetitive, and some characters don't live up to the initial quality.

Odds of Success: Average

DanDaDan Season 2

Animation Studio: Science Saru
Synopsis: Momo, Okarun, and their friends face new threats as they try to save the world from space aliens and mystical nightmares.

What Works: The season kicks off with fast-paced storytelling, picking up where the first season left off. The animation is just as impressive, and the chemistry between the main characters is strong.

What Doesn’t: There isn’t much to criticize so far. The show manages to balance its more abrasive elements without losing its charm.

Odds of Success: High

Kaiju No. 8 Season 2

Animation Studio: Production I.G.
Synopsis: Kafka Hibino’s secret is out, and he must navigate the challenges of being part of the Defence Forces while facing new threats from Kaiju No. 9.

What Works: The action sequences remain exciting, and the expanding world offers new visuals and concepts. The balance between character development and combat is well-maintained.

What Doesn’t: Introducing too many new characters and concepts could overwhelm the plot. Careful pacing will be essential to keep the story focused.

Odds of Success: High

See You Tomorrow at the Food Court

Animation Studio: AtelierPontdarc
Synopsis: Wada and Yamamoto meet daily at the food court to discuss life, sharing both big and small moments.

What Works: The writing is clever, offering a blend of humor and emotional depth. The episodic structure keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.

What Doesn’t: The minimalist art style can feel unpolished, which may detract from the overall experience.

Odds of Success: High

Clevantess

Animation Studio: Lay-duce
Synopsis: A dark fantasy tale about Clevantess, a powerful being who discovers a human baby and seeks to understand humanity.

What Works: The story is engaging, with nuanced characters and unexpected twists. It offers a fresh take on the genre.

What Doesn’t: The visual design feels generic, and some scenes may come across as unnecessarily cruel for shock value.

Odds of Success: High

Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus Season 2

Animation Studio: CloverWorks
Synopsis: Sakuta and Mai enter college, but the effects of Puberty Syndrome continue to affect those around them.

What Works: The chemistry between the characters is strong, and the show handles sensitive topics with care. The interactions feel natural and relatable.

What Doesn’t: The early episodes are slower, lacking the immediate hook that made the first season compelling.

Odds of Success: Average

The Summer Hikaru Died

Animation Studio: Cygames Pictures
Synopsis: Hikaru went missing, and now his friend Yoshiki must deal with a doppelganger that is not him.

What Works: The blend of horror and yaoi elements creates a unique and impactful story. The visuals are often chilling and effective.

What Doesn’t: Some scenes use live-action elements that don’t always work well with the rest of the animation.

Odds of Success: High

Arknights: Rise From Embers

Animation Studio: Yostar Pictures
Synopsis: Rhodes Island faces a new threat as they try to stop Urborg from reaching its destination.

What Works: The drama is intense, with each battle filled with emotion and ideological conflict. The animation is visually striking.

What Doesn’t: The story can be confusing due to rapid-fire concepts and a lack of clear explanations.

Odds of Success: Low

Detectives These Days Are Crazy

Animation Studio: Liden Films
Synopsis: A former detective finds himself working with a young, enthusiastic partner, leading to a chaotic but entertaining journey.

What Works: The humor is well-written, and the visual style is varied and fun. The dynamic between the two leads is engaging.

What Doesn’t: Some side characters can be annoying, and the show occasionally relies on mild pervy jokes that don’t fit well.

Odds of Success: Average

With so many options available, there's sure to be something for everyone this summer. Whether you're looking for heartwarming stories, thrilling adventures, or thought-provoking narratives, the Summer 2025 anime season has plenty to offer.