The 9 Best Anime to Watch in 2025: Top Picks for Fans in the United States

Anime has become an undeniable cultural force in the United States, captivating audiences of all ages with its captivating storytelling, incredible animation, and complex characters. 

The rise of streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix has made anime more accessible than ever before, allowing fans to explore a wide range of genres and discover new favorites at the click of a button. 

Whether you’re a longtime anime enthusiast or just starting your journey, 2025 promises a host of exciting series that will captivate both new and seasoned fans alike.

From action-packed adventures to emotional drama, this list of the best anime to watch in 2025 will introduce you to the top anime series that are creating waves across the globe.

What are the most popular animes in the US right now?

Anime continues to captivate U.S. audiences with its diverse storytelling and stunning animation. 

From long-running classics to new hits, these shows are leading the charge in popularity. Let’s take a look at the most popular animes currently dominating the scene in the U.S.

1 – My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia has remained one of the most popular anime series in the U.S. for several years, and it continues to be a fan favorite in 2025.

Set in a world where nearly everyone has superpowers, known as “Quirks,” the series follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming the greatest hero in a society dominated by superheroes. 

With the help of his mentor, All Might, Midoriya embarks on a journey to develop his abilities and prove that even those without powers can make a difference.

The appeal of My Hero Academia lies in its rich world-building, engaging characters, and the compelling theme of heroism. 

It explores not just the thrilling action and epic battles between heroes and villains but also focuses on personal growth, the burdens of responsibility, and the quest for justice. 

The series’ blend of superhero tropes with shonen elements makes it a must-watch for fans of both Western and Japanese superhero stories.

With an ever-expanding cast and intense storylines, My Hero Academia continues to deliver heart-pounding moments, making it one of the best anime to watch in 2025.

2 – Jujutsu Kaisen 

Another anime that has taken the U.S. by storm is Jujutsu Kaisen. Since its debut, it has captivated audiences with its dark fantasy setting, supernatural elements, and intense action. 

The series follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who gets drawn into the world of curses after ingesting a powerful cursed object. 

As he learns to harness his newfound abilities, Yuji faces dangerous foes, including malevolent spirits and powerful sorcerers. 

Alongside his companions, Yuji must navigate the world of curses and fight to protect those he cares about.

What sets Jujutsu Kaisen apart is its dynamic animation, especially during its fight sequences, which are fluid, visually stunning, and packed with energy.

The series is produced by MAPPA, the same studio behind Attack on Titan and Demon Slayer, known for its top-tier animation quality. 

In addition to its action-packed sequences, the series explores deep themes such as the nature of curses, the moral ambiguity of good and evil, and the value of camaraderie. 

With a rich mix of horror, comedy, and drama, Jujutsu Kaisen is undoubtedly one of the top anime series that should be on every anime fan’s radar in 2025.

3 – Blue Lock 

If you’re a fan of sports anime, Blue Lock offers a fresh and exciting take on the genre. Unlike many traditional sports anime that emphasize teamwork and unity, Blue Lock is all about competition, self-empowerment, and the drive to be the best. 

The story is set in the aftermath of Japan’s disappointing World Cup performance, and the Japanese Football Association creates a training program called “Blue Lock” to develop the next great striker for the national team. 

Yoichi Isagi, a young soccer player, enters the facility and must outplay his fellow strikers to secure his spot.

Blue Lock challenges the typical sports anime formula by focusing on the psychological aspect of sports. 

The characters are forced to confront their insecurities, push their limits, and battle for supremacy in a cutthroat environment. 

The series is a perfect blend of intense action, mental toughness, and personal growth, which makes it an exciting choice for 2025. 

If you love anime that delves deep into the human psyche while showcasing fierce competition, Blue Lock is a must-watch.

4 – One Piece

No list of top anime series would be complete without mentioning One Piece, one of the most iconic and longest-running anime in history. 

This legendary series follows Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate who sets out on a grand adventure to find the fabled One Piece, the greatest treasure in the world, and become the Pirate King. 

Along the way, Luffy gathers a diverse crew of pirates, each with their own dreams and abilities, and faces a variety of challenges, from powerful enemies to treacherous seas.

One Piece is celebrated for its exceptional world-building, unique characters, and unforgettable story arcs.

The series has continuously evolved over the years, introducing new islands, powerful adversaries, and emotional moments that resonate with fans of all ages. 

Luffy’s unyielding pursuit of freedom and his bond with his crew members make One Piece more than just an adventure, it’s a story about friendship, dreams, and the power of perseverance. 

Despite being over 1,000 episodes long, the series continues to captivate audiences and is still one of the best anime to watch in 2025.

5 – Lord of the Mysteries

For fans looking for something a little different, Lord of the Mysteries offers a compelling blend of mystery, fantasy, and steampunk elements. 

Based on a popular Chinese web novel, the series follows Klein Moretti, a man who gains mysterious powers and becomes embroiled in a world filled with occult forces, supernatural beings, and secret organizations. 

As he delves deeper into this world, Klein uncovers dark secrets and faces increasingly dangerous enemies.

What makes Lord of the Mysteries stand out is its unique combination of genres. The series combines the intrigue of mystery-solving with the fantastical elements of dark magic and steampunk, offering a fresh experience for fans of supernatural anime. 

The intricate world-building and complex characters make it a standout title for 2025, particularly for viewers who enjoy deeply layered narratives and high-stakes drama.

6 – Solo Leveling 

Solo Leveling started as a web novel and quickly became a global sensation before it was adapted into an anime. 

The series follows Sung Jinwoo, a weak and unremarkable hunter who gains immense power after being thrust into a mysterious dungeon. 

As he levels up and becomes stronger, Jinwoo faces more dangerous monsters, uncovering the truth behind the world’s chaotic system of dungeons and hunters.

The appeal of Solo Leveling lies in its power fantasy narrative. Watching Jinwoo’s transformation from an underdog to an unstoppable force is incredibly satisfying, and the action sequences are exhilarating. 

The animation and visual effects, particularly during the fight scenes, are top-notch, making this series one of the must-watch anime for 2025. 

For fans of action-packed, high-stakes anime with an overpowered protagonist, Solo Leveling is sure to deliver.

7 – Dandadan 

Dandadan is a quirky and fresh anime that blends horror, comedy, and supernatural elements in a unique way.

The series follows Momo, a young girl who teams up with Ken, a boy with supernatural powers, to take on otherworldly creatures and solve bizarre mysteries. The series is known for its offbeat humor, fast-paced action, and distinctive art style.

What sets Dandadan apart is its ability to balance light-hearted moments with intense, thrilling action.

The characters’ chemistry and the unpredictable nature of the story keep things exciting, and the series is perfect for fans looking for something new and unconventional in 2025. 

With its mix of horror and comedy, Dandadan is an anime that’s sure to surprise and entertain.

8 – Chainsaw Man 

Chainsaw Man is one of the most highly anticipated anime of 2025, and for good reason. The series follows Denji, a young man who becomes a devil hunter after merging with his chainsaw devil companion. 

As Denji navigates his chaotic new life, he faces horrific monsters and brutal battles while grappling with personal trauma and emotional conflict.

Chainsaw Man is known for its brutal action, complex characters, and dark, emotional storytelling.

The series doesn’t shy away from intense themes, including loss, trauma, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. 

Its shocking twists and unpredictable plot keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it one of the best anime to watch in 2025 for those who enjoy a blend of horror and psychological depth.

9 – Spy x Family

Spy x Family offers a delightful blend of action, comedy, and family dynamics. The series follows Loid Forger, a spy tasked with infiltrating a prestigious organization.

To complete his mission, Loid creates a fake family, unaware that his “daughter” Anya is a telepath and his “wife” Yor is an assassin. 

The story balances spy thrills with light-hearted moments, exploring the dynamics of a family built on secrets.

The charm of Spy x Family lies in its heartwarming yet hilarious depiction of family life, where each member has their own secret identity. 

The interplay between the characters’ secret lives and their growing bonds adds emotional depth to the series. 

Whether you’re looking for action, humor, or heartwarming moments, Spy x Family is a standout must-watch anime for 2025.

Where to Stream These Anime in the U.S. 

To enjoy these top anime series, you can find most of them on popular streaming platforms:

• Crunchyroll

• Hulu

• Funimation

• Netflix

• HBO Max

• Bilibili

These platforms make it easy to catch up on your favorite series and discover even more anime gems.

The Future of Anime: What’s Coming in 2025 and Beyond 

The future of anime is bright, with new series, adaptations, and exciting trends emerging in 2025. 

Fans can look forward to more innovative storytelling, breathtaking animation, and diverse genres that will continue to push the boundaries of the medium. 

Whether you’re into action, fantasy, or psychological thrillers, there’s something for everyone to look forward to in the coming years.

Anime continues to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a rich and diverse range of stories that appeal to people of all ages. 

The best anime to watch in 2025 feature a mix of well-established favorites and new hits that are sure to keep you hooked. 

From the superhero adventures of My Hero Academia to the thrilling supernatural battles of Jujutsu Kaisen, each series brings something unique to the table. 

Don’t miss out on these top anime series, dive in, and explore the exciting world of anime today.