The Best Shonen Anime of 2025

The landscape of shonen anime in 2025 is defined by a massive wave of new adaptations and the return of some of the most popular franchises in history. Fans have witnessed the continuation of high-stakes battle series alongside a growing interest in genre-bending romantic comedies and historical dramas. This year has also seen a significant leap in production quality as studios push the limits of digital animation and artistic style. The following list identifies the essential shonen titles that have released new content or made their series debut during this landmark year.

‘The Healer Who Was Banished from His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest’ (2024–2025)

The story follows a dedicated support character named Norgust who is suddenly kicked out of his adventuring group because his teammates fail to recognize his worth. He decides to use his unique skills to find new allies and prove that a healer can be the most valuable member of a team. The series focuses on themes of self-discovery and finding appreciation in a competitive fantasy world. Viewers enjoy the steady progression of the protagonist as he builds a new life from the ground up. It remains a popular choice for fans who enjoy the tropes of fantasy redemption stories.

‘Blue Miburo’ (2024–2025)

This historical action series takes place during the Bakumatsu period and follows a young boy who joins the legendary Shinsengumi. He must find his own path of justice while navigating the violent political turmoil of a changing Japan. The narrative emphasizes the bonds of brotherhood and the moral dilemmas faced by those who live by the sword. The animation captures the period setting with attention to detail in the costumes and environments. It has gained a following for its grounded approach to historical drama within the shonen demographic.

‘Mecha-Ude: Mechanical Arms’ (2024–2025)

Hikaru is a normal student whose life changes when he meets a sentient mechanical arm from another dimension. He becomes embroiled in a secret war between groups who want to use these powerful machines for their own agendas. The series is notable for its unique visual style and the imaginative ways the characters use their mechanical appendages in battle. The bond between the human protagonist and his mechanical partner provides the emotional core of the show. This title has been praised for its high energy and creative character designs.

‘Murai in Love’ (2024–2025)

A quirky high school student falls for a teacher who has a strict obsession with fictional characters from video games. To catch her attention he changes his appearance to look exactly like her favorite virtual protagonist. The resulting comedy explores the line between fan obsession and real life romance with a fast-paced and absurdist tone. The animation style is colorful and energetic which reflects the chaotic nature of the plot. It provides a refreshing and lighthearted alternative to the action-heavy titles of the year.

‘Sengoku Youko’ (2024–2025)

This adaptation of a classic manga concludes its long journey across a war-torn version of feudal Japan. The story follows a pair of supernatural siblings who fight to protect humans from malevolent spirits while searching for a way to live in harmony. The final arcs of the series deliver intense emotional payoffs and large-scale battles that have been building for several seasons. Fans appreciate the deep character development and the philosophical questions about the nature of humanity. It stands out as a unique blend of folklore and traditional shonen combat.

‘2.5 Dimensional Seduction’ (2024–2025)

Okumura is a student who leads the manga club and insists that he is only interested in two-dimensional characters. His perspective is challenged when a new student joins the club and asks him to help her with her passion for cosplay. The series delves into the technical and creative aspects of making costumes while celebrating the community built around shared hobbies. While it contains many comedic elements the story also explores the sincerity of artistic expression and social anxiety. It has become a favorite among fans who appreciate the celebration of otaku culture.

‘Demon Lord 2099’ (2024–2025)

In a futuristic version of Shinjuku the legendary Demon Lord Veltol is resurrected five centuries after his initial defeat. He finds a world where magic and technology have merged into a cyberpunk society that he no longer understands. The story follows his attempts to reclaim his former glory while navigating a world of hackers and neon-lit skyscrapers. This series offers a unique twist on the fantasy genre by placing a traditional antagonist in a science fiction setting. The visual contrast between ancient magic and futuristic technology is a major draw for the audience.

‘Tying the Knot with an Amagami Sister’ (2024–2025)

Uryu Kamihiki is an orphan striving to attend medical school who ends up living at a local Shinto shrine. He must balance his rigorous studies with the daily life of the three sisters who serve as shrine maidens. The narrative focuses on the growing relationships between the characters and the preservation of local traditions. It provides a heartwarming experience with a focus on family and the pursuit of personal dreams. The peaceful atmosphere of the shrine serves as a perfect backdrop for the character-driven story.

‘Ron Kamonohashi’s Forbidden Deductions’ (2023–2025)

The story pairs a brilliant but banned detective with a well-meaning police officer to solve impossible crimes. Ron Kamonohashi has an incredible talent for deduction but suffers from a condition that prevents him from officially practicing as a detective. Together they navigate the dark underbelly of the city to bring criminals to justice in creative ways. The series is known for its eccentric lead character and the clever structure of its mysteries. It remains a staple for fans of the shonen mystery subgenre during the 2025 season.

‘A Terrified Teacher at Ghoul School!’ (2024–2025)

Haruaki Abe is a timid teacher who accidentally accepts a job at a school where all the students are supernatural monsters. He must overcome his intense fear of ghosts and demons to lead his chaotic classroom and build a bond with his students. The comedy arises from the contrast between his weak personality and the dangerous abilities of his supernatural pupils. The series features a large cast of unique monster designs and provides a humorous take on the school life genre. It has gained popularity for its charming characters and lighthearted approach to horror themes.

‘Mission: Yozakura Family’ (2024–2025)

Taiyo Asano is a shy student who discovers that his childhood friend belongs to a lineage of world-class spies. To protect his friend from her overprotective brother he must join the family and train to become a spy himself. The 2025 episodes continue to blend domestic comedy with high-stakes missions and explosive action. Each family member brings a different specialty to the team which keeps the combat encounters diverse and engaging. This series is celebrated for its balance of heartwarming family moments and professional espionage.

‘Kinnikuman Perfect Origin Arc’ (2024–2025)

The legendary wrestler Kinnikuman returns to the ring to face a new threat from the ancient Perfect Chojin. This series continues the legacy of the classic franchise with modern animation and a focus on high-energy wrestling battles. The story explores the history of the wrestling world and the true meaning of friendship and justice. Fans of the original work enjoy the return of iconic characters and the introduction of powerful new rivals. It successfully revitalizes a foundational shonen property for a modern audience.

‘Rooster Fighter’ (2025)

A lone rooster wanders across a devastated landscape to battle giant monsters that threaten the survival of humanity. Despite his small size the protagonist possesses incredible combat skills and a fierce sense of duty. The series parodies traditional action tropes while delivering genuinely thrilling and well-choreographed fight scenes. Its unique premise and striking art style have made it a breakout hit in the early part of the year. It appeals to viewers who enjoy absurd concepts treated with total seriousness.

‘Tis Time for “Torture,” Princess’ (2024–2025)

A captured princess is subjected to various forms of torture which actually consist of the demons offering her delicious modern snacks and treats. The story follows her constant struggle to keep her secrets while being tempted by the culinary wonders of the demon world. The comedy is driven by the wholesome interactions between the princess and her supposedly cruel captors. The series is known for its detailed food animation and its heartwarming subversion of traditional fantasy tropes. It remains a popular title for fans seeking comfort and humor in 2025.

‘Hokkaido Gals Are Super Adorable!’ (2024–2025)

Tsubasa Shiki moves from Tokyo to the snowy region of Hokkaido and quickly befriends a local girl named Minami Fuyuki. The story explores the unique culture and landmarks of the region through the eyes of the newcomer and his group of friends. It focuses on the evolving romance and the daily challenges of living in a cold climate. The series is praised for its scenic backgrounds and the charming chemistry between the lead characters. It provides a sweet and localized take on the high school romantic comedy genre.

‘Beastars’ (2019–2025)

The final season of this psychological drama concludes the complex story of Legoshi the wolf as he navigates a society divided between herbivores and carnivores. He must confront his own predatory instincts while seeking justice in an increasingly fractured world. The series uses its unique anthropomorphic setting to explore deep social issues and the nature of identity. The animation continues to blend 2D and 3D styles to create a distinctive visual experience. It ends a legendary run with a focus on the personal growth and resolution of its main cast.

‘To Your Eternity’ (2021–2025)

Fushi is an immortal being who travels across the world and gains the forms of those he has lost. The 2025 season brings the narrative into a modern setting where the protagonist must learn to navigate a world of technology and social media. This shift provides a new perspective on the themes of immortality and human connection that have defined the series. The emotional weight remains high as Fushi continues to deal with the burden of his long life and the return of old enemies. It is a thought-provoking entry that continues to challenge the boundaries of the shonen genre.

‘Go! Go! Loser Ranger!’ (2024–2025)

In a world where heroes fight monsters every week for public entertainment a low-ranking foot soldier decides to rebel against the corrupt superhero system. He infiltrates the hero organization to dismantle it from the within and prove that the lines between good and evil are blurred. The second season expands on the political intrigue and the personal vendettas that drive the characters. It offers a cynical and refreshing subversion of the traditional sentai and superhero formulas. The series has gained a dedicated following for its sharp writing and complex protagonist.

‘I’m Getting Married to a Girl I Hate in My Class’ (2025)

Two high school students who are bitter rivals find out that their families have arranged for them to be married. They are forced to live together and navigate their social lives while keeping their secret arrangement from their classmates. The comedy stems from their constant bickering and the slow development of genuine affection between them. This series captures the classic tension of the enemies-to-lovers trope with a modern high school setting. It has been a popular new premiere for fans of the romantic comedy subgenre.

‘Wistoria: Wand and Sword’ (2024–2025)

Will Serfort lives in a world where magic determines one’s social status but he possesses no magical ability whatsoever. He relies on his exceptional swordsmanship to climb a dangerous tower and fulfill a promise to a childhood friend. The second season continues his journey as he faces more powerful magical opponents and uncovers the secrets of the world. The action sequences are fluid and emphasize the contrast between physical strength and magical power. It remains a standout for its classic underdog narrative and high production values.

‘The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity’ (2025)

Rintaro is a student at a rough boys’ school who falls in love with Kaoruko who attends a prestigious girls’ academy next door. The story focuses on breaking down the prejudices and stereotypes that keep the two groups of students apart. It is highly regarded for its sincere and emotional portrayal of friendship and youthful romance. The art style is soft and detailed which complements the gentle tone of the narrative. This series has been one of the most anticipated adaptations of 2025 due to its grounded and moving story.

‘Witch Watch’ (2025)

Nico is a young witch who moves in with her childhood friend Morihito who is tasked with being her familiar and protector. The story combines magical mishaps with daily school life and a developing romance between the two leads. The creator is known for sharp comedic timing and creative visual jokes that make every episode unpredictable. The series also features a strong supporting cast of supernatural characters who add to the chaotic living situation. It has quickly become a hit for its blend of humor and heart.

‘Medaka Kuroiwa is Impervious to My Charms’ (2025)

Mona is a popular girl who is shocked when a new transfer student named Medaka completely ignores her advances. She discovers that he is undergoing religious training to become a monk which requires him to resist all worldly temptations. The series follows her increasingly elaborate and hilarious attempts to make him break his focus. The dynamic between the two characters creates a constant source of comedy and romantic tension. It has stood out as a premier romantic comedy in the 2025 shonen lineup.

‘Rurouni Kenshin’ (2023–2025)

The modern retelling of the legendary swordsman’s quest for redemption enters the climactic Kyoto arc in 2025. Kenshin Himura must travel to the old capital to stop a powerful revolutionary from plunging the country into a new era of chaos. The updated animation brings a new level of intensity to the iconic duels and the political drama of the Meiji era. This adaptation stays very close to the original manga and provides a definitive version for a new generation. It remains a powerhouse of historical action and emotional storytelling.

‘Blue Exorcist’ (2011–2025)

Rin Okumura continues his training as an exorcist while managing his identity as the son of Satan. The 2025 season focuses on the Beyond the Snow Saga which introduces new threats and deeper mysteries surrounding the True Cross Academy. The series explores the evolving bond between Rin and his classmates as they face increasingly dangerous demonic incursions. Fans enjoy the mixture of urban fantasy and school life elements that have defined the franchise for years. The recent production quality has revitalized interest in the long-running series.

‘FAIRY TAIL 100 YEARS QUEST’ (2024–2025)

Natsu and his friends from the Fairy Tail guild continue their legendary mission to seal away the five powerful dragons of the northern continent. The journey takes them to vast new locations and forces them to confront enemies with ancient and dangerous magic. The series maintains the high energy and emphasis on the bonds of friendship that fans have loved for over a decade. New characters and lore expansion keep the story fresh while staying true to the original spirit. It remains a core title for those who enjoy epic fantasy adventures.

‘Black Butler’ (2008–2025)

Ciel Phantomhive and his demon butler Sebastian investigate a series of mysterious disappearances linked to a prestigious boarding school. The 2025 episodes bring the Emerald Witch arc to life with a focus on gothic mystery and supernatural horror. The series is celebrated for its elegant character designs and the dark complex relationship between the two main characters. It continues to provide a unique and sophisticated experience within the shonen demographic. The atmospheric setting of Victorian London remains as captivating as ever.

‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ (2019–2025)

The kind-hearted human boy Iruma continues to thrive in the demon world while keeping his true nature a secret from his classmates. The fourth season explores higher stakes as the students participate in more advanced magical trials and social events in the underworld. The series is known for its optimistic tone and the positive influence Iruma has on the selfish demon society. The colorful visuals and creative magical powers make it a joy to watch for fans of all ages. It remains a top tier comedy and fantasy series in 2025.

‘Shangri-La Frontier’ (2023–2025)

Rakuro Hizutome continues his journey through the massive world of a top-tier virtual reality game using his skills as a veteran of low-quality titles. The second season features intense boss battles against unique monsters and the discovery of hidden lore within the game world. The animation by Studio C2C is praised for its fluid movement and the tactical nature of the combat scenes. The series masterfully captures the excitement of exploration and the social dynamics of online gaming. It is a must-watch for fans of sports and gaming culture.

‘Tower of God’ (2020–2025)

The search for answers within the mysterious tower continues as the protagonist Bam faces new trials and dangerous factions. The second season expands the scope of the world and introduces a new cast of characters with their own motivations for reaching the top. The series is celebrated for its intricate power system and the constant sense of mystery surrounding the tower’s history. The 2025 episodes deliver high emotional weight as old friendships are tested and the stakes of the competition increase. It remains one of the most successful adaptations of a digital comic format.

‘Mashle: Magic and Muscles’ (2023–2025)

Mash Burnedead continues to use his overwhelming physical strength to overcome magical challenges in a world where magic is everything. The third season pits him against the most powerful magic users in the academy as he strives to become a Divine Visionary. The series remains a hilarious parody of magic school tropes while delivering surprisingly intense and well-animated battle sequences. Mash’s simple approach to complex problems provides a constant source of humor. It has established itself as a staple for fans of action and absurdist comedy.

‘Spy x Family’ (2022–2025)

The Forger family continues their secret lives as they navigate social functions and espionage missions to maintain world peace. The third season features new developments in Loid’s mission and more comedic mishaps at Anya’s school. The heart of the show remains the genuine bond forming between a fake family that is gradually becoming real. The animation and direction continue to be world-class with a perfect balance of domestic warmth and sharp action. It is a global phenomenon that continues to dominate the charts in 2025.

‘Wind Breaker’ (2024–2025)

Haruka Sakura finds himself leading a group of delinquent students who have transformed their high school into a protective force for the local town. The second season explores the pasts of the various club members and their efforts to stop a rival gang from invading their territory. The series is known for its grounded street fighting and its focus on community and self-improvement. The choreography of the fights is visceral and emphasizes the impact of every blow. It has been a standout success for its strong character writing and positive themes.

‘Kaiju No. 8’ (2024–2025)

Kafka Hibino continues to use his monster transformation to protect Japan while hiding his identity from the Defense Force he finally joined. The second season features larger kaiju incursions and deeper development for the supporting cast of elite soldiers. The series balances massive scale destruction with personal character growth and tactical military operations. The production quality remains exceptionally high with cinematic animation for the monster battles. It has become a landmark title for the modern shonen action genre.

‘Gachiakuta’ (2025)

Ludo is a boy who is falsely accused of a crime and thrown into a massive garbage pit that serves as the underworld for a floating city. He discovers a special power to turn discarded objects into powerful weapons and joins a group of cleaners who fight monsters. The art style is striking and uses urban graffiti influences to create a unique visual identity for the series. The narrative explores themes of societal neglect and the value found in things that the world has cast aside. This series has been one of the most visually innovative premieres of 2025.

‘Sakamoto Days’ (2025)

The legendary former hitman Taro Sakamoto must protect his peaceful life as a store owner from a series of elite assassins. He uses his incredible combat skills and everyday convenience store items to defeat his enemies without ever breaking his promise not to kill. The series is lauded for its inventive action choreography and the comedic contrast between Sakamoto’s suburban life and his violent past. The high-speed battles are some of the most creative in the industry today. It has immediately risen to the top of the popularity charts since its debut.

‘Blue Lock’ (2022–2025)

The high-stakes training program to create the world’s best striker reaches its most intense phase yet in the second season. The players must compete in a match against the Japan U-20 national team to prove the validity of the Blue Lock project. The series focuses on the psychological growth of the protagonists and their pursuit of individual ego on the soccer field. The stylized animation and intense pacing make every match feel like a life-or-death battle. It remains a leader in the sports anime category for its unique and aggressive perspective.

‘Fire Force’ (2019–2025)

The third and final season of this supernatural action series brings the battle against the Evangelist to its epic conclusion. Shinra and the members of Company 8 uncover the ultimate truth behind spontaneous human combustion and the origin of the world. The animation by David Production is legendary for its vibrant fire effects and immersive sound design. The scale of the final battles is massive and provides a satisfying end to the long-running mystery. It is a landmark title that concludes a major saga in the shonen landscape.

‘Dr. Stone’ (2019–2025)

Senku and the Kingdom of Science embark on their final and most ambitious mission to travel to the moon and uncover the source of the petrification. The fourth season focuses on the global search for resources and the construction of the technology required for space travel. The series continues to celebrate human ingenuity and the power of scientific knowledge. It remains a unique entry in the shonen genre for prioritizing intellectual solutions over physical combat. The conclusion of this epic journey is a highlight of the 2025 season.

‘BLUE LOCK THE MOVIE -EPISODE NAGI-‘ (2024–2025)

This series provides a new perspective on the events of the original story through the eyes of the genius player Seishiro Nagi. It explores his background and his evolving relationship with soccer as he enters the intense environment of the training facility. Fans enjoy seeing familiar matches and interactions from a different point of view while gaining deeper insight into one of the most popular characters. The animation maintains the high standard set by the main series while focusing on Nagi’s unique playstyle. It offers a fresh and engaging companion piece to the main narrative.

‘Ranma1/2’ (2024–2025)

The modern adaptation of this classic martial arts comedy continues to deliver chaotic battles and romantic mishaps in 2025. Ranma Saotome must navigate his life as someone who transforms genders while dealing with a host of eccentric rivals and suitors. The updated visuals and improved pacing have brought the legendary series to a whole new generation of viewers. The slapstick humor and creative martial arts techniques remain as entertaining as they were in the original manga. It is a successful revival that captures the timeless charm of the franchise.

‘Blue Box’ (2024–2025)

The sincere story of high school athletics and romance continues to follow the relationship between badminton player Taiki and basketball star Chinatsu. The series is noted for its grounded and realistic portrayal of teenage emotions and the dedication required to excel in sports. The soft and beautiful art style enhances the quiet moments of connection between the lead characters. It has become a major hit for its ability to balance the intensity of competition with a heartwarming romance. This title is widely regarded as one of the best character-driven shonen series in years.

‘Dragon Ball DAIMA’ (2024–2025)

Goku and his companions continue their adventure across a mysterious new world after being transformed into children by a magical curse. The series returns to the franchise’s roots by emphasizing martial arts skill and exploration rather than just overwhelming power. The fluid animation and modern art direction provide a fresh look at the legendary character designs. It offers a nostalgic yet innovative experience that appeals to both long-time fans and new viewers. The creative fight scenes and lighthearted tone make it a standout title for 2025.

‘Dandadan’ (2024–2025)

The supernatural journey of Momo and Okarun reaches new heights of absurdity as they face increasingly bizarre aliens and urban legends. The series is famous for its frantic energy and its ability to switch between horror, comedy, and romance seamlessly. The 2025 episodes feature more experimental animation that brings the wild character designs to life in spectacular fashion. The core relationship between the two leads remains the emotional anchor of the chaotic plot. It is currently one of the most popular and critically acclaimed shonen series on the air.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–2025)

The final battle between the world’s heroes and the villains reaches its absolute peak as the fate of society hangs in the balance. Izuku Midoriya and his classmates from Class 1-A must push their powers to the limit to stop Shigaraki and All For One. The 2025 releases provide a high-octane and emotional conclusion to a series that has defined the superhero genre for a decade. The production quality for the final episodes is cinematic and emphasizes the weight of every sacrifice. It ends its legendary run as one of the most influential shonen titles of all time.

‘Black Clover’ (2017–2025)

The anime returns to adapt the final epic battles from the manga as Asta and the Black Bulls face the ultimate threat to the Clover Kingdom. The story focuses on the conclusion of the war against the Spade Kingdom and the true origins of magic and devils. Asta’s journey from a boy with no magic to a powerful warrior reaches its emotional and physical climax. The animation for the return of the series has seen a significant upgrade and delivers some of the most intense magical combat of the year. It remains a staple for fans who enjoy the themes of persistence and brotherhood.

‘Chainsaw Man’ (2022–2025)

The cinematic adaptation of the Public Safety arc continues with the release of a high-profile movie focusing on the mysterious Reze. The story follows Denji as he experiences the complexities of romance while being targeted by powerful foreign assassins. The direction and animation maintain the high artistic standards that made the first season a global success. It explores the darker and more tragic sides of the characters’ lives while maintaining its signature black humor. This series remains at the forefront of the industry for its storytelling and visual ambition.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020–2025)

The third season follows the high-stakes survival game known as the Culling Game where sorcerers from all eras are forced to kill each other. Yuji Itadori and his allies must navigate a series of deadly barriers to stop the plans of the ancient sorcerer Kenjaku. The combat in this arc is incredibly tactical and features some of the most creative uses of cursed energy in the series. The animation continues to set industry standards for speed and fluidity during fight sequences. It is widely considered the most intense and unpredictable shonen series of the year.

‘One Piece’ (1999–)

The legendary voyage of the Straw Hat Pirates continues as they uncover the deep secrets of the world during the Egghead Island and Elbaf arcs. The 2025 episodes feature a major shift in the global balance of power as Luffy and his crew face off against the highest authorities of the world. The animation quality has remained at an all-time high with different directors bringing unique artistic styles to each major battle. The series continues to break records and remains a cultural phenomenon that defines the entire medium. It is an essential experience for anyone following the shonen genre.

‘Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War’ (2022–2025)

The final war between the Soul Reapers and the Quincy reaches its ultimate climax as Ichigo Kurosaki confronts the god-like Yhwach. The 2025 episodes feature expanded battle sequences and original content that were not included in the original manga source. The production value is breathtaking and uses modern digital effects to create some of the most visually stunning fights in anime history. The series provides a definitive and high-quality conclusion to a story that fans have followed for over twenty years. It stands at the top of the rankings for its incredible artistic achievement and narrative resolution.

Share which of these massive shonen hits you have enjoyed watching the most this year in the comments.