2025 has already been an exciting year for anime—from anticipated sequels to surprising masterpieces that appeared unexpectedly. Instead of relying solely on buzz or popularity, we decided to explore what fans are actually rating the highest on MyAnimeList. This way, we focus on the series that viewers aren’t just watching but genuinely enjoying.
This list is ranked by user ratings rather than total memberships or trending discussions—so you might discover hidden gems that haven’t caught fire on your timelines (yet). Whether you’re looking for drama, action, or mind-bending plots, there’s plenty here to add to your watchlist.
1. Takopi’s Original Sin
- MAL rating: 8.77
- Aired: June 28, 2025 – ongoing
- Episodes: 6 (planned)
- Genres: Dystopian, Horror, Sci-Fi
Takopi’s Original Sin stands out as one of the most unexpected emotional experiences of 2025. What begins as a charming tale of an alien and a child quickly shifts into a darker, more poignant journey.
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Based on Taizan5’s short manga, it tells the story of Takopi, a clueless octopus alien who attempts to enhance a bullied girl’s life with “happy” devices—but his well-meaning efforts take a horrifying turn.
The art style is soft and innocent, which intensifies the emotional impact of the story. It’s earning top ratings (8.77 on MyAnimeList) not due to flashy aesthetics but because of its genuine, visceral storytelling. Short yet profound, it’s a must-see for enthusiasts of impactful sci-fi.
2. Lord of Mysteries
- MAL rating: 8.77
- Aired: June 28, 2025 – ongoing
- Episodes: 13
- Genres: Action, Mystery, Supernatural, Suspense
As one of 2025’s most anticipated donghua, Lord of Mysteries has earned its acclaim. Based on the immensely popular web novel by Cuttlefish That Loves Diving, the series transitions smoothly into animation and is already being hailed as revolutionary for fantasy fans.
The narrative centers on Zhou Mingrui, awakening in the life of Klein Moretti within a dark, steampunk universe filled with hidden societies, supernatural relics, and Lovecraftian nightmares. It takes a while to build momentum, but once the secrets unfold, it grips you. If you’re intrigued by the occult, tarot abilities, or the classic ambiance of Victorian horror, this series is right up your alley.
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The animation quality from B.CMAY Pictures has received favorable comparisons—viewers liken its visuals to early works from Ufotable. With solid ratings on MAL, especially among those familiar with the novel, it’s also gaining traction beyond China. The best news? It’s available worldwide with subtitles and dubbing, and Season 2 is confirmed.
3. Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise from the Shadow
- MAL rating: 8.71
- Aired: January 4, 2025 – March 30, 2025
- Episodes: 12
- Genres: Action, Supernatural, Fantasy
Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise from the Shadow greatly enhances what made Season 1 remarkable—A‑1 Pictures cranks up the action and enriches the visuals, amplifying dramatic arcs, and earning nearly perfect IMDb ratings (9.7 for episode 12).
Jin‑woo delivers intense performances through memorable moments like the Red Gate Ice Elf confrontation and the Jeju Island raid. While Reddit discussions are divided with some labeling it “fast-food anime” that leans into exaggerated power fantasy, others find it top-tier due to its thrilling battles and pace.
Critics also weighed in: Rotten Tomatoes and Sportskeeda commend the animation quality and narrative sophistication, though a few transition episodes are noted for their slower pacing.
4. To Be Hero X
- MAL rating: 8.52
- Aired: April 2025 – ongoing
- Episodes: 24 (planned)
- Genres: Superhero, Comedy, Action
To Be Hero X immerses viewers in an outlandish universe starting April 2025, where belief in heroes grants them actual powers. This series is the third installment in the To Be Hero saga (following versions from 2016 and 2018) and fuses polished CG with dynamic 2D for a truly striking aesthetic.
Following Lin Ling and an enigmatic #1 hero known as “X,” it transforms the concept of fame into literal superpowers. Reddit users express excitement about the animation quality—some favoring the 2D, while others are fond of the CG—but consensus shows it’s visually stunning.
With an 8.3 score on Simkl and buzz on Crunchyroll, it’s an excellent pick for fans seeking captivating visuals, socially-driven powers, and competitive drama.
5. Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray
- MAL rating: 8.47
- Aired: April 6, 2025 – June 29, 2025
- Episodes: 13 (planned)
- Genres: Sports, Slice of Life, Drama
Premiering in April 2025, Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray offers a new, grittier dimension to the franchise. This time, rather than idols, we focus on Oguri Cap, a gray-haired “beast” from rural origins, striving to reach the top. The formula is classic underdog: a rural kid joins a local academy, tackles competitors, and even deals with shoelace #sabotage—only to finish strong in races.
The animation from CygamesPictures is detailed, particularly during racing scenes, with a more serious tone enhanced by Kenji Kawai’s music. Appreciated for its thrilling competitions and character exploration, this series carries more weight than earlier installments. Unsurprisingly, its high MAL ratings reflect its poignant narrative and breathtaking visuals.
6. Heaven Official’s Blessing Short Film
- MAL rating: 8.45
- Aired: Feb 12, 2025 (short film)
- Episodes: 1
- Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Supernatural
Heaven Official’s Blessing Short Film serves as a beautifully crafted mini-donghua celebrating the series’ fourth anniversary—running about 7-10 minutes, it’s not a full feature. It presents a touching scene between Xie Lian and Hua Cheng, renowned for its stunning visuals and immersive atmosphere—especially the chemistry and accompanying soundtrack.
While praised for its artistry and emotional connection, some noted the animation appeared slightly stiff compared to the main series, likely due to its short duration. However, the English-sub version finally presents the flags anticipated by fans—a more open portrayal of their relationship than seen in the regular series.
This short is ideal for TGCF enthusiasts seeking additional moments with Xie Lian and Hua Cheng. Filled with emotion and romance, it’s definitely worth seeking out even if it doesn’t encompass a complete story arc.
7. Ne Zha 2
- MAL rating: 8.45
- Aired: March 21, 2025
- Episodes: Movie
- Genres: Action, Fantasy, Adventure
Ne Zha 2 (officially known as Ne Zha 2: The Demon Child Storms the Sea) returns to theaters for Lunar New Year 2025, continuing the narrative from the original blockbuster. Directed and scripted by 饺子 (Jiao Zi) and produced by Chengdu Coco Animation, this sequel unfolds after Ne Zha and Ao Bing navigate through the turmoil—but with their bodies in ruins. Enter Master Taiyi Zhenren and the mythical Seven-Color Lotus, which may restore them, all while they confront the wrathful Dragon King and emerging challenges.
Chinese viewers have received it positively, shown by an 8.5 on Douban and excellent ratings on Maoyan and Taopiaopiao. It’s a visual feast filled with wuxia-style battles and emotional themes surrounding destiny, loyalty, and identity. On a global scale, it shattered records by grossing over US$2 billion, marking it the highest-grossing animated and non-English film in history. Data from Reddit’s r/boxoffice indicates it amassed nearly US$40 million in its sixth weekend, placing it amongst top global blockbusters like Avatar.
8. Medalist
- MAL rating: 8.38
- Aired: January 5, 2025 – March 30, 2025
- Episodes: 13
- Genres: Sports, Drama, Slice of Life
Medalist is a new sports anime that premiered in early 2025 and has captured significant attention. It tells the story of Inori, a determined fifth grader with dreams of becoming an Olympic figure skating champion, guided by Tsukasa, her former pro skater-turned-coach. The series blends heartfelt storytelling with authentic sports action, presenting a genuine depiction without excess drama.
This anime adaptation, created by ENGI, aired from January to March with 13 episodes and is available internationally on Disney+. Its popularity and relatively high ratings stem from its ability to convey the pressure, passion, and hurdles of competitive skating, elevating it beyond simple displays of skill. Therefore, if you enjoy sports narratives that harmonize emotional depth with substantial character journeys, Medalist is certainly worth watching.
9. Dr. Stone: Science Future
- MAL rating: 8.24
- Aired: January 9, 2025 – ongoing
- Episodes: 12 (planned)
- Genres: Sci-Fi, Adventure, Shonen
Dr. Stone: Science Future marks the fourth and concluding season of the Dr. Stone anime series, debuting on January 9, 2025. This season is broken into three parts, with the first part comprising 12 episodes that wrapped up on March 27, 2025. The second part is on track to air starting July 10, 2025.
The anime continues following Senku Ishigami and his team as they venture to the Americas to collect materials vital for their space initiative. The series remains centered on scientific breakthroughs and character arcs, with Studio TMS Entertainment handling the animation.
Dr. Stone collaborated with Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) for their 2025 White Paper on Science and Innovation, releasing a special visual of Senku to commemoratethe partnership, illustrating how much the series has inspired scientific curiosity.
10. Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc
- MAL rating: 8.23
- Aired: April 5, 2025 – June 28, 2025
- Episodes: 13
- Genres: Dark Fantasy, Mystery, Supernatural
Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc kicked off on April 5, 2025, broadcasting on TOKYO MX and additional networks. The anime adaptation of the eighth manga arc follows Ciel Phantomhive and his demon butler, Sebastian, as they probe a series of mysterious fatalities in a German village rumored to be haunted by a werewolf. They cross paths with Sieglinde Sullivan, the “Emerald Witch,” and her butler Wolfram Gelzer, who are knowledgeable in medicine, alchemy, and poisons.
This arc has gained positive reception, scoring around 8.2 on MyAnimeList and sustaining a solid audience across platforms. Suitable for those in search of a darker narrative, the series delivers strong character development and enthralls viewers with its haunting opening by Cö shu Nie featuring HYDE.
