The 8 Best Upcoming Anime Adaptations of 2025

2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for anime, with a diverse slate of beloved manga series making their highly anticipated debuts on screen. From pulse-pounding action to enchanting fantasies and heartwarming romances, these first-time adaptations promise to bring fresh stories and unique worlds to life. For manga enthusiasts looking to get ahead of the curve, here's an in-depth look at some of the most eagerly awaited titles set to make their anime premiere in 2025.

Sakamoto Days

Written and illustrated by: Yuto Suzuki

Published by: Shueisha

Adapted by: TMS Entertainment

Image: Shueisha

Once a legendary hitman, Taro Sakamoto now lives a quiet life running a convenience store. However, his peaceful days are shattered when his past catches up with him, forcing this unlikely hero back into action.

Sakamoto Days masterfully blends over-the-top action sequences with genuinely hilarious comedy. The series derives much of its charm from the stark contrast between Sakamoto's unassuming appearance as a chubby convenience store owner and his unparalleled skills as an assassin. This juxtaposition creates endless opportunities for both humor and excitement.

Gachiakuta

Written and illustrated by: Kei Urana

Published by: Kodansha

Adapted by: Bones

Image: Kodansha

In a dystopian world, Rudo, an outcast framed for a crime he didn't commit, is exiled to a trash-filled underworld. There, he discovers hidden powers and must battle to survive in a brutal environment where one person's garbage becomes another's treasure - sometimes literally.

Gachiakuta pulls no punches with its brutal world and intense action sequences. The series stands out for its unique setting - a literal world of trash where outcasts struggle to survive. Fight scenes are dynamic and visceral, often incorporating improvised weapons crafted from discarded objects. This adds an element of creativity and unpredictability to the action that sets Gachiakuta apart from the more traditional battle manga.

Witch Hat Atelier

Written and illustrated by: Kamome Shirahama

Published by: Kodansha

Adapted by: Bug Films

Image: Kodansha

Coco, an ordinary girl, stumbles upon the secret of magic and begins her journey as a witch apprentice in a mesmerizing world where spells are drawn, not spoken.

Witch Hat Atelier stands out for its unique approach to magic, treating it as a precise art form rather than just waving a wand. The magic system is based on intricate glyphs and symbols, turning spellcasting into a form of artistic expression. This novel concept allows for creative problem-solving and adds depth to the magical duels and challenges the characters face.

The manga's artwork is nothing short of breathtaking. Each panel is filled with meticulous detail, from the ornate magical circles to the fantastical landscapes. The character designs are equally captivating, with each witch's hat and outfit reflecting their personality and magical style. This visual splendor promises to translate beautifully to animation, making Witch Hat Atelier one of the most visually anticipated anime of 2025.

Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint

Written by: Sing Shong

Illustrated by: Sleepy-C

Published by: Ize Press

Adapted by: Crunchyroll

Image: Ize Press

Based on a popular web novel, this series follows Kim Dokja, an ordinary office worker who finds himself living in the world of his favorite web novel. His survival now hinges on his unique knowledge of the story's plot.

Omniscient Reader stands out for its meta-narrative approach, blurring the lines between reality and fiction in fascinating ways. The series keeps readers on their toes with its unpredictable plot twists and strategic mind games. Its exploration of the relationship between author, character, and reader adds a unique philosophical layer to the thrilling action.

I Have a Crush at Work

Written and illustrated by: Akamaru Enomoto

Published by: Kodansha

Adapted by: Blade

Image: Kodansha

This relatable office romance chronicles the subtle, awkward, and heartwarming moments between colleagues as they navigate budding feelings in a professional environment. I Have a Crush at Work captures the delicate balance of personal and professional life with authenticity and charm. The series excels in portraying the small, everyday moments that make up a budding romance, from stolen glances across the office to the nervous energy of after-work drinks.

What sets this manga apart is its mature and nuanced approach to workplace relationships. It doesn't shy away from the complications and potential consequences of office romance, adding depth and realism to the story. The characters feel like real people with complex lives and motivations, making their romantic journey all the more engaging.

Honey Lemon Soda

Written and illustrated by: Mayu Murata

Published by: Shueisha/Yen Press

Adapted by: J.C.Staff

Image: Shueisha

Uka, a shy high school girl, meets the lively Kai, who inspires her to break out of her shell and embrace life with more confidence. This sweet and uplifting romance focuses on self-discovery and personal growth alongside the blossoming relationship.

Honey Lemon Soda shines in its portrayal of personal growth and the transformative power of friendship and love. The series tackles themes of self-esteem and social anxiety with sensitivity, making it relatable for many viewers.

I Got Married to the Girl I Hate Most in Class

Written by: Seiju Amano

Illustrated by: Mosskonbu

Published by: Seven Seas Entertainment

Adapted by: Studio Gokumi

Image: Seven Seas Entertainment

This hilarious and heartfelt romantic comedy follows two former high school rivals who find themselves forced into marriage. They slowly discover new sides of each other as they navigate their unexpected life together.

I Got Married to the Girl I Hate Most in Class takes the classic enemies-to-lovers trope and cranks it up to eleven with its marriage premise. The series excels in its character development, showing how the protagonists' perceptions of each other evolve as they're forced to cohabitate.

What makes this manga stand out is its clever subversion of typical rom-com tropes. The characters' shared history as rivals adds depth to their interactions, and their gradual shift from antagonism to understanding feels earned and genuine. The series also explores themes of perception versus reality, as the characters realize how much of their rivalry was based on misunderstandings and preconceptions.

Medalist

Written and illustrated by: Tsurumaikada

Published by: Kodansha

Adapted by: ENGI

Image: Kodansha

This heartwarming sports drama follows the story of an unlikely duo—a washed-up coach and a young girl with raw talent—as they work together to pursue their dreams in the competitive world of figure skating.

Medalist brings the grace and intensity of figure skating to life with its dynamic art and animation. The series goes beyond just the sport, delving into the personal struggles and growth of its characters. Its exploration of themes like second chances and the pursuit of excellence gives depth to the exhilarating skating sequences.

Tsurumaikada's attention to detail in portraying the technical aspects of the sport, from the intricacies of different jumps to the artistry of choreography, adds authenticity to the story. This technical accuracy, combined with the emotional journeys of the characters, promises to make Medalist a standout sports anime when it debuts in 2025.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The anime adaptations of 2025 showcase the incredible diversity of manga storytelling. From the action-packed Sakamoto Days and Gachiakuta to the magical allure of Witch Hat Atelier and Omniscient Reader, there’s something for every viewer. Romance fans can look forward to the heartfelt tales of I Have a Crush at Work, Honey Lemon Soda, and I Got Married to the Girl I Hate Most in Class, while sports enthusiasts will find inspiration in Medalist.

As these manga come to life with vibrant animation, soundtracks, and voice acting, they promise to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers. Whether you’re seeking intense battles, sweet love stories, or breathtaking magic, 2025’s anime debuts are poised to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Get ready to explore these worlds and keep an eye on these must-watch titles as their premieres draw closer!