2025 Spring Anime Recommendation Ranking Final Results!

The spring 2025 season of anime has begun. This season (airing from April) is packed with highly anticipated new series, including "Fire Force Season 3," "Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX," "The Dinner Table Detective," "Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray," and "I've Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level Season 2."

Over at animate Times we did a poll: "2025 Spring Anime: What Are You Watching?" We received a staggering number of votes. Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts!

Now, it's time to reveal the final results...

2025 Spring Anime List

Aharen Is Indecipherable season2
Anne Shirley
Apocalypse Hotel
Araiguma Calcal-dan
Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League
Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc
Bye Bye, Earth Season 2
Can a Boy-Girl Friendship Hold Up? (No, it Can’t!!)
Classic★Stars
Devil May Cry
Don't Give Up!
Everyday Host
Fire Force Season 3
From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman
GAMERA -Rebirth-
GUILTY GEAR STRIVE: DUAL RULERS
Gag Manga Biyori
HANA-Doll*-Reinterpretation of Flowering-
Himitsu no AiPri: Ring Arc
I'm the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!
I've Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level Season 2
Kaijyu Sekai Seifuku
Koupen-chan
Kowloon Generic Romance
LAZARUS
Maebashi Witches
Miru: Paths To My Future
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX
My Hero Academia: Vigilantes
Ninja to Koroshiya no Futarigurashi
Nmeneko
Once Upon a Witch's Death
Please Put Them On, Takamine-san
Princession Orchestra
Rock Is a Lady's Modesty
SHIBUYA♡HACHI Season 2
Sai-Kyo-Oh! Zukan: The Ultimate Tournament
Sentai Daishikkaku 2nd season
Shoshimin Series Season 2
Summer Pockets
Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho
TO BE HERO X
Teogonia
The Beginning After the End
The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows
The Catcher in the Ballpark!
The Dinner Table Detective
The Lady Blessed by the Gorilla God Is Adored by the Royal Knights
The Mononoke Journal by Chuuzenji-sensei
The Shiunji Family Children
The Too-Perfect Saint: Tossed Aside by My Fiancé and Sold to Another Kingdom
The Unaware Atelier Master
Twins Hinahima
Uchuujin MuuMuu
Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray
Unexpectedly Naughty Fukami
WIND BREAKER Season 2
Witch Watch
Yaiba: Samurai Legend
Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World!
Your Forma
Yu-Gi-Oh! GX 20th Remaster
Zatsu Tabi: That's Journey
Zenryoku UsagiSeason 2
mono

*List based on series announced in animate Times at the time of the poll.

2025 Spring Anime: TOP 15

Here is the top 15 as voted by men and women.

#15 The Brilliant Healer's New Life in the Shadows

Voter Comments:

"Rising up from exile is an A+ trope. Although the MC is supposed to be on the 'dark side' (?), it is a rush to see the real bad guys get what's coming to them." (F, 50s)
"I've been reading and enjoying it on "Shōsetsuka ni Narō." #Isekai/Revenge/Harem/OP protag... All the ingredients are amazing..." (M, 30s)
"I really enjoyed the original novel. I especially love how the MC isn't a pure hero: he helps everyone equally, which means the people who live in the shadows protect him. The story about standing up to power is worth watching." (M, 60s)

#14 The Unaware Atelier Master

#13 Aharen Is Indecipherable season2

Voter Comment: "It's not a flashy anime, but the offbeat story is really wholesome. There are still lots of people who haven't watched it - I hope you do." (F, 50s)

#12 The Too-Perfect Saint: Tossed Aside by My Fiancé and Sold to Another Kingdom

Voter Comments:

"I've been keeping up with the manga version. I rec it because it's rare for the little sister of a heroine to be so nice." (M, 40s)
"There are lots of stories with a plain big sister and cute little sister. I like that there's more to this little sister than cuteness. I'm really looking forward to it." (F, 50s)
"I've read the manga version before, it is well-paced and fun. I personally like stories about accidental revenge, so I love this one." (F, 20s)
"I voted for this one because I read and enjoyed it recently, after getting into this genre. Plus, because Yui Ishikawa (playing another saint!), Kaede Hondo and Sora Tokui will be in it." (M, 50s)

#11 Witch Watch

Voter Comments:

"Basically, because the original manga is great so the anime should be too, and because the cast is amazing!" (F, 30s)
"I love the original manga. I'm really looking forward to seeing how it works as an anime." (F, Teens)
"I own all the volumes of the manga so far, the cast is amazing, and it's going to be so funny." (F, 20s)
"Because Kenta Shinohara's other manga like "Astra Lost in Space" and "SKETDANCE" were good." (M, Teens)
"The original manga is super super good, and literally anyone can enjoy it! It's basically the "Doraemon" of our time." (F, 20s)
"Because I love how every single gag hits, and the characters’ personalities complement the gags while still feeling distinct and unique." (M, 20s)
"I like how it has elements like magic similar to isekai, but it also has hilarious comedy! The cast is full of stars, so our ears are in for a treat." (M, Teens)
"I've been reading it for a long time. Because the comedy is hilarious and the foreshadowing and callbacks are A+. The amazing theme song and cast really gives the impression they're putting a lot into this anime adaptation. I have high expectations!" (F, 30s)
"With the original manga I laugh at the bold gags and grin at the MC romance, but the action is fire!! So I'm looking forward to the anime." (F, Teens)

#10 Shoshimin Series Season 2

Voter Comments:

"I like how it's both "peak awkward youth mode: activated" while also having a cinematic, live-action look thanks to how the layouts make full use of widescreen." (M, 20s)
"Because season 1 was amazing. Because the mental complexity of this unusually mature teenager is completely engrossing. Because they make Gifu, where it is set, look gorgeous." (F, 50s)
"I basically enjoy this show because of the tasty-looking desserts. I like how Osanai-san seems mature at a glance, but she has a diabolical girly side." (F, 40s)

#9 Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray

Voter Comments:

"Because as soon as I heard alexsandrops is doing the theme song, I knew I had to watch it." (M, 50s)
"The dramatic rollercoaster horse girl Oguri Cap is coming to the screen! This is my number #1 must-watch rec this season!!" (M, 50s)
"The story of a horse girl who left 'pretty' behind. I'm excited to see the big girls with their bloodcurdling expressions in anime form!" (M, 20s)
"They depict history accurately. I hope this gets more people into actual horse racing." (M, 50s)
"They depict history accurately. I hope this gets more people into actual horse racing." (M, 50s)
"Because the manga version, which features horses so famous that even people who don't know much about horse racing will have heard of them, sold over 7 million copies." (M, 20s)
"Because the manga version, which features horses so famous that even people who don't know much about horse racing will have heard of them, sold over 7 million copies." (M, 20s)
"I rec it because I already like Oguri Cap, and because Uma Musume is full of emotional scenes and funny scenes." (F, Teens)
"I've wanted to see this as an anime since I heard about the manga. The real Oguri Cap left a big impression on me." (F, 40s)
"Because it's an anime adaptation of the ongoing manga Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray from the hit franchise Uma Musume Pretty Derby." (F, 20s)
"Because I've been hoping for an anime adaptation ever since the manga began! I want anyone who still thinks Uma Musume is simply 'cute content' to watch this." (F, 20s)
"The manga is good and it's being produced by CygamesPictures, so quality is guaranteed. Since the theme song is by Alexandros and it's airing at 4:30PM on Sundays, I feel like Shueisha is giving this their all." (M, Teens)
"Because the Uma Musume series has always been good so far. And, since it's about idol horse Oguri Cap this time, I think literally everyone can enjoy it." (F, Teens)

#8 My Hero Academia: Vigilantes

Voter Comments:

"Because the areas where it departs slightly from My Hero Academia are intriguing." (F, 20s)
"Because the original manga is super interesting, and because the hero/heroine relationships are moe" (F, 40s)
"Because I hope that characters from MHA show up and the plot will tie into MHA." (M, Teens)
"MHA is my all-time favorite series. Since this anime MHA-related, it's got me interested." (F, Teens)
"It's the final chapter of the anime, so I hope everyone watches and enjoys the gorgeous animation, moving scenes, cool scenes and exciting scenes." (F, Teens)

#7 Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc

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Voter Comments:

"I have a thing for faithful butlers. Tsundere. Reliable. I am so excited." (F, 50s)
"Basically, because the Black Butler manga is good, and the production team are adapting it faithfully." (F, 40s)
"I've been a fan of the manga for years, and I think Maaya Sakamoto as Ciel is amazing." (F, 60s)
"I own every volume of the Black Butler manga. The art and story are gorgeous and captivating, and it's all great." (F, 50s)
"Because cloverworks, who did the previous public school arc, is producing again. Also because it seems like the Undertaker stuff is reaching the end." (F, Teens)
"Because cloverworks, who did the previous public school arc, is producing again. Also because it seems like the Undertaker stuff is reaching the end." (F, Teens)
"Because Sebastian Michaelis the demon butler is soooooo cool. I adore how the gorgeous animation and story pulls you into the world of Black Butler." (F, 20s)
"Ever since the anime came back a year ago, I've been obsessed!!! I know the art is going to be gorgeous, and they made the Public School Arc super interesting and easy for even newbies to get into, so I'm sure they'll make the Emerald Witch Arc a fun starting point too!" (F, 20s)
"In the Black Butler manga the Emerald Witch Arc has some extremely important story developments. And, I wasn't sure the content would make it to TV. So I'm very happy to hear it will be adapted. I'm excited for it to air, I can't help myself." (F, 50s)
"I've been watching this anime from the very beginning. Aside from season 2 of the first anime, it's all great. It's aimed at women, but I personally would also rec it to men. Even my parents like it. I can honestly rec it to anime fans of all ages!" (F, 30s)
"I've been watching this anime from the very beginning. Aside from season 2 of the first anime, it's all great. It's aimed at women, but I personally would also rec it to men. Even my parents like it. I can honestly rec it to anime fans of all ages!" (F, 30s)
"I've watched since the beginning. It is very psycho, but the characters are hot and the cast is great. Despite being a bit heavy the story is very interesting. I especially like the tsun shota character Ciel Phantomhive, who is voiced by Maaya Sakamoto." (F, Teens)
"I first got into this series when I was in elementary school. I didn't think it would get another anime in this era, so I was very happy when the first new season was announced. I was also very happy when the Emerald Witch Arc adaptation was announced. In the Emerald Witch Arc, Sebastian and Ciel (of course) as well as Finnian and the other servants (who are super relevant to the story) go to Germany. There are a few scenes where they speak German. Unlike the Public School Arc, this is back to the dark Black Butler roots. I'm so happy we get that vibe of Black Butler again in this era. I'm looking forward to seeing how certain scenes from the manga are going to be animated. Also I like the the Emerald Witch Arc dark OG Black Butler vibes even more than the Public School Arc. I'm so excited for the April premiere." (F, Teens)

#6 I've Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level Season 2

Voter Comments:

"Season 1 was very good. There are sexy scenes, and the harem situation is good." (M, 60s)
"I rec this to anyone, no background knowledge required. It's a soothing isekai story." (M, 50s)
"Because of the heartwarming story and fun first season, I have high hopes for the sequel." (M, 60s)
"I've been following the original light novel for a long time. The subtle comedy matches the warm and fuzzy vibes well." (M, Teens)
"There are a lot of stories about slimes, but this one is a great anime to put on to relax." (M, 50s)
"There are lots of isekai anime that sing praises for a chill life in the slow lane, but make you want to shout that they aren't slow at all! But here is season 2 of an anime that really has no bad guys and you can watch to relax! I have to watch it!" (M, 60s)

#5 The Dinner Table Detective

Voter Comments:

"Because there are a lot of anime that get turned into live action, but it's rare for it to happen the other way around, and also because I want to hear Kana Hanazawa do a rich young lady voice." (M, 40s)
"The mystery novel series that swept the scene last decade is finally getting an anime adaptation. Tokuya Higashikawa writes genuine mysteries, while also introducing comedy at points, making for a story you never get tired of. He takes digestibility seriously, weaving cases into short arcs, so it's very accessible for a mystery series. I hope this anime will lead to more people falling in love with the genre." (M, Teens)

#4 Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX

Voter Comments:

"The advanced screening was great, I'm excited for more of the story." (F, 30s)
"Because it's from the OG series' continuity, and because when I saw Beginning in theaters it hit me like a truck." (M, 50s)
"The Char slap from the advance premiere was a wake up. I am hopeful for a new solution for the Universal Century timeline." (M, 50s)
"The movie I saw was a genuinely good title that even non Gundam-fans could enjoy. I hope sales go nuts." (F, 20s)
"The movie I saw was a genuinely good title that even non Gundam-fans could enjoy. I hope it sells insanely well." (F, 20s)
"Because it's a collab by Studio Khara (Director Hideaki Anno) and BANDAI (Gundam)." (M, 30s)
"Because you could enjoy the movie knowing nothing about Gundam, and you'll be dying to see what happens next!! The animation, music and characters were great, so I have high hopes for the anime." (F, Teens)

#3 Fire Force Season 3

Voter Comments:

"I really enjoyed the last season's content, cast and animation, so I'm excited for this season too!" (F, 30s)
"Because its series endgame time, and all the mysteries are getting solved." (F, 50s)
"I've been looking forward to this for a long time. I am so excited to see what Company 8 does, it's going to be a fiery ending for sure!" (F, 30s)
"It's a good show with lots of great voice actors and impressive fight scenes." (F, Teens)
"Because the story is heading into an incredible beginning-of-the-end phase, involving all the characters we have met so far." (M, Teens)
"On top of the god tier animation from season 1 and 2, they're going to dig into the Adolla Burst now, so it's going to be very exciting." (M, Teens)
"The positions of the main characters changed gradually over season 1 and 2. We get to see them grow strong bonds, which makes it really interesting." (F, Teens)
"The manga artist is a unique guy - the kind of guy who goes on hiatus because he "has an interest in hiatuses" - so it's very interesting." (F, Teens)
"I've been looking forward to a continuation since I first started watching 4 years ago! The Evangelist's order, the Pillars, Amaterasu... there are so many intriguing pieces, I can't wait! I'm excited." (F, Teens)
"I've been waiting a long time since watching up to season 2! The climax draws near in season 3, the characters are fascinating, and although the story is getting a little complex, it's super interesting. I'm looking forward to it!" (F, 50s)
"I love the worldbuilding. Plus, it's been 5 years since the last anime adaptation. In real life firefighters are people who fight fires and help with incidents. Here they become heroes who investigate the mystery of spontaneous human combustion as part of Fire Force. This story really struck me. It's so interesting. Whenever I see fire trucks in town I think of the Matchbox, and I want to cheer them on!" (F, Teens)

#2 WIND BREAKER Season 2

Voter Comments:

"Because it's fun to watch the MCs grow alongside dynamic animation and a wonderful cast." (F, Teens)
"Because S1 exceeded my expectations. There are lots of characters, and lots of popular voice actors, which is a happy point." (F, 40s)
"The battle and action in the original manga is great, so I think the fights are going to look even more impressive animated." (F, Teens)
"The original manga is really good, plus the characters are cool, and the fight scenes are as dynamic as battles!" (F, 40s)
"I love how the MC Haruka Sakura grows after meeting his friends at Furin High School! Each character is unique and cool." (F, Teens)
"I've been a huge fan since reading the manga!! The art quality and cast for the anime adaptation didn't let me down. I am obsessed. This is my favorite series ever!!" (F, 50s)
"S1 was god tier to me, and I seriously hoped it would get a season 2, so I am very excited! I've liked it ever sine reading the manga, and I am looking forward to seeing how the scenes get animated!!" (F, Teens)
"I got obsessed after watching S1, so I bought and read the manga too. I adore gang stories. The plot is good. The characters are cool. Crazy, amazing, priceless." (F, Teens)
"Because S1 was full of unique characters that made it interesting. Also, the animation style is pretty and right up my alley. I have high hopes for S2." (F, 50s)
"WIND BREKER is of course animated by cloverworks, and the setting and content are interesting. Can it follow the ending of S1? The S1 OP was ultimate tier, can they top it again? If so, I'll be in love." (M, Teens)
"Wind Breaker is soooo exciting...!! It turned me into a parent type otaku who wants to watch over and support the characters' emotional growth (especially MC Haruka Sakura) lol. All the characters are so adorable and cool, I can't pick a fave, which is making my life hard... Gooooo Wind Breaker!!!!" (F, 30s)
"Swinging fists to defend the town, friendships and personalities, emotions and the past: I think it's all written very well! Plus, there were already lots of amazing voice actors, but the new cast members joining in S2 are amazing, it'll be a feast for the ears (Personally, the character art style and voices and personalities and how they are in everyday life and how they are during fights is all very cool and adorable!)" (F, Teens)
"The MC has always been dragged into fights since he was a kid, just because of how he looks. When he joins Furin High School, he starts to learn how camaraderie and friendship feel. One day, he notices something off about a classmate, who won't talk. After using a little force, the MC learns what is going on and decides to make it his business, but it turns out someone else was listening in... I think you can really feel how much the MC has grown in S1. I personally am really looking forward to seeing how he grows from here. I hope everyone watches S1 too." (M, 20s)

#1 From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman

Voter Comments:

"There are a growing number of anime about strong old guys, but this one is my top rec." (F, 50s)
"How being from the countryside means he has no idea his strength isn't normal." (M, 50s)
"I first saw the manga version, but I have been waiting for the anime! I can't wait!" (M, 40s)
"Because reading the original novel, I thought it was a completely unique fantasy success story." (F, 30s)
"I'm a huge fan of the original novel. I'm looking forward to seeing how it gets animated (battle scenes)." (M, 50s)
"I like the manga, and the characters and relationships between the unreliable-looking reliable MC and everyone around him." (F, 50s)
"The manga is great. I love how the MC is such a regular old guy. He's overpowered, but I can handle it because he really is such a veteran." (M, 20s)
"I read the manga. I like the manga art. It's the "unaware humble strong guy" trope, but this one is really good!" (F, Teens)
"I identify with the fact that he looks like a boring old guy. It's thrilling when he pulls out the master sword skills to fight off tough enemies. The supporting characters each have their own unique sword styles, and they each get their time to shine, which is really cool." (M, 50s)
"There are a lot of harem series out there starring guys who are overpowered despite no experience or knowledge. This is a harem series about a character who actually does have experience and knowledge, and who is adored by his pupils. I read the manga version, and I'm always eager for the next installment." (M, 50s)
"I read the manga. It's the "hidden genius" trope, but it keeps the perfect balance between misunderstandings and showing the MC (old guy)'s talent. Not only are the battle scenes superb, but the dialogue and comedic timing is also amazing. I am looking forward to it." (M, 50s)
"I have read the original novel over and over, and I've been dying for an anime adaptation! You think the MC is just a regular old guy, but he's the master of super strong hotties!? The way the girls act around this humble silver fox is so innocent and cute! With cute scenes and cool scenes galore, this is a series worth watching!" (F, Teens)