My 2025 End of the Year Anime Highlights

! [Synopsis]
The story follows Mari Tamaki, a second-year high school student, who seeks to enjoy her youth despite her fear of uncertainties. After realizing a year has passed, she resolves to make the most of her time. Inspired by Shirase Kobuchizawa, who dreams of finding her missing mother in Antarctica, Kimari forms a bond with her. Together with their new friends Hinata and Yuzuki, they prepare to face challenges that will test their resolve on their unforgettable adventure to the icy continent of Antarctica.

I was surprised by how invested I became in this anime. Unlike others I've watched, which usually fail to hold my attention, this one possesses a unique charm that captivated me. The plot unfolds thoughtfully, and the characters are relatable, reflecting emotions that resonate with viewers. Their portrayals successfully convey deep feelings, making me feel as if I were part of their adventures. What I initially thought was a simple, cutesy anime turned out to be surprisingly complex and enjoyable. Definitely a must-watch if you’re up for a lighthearted anime with the right amount of adventure, comedy, and drama.

! [Synopsis]
After the fall of New York, Hellsalem's Lot emerged as a chaotic city inhabited by humans and otherworldly creatures. Leonardo Watch, a once-normal photographer, acquires the "All-seeing eyes of the gods," leading to his sister's blindness and his quest to restore her sight. He joins Libra, an organization striving to maintain order amidst the turmoil. As he navigates this unpredictable environment, he faces unusual allies, formidable foes, and personal struggles, determined to harness his powers and contribute to the city's fragile peace. This story unfolds not only as Leonardo's journey but also as a testament to the hope shared among those around him.

This anime series is highly recommended for fans of action anime—especially with its engaging action scenes and captivating lore. The series maintains excitement throughout, with no dull episodes, plus each of them contributes to character development, particularly Leonardo’s journey to achieving a better version of himself. The villains may not be deeply fleshed out, but still—they still play a role in the narrative. Overall, it is an enjoyable watch for those seeking a blend of action, fantasy, and humor!

! [Synopsis]
Mitsumi Iwakura leaves her serene hometown in Ishikawa Prefecture to pursue her studies in bustling Tokyo, believing she can handle the transition. However, she quickly experiences challenges, getting lost in the city and feeling overwhelmed during the morning rush. Just when she feels despondent, fellow student Shima Sosouke offers her assistance. Despite initial misfortunes leading to a poor first impression with teachers and classmates, Mitsumi remains determined to adapt and achieve her goals, proving her resilience in the face of adversity as she navigates her new environment.

This anime series offered me a refreshing, wholesome experience. It’s lighthearted yet not boring; rather, it’s entertaining! It didn't have heavy and serious conflicts, so most of the time I was in a good mood while watching it—except those times I was somehow annoyed with certain characters lol. Definitely a must-watch if you’re into fluffy romance with a tinge of angst.

! [Synopsis]
Ryousuke Hazuki was in love with Rokka Shimao, a widowed florist, and had been visiting and interacting with her every day by regularly purchasing something from the flower store. He was happy with such little exchanges until one day something came up that gave him a chance to get nearer to her. After several months, he made the decision to take a part-time job at Rokka's flower business. However, despite his increased proximity to her, their relationship has not really improved. But he can't let up, so when another chance presented itself, he decided to start pursuing her. However, this time, something—or rather, someone—came up, and it was her late husband's ghost!

Out of all the romance anime I've seen this year, this one is unquestionably my favorite. Since their concept is similar to what I've just read in novels, it seems like the biggest what-if that has ever happened to me. I never imagined that this kind of story would be shown in anime. This romance left me unsure of who to ship, in contrast to earlier romances where I had a clear choice. Because you can't really predict what the deceased husband will do next, I found every episode to be like a thriller, and the conclusion was heartbreaking yet heartwarming at the same time. So if you're curious about how a love triangle between a man, a woman, and a ghost worked, then try watching this anime.

! [Synopsis]
In the year 2071, humanity faces near extinction due to fearsome creatures known as Aragami, which devour everything in their path. Created by God to eliminate humanity, these nearly indestructible beasts challenge humans to find alternative solutions. In response, the organization Fenrir establishes God Eaters, a group equipped with God Arc weapons—living weapons capable of killing Aragami. Lenka Utsugi, a new God Eater, possesses a versatile God Arc that can transform into a blade and a gun. Despite his aspirations to protect others, Lenka discovers the dangers within Fenrir, where internal conflict brews among its members. Undeterred, the God Eaters resolve to confront these challenges head-on, determined to sustain hope for the future.

The plot may not be unique, but its execution effectively hooked me in. The story's gradual intensity buildup was brilliant, leading to emotional moments that brought me to tears. Initially, I found the visuals eccentric, but I soon appreciated the art style and animation quality provided by Ufotable, especially the thrilling action scenes and terrifying depictions of beasts, which enhanced the overall experience. If you enjoy futuristic, dystopian settings, you should definitely watch this anime. The plot may be generic, but still the execution made up for it.

! [Synopsis]
Following the incident in Inari City, the Order now views the Illuminati as humanity's primary threat, particularly after the alarming pollution caused by an artificial Gehenna gate that has incited wild behavior in lower demons. Consequently, the Order moved up the Exorcist Certification Exam and dispatched powerful exorcist Lewin Light to True Cross Academy as a teacher. Suguro, impressed by Lightning's skills, seeks to become his apprentice, unaware of the sinister nature hidden behind Lightning's facade. Meanwhile, the Okumura brothers face internal conflict due to Shura's disappearance. Despite working together, their unresolved feelings create tension, poised to erupt into emotional turmoil as new, destructive challenges arise.

This particular season was enjoyable; therefore, I have no serious complaints. Plus, the plot is both faster-paced and more substantial than it was in the previous season. It's nice how the drama, action, and legend gradually developed those opposing emotions. Additionally, because there was a lot of foreshadowing regarding Yukio in the previous season, I was particularly looking forward to his point of view. Even though I know how he would finish up, I'm interested to see how his side will be portrayed in anime. Cliche as it may sound, I assure you that everything happens for a reason, even though the story is getting heavier and some character behavior changes may be confusing—especially to non-manga readers. If you're interested in a supernatural anime with intriguing lore, action, and drama, this season's conclusion marks the beginning of a significant plot development, so I guess if you're reading this and you haven't watched this anime yet, then this is definitely your sign!

! [Synopsis]
Kouhei Inuzuka—Sensei, has struggled to balance fatherhood and work after his wife's death while caring for his daughter Tsumugi. Lacking cooking skills, he often resorts to convenience store bento meals, which frustrates him. When he meets Kotori Iida, who feels lonely because of her always out-to-work mother, they forge a connection. Kotori invites them to her family restaurant, encouraging Sensei to use it for cooking Tsumugi's desired meals. This leads to cooking sessions where they create new memories together.

This anime series was definitely so charming. Surprisingly, I didn't get tired watching it despite the lack of a meaningful plot or conflict because of its innocence and attractiveness. If it weren't for the altered finish with the credits, I wouldn't have even realized that this was the final episode. The narrative undoubtedly conveyed what it's like to lose someone, deal with loss, and move on. Sensei and Kotori's interactions were adorable, particularly the cozy window scenes in which they are chatting casually about what to prepare for Tsumugi. It's equally platonic and somewhat romantic, and I couldn't help but notice how comforting it is.

! [Synopsis]
Amidst the usual mysteries at Kamome Academy, a new rumor emerges about an old clock that supposedly controls time, warning that unauthorized touching could lead to severe consequences. Yashiro, concerned after hearing this from Aoi, finds her life increasingly intertwined with school mysteries since becoming Hanako's assistant. Following a shocking discovery of their classroom in ruins, Yashiro, Kou, and Hanako investigate the culprit, unaware that they will also uncover deeper lies and hidden truths. This journey promises to reveal an ideal, yet deceptive world, raising the question of whether Hanako can grant yet another wish this time.

Their interactions were just as fascinating and amusing as they were in the previous season, perhaps more so. I couldn't help but get butterflies in my stomach from Hanako and Yashiro's exchanges, and simply witnessing them together gave me an even greater thrill than the ones I experienced while watching shoujo anime. There are a lot of revelations this season, which is another thing that makes it thrilling. You'll probably be shocked if you don't read manga, but I was quite pleased with how it was depicted there. Naturally, there are still unsolved riddles and unrevealed characters, and that’s something I’m looking forward to being adapted soon.

! [Synopsis]
In a magical world where worth is determined by a distinctive mark, unmarked individuals like Mash Burnedead face extermination. Mash, a boy hidden in a forest by his foster father, loves iron and creampuffs. His peaceful life is threatened when authorities discover him, prompting a fight for survival using his physical strength. Determined to protect his dream life with his foster father, Mash confronts numerous challenges fueled by his love for creampuffs and protein shakes, refusing to be broken by any adversity.

There isn't a dull episode in this anime since Mash always manages to come up with an incredible solution, regardless of how serious and seemingly dreadful the issue. Additionally, the characters were varied and intriguing, much like the typical fantasy: our very own obvious but full-fledged brawler MC, a powerful male with a sister complex, a hot-headed redhead, a delusional blonde girl, and an anxious kid. At first, it's strange that these disparate individuals would be friends, yet strangely, I really liked how they interacted. Since most of the shounen have a very active group of pals, it wasn't shocking, even though they are too different from one another.

! [Synopsis]
Jin Mori wakes up late on the day of the 'God of High School' tournament, a competition for strong high school fighters. Various fighting styles and techniques are permitted, with prizes that can be anything the winner demands. Throughout the tournament, Mori encounters misfortunes but also meets Yoo Mira and Han Daewi, who become significant allies. As participants decrease, hidden mysteries arise, revealing ancient betrayals and grudges. The bond between Mori, Mira, and Daewi is tested amid brewing chaos. The true challenge lies in understanding what it means to be the God of High School, questioning whether their friendships can withstand personal obligations and distrust.

Its lore is definitely too much for a single anime season, but overall, it wasn't a horrible anime. This anime is more of a promotion than an adaptation because if they had planned on adapting the whole source material, then they should have carefully laid out the lore. Also, it concluded in a way that piqued your interest, thus it's undoubtedly providing us with insight as to what will happen next in the manhwa. This series was more about demonstrating than explaining what was going on. That's why it was quite challenging for me at first, because I'm not hundred percent knowledgeable with its lore. But anyway, even though it isn’t a perfect adaptation, it’s still a decent anime tho—totally worth watching if you like an action anime with a lot of entertaining fights and cool characters.

! [Synopsis]
Fuu's peaceful life shifts dramatically after she accidentally spills drinks on the son of the local magistrate, leading to harassment from his men. In a desperate move, she enlists Mugen, a rogue samurai, to help her. Mugen's wild fighting style ignites a conflict with Jin, a calm samurai, resulting in chaos that destroys their shop and the death of the magistrate's son. Facing execution, Fuu offers to help them escape if they become her bodyguards. Their escape coincides with their execution day, and despite initial reluctance, a coin toss solidifies their bond. Together, they embark on a journey filled with challenges and encounters, as they search for the elusive samurai Fuu seeks, navigating issues of hunger, distrust, and uncertainty along the way.

I didn't find its action scenes to be really memorable despite what you may think. Both the action and the soundtrack were enjoyable, but I found the characters' growth to be what really stood out. This is the longest anime I've seen this year by the way, and I appreciate how the characters' backstories are progressively revealed, opening the door for their improvements. And like I’ve mentioned in my past review, the end also taught me a nice lesson, and learning that made this anime more memorable for me. So if you're interested in an unusual historical anime with both comedy and action, then you need to try this anime.

! [Synopsis]
In Delico's manor, a siege led by vampires from the Pendulum organization resulted in numerous casualties, notably the death of Frieda Delico. This tragic event spurred her husband, Dali, to become a full-time house dad, inspired by her last words. However, as he faced a rise in vampire killings, he took on responsibilities for both parenting and his noble duties. Alongside fellow noble fathers—Gerhard, Henrique, and Dino—who were also inexperienced in childcare, they grappled with their dual roles amidst growing enemy aggression. They seek to unravel the mystery of the killings, which ties back to a frail immortal god essential to their race's survival, committed to protecting both their lineage and their children.

I had no idea that its plot would be so endearing and charming because vampire anime typically deviates greatly from that spectrum. In fact, the majority of the vampire anime I've previously viewed hardly ever included kids—maybe teens, but definitely not infants and young children. Seeing those stoic-looking vampires bathe adorable kids and change their diapers is simply too strange. It's humorous and adorable, but the story isn't just about that. Although there is a dark side to it, I can guarantee that no children suffered serious harm. The start may be quite slow, but still when you get used to its pace, you’ll eventually like and enjoy it.

! [Synopsis]
This tale began with an octopus-like creature named Takopi, who leaves Happy Planet to spread joy. Unfortunately, he lands on Earth where he faces hostilities. After being rescued by a girl named Shizuka, Takopi vows to use his gadgets to make her happy. However, Shizuka hides deeper sorrows, and when she loses her grounding creature, Takopi seeks to change their grim fate by rewinding moments. In each alteration, he creates a chaotic future, finally realizing that his first sin, the very reason he met Shizuka, is what he has overlooked.

For me, reading manga and watching the anime version were entirely different experiences since, in manga, I focus more on the text than the illustrations; with anime, on the other hand, the images captivate me. When I got to watch the anime, I liked the expressions, especially Azuma's. He's my favorite character out of all of them because he speaks to me. The adorable artwork is undoubtedly very different from the plot, so if you're looking for an anime with a cute aesthetic and a unique plot, you should watch it and discover for yourself what Takopi's original sin is.

! [Synopsis]
On a rainy morning, Takao Akizuki skips class to sketch shoe designs in a garden, where he meets a woman. Their initial cold interactions warm up during these rainy encounters, providing comfort in an otherwise bleak reality. However, when the rainy days end, they return to their previous solitude. Yearning for those moments together, they continue to seek each other on rainy mornings, questioning whether their relationship can flourish or will end as abruptly as the rainy season.

I'm really in love with the feels and vibes that this movie gives off. I usually don't like rain because it feels gloomy to me, but when I watched this movie, it made me realize that rain wasn't that bad or gloomy at all. Some people find refuge in it, and that's really interesting. The premise was intriguing because of the apparent age gap between the main characters, but still, Makoto-sensei was able to convey a beautiful story without making it strange and unnatural. The forty-six minutes were totally worth it, and I'll definitely rewatch it in the near future.

! [Synopsis]
In a story about self-esteem, Yui Sakura, nicknamed "Cherry," struggles with confidence despite his passion for writing haiku, sharing them online where only his mother appreciates them. Conversely, Yuki Hoshino, known as "Smile," is a popular live streamer but is insecure about her teeth. Their lives intersect during a chance encounter at a mall, sparking mutual interest. Soon, Smile begins working at the same center as Cherry, and they bond while helping an elderly man, Fujiyama, search for a lost vinyl record filled with memories. As they grow closer, Cherry faces an impending move due on the same day as Daruma Festival, leaving them to confront their feelings for each other before parting ways.

It's a very tender anime that is both amusing and, at some points—heartbreaking. Even though the story isn't really unique, it will undoubtedly make your heart skip a beat. I initially believed that this was more of a slice-of-life story than a romance, but as the narrative progressed, it gradually became apparent that it's more of a romance. Even though most young romance is shallow and superficial, let's be honest: it used to make us feel like we had nothing and everything to lose. This anime is a must-watch if you're interested in a romance that felt like that, or at least it did for me. Those emotions are at the same time satisfying and perplexing.

! [Synopsis]
A group of friends meets to summon the Summer Ghost, a spirit associated with death. While they encounter her, Tomoya seeks deeper understanding, believing she holds answers about death. As he spends time with her, he uncovers her mysteries and learns the importance of living fully rather than merely existing.

One of the things that pulled me in was the movie's concept and plot, in addition to its beautiful and dreamy images. Although the idea of the supernatural wasn't new, there were a few concepts that made it stand out. Also, I'm always interested in life and death discussions because it's fascinating to learn about various viewpoints. Further, I observed and appreciated the ghost and Tomoya's subtly amorous relationship. You can obviously see the developing relationship and feelings there, even though those times weren't overtly romantic because it isn't truly a romance. I didn't mind the conclusion because it was the most likely to happen. The typical happy endings were enjoyable to watch, but I believe that a realistic conclusion makes a stronger impression on me, and certainly it did with this movie.

! [Synopsis]
In the story, Totsuko possesses the unique ability to feel colors, a trait she initially keeps hidden to avoid discrimination. Her fascination with Kimi's color drives her to search for her when Kimi drops out of school. Totsuko discovers Kimi working at a library, leading to their reunion. Alongside Rui, a musician she meets, they form a band and practice at an abandoned church, deepening their friendship and enhancing their music. However, the joyful times are overshadowed by the impending realities of adulthood, compelling them to confront their futures.

It’s a pretty relatable anime movie to me since I also came from a school run by nuns and also from an all-girl class. I really find the main character interesting! It had a slow start, which at some point made me impatient and almost bored, but the rest after those tranquil moments are beautiful and engaging scenes that really hooked me. The visuals and music were really the things that I loved the most in this movie, and hopefully I get to see more heartwarming and nice movies like this in the future.

! [Synopsis]
Set on the small island of Shiojima, Momo and her mother relocate to start afresh following her father's unexpected death. While her mother begins to heal, Momo feels trapped in her grief, haunted by an unfinished letter from her father that amplifies her regret. Upon arriving, she experiences discomfort in their new home, where she begins to see strange transparent figures. Struggling to fit in with the locals and her peers, Momo's life takes a turn when she recognizes the figures as youkai from a picture book. As she learns about these troublesome spirits, Momo gradually discovers how to live in the present, moving beyond her grief and guilt.

It was worthwhile to watch this anime. I had no expectations before watching it, but I learned a lot at the end. It was enjoyable to watch—especially the parts where those naughty youkais are present. I think they're really the main reasons why I enjoyed this movie so much. Their characters definitely add a lot of liveliness to this anime, thus balancing well the melancholy and drama in it. This movie is totally a must-watch if you're looking for a supernatural-drama anime with a ton of humor and emotion in it!

And that’s it! This list in in no particular order so whatever anime comes first or last doesn’t mean I like them the least or most. This is just compilation of anime series and movies that I liked, loved and became memorable for me. So if you enjoyed scrolling through it, I’m thrilled you did! Hope you’re spending this new year with joy and enthusiasm and with that—I wish you a blessed year ahead!

Akeome minna-san >v<!