2025 has been an incredible year for anime, with fans getting to enjoy an abundance of high-quality series on a consistent basis. Some of the most incredible anime series either made a comeback, Like Solo Leveling and The Apothecary Diaries, or the recently Kickstarted, Lord of the Mysteries. Naturally, all eyes will be up Crunchyroll Awards for 2026And just as the 2025 awards were hot, 2026 will be even more intense. There are many series that can be called Anime of the yearBut these series are especially out there and have a great chance of winning.
Sakamoto Days Season 1
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Main Character: Sakamoto
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Number of Episodes: 22
Sakamoto Days Season 1 disappointed many. Many believe the anime adaptation of Sakamoto Days to be a let-down, as the quality of the animation and direction just wasn't up to par, and certainly didn't deserve the series.
However, even with its subpar adaptation, Many fans are invested in the story of Sakamoto DaysAnd that alone could make it dominant in Crunchyroll's 2026 awards. It's definitely at a disadvantage compared to the other series on this list.
Lord of Mysteries Season 1
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Main Character: Klein Moretti
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Number of Episodes: 13
Lord of Mystery Season 1 was a hit that came out of nowhere. The series received its first season this year, featuring 13 episodes, and more content is already on the way.
Lord of Mystery will pave the way for Chinese animeAnd more Chinese anime will be able to reach the global market and reach fans around the world. The Lord of Mystery could certainly make history The first Chinese anime to win the title of Anime of the Year in 2026.
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Release date |
June 28, 2025 |
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Studio |
B.CMAY Pictures |
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the creator |
A cuttlefish that likes diving |
Punishment Season 2
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Main Characters: Momo and Okarun
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Number of Episodes: 12
punishment debuted in 2024, and is back strong with its second season this year. punishment Season 2 consists of 12 episodes, continuing its extraordinary story. New main cast characters are added, and the story ends on a very exciting cliffhanger. Dandadan Season 2 has taken an already great series and added more depth and intensity to it, truly gripping the fans and keeping them coming back for more. It also has a strong chance at next year's Anime of the Year awards.
Solo Leveling Season 2
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Main Character: Sung Jinwoo
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Number of Episodes: 13
Solo Leveling Season 1 won the 2025 Anime of the Year title.. Fans are already hooked on the series and can't get enough of its fast pace and battles.
Solo Leveling Season 2 aired earlier this year, and it was an even bigger success than before. Solo Leveling Season 2 has the highest rated episodes of the yearAnd many believe it could be the winner again in 2026.
My Hero Academia Season 8
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Main Character: Izuku Midoriya
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Number of Episodes: 13
My Hero Academia Season 8 Currently still airing, and it's safe to say that in terms of quality, this is the best MHA has ever seen. MHA Season 8 will be the series finaleAnd fans are getting ready to part ways with this iconic superhero series.
MHA Season 8 has the highest rated episode of the year Already, and its popularity cannot be reduced at the moment. Considering that this is the end for MHA, fans can vote for it to be the best anime of the next year.
Apothecary Diaries Season 2
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Main Character: Maoma
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Number of episodes: 24
Apothecary Diaries has taken over in Japan, and its popularity is growing worldwide. The Apothecary Diaries was well received with its first seasons in 2023 and 2024, and it's back with an even better season this year.
The series' story and characters, along with the incredible world-building that has captured fans, and how highly rated it is, could win big at the Crunchyroll Awards next year. While Apothecary Diaries Season 1 didn't win the title this year, it could top it in 2026..
The original sin of Takopi
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Main Characters: Takopi and Shizuka
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Number of Episodes: 6
The original sin of Takopi is a very short anime, featuring a total of 6 episodes. However, even with only 6 episodes, this series was enough to break the internet. Its dark themes disguised by its beautiful art style really intrigued many.
The original sin of Takopi is actually placed in a very good place to come out Winner of the Anime of the Year Award for 2026. After all, it is One of the highest rated episodes of the year. Takopi's original sin win will definitely be a change from the usual winners.
