Devil King Arian 
As the icy winds of winter roll in, anime fans have something to warm their hearts: a phenomenal lineup of anime series premiering in Winter 2025. From magical battles and historical drama to lighthearted romances and intense action, this season promises a treasure trove of stories to suit every taste. Whether you’re drawn to the clash of swords in a Holy Grail War or the quiet charm of a blossoming love story, Winter 2025 has it all.
The Anime Society has handpicked Five must-watch series from this incredible lineup. With sequels to fan-favorite hits and brand-new adaptations, these animes are sure to captivate both newcomers and seasoned fans. Without further ado, here are our top five anime recommendations for Winter 2025!
5. My Happy Marriage Season 2
Premiering: January 6, 2025
Genres: Adult Cast, Historical, Drama, Romance, Fantasy
Streaming: Exclusively on Netflix
The heartwarming yet intense journey of Miyo Saimori and Kiyoka Kudou continues in My Happy Marriage Season 2. Before diving into the next chapter, letβs revisit the events that set the stage for this captivating story.
Miyo Saimori’s life was filled with sorrow. Born from an arranged marriage, she was discarded by her family after her mother’s untimely death. Her father remarried, showering his affection on Miyo’s younger half-sister, Kaya, while reducing Miyo to a servant in her own home. Stripped of hope and strength, Miyo endured relentless abuse, resigned to her miserable fate.
Her life took an unexpected turn when her father announced her marriage to Kiyoka Kudou, the head of the esteemed Kudou family. Known for his cold and unapproachable demeanor, Kiyoka had rejected every fiancΓ©e before Miyo. She braced herself for rejection and harsh treatment but instead discovered the unexpectedβkindness and genuine affection. For the first time, Miyo found a chance to break free from her abusive past and embrace a life of love and happiness.
In Season 2, the story deepens, exploring the evolving relationship between Miyo and Kiyoka while introducing new challenges that test their bond. With its blend of drama, romance, and fantasy, this anime remains a must-watch for fans of heartfelt storytelling.
4. Sakamoto Days
Premiering: January 11, 2025
Genres: Action, Adult Cast, Comedy, Shounen, Organized Crime
Streaming: Exclusively on Netflix
Sakamoto Days brings an exhilarating mix of action and comedy, following the journey of Tarou Sakamoto, the most feared hitman of his time.
Sakamoto once ruled the underground world with unparalleled skill, feared by enemies and allies alike. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he fell in love and decided to retire, choosing a peaceful existence as a convenience store clerk. But leaving behind a life of crime isn’t easy. Former rivals and partners refuse to believe in his retirement and continually show up to challenge him, threatening his peaceful life.
Bound by his promise never to kill again, Sakamoto uses creative, non-lethal methods to subdue his foes and protect his family, his store, and his small town. With its unique premise and blend of humor and action, Sakamoto Days offers an exciting ride that balances heartfelt moments with adrenaline-pumping sequences.
3. The Apothecary Diaries Season 2
Premiering: January 10, 2025
Genres: Drama, Historical, Medical, Mystery, Seinen
Streaming: Crunchyroll and Netflix
The intrigue of the imperial court continues in The Apothecary Diaries Season 2. This captivating series follows Maomao, an apothecary’s daughter whose medical expertise proves both a blessing and a curse.
Maomao’s life took a sharp turn when she was sold into the imperial court as a lowly maid. Determined to avoid unwanted attention, she kept her vast knowledge of medicine a secret. But her sharp mind couldn’t remain hidden for long. When the emperor’s infant children began suffering from mysterious ailments, Maomao solved the mystery and discreetly offered a solution. Unfortunately for her, Jinshi, a perceptive eunuch, uncovered her role and brought her talents into the spotlight.
Recognizing her brilliance, Maomao was promoted to serve Gyokuyou, the emperor’s favorite concubine. Her skills soon became indispensable, as she tackled not only medical challenges but also the dangerous politics of the palace. Season 2 delves deeper into Maomao’s world, where new conspiracies, a foreign envoy with impossible demands, and threats to Jinshiβs life take center stage.
With its intricate plot and rich historical setting, The Apothecary Diaries is a must-watch for fans of mystery and drama.
2. Dr. STONE: Science Future
Premiering: January 9, 2025
Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi, Shounen
Streaming: Netflix, Crunchyroll
The world of Dr. STONE is set to expand further with Science Future, where science and innovation take center stage. The story begins thousands of years after a mysterious event petrifies humanity, leaving civilization in ruins. Senku Ishigami, an extraordinarily intelligent and science-driven boy, awakens to this stone world and resolves to rebuild civilization using the power of science.
Starting with Taiju Oki, his super-strong childhood friend who awakens at the same time, Senku embarks on a journey to recreate humanity’s achievements from scratch. Together, they tackle the challenges of rebuilding society, paving the way for a crafting adventure that spans two million years of scientific historyβfrom the Stone Age to the modern era.
In one of the pivotal arcs, astronaut Byakuya left behind invaluable resources, anticipating that his son Senku would one day use them. Senku’s team, including Kohaku and Ginrou, infiltrates the Petrification Kingdomβs leader’s harem with the help of a local girl, Amaryllis. While their mission begins smoothly, an error exposes Kohaku and Ginrou to Minister Ibara and the Islandβs strongest warrior, Moz.
The situation grows dire as Moz, harboring his own agenda, discovers Senku’s secret hideout. He plans to overthrow Ibara and claim the petrification device for himself. However, Senku sees an opportunity to turn Moz into an ally and end the war decisively. Following the battle on Treasure Island, Senku and the Kingdom of Science set their sights on the Moon, but first, they must travel to the Americas to gather the necessary resources. With teamwork and scientific ingenuity, the group continues their fight to save humanity.
Honorable Mentions
A. Honey Lemon Soda
Premiering: January 8, 2025
Genres: Romance, School, Shoujo
Streaming: Bilibili, Crunchyroll, Aniplus Asia
In middle school, Uka Ishimori was burdened with the nickname βStone,β a reflection of her quiet and withdrawn nature. Determined to change her life, Uka enrolls in Hachimitsu High School, known for its vibrant and free-spirited culture.
In her new class, she sits next to Kai Miura, a carefree and charismatic boy with lemon-colored hair. Unknown to others, Uka had encountered Kai once before during middle school. A single word from him had left a lasting impression, inspiring her decision to join Hachimitsu High. To Uka, Kai feels like a distant figure, admired by everyone but seemingly out of reach.
However, Kai begins to look after Uka, encouraging her to come out of her shell and integrate with her classmates. With his gentle support, Uka gradually transforms and starts to see herself in a new light. As Kaiβs presence continues to influence her, Ukaβs world brightens, and she finds herself at the center of an endlessly expanding light.
B. Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise from the Shadow
Premiering: January 4, 2025
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Streaming: Crunchyroll, iQIYI, Netflix
In the world of Solo Leveling, humanity faces a relentless struggle against the magical beasts that emerge from mysterious gates connecting to other dimensions. Over the past decade, hunters have awakened special abilities to combat these creatures, but their ranks remain fixedβexcept for one anomaly.
Sung Jinwoo, once known as “The Weakest Hunter of All Mankind,” defied the odds when he acquired the unique ability to level up through battles. During a dangerous raid on a double dungeon, Jinwoo completed a job-change quest that granted him the title of “Shadow Monarch” and command over an army of shadows.
In this season, Jinwoo embarks on a mission to locate the ingredients for the Elixir of Life, determined to save his ailing mother. As he battles increasingly powerful foes, Jinwooβs journey promises even greater stakes, stunning visuals, and breathtaking combat sequences
And now, finally, the No. 1 anime youβve all been eagerly waiting for.
1. Fate/strange Fake
Premiering: December 31, 2024
Genres: Action, Fantasy, Magic, Supernatural
Streaming: Crunchyroll
In the world of the Holy Grail Wars, Mages (Masters) and their Heroic Spirits (Servants) engage in an epic battle for the Holy Grailβan all-powerful artifact capable of granting any wish. The stakes are unimaginable. Once again, the stage is set for another conflict, but this time, everything is different.
Years have passed since the conclusion of the Fifth Holy Grail War in Japan, and now, signs point to the emergence of a new Holy Grail in the western American city of Snowfield. As the Grailβs presence grows undeniable, Masters and Servants begin to converge on this mysterious location, drawn by its power.
However, this new war is far from ordinary. A missing Servant class, impossible summoning feats, and an entire nation cloaked in secrecy all point to something deeply wrong. The city itself has been transformed into a battlefield, and in the midst of it all, the Holy Grail War twists and spirals into madness.
The very foundation of the Holy Grail War is questioned as irregularities arise, leading to a dark and unpredictable clash of ideals, power, and destiny. As Masters and Servants fight for control of the Grail, they will soon realize that the Grail they are after may not be the one they expected. Betrayal, deception, and intense battles will set the stage for a war unlike any before it. What is true, and who can be trusted, when even the war itself is a lie?
Prepare to witness the rise of a false Holy Grail, where the line between friend and foe becomes blurred, and the truth is more elusive than ever. As the curtain rises on this twisted drama, humans and heroes alike will dance to the chaotic tune of their fate, each struggling for control in a war driven by madness. Can anyone truly claim victory when the very rules of the game are designed to deceive?
These are our Top 5 animes, with Honorable Mentions, that will dominate the winter season! Donβt miss out on these electrifying stories, packed with heart-pounding action, mysterious plots, and unforgettable characters. Whether youβre looking for the intense battles of Fate/strange Fake, the thrilling adventures of Dr. Stone, or the emotional rollercoaster of Honey Lemon Soda, this winter is set to deliver a wave of anime that youβll be talking about for months. Get ready for a season that promises to leave you on the edge of your seat, as the world of anime once again captivates your imagination!
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