We are already in the middle of 2025 and, as always, the fans of the Anime In Japan they have not wasted time to share their opinions about the best of the year so far. Thanks to Filmarks; The largest Japanese anime, film and series reviews, we already have a clear list of the series most loved by Japanese viewers in these first six months. Some surprises, several expected returns and, of course, one or another gem that you may not have seen yet.
The first place is occupied Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc, the long-awaited return of the iconic demonic butler in a new adaptation by Cloverworks. With an average of 4.46 stars and almost a thousand reviews, the Japanese have it clear: this dark fantasy shonen is living its best moment.
Here is the full ranking published by Pr Times with the top 10 animes of the first half of 2025, according to Filmarks:
1. Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc
4.46 stars / 948 reviews
The return of the anime Black Butler He did not disappoint. with renewed animation, a darker arc and a Sebastian More enigmatic than ever, this new installment is pure Fanservice well done. Cloverworks did it again.
2. Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray
4.38 stars / 1,024 reviews
Yes, the anime of the waifu horses. This adaptation of the most serious spin-off of Uma Musume It has surprised even those who were not fans of the original concept. Emotional, competitive and deeper than it seems, without a doubt a pleasant surprise.
3. Lycoris Recoil: Friends are Thieves of Time
4.33 stars / 1755 reviews
the girls of Lycoris Recoil They returned with more action, more feeling and a story that explores the passage of time and friendship. This sequel not only maintains the level, it surpasses it.
4. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (Anime)
4.32 stars / 1472 reviews
A pleasant surprise. This original anime Spider-Man Made in Japan, it has been a phenomenon due to its unique visual style and a narrative that moves away from the traditional without losing the soul of the character.
5. The Apothecary Diaries Season 2
4.27 stars / 6623 reviews
Although she is no longer the queen of the ranking, Kusuriya no Hitorigoto Still a strong favorite. Maomao He continues to solve palace mysteries with that mixture of intelligence and charisma that made her so loved in the first season.
6. Anime: medalist
4.26 stars / 7269 reviews
This sports anime on figure skating has moved thousands with its realistic approach, its vulnerable characters and a direction that shines both in the quiet moments and on the ice rink.
7. Shoshimin: How To Become Ordinary Season 2
4.24 stars / 1590 reviews
The story of these two students who only want a common life (but always end up in trouble) returns with an even more thoughtful and humane season. Highly recommended, if you like the Slice of Life with mystery.
8. Anime: Apocalypse Hotel
4.21 stars / 1,568 reviews
One of the weirdest and most addictive bets of the year. It mixes psychological horror, existential drama and a premise that seems to come out of a feverish dream. This anime is not for everyone, but those who connect with her love her.
9. Fire Force Season 3
4.21 stars / 1074 reviews
Fire Force It’s heating up engines (literally). This third season feels more ambitious, darker and more focused on the final fate of its protagonists. The hype is increasing.
10. Re:Zero Season 3
4.20 stars / 3190 reviews
Subaru And company are back with more emotional turns, more suffering and more world building. The wait was worth it for fans of one of the most intense Isekai of all.
In short, 2025 is being a fairly balanced year between expected sequels, nostalgic returns and new proposals that are not afraid to risk. If you still don’t catch up with some of these titles, this ranking is the perfect excuse to make you comfortable and marathon the best of Japanese anime, according to the Japanese themselves.
