Anime in 2025 wasn’t just about big sequels and hyped-up franchises but also some low-budget dramas. While most people were busy watching the popular releases, several amazing shows were missed by anime lovers. These anime didn’t rely on massive marketing or familiar names; they stood out because of strong stories, unique ideas, and memorable characters. Here are the Top 10 Best Anime You Missed in 2025 that you can watch.
1. Kowloon Generic Romance
Genre: Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi
This anime caught a lot of people off guard. At first glance, it looks like a slow romance set in the old Kowloon city, but there’s way more going on beneath the surface. The mystery builds slowly, the atmosphere feels nostalgic and eerie, and the emotional payoff hits hard. Easily one of the most unexpectedly good shows of the year.
2. Takopi’s Original Sin
Genre: Psychological, Drama
Don’t let the cute art style fool you. This short series is heavy, emotional, and brutally honest. It tackles themes like trauma, childhood pain, and consequences in a way that sticks with you long after it ends. It’s depressing, but also powerful and unforgettable.
3. Zenshu
Genre: Fantasy, Isekai
Zenshu stood out because it didn’t feel like your usual isekai. Instead of cheap power fantasies, it focused on character growth, world-building, and emotional storytelling. Many fans called it one of the best original anime of the year, especially if you’re tired of generic isekai tropes.
4. Clevatess
Genre: Dark Fantasy
If you like old-school fantasy vibes, Clevatess is a must-watch. The anime has a darker tone, gritty visuals, and a serious story that doesn’t hold your hand. It feels raw, almost like a classic anime film stretched into a series, and that’s exactly why fans loved it.
5. Gachiakuta
Genre: Action, Shounen
Gachiakuta brought a fresh world and a unique art style that instantly made it stand out. The story starts simple but quickly grows into something much deeper. Many viewers felt it was one of the most refreshing shounen anime in years, with strong themes and intense moments.
6. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Genre: Historical, Drama
This anime surprised a lot of people with how serious and thoughtful it was. It focuses on ideas, beliefs, and the cost of knowledge rather than flashy action. If you enjoy slow-burning stories that make you think, Orb was one of the strongest and most mature anime of 2025.
7. Apocalypse Hotel
Genre: Sci-Fi, Comedy
A weird concept done right. Apocalypse Hotel mixes sci-fi with dark comedy and somehow makes it work beautifully. It’s funny, strange, and surprisingly emotional at times. Many fans didn’t expect much from it and ended up loving every episode.
8. City the Animation
Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy
This one flew under the radar, but those who watched it couldn’t stop praising it. City the Animation is chaotic, charming, and full of personality. It’s the kind of anime that doesn’t rely on a big plot; it just makes you smile with its humour and energy.
9. Medalist
Genre: Sports, Drama
Even if you’re not into sports anime, Medalist is worth watching. It focuses more on passion, struggle, and emotional growth than just winning. The characters feel real, and the journey is inspiring without being over-the-top.
10. To Be Hero X
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
This series divided opinions, but many fans couldn’t stop watching it weekly. It’s bold, unpredictable, and not afraid to take risks. While it has flaws, it also has some genuinely standout moments that made it one of the most talked-about new shows of the year.
