5 Fall 2025 anime that have stunned their fans (& 5 that need to step up their game)

Fall 2025 Anime
Fall 2025 Anime (Image Credits: Studio Bones, Studio Drive and MASSKET, CloverWorks, MAPPA, J.C.Staff, CyGames Pictures, Studio Deen, Madhouse)

Fall 2025 has already proven to be a season of contrasts; some anime have stunned fans with their storytelling and visuals, while others have struggled to meet expectations. What has been noted is a drastic difference in the results; a few shows have truly left viewers in awe of the quality work, storyline, and use of production budget, while some highly anticipated series have fallen flat, making it time for change. This list breaks down five standout successes and five titles that need to step up their game, using only those that have premiered or will premiere by Fall 2025.


Fall 2025 anime: The standout successes


1. My Hero Academia: Final Season

Deku (Image Credits: Studio Bones)
Deku (Image Credits: Studio Bones)

The eighth season of this legendary show was released in October 2025 and immediately proved its power. Episode 162, titled The Final Boss!!, is said to have a record-breaking IMDb rating of 9.8. This is even higher than other highly rated series such as Solo Leveling, which reached a peak rating of 9.7. Critics note that the animation by Studio Bones is consistent, with high emotions and precise timing. For followers of the series, this season has brought the closure and showcasing many had hoped to see.


2. Spy × Family Season 3

Yor, Anya, Loid, and Bond (Image Credits: CloverWorks)
Yor, Anya, Loid, and Bond (Image Credits: CloverWorks)

The third season of the popular spy-comedy hybrid, released in Fall 2025, rapidly took over the number one spot on the anticipated list (nearly 40 percent of the vote share among fans). It still maintains its comedy-meets-heart appeal, and the initial episode ratings placed it at the top in community rankings. It has received critical acclaim for its production value, character development, and comic timing, making it one of the surest bets of the season.


3. To Your Eternity Season 3

Fushi and Joaan (Image Credits: Studio Drive and MASSKET)
Fushi and Joaan (Image Credits: Studio Drive and MASSKET)

To Your Eternity Season 3 resumed after a hiatus and aired in Fall 2025, adapting the source material by Yoshitoki Oima. Initial reviews have shown that the series has regained its poignant nature, improved animation, and stronger emphasis on plot. For viewers who seek drama, philosophy, and character transformation, this is one of the best titles Fall 2025 has to offer.


4. Ranma ½ (2024) Season 2

Akane and Ranma (Image Credits: MAPPA)
Akane and Ranma (Image Credits: MAPPA)

It was a continuation of a remake, but this second season, released in Fall 2025, gave the franchise a new surge of popularity. Under the skilled direction of MAPPA and with its classic yet revitalized storytelling, it has left fans pleasantly surprised with a repeat of strong performance. The reimagined quality, new animation, and the preservation of the original’s charm with a modern tone have helped it exceed expectations.


5. A Wild Last Boss Appeared!

Lufas Maphaal (Image Credits: WOWMAX)
Lufas Maphaal (Image Credits: WOWMAX)

This original Fall 2025 anime was released on September 27 through Crunchyroll and became an immediate sleeper hit. Its initial concept featured a high-level villain reintroduced to a game world transformed into fantasy. The premise was handled with smarter writing than anticipated and impressed audiences with its strong characterization and polished production.


After mentioning the Fall 2025 anime that have really impressed us, it’s time to focus on the other side of the coin. This next list looks at five titles from the same season that were launched with high anticipation but have so far failed to reach the heights of their franchises or original marketing. These aren’t necessarily bad series, but they must raise their standards, whether in production or storytelling, to achieve their full potential and satisfy their fan bases.


Fall 2025 Anime: the underperformers (that need to step up their game)

1. My Hero Academia: Final Season

Saitama (Image Credits: J.C.Staff)
Saitama (Image Credits: J.C.Staff)

Since the franchise had not been renewed in six years, expectations were colossal. The premiere, however, has an unfortunate IMDb rating of 6.4/10 and a MyAnimeList rating of approximately 6.9, which is not ideal for Fall 2025. Critics noted animation cuts, frozen frames, what they termed a “manga slideshow,” and weak action scenes. As the series was once praised for its stunning animation, this decline indicates it needs serious improvement.


2. Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill Season 2

Fenrir and Mukouda (Image Credits: MAPPA)
Fenrir and Mukouda (Image Credits: MAPPA)

The original show received modest praise, but its contribution to Fall 2025 has not generated the same excitement as the first season. It was ranked 16th on the most-anticipated list by community rankings, but early episodes have not featured any standout moments. Critics and audiences alike observe that the tempo and freshness are less engaging, so it should intensify its creative efforts to stay competitive.


3. Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Part 2

Oguri (Image Credits: Cygames Pictures)
Oguri (Image Credits: Cygames Pictures)

The follow-up to the successful horse-girl series was released with low hype in Fall 2025. Initial opinions placed it at the bottom of the list at 15th, and fans are saying the storyline returns are dwindling. The fact that there is no new twist or dramatic tension in the current season of a franchise that has been founded on charisma and vitality indicates that it needs to raise the stakes.


4. Wandance The Animation

Kabokju and Hikari (Image Credits: Madhouse)
Kabokju and Hikari (Image Credits: Madhouse)

This dance/sports anime series was reported to be on the list in Fall 2025, although it was ranked only 20th in the early most-anticipated list. Its idea is promising. However, early feedback notes that there is no consistent direction or character growth, which means that it needs to raise its game to appeal beyond concept.


5. The Dark History of the Reincarnated Villainess

Konoha (Image Credits: Studio Deen)
Konoha (Image Credits: Studio Deen)

The Dark History of the Reincarnated Villainess is a light novel adaptation in the Fall 2025 line, which debuted with moderate anticipation, but the initial episodes lacked strong interest. Having the 24th place in anticipation and no memorable hooks, this series should improve its performance in the aspects of adaptation quality, character development, and pacing.


To summarize, the Fall 2025 anime season presents a striking contrast. Titles such as My Hero Academia: Final Season, Spy x Family Season 3, and To Your Eternity Season 3 have amazed viewers with their polished performances and high standards. Meanwhile, shows like One-Punch Man Season 3, Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill Season 2, and Wandance have struggled with imperfections that need to be fixed immediately. To the audience following the season, the message is obvious. Follow where the action is happening, and also where chances remain unexploited, and watch as every series unfolds in the coming weeks.

Edited by Ritika Pal