Anime has a long history, and while it’s only recently become widely popular, dedicated fans have enjoyed it for many years. Over the decades, countless anime series have been created, and while not all of them are hits, a select few have truly impressed viewers and become standouts.
This is particularly noticeable with anime from the last ten years. As anime has become more popular, some shows have become much bigger hits than anyone predicted. However, it’s also important to remember that some anime have disappointed fans, and those fans are quick to share their opinions.
7) Dandadan
Anime series aimed at young boys, often published in magazines like Weekly Shonen Jump or on the Shonen Jump+ app, usually generate a lot of excitement and come with high hopes for their animated adaptations. Because the Dandadan manga was so popular, the anime version quickly became one of the most eagerly awaited shows of the last year.
When the anime finally came out, it blew fans away. The studio, Science Saru, didn’t just adapt the original story – they improved upon it in surprising and fantastic ways. With attention to even the smallest details and consistently amazing animation, Dandadan has become a standout anime for a new generation.
6) Dragon Ball Daima
The new anime series, Dragon Ball Daima, was highly anticipated as the latest addition to the long-running Dragon Ball franchise. It’s a welcome return after more than six years since Dragon Ball Super finished airing. The story focuses on a unique premise – every character is turned into a child – which initially gave the impression that Daima would be a lighthearted, nostalgic experience.
Throughout the series, Daima consistently impressed fans by offering fresh and improved takes on established storylines. A particular highlight was Vegeta achieving the Super Saiyan 3 transformation – something fans had long wished for, but never expected to see – and Daima delivered it in a way that exceeded all expectations.
5) Vinland Saga Season 2
The first season of Vinland Saga was a hit, praised for its exciting action, compelling story, and beautiful animation. Naturally, viewers were eager for a second season. After a four-year wait, it finally arrived, now animated by the well-respected studio MAPPA, leading to high expectations.
The anime initially surprised viewers by starting with a slower, more thoughtful story focused on Thorfinn’s life as a slave. This shift moved away from the fast-paced action many expected, and instead showcased the story’s emotional depth and how easily viewers could connect with it. Ultimately, Thorfinn’s path to redemption in the second season exceeded fans’ expectations for the series.
4) Solo Leveling
No one predicted the anime adaptation of the popular manhwa would become such a massive hit. The first season quickly gained a dedicated fanbase, and its success was confirmed when it won Anime of the Year at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards.
The show exceeded expectations from the start, but its second season reached even greater heights, breaking numerous records. It became the top-rated anime on Crunchyroll, surpassing popular series like Demon Slayer and One Piece. Solo Leveling‘s incredible success is a rare event, and its growing popularity is truly exceptional.
3) Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle
Similar to Solo Leveling, Demon Slayer consistently surpasses expectations and has become incredibly popular. Since its first season, the series has broken numerous records, and each new installment features even more stunning animation. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle marks the start of the story’s final arc.
Even though Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle might have been better as a complete anime season, the movie was a huge success, breaking records and becoming the highest-grossing anime film and Japanese movie ever. It once again proved that the series can deliver beyond what fans expect.
2) My Hero Academia Final Season
The final season of My Hero Academia has been highly anticipated by anime fans for years, as it brings Deku’s story, which started nearly a decade ago, to a close. So far, the episodes have been excellent, and many viewers are calling it the best shonen anime of recent times.
With only two episodes left in the final season of My Hero Academia, the show is finishing strong. All eight episodes released so far have earned ratings above 9 on IMDb – an unprecedented accomplishment for any anime. The series is exceeding fan expectations, truly living up to its motto of “Go Beyond, Plus Ultra!”
1) One-Punch Man Season 3
Many fans consider One-Punch Man Season 3 to be the most anticipated anime of the year, having waited over six years for its release. After the disappointing second season, viewers just hoped the third season wouldn’t be any worse. Unfortunately, it fell even short of those low expectations, demonstrating that an anime’s quality can actually decline further.
Season 3 of One-Punch Man was a major disappointment. The sixth episode received exceptionally poor ratings, becoming the lowest-rated anime episode ever on IMDb. While the new season did grab attention, it fell far short of fans’ hopes.
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2025-12-03 18:17