It’s that time of year again – no, not Kentucky Fried Chicken or strawberry shortcake, but the LiA Top 10 list. 2025 was another anime year that looked quite a bit different in retrospect than in did as I was covering it. As always there are some tough decisions to be made, both for this list and the #11-20 one to follow. And while there are some definite tiers, it’s (spoiler) not one of those years where the order at the top of the list is clear cut.
A reminder – once more I’ll be revealing the #1 series via an “Anime of the Year” video on the LiA YouTube channel (a video which I will of course link here).
A Refresher on Eligibility:
I’m going by the same eligibility standard I used for the 2012-2024 lists – that is, shows that finished airing during the year or split-cours that finished in 2025 are eligible. Split-cour series which finish in 2026 are not eligible for this list, but series that ended this year and weren’t officially confirmed as split cour when they did are eligible. Shows that aired for the entire year (there weren’t any in consideration for me this year) are also eligible.
This means that in effect, the only shows not eligible for this list are the multi-cour series that began airing from Spring 2025 onwards and are still airing into Winter 2026, or true split cours that will finish in 2026.
As you know I always like to do a little contest, so here we go… The winner will be anyone that guesses my Top 10, in order. If no one does that, I’ll go with the closest guess. Guesses made by 2200 JST 12/22/25 will be eligible. Here’s the prize: same as last year, I’ll do a “Top 5” list or haiku on any anime theme or topic you choose. Dealer’s choice – you make the call. Please post your guesses in the comments below!
As LiA regulars know I like to start these lists off with an “Honorable Mention”, so without further ado…
Honorable Mention – Leviathan
Yes, it’s another Netflix series in the Honorable Mention slot. That’s not a conscious decision on my part, but Netflix shows do seem to fit my mental image of what this category is. They’re (the batch released ones) rarely part of my blogging calendar, but I often enjoy them very much. Plus, they tend to fly under the radar for hard-core anime fans so it’s always nice to call attention to them.
As for Leviathan specifically, I did a series review post on it but to sum it up, it’s just really damn good. A textbook example of YA fiction at its most charming. It’s full CGI but Orange is the studio, which means it’s going to be about as good as CGI gets. It also features an OP and ED by the great Joe Hisaishi. Leviathan is actually based on a trilogy of books by Scott Westerfield, of which Leviathan is only the first, and because it adapts all three in 12 episodes it leaves out some fantastic material from the novels (which the anime inspired me to read). Nevertheless, it’s wholly engaging from start to finish.
This series is a sort of alternative take on the events leading up to World War I, with a cast comprised of a mix of real historical figures and Westerfield originals. Westerfield is American of course but Leviathan has a clear anime (especially Ghibli) influence. The aesthetic is steampunk, basically, but spun in an inventive and original way. It also features an absolutely adorable protagonist pair in Alek and Deryn. By all means read the books for the full experience, but the anime is an excellent production and a very winning take on the story.
