Underrated anime often receives overlooked recognition despite exceptional storytelling, animation, or emotional depth. This list highlights ten series from 2025 that deserve far more attention than they’ve received, offering unique experiences beyond the mainstream hits like Solo Leveling and Frieren.
1. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Despite being overlooked at major award ceremonies, Orb stands out as one of the year’s most refined narratives. This 25-episode series prioritizes character development and internal struggles over flashy action sequences, creating a thoughtful meditation on existential questions and personal transformation. The opening theme “Kaijū” won the Best Song award at the 2024 Anime Grand Prix, yet the anime itself failed to gain nomination recognition from major streaming platforms. The series demonstrates that profound storytelling doesn’t require constant battle sequences—instead, it builds resonance through intimate character moments and philosophical inquiry.
2. Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance
The second season of the Rurouni Kenshin remake, which aired from October 2024 through March 2025, adapted the legendary Kyoto arc with meticulous care. While fans anticipated announcements of a third season, many casual viewers missed this arc entirely, overshadowed by flashier releases. The remake’s ability to reimagine a beloved classic while maintaining narrative integrity showcases how lesser-known sequels can rival their hyped counterparts in quality.
3. Anne Shirley
This April 2025 anime adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel Anne of Green Gables charms with its hand-drawn animation and authentic recreation of the source material’s emotional warmth. Produced by The Answer Studio and airing on NHK Educational TV, Anne Shirley offers 24 episodes of coming-of-age storytelling that feels timeless and genuinely heartwarming, yet remained underrecognized as a gem in Spring 2025’s crowded season. The series’ 8.0 IMDb rating confirms its quality, while personal reviews emphasize the emotional connection audiences form with Anne’s character.
4. I Have a Crush at Work
Despite going viral on social media with over 3.5 million views of a single scene, I Have a Crush at Work remained unavailable on major streaming platforms in many regions, causing many fans to miss it entirely. This anime uniquely portrays adult workplace romance between established couples, moving beyond typical romantic comedy tropes by showing protagonists already in a relationship navigating the complexities of office dynamics. Its mature approach to romance—depicting realistic adult relationships—sets it apart from conventional romance anime.
5. Gachiakuta
Produced by Studio Bones and directed by Fumihiko Suganuma, Gachiakuta premiered on July 6, 2025, yet failed to achieve mainstream recognition despite exceptional world-building and aesthetic. This dark fantasy shōnen series follows Rudo, falsely accused and exiled to the Abyss, blending survival elements with critiques of social inequality. The series’ mature themes and visually striking portrayal of class struggle differentiate it from conventional shōnen fare, earning an 8.1 IMDb rating despite limited visibility.
6. My Melody & Kuromi
Netflix’s stop-motion adaptation of Sanrio’s beloved characters premiered July 24, 2025, yet this charming series received minimal mainstream attention. Directed by Tomoki Misato and featuring a soundtrack with music by LE SSERAFIM, My Melody & Kuromi blends whimsy with genuine stakes, offering 12 episodes of delightful animation that appeals to both children and adults. The series’ unique art style and unexpected narrative depth regarding magical world-building make it a standout gem.
7. Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You
This shōjo romance premiered January 9, 2025, and concluded with a second season announcement, yet remained quietly beloved by dedicated fans. The series captures the bittersweet uncertainty of young love among childhood friends with slow-burn pacing that rewards patient viewers. Animated by Typhoon Graphics and featuring genuine chemistry between leads, the series handles classic romance tropes with authenticity reminiscent of older romance anime.
8. Elusive Samurai: Season 2
Confirmation of The Elusive Samurai‘s second season came with promises of continued excellence from CloverWorks. The first season (Summer 2024) delivered some of the year’s most spectacular action sequences, yet many newer anime fans missed this period piece entirely. Set in feudal Japan with genuine historical atmosphere coupled with creative supernatural elements, the series deserves recognition as a masterclass in balancing historical authenticity with compelling adventure.
9. Lord of Mysteries
This Chinese web novel adaptation by B.CMAY Pictures premiered in June 2025, bringing alternative Victorian-era fantasy with intricate magic systems to anime audiences. The 13-episode series received praise for exceptional animation quality, using approximately 30,000 frames per episode, yet mainstream anime audiences overlooked this complex, mature fantasy narrative. With approximately 8,400 frames per episode, detailed world-building, and themes exploring identity within supernatural hierarchies, Lord of Mysteries rewards attentive viewers seeking intellectual challenges.
10. Sakamoto Days
While Sakamoto Days garnered more attention than true underrated entries, it still experienced unfair criticism before premiere due to initial trailer reception. The Netflix adaptation of Yuto Suzuki’s action-comedy manga defied skeptics, with its first episode proving the series deserved respect as a serious contender for anime of the year. Despite early backlash, the series’ expert balance of masterfully choreographed combat with lighthearted humor creates a unique experience that distinguishes it from typical shōnen action.
Why These Series Matter
These ten series represent diverse genres—from character-driven drama to dark fantasy to mature romance—demonstrating that 2025’s best content extends far beyond trending titles. The reasons for their underrated status vary: streaming availability restrictions, lack of marketing visibility, overshadowing by blockbuster releases, or simply existing outside algorithm-driven trending cycles. Each series offers something genuinely special, whether innovative storytelling approaches, visual artistry, or emotional authenticity.
For viewers exhausted by repeatedly hearing about the same handful of titles, these underrated series provide refreshing alternatives. The anime industry benefits when dedicated viewers seek out quality work beyond mainstream discourse, supporting diverse creators and encouraging continued artistic risks. Discovering these hidden gems enriches the anime-watching experience far more than consuming only what algorithms suggest.