The summer anime season of 2025 is currently underway, with viewers eagerly diving into the latest premiere episodes. As we reflect on the anime offerings from the spring season, we reached out to the Anime Corner News team to gather their insights on their favorite releases from the past few months. It’s important to note that this list reflects the personal opinions of our writers and does not represent definitive conclusions. The selections are presented without any particular ranking, so let’s explore the anime that captivated us during the Spring 2025 season!
Wind Breaker Season 2: A Riveting Journey
Choosing a favorite was no easy feat, especially with strong contenders like To Be Hero X, Apocalypse Hotel, and Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty. However, Wind Breaker Season 2 ultimately stole my heart. The storyline and character arcs kept me on the edge of my seat each week, outshining all others in terms of engagement. The animation quality remained stellar, just as it was in the first season, but it was the character development of Sakura that truly stood out. Her growth was arguably the most compelling among the main characters featured in last season’s lineup. Adding to the excitement was the introduction of Tsubaki, a fantastic new character who enriched the narrative even further.
Shoshimin: A Masterclass in Storytelling
Shoshimin emerged as a surprising favorite. While I acknowledge that Osanai’s character had a significant influence on my affection for the series, the brilliance of Shoshimin goes beyond individual characters. This anime stands out as one of the strongest examples of storytelling this season. Its animation and soundtrack work harmoniously to create an immersive atmosphere, transforming what might initially appear as a straightforward mystery into a layered experience. The subtle intricacies woven into the narrative truly shine. If you pay attention to the details, the eventual revelations become incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the series maintains a cinematic aspect ratio, reinforcing the notion that even the ordinary can be rendered extraordinary when done right.
Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty: Breaking Boundaries
Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty tells the story of two students from Oushin Girls’ Academy, an elite institution for upper-class young women, who stumble upon their mutual passion for rock music. The narrative follows their journey as they discover their shared love for playing together, recruit two additional members, and form a band. This series not only explores their musical aspirations but also delves into the characters’ internal struggles as they gradually shed the societal facades they’ve built. The combination of character depth, humor, and stunning animation—especially during concert scenes—makes Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty a delightful watch and my personal pick for the season.
Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey: A Cozy Escape
From the very first moments of Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey, I knew it was destined to be a personal favorite. Centered on a struggling artist who embarks on spontaneous train journeys across Japan, the show encapsulates the essence of the iyashikei genre. The representation of various locations, particularly the character Chika’s visit to Matsushima in Miyagi—a place close to my heart—was particularly captivating. The anime excels at showcasing the beauty of each destination while also incorporating brief historical lessons into the narrative. If you’re searching for a soothing travel-themed anime, Zatsu Tabi should be your next pick, especially if you enjoy serene, nature-oriented shows like Laid-Back Camp and Non Non Biyori. While I’ll miss this series, I’m grateful that the manga offers additional content to explore.
Makina-san: A Love Bot?: A Comforting Experience
Life can change dramatically with seemingly trivial decisions. A few years ago, I found myself on a path that risked not just my own well-being but also that of others. On a whim, I decided to check out D-Frag!, Kiss x Sis, and Heaven’s Lost Property. This seemingly small choice transformed my life for the better, instilling in me a lasting affection for ecchi anime, particularly those as delightfully absurd as Makina-san: A Love Bot?!. Although this series is brief, it brought me joy each week. No matter how challenging my day was, it always managed to lift my spirits. The blend of humor and erotic themes made it an easy standout for me this season.
Umamusume: Cinderella Gray: A Tale of Dreams
The Umamusume franchise continues to evolve, and Cinderella Gray is a prime example of this growth, focusing on Oguri Cap as the lead character. The narrative chronicles her journey from humble beginnings to competing in prestigious Japanese races. Despite my initial hesitations towards gacha-based anime, the storytelling in Umamusume captivated me. Cinderella Gray inspires viewers to pursue their dreams, offering a unique narrative approach that diverges from established franchise traditions. The emotional depth, particularly in scenes where Oguri reflects on her mother’s support during her knee troubles, resonates powerfully. The combination of mature themes and well-paced storytelling makes this series a remarkable addition to the lineup.
Apocalypse Hotel: A Unique Post-Apocalyptic Tale
In the same season, Cinderella Gray wasn’t the only standout from Cygames Pictures. Apocalypse Hotel, as the title implies, is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a hotel awaits the return of humanity. This anime combines a diverse range of humor, heartwarming moments, and thought-provoking themes, all wrapped in vibrant visuals and a captivating soundtrack. It’s unfortunate that some viewers may have overlooked it due to its unconventional art style and title. However, I wholeheartedly encourage anyone seeking fresh anime content to give it a chance. With just 12 episodes, it’s a compact yet impactful viewing experience.
As we wrap up our reflections on the Spring 2025 anime season, we eagerly anticipate sharing our thoughts on the upcoming summer lineup. Be sure to participate in our weekly polls to cast your vote for your favorite anime from the current season and check our seasonal reviews for upcoming anime insights. Anime Corner appreciates your continued support!
