With so many incredibly good anime coming out in 2025, it's no exaggeration to say that competition will be extremely fierce. But no one is complaining. Because this means fans will get to see a high-quality adaptation. All the popular anime released in 2025 were filled with high-quality episodes.
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Fans were enthusiastic about these episodes and did not hesitate to express their admiration through social media. There are so many exceptional episodes that it can be tricky to pick just one, but using a comprehensive website like IMDb makes things less complicated. Here's a breakdown based on IMDb scores: Highest Rated Anime Episodes of 2025.
To keep things simpler, only one episode of the series has been included.
race against time
IMDb rating: 9.5
Gachiakuta was a surprise package for 2025. Before the anime aired, manga readers were mainly interested in adaptations. However, once the anime premiered on Crunchyroll, Kaiju No. 8, Sakamoto Days and Dr. It stole the spotlight from other popular titles like Stone. Some people even called it a sequel to Naruto. Although the claim may be controversial, it is undeniable that Kachiakuta is a great anime.
Episode 21 of Gachiakuta is one of the highest-rated episodes of 2025, and anyone who watched it will agree with this. The episode focuses on Rudo trying to fight the Bundus. Despite being less experienced than his opponent, Ludo outsmarts his opponent and wins.
To you in 2022
IMDb rating: 9.6
Takopi's Original Sin is proof that not all shonen anime needs flashy fights or tons of characters to be interesting. ONA presents a moving story of abuse, sacrifice, and love. Takopi's Original Sin touches on a lot of real-life topics that many viewers struggle with and gives hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
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The highest rated episode of the series is the fifth. In the episode, Shizuka travels to Tokyo to meet her father and reunite with her dog. However, she is shocked to learn that her father has started a new family. To make matters worse, he disapproves of his daughter, which further worsens her mental health. In the fifth episode of Tacopi's Original Sin, Tacopi's true goal is also revealed.
light
IMDb rating: 9.7
Lord of Mysteries is one of the standout performers of 2025. It is based on a web novel written by Squid, who loves diving. Fans had high expectations for the anime adaptation, but somehow it exceeded those expectations. Lord of Mysteries is a fantastic series that will keep viewers glued to the screen. The story is intense and full of mystery, and every episode features beautiful animation.
Naturally, it's nearly impossible to pick just one episode, but judging by the reviews, it seems like fans enjoyed the finale. With a rating of 9.7 on IMDb, it is one of the highest-rated episodes of 2025. This episode highlights the Nighthawks' efforts to defend Tingen.
Are you the king of men?
IMDb rating: 9.7
2025 is always going to be a great year for anime fans. Ultimately, it started with the second season of Solo Leveling. As expected, the new season was filled with exciting fights that showcased Sung Jin-woo's growth as a fighter. Season 2 had so many awesome brawls that it was sure to be highly rated.
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There are many episodes with a rating of over 9, and the episode with the highest score was the 12th. In today's broadcast, Seong Jin-woo arrives in Jeju Island to save hunters from the ant king. Jin-Woo's stance demonstrates surprising power and insults the Ant King.
final boss
IMDb rating: 9.8
2025 was a rather emotional year for My Hero Academia fans. After the manga ended in 2024, fans knew the anime would last a bit longer, but now that too is coming to an end. Like almost all finales, MHA's eighth season is filled with powerful emotional moments. After all, it is the culmination of the heroes' journey.
As a My Hero Academia fan, it's almost impossible to pick just one episode from Season 8, but judging by the viewership ratings, everyone seemed to love the third episode. In the episode, Bakugo once again proves why he is a fan favorite as he saves All Might from the clutches of All for One. This is a moment that captures Bakugo’s growth as a hero and a person.
Kuma's life
IMDb rating: 9.8
There are debates about One Piece every year, most of which are about how good the animation is. The series became popular again thanks to the efforts of Toei Animation staff. In 2025, anime has released a ton of great works, and honestly, an entire list could be filled with them. However, as previously mentioned, it only includes one episode of the series.
For One Piece, it's episode 1137 where fans learn about Kuma's selflessness. Not only did the pirate protect his daughter, he also saved the lives of the Straw Hat Pirates. He continued to fight until the end, and despite the tragedy that befell him, he remained a kind person. Bonney's eyes widened when he finally learned the truth. Honestly, who could blame her?