7 Anime that could win Anime of the Year 2026

2025 has been an absolutely incredible year for anime, with fans getting to enjoy a plethora of high-quality series on a consistent basis. Some of the most incredible anime series either made a comeback, like Solo Leveling and The Apothecary Diaries, or just kick-started, like Lord of the Mysteries. Naturally, all eyes will be on Crunchyroll Awards for 2026and just as the 2025 awards were heated, 2026 will be even more intense. There are quite a few series that could be worth calling Anime of the yearbut these series in particular stand out and have the greatest chance of winning.

Sakamoto Days Season 1

• Protagonist: Sakamoto

• Number of episodes: 22

Sakamoto days Season 1 disappointed many. Many believe that the anime adaptation of Sakamoto Day was a disappointment, as the quality of animation and direction was simply not up to the mark, and certainly not what the series deserved.

Yet, even with its subordinate adaptation, Sakamoto Day's story has many fans investedand that alone could see it win Crunchyroll's 2026 Awards. It's definitely at a disadvantage compared to the other series on this list.

Lord of the Mysteries season 1

• Main character: Klein Moretti

• Number of episodes: 13

Lord of Mysteries Season 1 was a hit that came out of nowhere. The series got its first season this year, with 13 episodes, and more content is already on the way.

Lord of the Mysteries will pave the way for Chinese animeand more Chinese anime will be able to reach the global market and reach fans from all over the world. Lord of the Mysteries could definitely make history and be the first Chinese anime of 2026 to win the title of Anime of the Year.

Dandadan season 2

• Protagonist: Momo and Okarun

• Number of episodes: 12

Dandadan debuted in 2024 and has returned strongly this year with its second season. Dandadan Season 2 featured 12 episodes, with its paranormal storyline continuing. New main characters have been added, and the story ended on a rather exciting cliffhanger. Dandadan Season 2 took an already brilliant series and added more depth and intensity to it, really gripping the fans and keeping them coming back for more. Its chances at next year's Anime of the Year Awards are also high.

Solo Leveling season 2

• Main character: Sung Jinwoo

• Number of episodes: 13

Solo Leveling Season 1 was the big winner of the 2025 Anime of the Year title. Fans are already hooked on this series and can't get enough of its fast pace and battles.

Solo Leveling Season 2 aired earlier this year, and it was an even bigger success than what came before it. Solo Leveling Season 2 has one of the highest rated episodes of the yearand many believe it could be the winner again in 2026.

My Hero Academia Season 8

• Protagonist: Izuku Midoriya

• Number of episodes: 13

My Hero Academia Season 8 is currently still airing, and it's safe to say that in terms of quality, this is the best MHA has ever looked. MHA Season 8 will be the finale of the seriesand fans are getting ready to part ways with this iconic superhero franchise.

MHA season 8 has the highest rated episode of the year already, and its popularity cannot be underestimated at the moment. Considering this is the end of MHA, maybe fans will vote for it to be the best anime next year.

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2

• Protagonist: Maomao

• Number of episodes: 24

Apothecary Diaries has taken Japan by storm, and its popularity worldwide continues to grow as well. The Apothecary Diaries was very well received with its first season in 2023 and 2024, and it returned with an even better season this year.

The show's story and characters, along with its incredible world-building, have captivated fans, and given how highly rated it is, it could win big at the Crunchyroll Awards next year. While The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 didn't win the title this year, it could come out on top in 2026.

Takopi's Original Sin

• Main Character: Takopi and Shizuka

• Number of episodes: 6

Takopi's Original Sin is a very short anime, with a total of 6 episodes. But even with only 6 episodes, the series was big enough to break the internet. Its dark themes disguised by its cute art style really captivated many.

Takopi's Original Sin has really placed itself in a very good place to come out as the winner of the 2026 Anime of the Year award. After all, it has too one of the highest rated episodes of the year. Takopi's Original Sin win would definitely be a change from the usual winners.