Every year, a new anime breaks through to dominate conversations, from Jujutsu Kaisen in 2020 to Chainsaw Man in 2022 and Solo Leveling in 2024. Fans are always hungry for the next phenomenon, and the manga world is brimming with candidates. Based on writing, art, popularity, originality, and overall quality, here are ten series that have what it takes to blow up as anime adaptations.
Tower Dungeon (2023–present)
Tsutomu Nihei, known for his eerie seinen worlds, takes a shōnen turn with Tower Dungeon. When a princess is kidnapped into a mysterious dungeon, Yuva joins a rescue party through an endless maze. Its gritty fantasy setting and atmospheric storytelling make it a perfect candidate for an anime, especially as the fantasy genre continues to thrive.
Dogsred (2023–present)
From Satoru Noda, creator of the acclaimed Golden Kamuy, comes Dogsred. After a public meltdown, figure skater Rou switches to hockey, bringing his skating skills to the ice. The series blends Noda's signature humor with sports drama, and with hockey's growing popularity, an anime adaptation could be a slam dunk.
Centuria (2024–present)
Modern shōnen is getting darker, and Centuria leads the charge. After a massacre, a boy named Julian makes a pact with a sea entity, sacrificing his humanity for revenge. Its high stakes, psychological depth, and gritty tone resonate with today's viewers, making it a likely hit when adapted.
Ruri Dragon (2022–present)
For a lighter change of pace, Ruri Dragon follows a girl who wakes up with dragon horns and powers, trying to live a normal school life. Kyoto Animation is already confirmed to adapt it, and with their track record, this wholesome slice-of-life comedy is one of the most anticipated upcoming anime.
Ichi the Witch (2024–present)
In a world where only women wield magic, a boy named Ichi becomes the first male witch. This Shōnen Jump series subverts fantasy tropes with tight worldbuilding and dazzling art. Witch anime are surprisingly popular, and Ichi the Witch could be the next big hit once it has enough material for an adaptation.
Bug Ego (2023–present)
ONE, the creator of Mob Psycho 100, returns with Bug Ego. A high schooler discovers a classmate's book of real-world hacks that break the laws of nature. With gorgeous art and a mind-bending narrative, this surreal mystery explores human nature in chaotic, shocking ways.
The Guy She Was Interested in Wasn't a Guy at All (2023–present)
Romance anime fans are slowly discovering this gem, which subverts expectations with a unique love story. Its fresh take on the genre and growing popularity make it a strong candidate for an anime that could capture hearts.
These series represent the best of what's coming next in anime. For more on the latest anime trends, check out our June 2026 must-watch list and see how Solo Leveling Season 2 made history on Crunchyroll.
