December is here, and it’s the perfect time to kick back and binge-watch your favorite anime. But before you start, check out the upcoming anime releases everyone’s buzzing about for winter 2024!
From debut seasons to highly anticipated continuations, these titles might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for all year. Plus, the list includes some exciting premieres slated for January 2025.
Sakamoto Days - January 11, 2025
2025 is already looking great for Sakamoto fans! The story of the ultimate hitman-turned-family-man is dropping on Netflix this January, and fans can’t wait to see all the insane action scenes brought to life.
Sakamoto Taro was the most feared hitman around, respected by assassins everywhere. Now, he’s traded that life for fatherhood, packed on a few pounds, but hasn’t lost a bit of his fighting skills. Produced by TMS Entertainment, SAKAMOTO DAYS will air in two parts, the first kicking off on January 11, 2025, and the second in July 2025.
Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise from the Shadow - January 2025 (TBA)
Solo Leveling became a breakout hit earlier this year, wrapping up its 12-episode first season this summer. Naturally, fans are eager for more, and the excitement hasn’t waned since learning that the manhwa-adapted shounen will return this January.
The story follows Sung Jin-Woo, once known as “the Weakest Hunter of All Mankind,” who gains help from the mysterious “System” after a near-death experience. This unique power allows him to level up and rise through the ranks of Hunters. The new trailer teases even greater challenges as Jin-Woo faces tougher foes. While the exact release date hasn’t been confirmed, Season 2 is set to premiere on Crunchyroll this January.
Beastars Season 3 - Part 1 - December 05, 2024
Three years after Season 2, the anthropomorphic animals of Beastars return this December 2024. The last season ended with Legoshi finally capturing the Herbivore killer, and that left viewers eager to see where the story goes next.
Though the wait was long, Studio Orange seems determined to deliver a worthy final season. Beastars Season 3 (Part 1) will be available on Netflix on December 5, 2024, bringing back Legoshi, Haru, Louis, and the rest of the gang.
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 - January 10, 2025
With season 1 just concluded this year, it’s quite surprising that The Apothecary Diaries will return sooner than expected. Fans fell in love with Maomao and her sharp wit, as well as her expertise in herbs and poisons, which she used to solve mysteries in the Inner Palace. She has much more to reveal in The Apothecary Diaries Season 2.
Alongside Maomao, the beautiful eunuch Jinshi will be back to bring more cases for her to unravel, while his true identity remains a mystery to those around him. The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 is set to premiere on January 10, 2025, on Crunchyroll.
Doctor Stone: Science Future - January 2025 (TBA)
Continuing Senku’s mission to rebuild the world with science, Doctor Stone: Science Future is on the way. The new teaser trailer shows Senku and his friends arriving in America, only to be met by a new antagonist ready to stop them in their tracks.
Doctor Stone: Science Future is the fourth season of the series, focusing on Senku's plan to reach the moon. Now that the Kingdom of Science has made it to the Americas, Senku can finally gather the resources needed to launch his mission. Look out for it on Crunchyroll in January 2025!
My Happy Marriage Season 2 - January 2025 (TBA)
Romance fans have plenty to look forward to next year with the return of My Happy Marriage on Netflix this January. Miyo and Kiyoka’s journey of love and self-discovery captivated viewers, with Miyo growing more confident and Kiyoka showing his softer, protective side.
But it’s not just the romance that draws fans in. Set in a world of supernatural powers, the series also delivers exciting action and suspense. Season 2 shifts focus to the couple’s challenges with their families, promising even more heartfelt and thrilling moments. If winter makes you crave romance, this one’s a must-watch!
Honey Lemon Soda - January 2025 (TBA)
Here’s another gem you shouldn’t miss if you’re a fan of high school romances. Honey Lemon Soda follows Ishimori Uka, a shy and introverted girl who has endured years of bullying but is determined to change her life in high school.
Her world brightens when she meets Kai Miura, a popular, carefree boy whose refreshing personality inspires her to open up and embrace high school life. Honey Lemon Soda, Mayu Murata’s finest work, already gained immense popularity in Japan thanks to its 2021 live-action adaptation, so it’s no surprise it’s now getting an anime. If you’re in the mood for a feel-good story about characters breaking out of their shells, this one’s for you. Streaming begins this January on Crunchyroll.
Fate/strange Fake - December 31, 2024
December has something exciting in store for Fate series fans. Coming soon is Fate/strange Fake, an anime centered around a fake Grail War set in Snowfield, Nevada. Known for its stunning visuals, intricate worldbuilding, and unforgettable characters inspired by historical figures, the Fate franchise has remained popular, though some fans feel recent installments lacked inspiration.
Expectations are high for Fate/Strange Fake to deliver a quality experience rivaling Fate/stay Night: Heaven’s Feel. Conceived by Ryogo Narita (Baccano!), it started as an April Fool's joke presented as a light novel but quickly became a beloved addition to the Fate universe. Its popularity surged after the Fate/strange Fake: Whispers of Dawn prelude blew fans away in 2023. Mark your calendars, Fate/strange Fake premieres on Crunchyroll this December 31, 2024.
The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You Season 2 - January 12, 2025
Having 100 girlfriends might sound like a dream, but for Aijou Rentaro, it’s a life-or-death responsibility. That’s the wild premise of The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You. If Rentaro fails to make all his girlfriends happy, they’ll face a tragic fate. This quirky yet endearing rom-com first captured audiences in Fall 2023, and now it’s coming back for more next year!
Despite its over-the-top concept, the show has been praised for the genuine chemistry between Rentaro and his girlfriends. Each girl gets ample screen time, allowing their personalities to shine and making them memorable to fans. By the end of Season 1, Rentaro already has six girlfriends, and the Season 2 trailer hints at more joining the mix. The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You Season 2 premieres on Crunchyroll on January 12, 2025.
Which upcoming winter release are you most looking forward to? Sound off in the comments below!
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