Top-5 animes from Netflix to chill this year

The first trailer for the Devil May Cry anime series was released by Netflix shortly after the premiere date was announced. Viewers witnessed lively scenes with young Dante, Lady, and White Rabbit, replete with allusions to the series' games, set to the iconic Rollin' song by nu-metal band Limp Bizkit.

Now let me show you what dope stuff is coming out this year on Netflix.

My Happy Marriage (Season 2)

Image: netflix.com

Anime fans seeking a tale of resilience and redemption will find much to love in My Happy Marriage. This poignant series, steeped in emotional depth and stunning animation, returns for a second season that promises to delve even deeper into its protagonist’s journey.

Miyo Saimori, the eldest daughter of the Saimori family, has endured a life of hardship since her mother’s death and her father’s remarriage. Treated as a servant by her stepmother and half-sister Kaya (voiced by Lizzie Freeman), Miyo’s only solace comes from her childhood friend, Koji Tatsuishi (Michael Lorz). But when her father arranges a marriage between Kaya and Koji, Miyo is sent away to wed the enigmatic Kiyoka Kudo (Damien Haas), a man known for his cold demeanor.

As Miyo navigates her new life with Kudo, the series explores themes of love, healing, and self-discovery. Drawing inspiration from classic tales like Cinderella and Fruits Basket, My Happy Marriage balances heart-wrenching drama with moments of hope and tenderness. The premiere episode paints a vivid picture of Miyo’s suffering, but subtle hints of a brighter future keep viewers invested in her journey.

The animation is breathtaking, and the English voice cast delivers performances that elevate the emotional weight of the story. While the series doesn’t shy away from depicting Miyo’s struggles, it also offers a glimmer of hope, making her eventual triumph all the more satisfying. My Happy Marriage is a testament to the power of storytelling, reminding us that even in the darkest times, love and happiness can prevail.

Sakamoto Days (Season 1)

Image: netflix.com

Anime enthusiasts, prepare yourselves for the arrival of Sakamoto Days, the latest Netflix sensation set to redefine the action-comedy genre. Based on Yuto Suzuki’s wildly popular manga, this series is a masterclass in balancing high-octane action with laugh-out-loud humor. Trust us, this is one show that will leave an indelible mark on the anime landscape.

At the center of the story is Taro Sakamoto, a legendary assassin whose name alone strikes fear into the hearts of the underworld. Voiced by the incomparable Tomokazu Sugita in Japanese and the equally talented Matthew Mercer in English, Sakamoto is a force of nature. But when a chance encounter at a convenience store leads him to abandon his deadly profession for a quiet life, everything changes.

Five years later, Sakamoto is unrecognizable. Gone is the sleek, deadly assassin, replaced by a jovial family man with a generous waistline and a small business to run. But as any fan of the genre knows, the past never stays buried. When old enemies resurface, threatening his newfound peace, Sakamoto must dust off his skills and return to the fray.

Image: netflix.com

What sets Sakamoto Days apart is its ability to seamlessly blend over-the-top action with genuine comedy. The series walks a tightrope between intensity and absurdity, delivering fight sequences that rival the likes of John Wick while keeping the humor sharp and refreshing. The opening episode, The Legendary Hit Man, sets the tone with a breathtaking showcase of Sakamoto’s prowess, leaving no doubt that this is a series that takes its action seriously.

By the end of Episode 2, Vs Son Hee And Bancho, the stage is set for a thrilling ride. With a colorful roster of villains lining up to challenge Sakamoto, the series promises a mix of episodic battles and overarching intrigue. Whether it sticks to its "enemy-of-the-week" formula or evolves into something more complex, one thing is certain: Sakamoto Days is poised to be one of 2025’s most addictive anime.

Castlevania: Nocturne (Season 2)

Image: netflix.com

Horror and gaming fans, rejoice! Castlevania: Nocturne returns for a second season, continuing its reign as one of Netflix’s most gripping anime adaptations. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, this series combines historical intrigue with supernatural horror, delivering a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.

The series follows Richter Belmont (Edward Bluemel), a vampire hunter haunted by the death of his mother at the hands of the malevolent Olrox (Zahn McClarnon). As Richter joins the revolutionaries in their fight against aristocratic oppression, he must also confront the looming threat of a "vampire messiah" sought by the counter-revolutionaries.

What sets Nocturne apart is its unflinching commitment to its dark, visceral tone. The animation is a visual feast, with stunningly detailed landscapes and fluid action sequences that push the boundaries of the medium. The voice cast, including Pixie Davies as Maria Renard and Thuso Mbedu as Annette, delivers performances that breathe life into their characters, making the stakes feel all the more real.

With its blend of historical drama, supernatural horror, and jaw-dropping animation, Castlevania: Nocturne is a must-watch for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

Blood of Zeus (Season 3)

Image: netflix.com

Greek mythology gets a modern twist in Blood of Zeus, Netflix’s visually stunning anime that continues to captivate audiences with its epic storytelling and breathtaking animation. Season 3 promises to delve even deeper into the world of gods, heroes, and monsters, offering a fresh take on timeless tales.

At the heart of the series is Heron, a demigod caught in the crossfire of divine conflicts. Voiced by Derek Phillips, Heron’s journey is one of self-discovery and redemption, as he grapples with his heritage and the weight of his destiny. The series also features standout performances from Jason O’Mara as Zeus and Claudia Christian as Hera, whose tumultuous relationship adds layers of intrigue to the narrative.

What makes Blood of Zeus so compelling is its ability to reimagine classic myths while staying true to their essence. The animation is a visual masterpiece, with richly detailed environments and dynamic action sequences that bring the world of ancient Greece to life. Season 3 promises to raise the stakes even higher, delivering a story that’s as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed.

Dan Da Dan (Season 2)

Image: netflix.com

Science Saru, the studio behind Star Wars: Visions and Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, returns with the second season of Dan Da Dan, a series that defies convention and pushes the boundaries of anime storytelling. This mind-bending blend of supernatural horror, sci-fi, and comedy is a testament to the studio’s creativity and technical prowess.

The series follows Momo, a believer in ghosts, and Okarun, an alien enthusiast, whose lives are turned upside down when they encounter the supernatural. From ghostly possessions to alien abductions, Dan Da Dan is a rollercoaster of bizarre and thrilling events, brought to life by Science Saru’s signature animation style.

What sets Dan Da Dan apart is its fearless approach to storytelling. The series doesn’t shy away from mature themes, but it also knows when to inject humor to lighten the mood. The result is a series that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. With its stunning visuals and unpredictable narrative, Dan Da Dan is a must-watch for fans of experimental anime.

End credits

Image: netflix.com

These five series represent the best of what Netflix has to offer in 2025, each bringing something unique to the table. Whether you’re a fan of action, drama, horror, or comedy, there’s something here for everyone. Mark your calendars—these are shows you won’t want to miss.

Main image: netflix.com