2026 has just begun, these 5 Anime are already called the Top 5 Anime of the Year!

Kapanlagi.com - The year 2026 has just started, but the competitive atmosphere for Anime of the Year has already felt intense since the beginning of the season. Winter 2026 is not just about a lot of titles, but also full of series whose quality has truly leveled up. Some are entering their final season with high expectations, some are making a comeback in their third season with global hype, and there are newcomers that have immediately stolen the spotlight since the first episode.

Interestingly, this list consists of a balanced combination: two anime in their third season, one in its second season, one new debut series, and one that is entering its final chapter. The variety of genres is also quite complete, ranging from supernatural action, dark fantasy, entertainment industry drama, to reflective adventures that are calm yet impactful. It's no wonder that the anime community debates weekly about who deserves to sit in the Anime of the Year seat.

With consistent production quality and increasingly mature storytelling, these five titles have already made a significant impact even before the year has truly progressed. So, who made it to this hot list? Let's discuss them one by one.

1. FIRE FORCE FINAL SEASON

FIRE FORCE (credit: IMDB)

Entering the final season, FIRE FORCE made fans anxious. There are so many manga chapters that need to be summarized in a relatively short time, and the risk of the story feeling rushed is clearly there. But the end result actually amazed many people.

Studio David Production successfully maintained the quality of animation and the intensity of the story until the very end. The pacing feels tighter but is still enjoyable to follow, while emotional moments still have their space. Instead of dipping, this final season feels even more solid and mature, strengthening its position in the top five list.

2. SENTENCED TO BE A HERO

SENTENCED TO BE A HERO (credit: IMDB)

As the only newcomer on this list, SENTENCED TO BE A HERO immediately presents itself with confidence. This fantasy anime does not get trapped in the same old isekai formula. Its story has a strong foundation with world-building full of political intrigue and a war atmosphere that feels tense and realistic.

Every episode feels important and carries weight. The characters are not black and white, making the conflicts feel more complex. With stable quality from the start, many are starting to call this a strong candidate not just for the top 5, but also a strong contender for Anime of the Year if its consistency is maintained.

3. OSHI NO KO SEASON 3

OSHI NO KO SEASON 3 (credit: IMDB)

The third season of OSHI NO KO comes with a bolder approach. Instead of focusing on sensationalism or excessive drama, this season delves into the darker side of the entertainment industry in a way that feels authentic and sometimes uncomfortable because it's too real.

The thriller elements are even stronger, especially through the perspectives of two twin characters who are now developing in different directions. Almost every week there’s a twist that gets the community buzzing and new theories emerging. With an adult tone and neat execution, this season deserves to be called one of the most impactful in 2026.

4. FRIEREN: BEYOND JOURNEY'S END SEASON 2

FRIEREN: BEYOND JOURNEY’S END (credit: IMDB)

When talking about consistency in quality, FRIEREN always makes it to the top of the list. This second season doesn’t try to change the formula drastically. Instead, its strength lies in the small details, relaxed pacing, and reflective moments that make the audience immerse themselves in the journey.

Several early episodes already provide enough evidence that the essence of adventure is not about the big climax, but about the process and the memories left behind. Fan discussions every week are always lengthy because there are many simple scenes that carry deep meaning. With this approach, it’s no surprise that its second season is a strong candidate for Anime of the Year.

5. JUJUTSU KAISEN SEASON 3

JUJUTSU KAISEN (credit: IMDB)

As one of the modern shonen giants, Jujutsu Kaisen clearly does not want to be left behind. Season 3 hits the ground running with the Culling Game arc that is more brutal, full of strategy, and rich in morally gray conflicts.

At first glance, it seems like a large-scale fighting tournament typical of classic shonen, but the depth of the conflict is much more complex and dark. The intensity is consistently high, and each character plays an important role in this grand game. The series has previously won Anime of the Year, and with the current momentum, the chance to set the same record feels very realistic.

(kpl/afd)