2026: A Landmark Year for Anime
If you thought 2025 was stacked, 2026 is shaping up to be absolutely insane. We're talking decade-defining adaptations, sequels fans have begged for, and original projects from legendary studios. Whether you're a seasonal watcher or a binge-only viewer, your watchlist is about to explode.
The Big Hitters
1. Chainsaw Man Part 2
MAPPA returns with the Academy Arc adaptation, and the hype is through the roof. If you loved the visceral energy of Part 1, prepare for an even wilder ride with Asa Mitaka and the War Devil. Streaming on Crunchyroll.
2. Vinland Saga Season 3
The Baltic Sea War arc is coming, and it's going to be brutal. Thorfinn's journey continues in what many manga readers consider the series' emotional peak. This one's going to hurt—in the best way.
3. Dandadan (Continuing)
Science SARU's wild supernatural comedy keeps delivering. If you haven't jumped on this train yet, what are you even doing? It's like if Mob Psycho and Chainsaw Man had a baby raised by aliens.
Hidden Gems to Watch
4. Blue Box Season 2
The sports romance that captured hearts is back. Perfect for fans of Horimiya and Kaguya-sama who want something with more athletic energy.
5. Sakamoto Days
The retired assassin comedy is finally getting animated by TMS Entertainment. Think John Wick meets convenience store shenanigans. Netflix is handling this one internationally.
6. Kagurabachi
The katana action series that took Jump by storm is getting the anime treatment faster than anyone expected. Studio TBA, but expectations are sky-high for this dark fantasy action fest.
Original Projects
7. Trigger's New Original
Studio Trigger has announced a new original project for 2026. Details are scarce, but if Promare and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners taught us anything, it's that Trigger originals hit different. Keep this on your radar.
Where to Watch
- Crunchyroll - Your main hub for simulcasts
- Netflix - Weekly drops for select titles
- Hulu - Great for US viewers
- HiDive - Sentai's exclusives
Pro tip: Most of these will be simulcast, so you can watch within hours of Japanese broadcast. Set those notifications!
Final Thoughts
2026 is shaping up to be a watershed year. Between powerhouse sequels and fresh IPs, there's something for every type of fan. The real question isn't what to watch—it's how you'll find the time to watch it all. RIP to your backlog.