The Summer 2026 anime season is upon us, and it's looking to be a packed one! With a lineup that includes returning series, new adaptations, and original stories, there's something for every anime fan. Here's a breakdown of the 10 upcoming Summer 2026 anime you should be most excited for, with a focus on the new releases and why they're worth your attention.
The Ghost in the Shell (Koukaku Kidoutai)
Premieres on Crunchyroll on July 7
This new adaptation of the iconic Ghost in the Shell franchise is a must-watch. The original manga by Masamune Shirow is known for its silly and goofy tone, and the new adaptation by Science Saru aims to capture that essence. The trailer hints at a more lighthearted and humorous take on the character of Motoko Kusanagi, which is a refreshing change from the more serious adaptations we've seen in the past. If you're a fan of the original manga, this is a must-watch.
Sparks of Tomorrow (Nijusseiki Denki Mokuroku: Eureka Evrika)
Premieres on Netflix in July
Kyoto Animation is back with a new original story that takes us to an alternate version of 20th-century Japan. In this world, electricity was never discovered, and steam-powered technology has led to a thick smog covering the country. The protagonist, Kihachi, sets out on a journey to find his brother's book, the 20th Century Electrical Catalog, which he believes will bring about a new age of technological advancements. With a unique setting and a steampunk aesthetic, this anime is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Goodbye, Lara (Sayonara Lara)
Premieres on Crunchyroll on July 5
This original story from Kinema Citrus has a fantasy-inspired art style and soft-faced characters that remind me of Studio Ghibli films. The trailer showcases the studio's consistent animation quality over the last decade, and the story's premise is intriguing. With a unique setting and a team known for its talent, this anime is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and animation.
The World Is Dancing (Wārudo Izu Danshingu)
Premieres on Crunchyroll on July 2
Based on the 14th-century playwright and actor Zeami Motokiyo, this anime is a unique take on classical Japanese dance and drama. The story is told through the eyes of a modern-day audience, and the animation by Cypic is sure to be a treat. With a unique setting and a talented animation team, this anime is a must-watch for fans of classical Japanese culture and storytelling.
BLACK TORCH
Premieres on Crunchyroll on July 4
If you're a fan of action and cool-looking anime characters, BLACK TORCH is for you. The manga by Tsuyoshi Takaki features a protagonist named Jiro Azuma, who can see spirits and has spiky hair. The art style is similar to Tite Kubo's, and the story is a fun read. The animation by 100studio is sure to bring the action to life, and the studio's previous work, Quality Assurance in Another World, was well-received.
Chainsmoker Cat (Yani Neko)
Premieres on Crunchyroll on July 2
This comedy anime from Bibury Animation Studios is about a cat girl with a substance abuse problem. The trailer showcases the studio's animation quality, and the story's premise is intriguing. With a unique setting and a talented animation team, this anime is a must-watch for fans of comedy and animation.
Behind the Supermarket, Smoking with You (Super no Ura de Yani Suu Futari)
Premieres on Crunchyroll in July
This anime is a treat for fans of quirky and wholesome stories. The manga by Jinushi features a middle-aged salaryman named Sasaki who has a crush on Yamada, who works at his local convenience store. The twist is that Yamada and Tayama are the same person, and the story unfolds in a weirdly wholesome way. The animation by Asahi Production is sure to bring the story to life, and the studio's previous work is unknown.
Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia (Tenmaku no Jaadugar)
Premieres on Crunchyroll in July
This anime is a unique take on the 13th-century history of Iran, known as Persia. The animation by Science Saru is sure to be a treat, and the story's premise is intriguing. With a unique setting and a talented animation team, this anime is a must-watch for fans of historical and fantasy anime.
Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games (Tai Ari Deshita: Ojō-sama wa Kakutō Gēmu Nante Shinai)
Premieres on Crunchyroll on July 7
This anime is a collaboration between Diomedéa and Capcom, and it features a unique selling point. The story is based on a manga that plays a fake fighting game, and the anime will replace it with real footage of Street Fighter 6. The collaboration is sure to bring a unique and exciting experience to fans of fighting games and anime.
I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day (Kimi ga Shinu made Koi wo Shitai)
Premieres on Crunchyroll in July
This yuri-focused anime is a must-watch for fans of the genre. The story is based on the manga by Aono Nachi, and it's a refreshing take on the yuri genre. The animation studio, Roll2, is new, and the story's premise is intriguing. With a unique setting and a talented animation team, this anime is a must-watch for fans of yuri and romance anime.
