Anime is changing fast. New streaming platforms, fan-funded studios, indie teams, and even Web3 experiments are reshaping how stories are financed, produced, and shared. For viewers, that means there are more upcoming anime projects to follow than ever before—and not just big franchise sequels.
Let’s explore 18 inspiring anime projects: original and experimental series, major franchise milestones, and fan-funded efforts that are trying to fix the way anime is made. Think of it as a roadmap to new anime series, upcoming anime movies, and shows.
Whether you’re looking for the next breakout hit or want to support emerging voices, these projects offer a glimpse into the future of anime and the communities driving it.
Why Anime “Projects” Matter More Than Ever
When people talk about “upcoming anime”, they usually mean a list of shows to watch in the next season. But behind each title is a complex project: writers, animators, studios, financiers, platforms, and fans all pulling together.
Today, a modern anime project can be:
- A high-budget original sci-fi series on a global streaming platform
- A new season or movie from an established franchise
- A fan-funded anime project born on Kickstarter or another platform
- A Web3 or interactive experiment where viewers become co-producers
- A community initiative created to improve working conditions for young animators
This broader view matters. When you decide which inspiring anime projects to follow, you’re not just choosing your next binge. You’re also choosing which creative and business models you want to see more of in the future.
Key Trends Behind Today’s Most Exciting Anime Projects
Before we dive into the list, it helps to understand the forces shaping these titles and campaigns.
Streaming Platforms as Global Launchpads
Major streaming platforms now compete directly for standout anime.
That competition leads to:
- Bold original stories from well-known directors
- Faster international releases with subtitles and dubs
- Budgets that can support ambitious action, sci-fi, and fantasy
This is a big reason why so many upcoming anime projects to follow are not tied to long-running manga. They are built from the ground up as global streaming experiences.
Crowdfunding Turns Fans into Co-Producers
Crowdfunding has become a serious lifeline for animation.
Some of the most interesting projects on this list exist because:
- Fans paid upfront to help get pilots or full seasons made
- Backers support risky or unusual storytelling that big committees might avoid
- Small studios can keep creative control instead of giving it all to investors
For viewers, this means you can support indie anime creators to watch long before their work hits a platform.
Web3, Interactive and Community-Owned Anime
A small but visible slice of the anime world is exploring Web3 and interactive formats.
Here, fans might:
- Buy access passes that fund production
- Vote on story directions or endings
- Own digital collectibles linked to the project
Not every experiment will last, but these projects are pushing the boundaries of what “anime” can be.
Grassroots Responses to Tough Working Conditions
Behind the glitz, the anime industry is notorious for low wages and long hours. Some of the most inspiring projects are not a new series at all.
But:
- Dormitory initiatives for young animators
- New studio models that promise fairer pay
- Training programs designed to raise quality and wages together
Following these efforts is just as important as tracking new anime series and films.
At a Glance: The 18 Anime Projects You Should Be Following
This quick snapshot highlights all featured projects in one place, helping you easily identify the originals, franchise titles, and fan-funded works gaining momentum.
Original & Experimental Stand-Outs
- Lazarus – A stylish sci-fi thriller from a legendary director about a miracle drug that turns into an extinction-level threat.
- New Cyberpunk Anime (Netflix x CD Projekt) – A fresh anime project expanding the Cyberpunk universe after the success of Edgerunners.
- White Rabbit – An interactive, Web3-powered anime where viewers can take part in funding and direction, already recognised with a major award.
- Michinoku-toge – A crowdfunded dark-fantasy indie anime set in an alternate historical Japan, expanded thanks to backer support.
- Let’s Play – An adaptation of a hit Webtoon rom-com, marking a breakthrough for an independent American creator entering anime.
- Sekiro: No Defeat – A fully hand-drawn adaptation of the acclaimed action game, promising intense, grounded samurai combat.
Franchise Powerhouses Worth Staying Invested In
- Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle – The climactic movie arc for one of the decade’s most popular shonen series.
- Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution & Season 3 – A recap film plus new episodes bringing the chaotic Culling Game to the screen.
- Solo Leveling Season 2 – The return of a global hit, continuing the rise of a solo hero in a monster-filled world.
- Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2 – A quiet, reflective fantasy about time, grief and memory, continuing its journey.
- Fire Force Final Season – The last act in a fiery action saga that blends supernatural threats with firefighter drama.
- Oshi no Ko Season 3 – A razor-sharp look at idols and the entertainment industry, pushing deeper into obsession and fame.
Fan-Funded, Grassroots & Reform-Driven Projects
- Animating Cradle – A top-funded animated adaptation of a beloved fantasy novel series, driven by fan support.
- The Lovers – A Kickstarter-backed animated thriller about a chef and a siren in a dark, folkloric version of the Philippines.
- Amelia – A Mexican stop-motion short inspired by tabletop RPGs, built with handmade craft and crowdfunded.
- Animator Dormitory Project – A long-running initiative that gives young animators affordable housing and support.
- New Anime Making System – A funding and training model aiming to raise anime budgets and pay better wages.
- Five-Studio Kickstarter Initiative – A coordinated campaign where several studios launch kid-friendly and experimental projects directly with fans.
Now, let’s explore why each of these inspiring anime projects deserves a place on your watchlist or support list.
How We Chose These 18 Projects
This guide focuses on projects that show at least one of the following:
- Creative risk – original worlds, unusual formats, or bold themes
- Industry impact – new funding models, better working conditions, or new paths for creators
- Global accessibility – realistic chances of reaching an international audience
- Current momentum – active development, recent announcements, or ongoing campaigns
In other words, this is not just a list of hyped titles. It is a curated selection of upcoming anime projects to follow because they hint at where anime is heading next.
Original & Experimental Anime Projects Redefining the Medium
These original and experimental projects push storytelling beyond familiar formulas, offering fresh perspectives that shape the medium’s future.
1. Lazarus – A High-Stakes Sci-Fi Comeback
Lazarus is one of the most talked-about original anime in production. Directed by an iconic creator known for stylish, music-driven storytelling, it follows a world transformed by a miracle drug that eliminates illness. Years later, the drug’s inventor returns with a warning: everyone who took it will soon die.
A global task force of elite agents is assembled to solve the crisis. Visually, you can expect dynamic action sequences, bold color palettes, and choreography that feels almost musical. It’s a perfect example of how new anime series are using streaming budgets to deliver cinematic ambition.
Why you should follow it:
- It’s an original story, not tied to existing manga
- The creative team has a strong track record with genre-defining hits
- It combines sci-fi, action, and social commentary in a slick package
2. New Cyberpunk Anime – Expanding a Neon-Drenched Universe
After the surprise success of the previous Cyberpunk anime, the game publisher and streaming platform are returning for another project in the same universe. Details are still limited, but expectations are high.
This new series sits at the intersection of gaming and animation:
- It builds on a world that already has deep lore and a committed fandom
- It shows how anime can elevate games beyond trailers and cut-scenes
- It reinforces anime as the go-to medium for neon-soaked, dystopian storytelling
For anyone interested in upcoming anime movies and shows grounded in sci-fi, this is a must-watch project.
3. White Rabbit – Web3 Anime with Interactive DNA
White Rabbit is a striking example of how anime is experimenting with new funding and distribution models. Built on a Web3 platform, it invites viewers to buy passes, unlock episodes, and sometimes influence the direction of the story.
Key reasons it stands out:
- It has already gained mainstream recognition with a notable industry award
- The project treats viewers as early supporters and co-travelers, not just passive audiences
- It tests whether crypto-backed and interactive anime can sustain long-term narratives
White Rabbit is one of the most unusual anime projects to follow if you’re curious about the future of fan ownership and community-driven storytelling.
4. Michinoku-toge – Crowdfunded Dark Fantasy on a Budget
Michinoku-toge began as a passion project, then grew into a full miniseries thanks to backers. Set in an alternate historical Japan, it weaves folklore, horror, and period drama into a slow-burning story.
Why it matters:
- It shows how crowdfunding can extend a small pilot into a full story arc
- The mood and pacing feel closer to indie cinema than mainstream anime
- It preserves local cultural elements that might not survive committee development
If you want to support fan-funded anime projects with strong atmosphere and cultural roots, keep this one on your radar.
5. Let’s Play – Webtoon Romance Makes the Leap to Anime
Let’s Play adapts a popular Webtoon about a game developer, her complicated neighbor, and the messy overlap of online and offline life. Produced by a well-known studio and a global platform, it marks an important step: an independent American creator’s work moving directly into anime.
This project is important because:
- It diversifies the pipeline of stories entering anime production
- It shows how webcomics and digital platforms can feed the anime ecosystem
- It appeals to viewers who enjoy character-driven romance and workplace comedy
For fans of modern rom-coms, this is one of the most promising and inspiring anime projects coming to screens.
6. Sekiro: No Defeat – Hand-Drawn Samurai Brutality
Sekiro: No Defeat adapts a critically acclaimed action game famous for its precision and difficulty. Instead of taking the easy route with heavy CG, the production leans into hand-drawn animation to capture weighty swordplay and visceral combat.
What makes it compelling:
- Hand-drawn choreography puts skill and timing front and center
- The Sengoku-era setting offers a grounded, historical flavor with supernatural twists
- It taps into a growing appetite for game-to-anime adaptations that respect the source
If you enjoy intense, grounded action over flashy spectacle, this is one of the upcoming anime projects to follow closely.
Franchise Powerhouses Still Worth Following
Not every exciting project is an original. Some of the most important upcoming anime movies and shows belong to existing giants.
7. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle – A Climactic Movie Event
The Infinity Castle arc represents the final major ascent for Demon Slayer’s core storyline.
Fans expect:
- Lavish action sequences that push current animation standards
- Emotional payoffs for character arcs built over multiple seasons
- A cinematic experience designed to be seen on the big screen
Even if you usually avoid franchise films, this one has the potential to be a landmark in mainstream anime.
8. Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution & Season 3 – Turning the Culling Game into an Event
Jujutsu Kaisen is preparing a two-step approach: a recap film that leads directly into the new season and the high-stakes Culling Game arc.
Why this project is crucial to follow:
- The arc is dense, chaotic, and emotionally brutal—perfect material for intense animation
- The recap film helps casual viewers and newcomers catch up
- The production will likely become a benchmark for large-scale battle choreography
For shonen fans, this is one of the most important upcoming anime projects to follow in the near future.
9. Solo Leveling Season 2 – The Power Fantasy Evolves
Solo Leveling became a global hit with its slick action and straightforward power fantasy. The second season pushes the story into darker territory, with higher stakes for the hero and his world.
Reasons to keep it on your list:
- It shows how manhwa adaptations can rival traditional manga-based hits
- The power-up system and visually striking “shadow” aesthetic remain crowd-pleasers
- It continues a trend where Korean stories find new life in anime-style production
For viewers searching for the best anime to watch in the next wave of releases, Solo Leveling’s return is an easy recommendation.
10. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2 – Quiet, Emotional Fantasy
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End offers a very different kind of fantasy experience. The story begins after the heroes have already defeated the demon king and focuses on an elf mage dealing with time, grief, and the weight of memory.
The upcoming season matters because:
- It deepens themes of mortality and the value of everyday moments
- It shows that slow, reflective anime can succeed globally
- It balances gentle character work with occasional bursts of intense magic battles
For readers and viewers who prefer introspective stories, this is one of the most beautiful anime projects to follow.
11. Fire Force Final Season – Closing a Fiery Saga
The last season of Fire Force aims to tie up years of storytelling, bringing its mix of firefighters, supernatural threats, and hidden conspiracies to a conclusion.
You should keep an eye on it because:
- Finale seasons often showcase the best production values a team can muster
- Long-running character arcs and mysteries finally converge
- It stands at the intersection of action, mystery, and spiritual themes
If you have followed the series from the beginning, this final season is essential viewing.
12. Oshi no Ko Season 3 – Deeper into the Idol Industry
Oshi no Ko captured attention with its sharp take on idols, fandom, and the darker side of entertainment.
The new season will dive further into:
- Obsession and parasocial relationships
- Media manipulation, reality shows, and online harassment
- The psychological toll of living a double life in the spotlight
As a meta-commentary on the very industry that produces so much anime, Oshi no Ko remains one of the most relevant and inspiring anime projects in the line-up.
Fan-Funded & Grassroots Anime You Can Actually Support
Now, let’s focus on anime projects that depend directly on fans. These titles and initiatives show how viewers can influence what gets made.
13. Animating Cradle – From Cult Fantasy to Top-Funded Anime
Animating Cradle adapts a beloved fantasy novel series with a fiercely loyal readership. The project became one of the most successful animation campaigns on Kickstarter, with fans rallying around.
- Faithful adaptation of complex magic systems and character growth
- Ambitious plans for high-quality action scenes
- A studio committed to treating the source material with respect
For anyone interested in anime crowdfunding campaigns, Animating Cradle is a textbook example of what a motivated fanbase can achieve.
14. The Lovers – A Dark Romantic Thriller from Studio Heartbreak
The Lovers is a richly stylised animated film about a chef and a siren in a dark, myth-infused version of the Philippines.
Funded by backers, it stands out because:
- It draws on Southeast Asian folklore rarely seen in mainstream anime
- The visual style blends horror, romance, and lush environmental design
- The story focuses on adult characters and complex emotional dynamics
This is one of the indie anime creators to watch if you want to support diverse, global storytelling.
15. Amelia – Mexican Stop-Motion Powered by Tabletop Imagination
Amelia is a stop-motion short created by a Mexican studio, inspired by tabletop role-playing games. Using handmade models and sets, the team turned to crowdfunding to complete production and push toward festival runs.
Why it’s worth following:
- It showcases stop-motion craft in a field dominated by digital animation
- It brings Latin American perspectives and aesthetics into the anime-adjacent space
- It shows how smaller studios use crowdfunding to reach festivals and, eventually, streaming platforms
If you love handcrafted visuals and tabletop-inspired narratives, this is one of the most charming and inspiring anime projects on the list.
16. Animator Dormitory Project – Supporting the People Behind the Frames
Not every important project is a show. The Animator Dormitory Project is a long-running initiative that offers affordable housing and support to young animators in Japan, who often struggle on extremely low wages.
Its impact:
- Gives new talent a chance to survive long enough to build a career
- Raises awareness of structural problems in the industry
- Helps fans see the human side behind their favourite series
For people who care about the future of anime, this is one of the most important projects to follow, even if it never appears as a title in a season chart.
17. New Anime Making System – Toward Fairer Budgets and Training
The New Anime Making System is a funding and training initiative aimed at raising production budgets and paying animators more fairly.
Backed through fan contributions, it experiments with:
- Direct fan-to-studio financing
- Structured training programs for new animators
- Transparent budgeting and wage policies
This is a vital project if you’re interested in anime industry trends and want to see a more sustainable pipeline for future shows.
18. Five-Studio Kickstarter Initiative–Small Studios, Big Experiments
In Japan, a group of smaller studios has teamed up for a coordinated Kickstarter campaign. Each studio pitches its own project—ranging from children’s stories to more experimental works—while sharing visibility and resources.
Why it’s inspiring:
- It shows collaboration instead of competition among small studios
- It brings family-friendly content and artistic experiments under one umbrella
- It gives backers a portfolio of projects rather than a single bet
If you want to support anime crowdfunding campaigns that encourage variety, this initiative is an excellent place to start.
How to Follow and Support These Anime Projects
A practical guide to staying updated on releases and safely supporting fan-funded or indie anime. It includes simple ways viewers can help creators—financially or through community engagement.
Watching and Streaming
For projects tied to major platforms, the simplest way to support them is to:
- Add them to your watchlist as soon as they appear
- Watch legally through official streams
- Rate and review them where possible to boost visibility
This sends a clear signal that global audiences want more of these stories.
Backing Campaigns Responsibly
When supporting fan-funded anime projects:
- Read the entire campaign page carefully
- Check who is on the team and what experience they have
- Look for realistic timelines and transparent budgeting
- Treat your pledge as support for creators, not a guaranteed pre-order
Responsible backing helps legitimate projects grow while discouraging unrealistic campaigns.
Supporting Creators Beyond Money
Even if you can’t pledge money, you can still help:
- Share campaigns and trailers on social media
- Engage with official posts to boost algorithmic reach
- Buy legal merchandise when it becomes available
- Talk about these upcoming anime projects to follow with friends and communities
Small actions add up, especially for indie teams.
What These Projects Tell Us About the Future of Anime
A brief reflection on the trends shaping anime’s next era, from global creators to hybrid funding and industry reform. It shows how these projects signal long-term changes in how anime is produced and consumed.
Taken together, these 18 projects suggest a few clear directions:
- Anime is becoming more global and diverse, with creators and settings from North America, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
- Hybrid funding—crowdfunding, streaming deals, Web3 passes, and traditional investors—is here to stay.
- Big franchises will still dominate headlines, but indie and fan-funded projects will increasingly shape innovation.
- Viewers have more power than ever to decide which stories, and which working conditions, get supported.
For fans, that’s exciting. Following the right projects means you’re not only discovering the next great show, but also nudging the industry toward better practices.
FAQs About Upcoming Anime Projects to Follow
What counts as an “anime project” in this guide?
Here, an anime project can be a new series, a movie, a crowdfunded pilot, a Web3 experiment, or even an initiative focused on animator welfare. If it shapes how anime is made, watched, or funded, it qualifies.
Which of these anime projects can I watch right now?
Some franchise titles and ongoing series may already have trailers, teaser episodes, or earlier seasons available on major platforms. Others, especially crowdfunded or indie projects, are still in production and share updates through campaign pages and social channels.
Are crowdfunded anime projects safe to support?
Crowdfunded projects always carry risk. Many creators deliver exactly what they promise, but delays and changes are common. Treat backing as a way to support inspiring anime projects you believe in, rather than as a store purchase, and always read the fine print.
Which of these projects is best for newcomers?
If you’re new to anime:
- Try Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End for emotional fantasy
- Watch Demon Slayer and its movie arc for high-action spectacle
- Follow Let’s Play or Oshi no Ko if you like romance and media drama
- Explore a fan-funded title like Animating Cradle or The Lovers if you’re curious about indie work
Final Thoughts
The anime world is no longer just seasonal charts and long-running shonen titles. It’s a living ecosystem of studios, platforms, indie teams, and fans all experimenting with new ways to tell stories.
By choosing which upcoming anime projects to follow, you are helping shape that future. Whether you stream a new sci-fi thriller on day one, back a small studio’s campaign, or support a dormitory for young animators, your attention and support matter.
The next era of anime will be defined not only by what we watch, but by what we decide to stand behind.
