Rain poured down heavily, drumming against the pavement as Alex hurried down the busy New York street, clutching a coffee cup in one hand and his bag in the other. He was late—again. The city, always alive, pulsed around him as people rushed for shelter, the scent of wet concrete filling the air. His thoughts swirled with work stress, deadlines, and the ever-present nagging loneliness that seemed to creep up more often lately. Then, just as he turned the corner, he collided with someone—hot coffee spilling over his hand. "Shit—!" He hissed, looking up, ready to apologize. But his words caught in his throat. The man in front of him, tall and striking, wiped his shirt with a crumpled napkin, amusement flickering in his deep brown eyes. "Guess I needed to wake up anyway," he chuckled.
Alex felt his face heat up, and not just from the spilled coffee. "I—I’m so sorry. Let me—""It’s fine," the stranger interrupted with a grin.
"I’m Chris. You always make this kind of first impression?"
Alex let out a breathy laugh, still flustered.
"Only on special occasions."
That was the beginning.
Chapter 2: First Conversations
The coffee shop was warm, the scent of roasted beans filling the air as Alex and Chris settled into a small table by the window. Alex had insisted on buying Chris a new coffee, and somehow, the conversation had carried on from there.
"So, what do you do?" Chris asked, stirring his drink lazily.
Alex smiled, rubbing the rim of his cup. "Graphic design. You?"
Chris hesitated for a moment, then smirked. "Tattoo artist."
Alex raised an eyebrow. "That explains the ink."
Chris grinned and stretched his arm, showing off intricate black lines weaving up his forearm. "It’s kind of my thing. I like stories—people carry them on their skin."
Something about that struck Alex. Stories. He was always fascinated by the idea of permanence, yet he had spent most of his life avoiding it. Relationships, emotions, attachments—all too complicated. "And you? Any ink?" Chris asked, teasingly.
Alex shook his head. "Not yet. I just never found the right design."
Chris leaned in slightly, his presence electric. "Maybe you just haven’t met the right artist."
The heat in Alex’s chest spread, unexpected and thrilling. This was new. This was… exciting.
...
(Want to read more? Full version on amazon kindle)
Transformers: Wild King Anime Shorts Launch on March 26
posted on by Rafael Antonio Pineda
Franchise's 1st anime series produced primarily in Japan in a decade
Takara Tomy announced with a teaser video on Tuesday that it is producing Transformers: Wild King, a new Transformers net series of short anime that will begin streaming on Takara Tomy's YouTube channel on March 26. The series will have 14 episodes, each running for about six minutes.
(Note: Character and place name romanizations are not official) The anime is set in a new world called Elementros, containing transforming animals and dinosaurs called "Energy Beasts." Optimus Prime follows his friend Megatron to Elementros. Optimus is helped by Lightlong, a native of Elementros, who explains to him that Energy Beasts have an affinity for one of five element energies: fire, water, earth, nature, and lightning. When Megatron turns on Optimus, Optimus and Lightlong combine to unleash the power of the Wild King.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, the first film in a planned trilogy for Paramount Pictures' live-action Transformers franchise, opened in June 2023, delayed almost one year from its original June 2022 release date. The film got a release in Japan in August 2023 under the title Transformers: Beast Kakusei. Transformers One, the new animated film prequel to the Transformers franchise, opened in September 2024.
The April issue ofShueisha'sUltra Jumpmagazine announced on Tuesday thatHirohiko Araki'sThus Spoke Kishibe Rohan(Kishibe Rohan wa Ugokanai) spinoff manga will have its 12th story episode titled "Bruschetta" in the magazine's next issue on April 18. The magazine also announced the manga's third compiled book volume will ship on May 19.
The new story is the first in three years since the 11th story episode "Dripping Gahō-hen" (Drip Painting Style), which debuted in two parts in Ultra Jump in April and May 2022.
The live-action film of "At a Confessional" ("Zangeshitsu"), the first-ever story in Thus Spoke Rohan Kishibe, opened in Japan last Friday.
The live-action Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan series' first three episodes debuted in December 2020 for three consecutive nights on the NHK General channel. The second installment of three episodes premiered at the end of December 2021 for three consecutive nights as well. Retro Crush is streaming the first three episodes. Two more episodes premiered in December 2023. The series' overall ninth episode (not including the live-action film) premiered on BS Premium 4K on May 5 and on NHK General on May 10.
The live-action film of Hirohiko Araki's Kishibe Rohan Louvre e Iku (Rohan at the Louvre, or literally, Rohan Kishibe Goes to the Louvre; Rohan au Louvre in French) manga opened in Japan in May 2023. The film sold 221,000 tickets in its first three days to earn 315 million yen (about US$2.26 million). The film debuted on Amazon Prime Video in Japan, France, and 160 other countries and territories around the world in September 2023.
The anime studio david productionadapted two Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan stories as original anime DVDs. The "Fugō Mura" (Millionaire Village) episode was available for people who purchased all 13 DVD or Blu-ray Disc volumes of the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable anime in 2017. The "Mutsukabezaka" (Mutsukabe Hill) episode was bundled with the manga's second volume in 2018. Crunchyrollscreened the overseas premiere of "Fugō Mura" at its Crunchyroll Expo event in August 2019. The studio david production then produced two new episodes, "Zange-shitsu" (Confessional Room) and "The Run," which played at nine screenings at six cities in Japan between December 2020 and March 2021.
Spring 2025 is going to be an exciting season for us anime lovers! With a mix of highly anticipated sequels, fresh adaptations, and long-awaited spin-offs, there's something for everyone. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most awaited titles:
1. Aharen-san wa Hakarenai Season 2
Premiere Date: April 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
The adorable and hilarious chemistry between Aharen and Raidou is back! Fans of slice-of-life romcoms are in for another season of cute misunderstandings and wholesome moments.
2. The Beginning After the End
Premiere Date: April 2, 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
The popular web novel finally gets its anime adaptation! Arthur Leywin’s journey in a world filled with magic and reincarnation is one of the most anticipated fantasy series of the year.
PS: I have read its manhua... just awesome!!
3. Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc
Premiere Date: April 5, 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Ciel and Sebastian return with a new mystery in Germany. This arc is expected to be darker and more intense, bringing back the gothic charm that made Black Butler a classic.
4. Bye Bye, Earth Season 2 Premiere Date: April 4, 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
The first season left us with more questions than answers, and now, season 2 promises to dive deeper into the mysteries of a world without humans. Let's see how things unfold.
5. Fire Force Season 3, Part 1 Premiere Date: April 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Shinra and Company 8 are ready to set the battlefield ablaze! As the story inches closer to the grand finale, expect insane fights, shocking revelations, and more explosive action.
6. From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Premiere Date: April 6, 2025 Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
A refreshing take on the overpowered protagonist trope! Watching a simple village boy rise to legendary swordsman status should be both entertaining and inspiring.
7. Gag Manga Biyori Go Premiere Date: April 5, 2025 Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video & YouTube
Crazy, strange and totally unpredictable—this comedy anime is back to deliver more absurd humor that only Gag Manga Biyori can pull off.
8. Go! Go! Loser Ranger! Season 2 Premiere Date: April 13, 2025 Streaming Platforms: Disney+ & Hulu
The anti-Power Rangers storyline continues! This satirical take on superhero teams has gained a loyal fanbase, and season 2 is expected to up the stakes even more.
Based on the popular fighting game, this anime adaptation will bring stylish battles, deep lore, and iconic characters to the screen.
10. I've Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level Season 2 Premiere Date: April 5, 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
More lighthearted fun from Azusa and her quirky family of immortal adventurers! Expect more laid-back adventures and adorable character moments.
11. Lazarus Premiere Date: April 5, 2025 Streaming Platforms: Adult Swim & Max
12. Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX Premiere Date: April 8, 2025 Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Another entry in the Gundam franchise, bringing epic mecha battles and deep political intrigue. Gundam fans will definitely keep an eye on this one.
13. My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Premiere Date: April 7, 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Set before My Hero Academia, this spin-off follows underground heroes who operate outside the law. A darker and grittier take on the MHA universe.
14. Shōshimin: How to Become Ordinary Season 2 Premiere Date: April 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
The unique story of people trying to be "ordinary" continues. It’s not your typical anime, but that’s what makes it stand out.
15. Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō Premiere Date: March 31, 2025 Streaming Platform: Hidive
An intriguing mix of historical Japan and supernatural elements. Samurai fighting demons? Count me in.
16. Teogonia
Premiere Date: April 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
A dark fantasy that explores war, power, and reincarnation. If you’re into serious world-building and deep storytelling, this one’s for you.
17. To Be Hero X Premiere Date: April 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Another wacky superhero parody, but with surprisingly good action.To Be Herowas underrated, and this sequel might just give it the attention it deserves.
18. Wind Breaker Season 2 Premiere Date: April 2025 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Delinquent battles and high-stakes street fights continue! This one’s for fans of intense action and stylish characters.
19. Witch Watch Premiere Date: April 6, 2025 Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Animation Digital Network, Disney+, Hulu & Netflix
A witch and her bodyguard dealing with high school life—expect supernatural hijinks and romantic comedy elements.
20. Yaiba: Samurai Legend Premiere Date: April 5, 2025 Streaming Platforms: Hulu & Netflix
A historical samurai action series with intense sword fights and a gripping storyline.
These series offer a diverse range of genres and stories, ensuring an exciting Spring 2025 for anime enthusiasts.
Now that 2025 is here, fans will be hyped about all of the new series arriving this year. January was all about excitement, with tons of anime making their return, such as Dr. Stone and The Apothecary Diaries. Yet, this year is more than just the initial month, as there are so many new anime that fans have to dig in to.
This list will rank based on the anticipation/excitement levels for the particular anime and how likely it is to be a good show. Also, only anime that is officially coming out in 2025 can be on this list. From bringing back series such as Spy x Family Season 3 in October and new shows such as The Summer Hikaru Died in July, audiences will have far more than sufficient anime in 2025.
8. City The Animation' (2025)
Many anime fans will recognize this art style, as it was created by the creator of Nichijou, one of the best comedy anime ever. City The Animation is their subsequent work, but instead of dealing with high school girls, it focuses on Midori and her life of adventures in the big city. Unfortunately, with little money and no job, she tries to find any way to scrape by some cash while still being able to continue her fun journeys.
While the manga isn't as good as Nichijou, it is still a wonderful treat of slapstick and surreal humor, with fans clamoring for another series from the author. Nichijou was such a distinct comedy, which is why many fans are excited about City The Animation, especially with its new location and focus. The best and most exciting part is that Kyoto Animation, one of the most renowned anime studios that always deliver, is behind it.
7. Fire Force Season 3 (2025)
2019 introduced some of the best new anime, including Demon Slayer and Vinland Saga. However, Fire Force also hooked people's excitement, with the first two seasons airing in back-to-back years. The anime follows a group of firefighters who can create or control fire as they investigate a mysterious cult and their ominous mission. Fire Force Season 3 releases this April, with a second part coming out in 2026.
This anime is fairly polarizing — some fans love the creativity and action, while others dislike the fan service and slow start. Despite the mixed opinions, the lack of a season 3 has built up the hype levels, with many viewers excited to get back into this world. With this being Fire Force's final season, fans expect the best of the best, considering each season massively improved on the next, meaning this should be the best one yet.
6. Witch Hat Atelier (2025)
Fantasy anime have been all the rage recently, with Frieren and Dungeon Meshi delivering some of the most incredible small-screen experiences. Witch Hat Atelier will surely be the next big thing in a mystical fantasy world. Coco is a normal human who discovers the truth of magic, which starts her journey to become a witch and help save her mother. Witch Hat Atelier is confirmed to be released sometime in 2025.
Manga fans know how good this series is, delivering one of the most creative fantasy series ever. It mixes the hooks of general shonen anime with a unique take on magic and an imaginative fantasy world. The first trailer showed fans that the animation would be spectacular, making Witch Hat Atelier a candidate for the best fantasy anime of 2025. Fans should be skeptical, though, as the studio's previous work had ups and downs.
5. 3-Z Ginpachi Sensei' (2025)
Image via Bandai Namco Pictures
3-Z Ginpachi Sensei marks the return of yet another incredibly popular comedy anime. Gintama ended with a movie in 2021, but fans will finally get more content as this anime adapts a spin-off novel. Instead of their usual antics around Kabukicho, the cast of Gintama goes back to school to give fans countless laughs without any life-threatening action. 3-Z Ginpachi Sensei is coming out in October 2025.
While some fans may be disappointed by the lack of action in this new spin-off, comedy is Gintama's best aspect and is one of the funniest anime ever. While the school setting is a staple of anime, Gintama is sure to freshen it up with its wacky gag humor and surreal goofy comedy. A significant shōnen anime rarely receives a spin-off after its completion, which is why fans are excited about Gintama's return, considering it defined anime in the 2000s.
4.Lazarus' (2025)
Image via Adult Swim
Shinichirō Watanabe is an influential anime director responsible for some of the most well-known anime, including Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. While he had some minor roles, his last major work was in 2019, but Lazarus marks his inevitable return. Set in 2052, a miracle vaccine has created a peaceful world until the creator reveals that it will kill the recipients, prompting a special task force to create a cure.
With multiple trailers, synopsis, cast and crew, fans know almost everything about the anime except its specific release date. However, its 2025 release window is enough for fans to get excited, as every Watanabe anime is fantastic. This series looks to bring back his sci-fi influence with more of an action role, including fluid animation and Chad Stahelski as the action director. Lazarus is one of the most anticipated new anime, with many fans believing it will be the next best sci-fi anime.
3. My Hero Academia Final Season' (2025)
Image via Crunchyroll
Ever since its first season in 2016, My Hero Academia has been one of the most popular anime. With the series reaching its climax last season, the anime is finally about to end with its final season. The war is almost over, but the heroes must defeat a few more villains before they get their happy ending. The final season is in October 2025, but if fans are impatient, they recently announced My Hero Academia: Vigilantes, a spin-off coming out this April.
My Hero Academia has had a bumpy road, with many excellent and poor seasons. However, the last two seasons were some of the best content fans have seen from the series, and they hope the finale is just as good. Viewers can expect phenomenal action and stunning animation. The manga ending is fairly polarizing, but a finale will garner hype and excitement either way, especially when one of the most popular anime is ending.
2. One Punch Man Season 3 (2025)
Studio: JC Staff
Image via Madhouse
Every anime fan knows Saitama, the caped baldy who is just a hero for fun and eliminates his opponents with a single hit. Fans are in luck because the uber-popular anime is returning for its third season sometime this year. One Punch Man season two ended with the monster's association planning a war and Garou becoming stronger, setting up the ensuing madness when the heroes invade the monster's stronghold in season three.
Season one of One Punch Man was one of the greatest things to grace the anime community when it was released. Unfortunately, fans didn't appreciate season two as much, even though it was still decent. While some still have their doubts, season three is still one of the most anticipated anime of 2025 because of One Punch Man's sheer popularity. This season will also include some of the best content from the manga, proving why One Punch Man is one of the greatest animated superhero shows.
1. Dandadan Season 2' (2025)
Image via Science Saru
If one were to ask what the best anime of 2024 is, many fans would respond with Dandadan, a mix of the supernatural and extraterrestrial that dominated the end of the year with its popularity. Momo and Ken continue their perilous journey to retrieve the latter's last golden ball, but before that, they must help Jiji conquer the ominous spirit in his house and town before it consumes him. Dandadan season two releases this summer.
Dandadan is easily the most anticipated anime of 2025 for many reasons. The first season is still fresh in people's minds, meaning fans desperately want a continuation, especially after the major cliffhanger. Season one was also a masterclass of storytelling and excitement, and season two is likely to increase the drama, horror, action, and intrigue. Dandadan is already one of the best anime of the decade, and season two will only improve the show.
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