As 2026 approaches, the fantasy, action, and adventure anime scene is about to welcome a wave of exciting new releases. We have compiled a list of 22 must-watch anime scheduled for 2026, spanning high-octane battles, dark fantasy, and isekai adventures. To help viewers quickly find the most anticipated titles, we first present an overview of all 22 anime in a table, then highlight 10 standout series for detailed discussion. These selected anime feature rich themes, beautiful visuals, and captivating stories. Whether you enjoy intense battles, dark suspense, or heartwarming fantasy, these series deserve a spot on your 2026 watchlist.
22 Must-Watch Fantasy, Action Anime of 2026
Based on early announcements and high fan anticipation, here are some must-watch Fantasy, Action, and Adventure Anime for 2026:
1. Sequels Bringing Back the Action
These are continuations of major series known for their spectacular action and deep fantasy worlds.
| Anime Title | Genre | Why Watch | Expected Release |
| Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku Season 2 | Action, Fantasy, Survival | High-stakes battles and twisted dark fantasy make this season unmissable. | January 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2 | Fantasy, Adventure, Emotional | Experience a touching fantasy adventure as Frieren reflects on the meaning of life while facing new magical challenges. | January 16, 2026（crunchyroll） |
| JUJUTSU KAISEN Season 3: The Culling Game Part 1 | Fantasy, Action, Supernatural, Battle | High-octane sorcery battles and intense character-driven drama make this season a must-watch for action fantasy fans. | January 8, 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 4 (The Finale) | Fantasy, Action, Supernatural, Battle | Epic final battles, dramatic confrontations, and high-stakes supernatural combat make this the ultimate conclusion to the series. | 2026 (TBC) |
| That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 | Isekai, Fantasy, Magic, Adventure | Expands the magical world with new allies, epic battles, and thrilling adventures that fans have been waiting for. | Late 2026 （crunchyroll） |
| Reincarnated as a Sword Season 2 | Isekai, Fantasy, Action, Adventure | Follow a sentient sword and its wielder as they embark on thrilling battles and exciting adventures in a vivid fantasy world. | Fall 2026（hidive） |
| Trigun Stargaze | Fantasy, Action, Sci-Fi Western, Adventure | Revisits the classic Trigun universe with thrilling new adventures and high-octane action for longtime fans and newcomers alike. | January 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Chained Soldier Season 2 | Fantasy, Action, Supernatural, Battle | Continues the intense battles and dark supernatural conflicts, delivering more high-stakes action and dramatic twists. | January 8, 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Fire Force Season 3 - Part II | Supernatural, Fantasy, Action, Adventure | Explosive superpowered battles and high-stakes drama continue in this thrilling second part of the season. | January 9, 2026（crunchyroll） |
| The Beginning After the End Season 2 |
High Fantasy, Magic, Adventure, Isekai | Continues the epic magical adventure with deeper worldbuilding, powerful battles, and complex character growth. | Spring 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Chainsaw Man Season 2 |
Fantasy, Action, Supernatural, Battle | A dark and intensely emotional continuation of Denji’s story with high‑stakes devil battles and shocking character twists. | Mid‑to‑Late 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Golden Kamuy Season 5 |
Historical, Fantasy, Action, Adventure | Continues the thrilling hunt for treasure with intense battles and rich historical and cultural storytelling. | 2026 (TBC) |
2. Exciting New or Highly Anticipated Adaptations
These are adaptations of popular manga and novels with high expectations for stunning fantasy and action sequences.
| Anime Title | Genre | Why Watch | Anticipated Release |
| The Holy Grail of Eris |
Fantasy, Mystery, Supernatural, Noble Conspiracy | A gripping tale of revenge, nobility, and supernatural mystery, driven by the unlikely bond between a pure-hearted noblewoman and a vengeful ghost. |
January 8, 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Hell Mode: The Hardcore Gamer |
Fantasy, Action, Game Isekai, Adventure | Follow a hardcore gamer trapped in a deadly game world, featuring intense battles and strategic gameplay elements. |
January 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Reincarnated as a Dragon Hatchling |
Isekai, Fantasy, Adventure, Progression | Follow the journey of a tiny dragon hatching into a powerful creature in a rich fantasy world. | January 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Daemons of the Shadow Realm (Yuru) (New Series) | Dark Fantasy, Action, Supernatural | A fresh magical adventure with thrilling battles and a richly designed shadow world that promises excitement for fantasy fans. | April 2026 （crunchyroll） |
| Rooster Fighter |
Fantasy, Action, Supernatural, Shonen Comedy | A wild and absurd action series combining epic battles with humor, promising an unforgettable and over-the-top experience. | Spring 2026（crunchyroll） |
| MAO |
Fantasy, Supernatural, Action, Yokai | A dark fantasy adventure blending ancient curses, yokai battles, and a mysterious storyline from legendary mangaka Rumiko Takahashi. | Spring 2026（crunchyroll） |
| Witch Hat Atelier (New Series) | Fantasy, Magic, Adventure, Whimsical | Stunning magical visuals and imaginative worldbuilding make this a must-see for fans of charming fantasy adventures. | 2026 (TBC)（crunchyroll） |
| Sentenced to Be a Hero: The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004 (New Series) | Dark Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Isekai | Follows a unique team of penal heroes tackling dangerous missions, combining thrilling action with dark humor. | 2026 (TBC) |
| There Was A Cute Girl In The Hero's Party | Isekai, Fantasy, Adventure, Heartwarming | A charming adventure blending fantasy battles with heartwarming character interactions in a hero party. | 2026 (TBC) |
| Sekiro: No Defeat | Dark Samurai Fantasy, Action, Fantasy | Brutal samurai action in a dark, immersive world with high-stakes battles and strategic combat. | 2026 (TBC) |
Selected 10 Must-Watch Fantasy, Action Anime
After reviewing 22 must-watch fantasy, action, and adventure anime of 2026, we've handpicked the 10 standout series that truly shine. Each anime not only delivers gripping storylines and breathtaking action but also brings its own unique charm. Whether you’re drawn to dark fantasy, intense battle-driven plots, or heartwarming and thought-provoking tales, these 10 series are unmissable. Let’s dive into their core highlights, reasons to watch, and captivating storylines.
1. JUJUTSU KAISEN Season 3: The Culling Game
Core Highlights：Top-tier action sequences, power upgrades, and intense character conflicts
Why It's Great：Maintains top-tier animation and plot tension, incorporating complex strategy and psychological battles. Each fight is not only a clash of strength but also of intelligence and conviction. With new enemies and conspiracies emerging constantly, the story is fast-paced and full of climaxes, making it a classic shonen battle anime.
The Premise: Jujutsu sorcerers are drawn into the new “Culling Game,” where survival is the ultimate goal. Every battle and choice can be life-or-death, and trust and betrayal between characters intertwine. As the game progresses, hidden conspiracies are revealed, and each character grows while confronting inner fears and desires. With intense battles, unpredictable enemies, and deep character development, the story is full of suspense and excitement.
2. Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku Season 2
Core Highlights：Dark fantasy, psychological depth, betrayals, and life-or-death choices
Why It's Great：Maintains the tension and suspense of the first season, deeply exploring characters’ desires and psychological limits. Monsters, unknown traps, and complex interpersonal dynamics make the story unpredictable. Each battle tests not only skill but also characters’ beliefs and moral choices. The pacing is tight, full of surprises, with dark atmosphere and psychological depth that immerse viewers.
The Premise: Ninjas and criminals journey to a mysterious island in search of the elixir of immortality, facing deadly monsters and unknown dangers. Each participant carries their own desires and secrets, leading to constant clashes of trust and betrayal. As the journey progresses, hidden truths about the island emerge, and life-or-death decisions appear frequently, each with unexpected consequences. Characters grow under danger and psychological pressure, creating a tense, thrilling, and deeply human story.
3. Chainsaw Man Season 2
Core Highlights：Dark humor, breathtaking battles, and psychological/human conflicts
Why It's Great：Continues the manga’s dark humor and adult themes, with meticulously crafted and gory action scenes. Character bonds, psychological changes, and explorations of human nature make the story profound. Action, humor, and dark realism blend perfectly, exemplifying modern fantasy combined with psychological depth.
The Premise: Denji continues fighting with the devil-hunting organization, facing more powerful devils and complex relationships. He must make difficult choices at the edge of life and death while exploring his delicate bond with devils. New enemies and unexpected events continually arise, keeping the story tense and suspenseful. Each battle brings gore, excitement, and psychological impact, while deeply portraying human nature and desire. The story is thrilling, emotionally rich, and blends fantasy with dark reality.
4. Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2
Core Highlights：Heartwarming and philosophical, exploring time, friendship, and life
Why It's Great：After completing her world-saving journey, Frieren embarks on a journey of self-discovery, reflecting on past adventures and companions. The story is tranquil and heartwarming, while exploring the passage of time, the brevity of life, and the value of friendship, making it ideal for fans of slow-paced, philosophical fantasy.
The Premise: Frieren embarks on a journey reflecting on past companions and adventures, recalling moments of warmth and sorrow. New challenges and companions help her redefine friendship, responsibility, and the meaning of life. As the story progresses, characters’ emotions and inner changes are delicately portrayed, while exploring the passage of time and personal growth. The story is heartwarming and thought-provoking, allowing viewers to experience genuine human emotions within a fantasy world.
5. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4
Core Highlights：Expansive world-building, national politics, and strategic battles
Why It's Great：Rimuru continues consolidating his position in the isekai world, facing new national threats and demon lord challenges. The story combines strategy, combat, and character growth, with new characters and conspiracies constantly emerging. Tightly paced and full of fantasy, it’s a must-watch for isekai adventure fans.
The Premise: Rimuru must navigate politics, diplomacy, and warfare while uncovering hidden secrets of the world. The emergence of new threats and enemies heightens tension, and the interplay among various factions is intricate. Character bonds and conflicts gradually develop, with magical battles beautifully depicted. The story is fast-paced and full of climaxes, showcasing character growth and strategic thinking, immersing viewers in an expansive isekai adventure.
6. The Beginning After the End S2
Core Highlights：Power progression, expanded world-building, and character awakening
Why It's Great：Season 2 takes viewers into a much wider and more dangerous world, expanding the magic systems and historical lore. Arthur’s development goes beyond power—it reflects growth in responsibility, purpose, and emotional depth. New characters, races, and threats flesh out a vast and immersive world. With tight pacing, strong action sequences, and richer emotional themes, this season stands out as a high-quality fantasy progression story.
The Premise: After his Season 1 adventures, Arthur embarks on tougher training and new responsibilities. He faces growing threats, inter-racial conflicts, and signs of impending war, while also uncovering the deeper truths behind magic. External crises intensify as Arthur’s past, destiny, and internal struggles surface. Season 2 explores large-scale world politics, ancient racial history, and Arthur’s rise in a turbulent era—offering tension, layered storytelling, and compelling character growth.
7. Reincarnated as a Sword S2
Core Highlights：Overpowered weapon concept, partnership growth, and expanded adventure exploration
Why It's Great：This season further deepens the bond between Fran and her sentient “Teacher Sword,” while exploring more dangerous dungeons and fierce monster battles. Known for blending lighthearted adventure with thrilling action, the series offers charming character dynamics and progressively upgraded combat abilities. It’s an ideal pick for fans of “overpowered MC + heartfelt partnership” stories.
The Premise: Fran continues her journey with her reincarnated weapon “Master,” challenging tougher dungeons and monsters in pursuit of strength and personal goals. New enemies, adventurer groups, and hidden world secrets emerge, forcing Fran to confront the meaning of strength, responsibility, and self-worth. Their bond grows deeper as battles intensify and the world’s mysteries unfold. Lighthearted yet meaningful, the story blends adventure with heartfelt character development.
8. MAO
Core Highlights：Japanese yokai fantasy, time-travel mystery, and emotionally driven character dynamics
Why It's Great：From legendary creator Rumiko Takahashi, MAO presents a rich blend of yokai fantasy, eerie mysteries, and time-travel elements. The story mixes romance-like tension, ancient curses, and supernatural powers, all delivered with Takahashi’s signature pacing and character chemistry. Filled with strange incidents, dark forces, and intricate emotional ties, it's a must-watch for fans of Japanese supernatural fantasy.
The Premise: After a mysterious accident in the modern world, Nanoka is transported to the Taishō era and entangled in a chain of supernatural events. She teams up with the enigmatic onmyoji MAO to investigate curses, yokai, and eerie incidents—all while uncovering the connection between her fate and this strange parallel world. Each episode reveals deeper mysteries, hidden powers, and emotionally subtle bonds. Atmospheric, eerie, and romantically charged, the series offers a gripping supernatural adventure.
9. Golden Kamuy Season 5
Core Highlights：Historical adventure, indigenous culture, and thrilling survival treasure hunt
Why It's Great：Renowned for its tight storytelling, multi-perspective narrative, and rich cultural depth, Golden Kamuy’s fifth season pushes the treasure hunt toward its climax. Ainu culture, Hokkaido landscapes, and historical details are vividly portrayed, balancing entertainment with cultural significance. Chases, betrayals, foreshadowing payoffs, and decisive character moments create a densely packed and highly engaging adventure.
The Premise: Sugimoto and Asirpa continue tracking clues to the legendary gold, while various factions close in on the same prize. Alliances shift, betrayals erupt, and life-or-death decisions reshape the characters’ fates. Ainu cultural nuances and realistic geographical settings enrich the world, as larger-scale confrontations and psychological battles ensue. Tense, emotional, and unpredictable, the story builds toward an explosive climax.
10. Witch Hat Atelier (New Series)
Core Highlights：Artbook-level visuals, handcrafted world-building, and atelier-style fantasy
Why It's Great：Witch Hat Atelier is praised for its stunning, artbook-like visuals and delicate but grand fantasy world. The series explores the theme of “creation and consequences in magic,” balancing warmth with mystery and danger. With clear character development, a meticulously designed magic system, and a deeply immersive world, it’s a must-watch for fans of carefully crafted fantasy.
The Premise: Ordinary girl Coco accidentally encounters forbidden magic and is drawn into the world of witches. She trains in an atelier while dealing with the unforeseen consequences of her actions. Each spell involves rules, risks, and creativity; her journey is one of trials, friendships, and awakening responsibility. The series showcases breathtaking magical visuals, mysterious creatures, and a unique magical system, immersing viewers in a warm yet mysterious fantasy realm.
These 10 selected anime showcase the best of fantasy and action-adventure in 2025, each with unique charm and captivating stories. Some are thrilling and action-packed, some are dark and suspenseful, while others are heartwarming and thought-provoking, offering something for every taste. If these 10 have captured your interest, the remaining 12 anime are also worth exploring！