As an anime fan, I was already hyped for the Winter 2026 season, especially with the return of big names like Jujutsu Kaisen and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. But it’s not just those well-known shows that are getting attention. Looking at the current rankings, it’s amazing to see that a full ten series currently airing have a rating of 8.0 or higher! That means if you’re looking for something new to watch, there’s plenty of great content available right now.
As the winter season reaches its midpoint, certain shows are proving to be particularly popular with viewers. While surprises are always possible – some less-known shows could become hits, and some current favorites might falter – these series are currently predicted to be the biggest successes of Winter 2026.
The following series are all currently available to stream on Crunchyroll.
Fire Force (Season 3, Part 2)
- Current MAL Rating: 8.04
Since its debut in 2019, Fire Force has been incredibly popular, so fans were eagerly awaiting Season 3, which arrived in early 2026. The show centers around a team of firefighters who can control fire and are fighting monsters that threaten Tokyo – the last city standing after a devastating worldwide inferno. With exciting action, compelling characters, and a captivating story, Fire Force has consistently attracted and kept a dedicated fanbase thanks to its blend of classic shonen elements and a truly original concept.
Despite currently having a strong rating of 8.04 on MAL, the future of Fire Force Season 3 Part 2 is uncertain. The show has 88 manga chapters to cover in just 13 episodes, which raises worries that the pacing and overall quality might decline. Viewers haven’t expressed major concerns yet, but it remains to be seen if the season will finish strongly.
You and I Are Polar Opposites
- Current MAL Rating: 8.18
Since it premiered in January 2026, the anime series You and I Are Polar Opposites has received fantastic reviews, even though it hasn’t gotten as much attention as some other popular shows. The story centers around Miyu and Yusuke, two high school students who are complete opposites. Miyu is energetic, popular, and loves being the center of attention, while Yusuke is quiet and doesn’t hesitate to speak his mind. As the saying goes, opposites attract, and that’s certainly true here – Miyu unexpectedly falls for her reserved classmate and eventually finds the courage to tell him how she feels.
People are raving about this new series online, with many calling the first episode one of the best of the year so far. Fans are already connecting with the characters, and the animation is getting a lot of praise for its bright colors and smooth style. If you’re looking for a lighthearted and enjoyable anime to watch, especially with so many darker shows out there, this romcom is definitely worth checking out.
Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku (Season 2)
- Current MAL Rating: 8.21
I was immediately captivated when Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku first came out in 2023. The show really grabbed me with its exciting action, interesting characters, and beautiful animation. It’s a dark fantasy set in old Japan, and it follows a ninja named Gabimaru and his executioner partner, Yamada Asaemon Sagiri. They’re on a dangerous mission to find a legendary elixir that supposedly grants immortality. For Gabimaru, it’s a matter of life and death – he’s facing execution, and finding this elixir is his only chance at a pardon.
Viewers were thrilled when Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku came back in January 2026, and Season 2 is proving to be even stronger. The animation looks even more refined, and the Lord Tensen Arc is full of intense action while Sagiri and Gabimaru continue to develop. With a strong rating of 8.21 on MAL, fans are hoping the second season maintains its exciting momentum until the very end.
Sentenced to Be a Hero
- Current MAL Rating: 8.23
The anime series Sentenced to Be a Hero quickly became a standout hit this season, and it’s easy to see why. The premiere episode, which aired on January 3rd, 2026, immediately captivated audiences with its stunning animation, original storyline, and thrilling action. The story centers around Xylo Forbartz, a disgraced former knight commander convicted of a heinous crime: killing a goddess. As punishment, he’s branded a Hero – a position society despises. In this world, Heroes are condemned to an endless battle against terrifying monsters, repeatedly resurrected with each death, but losing a piece of their humanity each time. During one such mission, Xylo encounters the sword goddess Teoritta, and the two form a fragile partnership.
People are still loving Sentenced to Be a Hero, praising its intriguing fantasy world and memorable characters. The dynamic between Xylo, who’s a bit rough around the edges, and the cheerful, optimistic Teoritta is especially appealing. Many viewers find the show instantly captivating, and some are even calling it their new favorite after enjoying My Hero Academia.
Golden Kamuy (Final Season)
- Current MAL Rating: 8.31
The highly anticipated final season of the adventure anime Golden Kamuy has begun, and it’s off to a strong start. The series, which premiered in April 2018, follows Saichi Sugimoto, a soldier from the Russo-Japanese War, as he searches for a hidden fortune of gold with the help of a young Ainu woman named Asirpa. While fans quickly embraced the show for its exciting story and action, it’s also resonated with viewers for its thoughtful exploration of themes like the struggles of war veterans and the challenges of overcoming trauma.
The last season of Golden Kamuy is based on the final part of Satoru Noda’s manga, and fans have praised its better animation and how closely it follows the original comic. Brain’s Base, the animation studio, also has plans for several new shows in 2026, including the romantic comedy Yowayowa Sensei in April and the fantasy series The Level 999 Villager later in the year.
Fate/strange Fake
- Current MAL Rating: 8.51
Fans have been waiting a while for the next installment of Fate/strange Fake. The series first came to anime in July 2023, with a follow-up series in December 2024, and the story is now continuing as of January. Like other Fate series, it centers around a Holy Grail War, where participants summon legendary heroes to battle for the Holy Grail – a powerful artifact said to grant any wish. This season, though, the participants – both Masters and the Heroic Spirits they summon – are full of surprises, and the mysteries begin right away in the first episode.
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This latest season of Fate/strange Fake is a step up from previous ones, with noticeably better animation, a more unpredictable plot, and more exciting fight scenes. Though it’s a bit different than what loyal fans might be used to, it’s been a pleasant surprise, and the show’s new look is attracting a lot of new viewers to the Fate series. Earning an 8.51 rating on MyAnimeList is a significant achievement.
Oshi no Ko (Season 3)
- Current MAL Rating: 8.53
Since its debut in 2023, the anime Oshi no Ko has experienced some highs and lows, but it’s now regaining popularity. The story begins with Gorou Amamiya, a doctor and huge fan of pop idol Ai Hoshino, who is secretly helping her with her pregnancy. Tragically, Gorou is murdered on the night the twins are born, and is reborn as one of them, named Aqua, remembering his past life. Aqua’s twin sister, Ruby, is also a reincarnation – she was one of Gorou’s patients and a fan of Ai as well. After Ai is murdered by the same person who killed Gorou, the twins set out to get revenge by entering the entertainment world.
The third season of Oshi no Ko kicks off with Aqua growing in popularity as a public figure, and Ruby continuing to deceive others in her pursuit of stardom. Viewers are immediately captivated by the show’s mix of comedy and serious themes, making it a highly anticipated release for Winter 2026. The season’s strong start and clever writing are generating buzz online, and fans are hoping this high quality continues throughout the entire season.
Journal with Witch
- Current MAL Rating: 8.58
Each season, the most popular anime usually feature exciting action, clear conflicts between heroes and villains, imaginative worlds, or grand, sprawling storylines. However, in Winter 2026, Journal with Witch unexpectedly became a hit despite lacking all of these elements. This anime offers a realistic and moving story about dealing with loss and understanding oneself, and it deeply resonated with many viewers, who have enthusiastically shared their appreciation for its unique approach on social media.
Journal with Witch follows Asa Takumi, a 15-year-old starting high school who is dealing with the recent loss of her parents. She goes to live with her aunt, Makio Kodai, who hasn’t been close to Asa’s mother for years and enjoys her own company. The story explores how Asa and her aunt adjust to their new life together and the challenges they face, each growing in their own way. While the series deals with difficult themes, it also offers moments of humor and valuable life lessons.
Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 3, Part 1)
- Current MAL Rating: 8.60
Season 3 of Jujutsu Kaisen is incredibly popular, currently ranking as one of the highest-rated series on MAL. This season adapts the ‘Culling Game’ arc from the manga, where Yuji and his friends must battle Kenjaku and rescue the powerful Satoru Gojo from a mysterious prison. The Culling Game itself is a brutal, battle royale-style competition taking place across Japan, forcing players to fight to the death in designated areas. Expect intense action, returning characters, and a great soundtrack.
Although most fans are enjoying the new season of Jujutsu Kaisen – giving it a score of 8.60 at the time of this writing – there’s also been some criticism. Some viewers have noticed the animation seems rushed, and others feel the story and writing aren’t as strong as in earlier seasons. However, some fans argue that these criticisms come from those who expected the anime to perfectly follow the manga.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (Season 2)
- Current MAL Rating: 9.20
In the Winter 2026 anime season, only the second season of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has achieved a score of 9.0 or higher on MyAnimeList. The series continues to impress viewers with its mix of heartwarming stories and exciting magical battles. While Season 2 hasn’t featured as much action so far, fans aren’t complaining. Frieren has always prioritized emotional depth and character-driven side stories over constant fighting or complicated plots. Some have criticized its slow pace, but the consistently high ratings prove that unseating this popular fantasy anime would be a major upset.
The Winter 2026 anime season was full of great shows, and the rest of the year looks promising too. We can look forward to returning favorites like Re:Zero, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, Classroom of the Elite, and One Piece in the spring. Plus, a new Ghost in the Shell series is scheduled for July, and The Apothecary Diaries will be back this fall.
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2026-02-18 01:09