1. Arcane

Okay, so Arcane. If you haven’t seen it yet, where have you been? Seriously, it’s not just a good animated show; it’s a genuinely great show, period. Based on the League of Legends universe, but don’t let that put you off if you’re not a gamer. I’m not, and I was hooked from episode one.

It’s set in Piltover and Zaun, two cities with a massive divide between the haves and have-nots. The animation style is stunning, kind of a mix of 2D and 3D, and the story is gripping. It deals with some pretty heavy stuff, like corruption, violence, and family drama. Plus, the characters are so well-developed; you actually care about what happens to them. Season 2 is coming in November 2024, and I reckon it’ll be a banger. Can’t wait to see what happens with Jinx and Vi!

2. Big Mouth

Okay, so Big Mouth. Where do I even start? This show is wild, hilarious, and sometimes, just plain awkward – which, let’s be honest, is pretty much what puberty feels like. Inspired by the creators’ own cringe-worthy childhoods, it’s a cartoon about a group of mates trying to figure out adolescence with the ‘help’ of their hormone monsters.

And get this, 2025 marks the final season. Yep, season eight will be the last, making it the longest-running Netflix series outside of kids and family stuff. That’s a solid run! I’m keen to see how they wrap things up for Nick, Andrew, Jessi, and all the other characters. It’s been a journey watching them navigate puberty and adolescence, that’s for sure.

The show’s not afraid to tackle anything, from first crushes to body image issues, and it does it all with a healthy dose of crude humour. It’s definitely not one to watch with the family unless you’re prepared for some serious awkward silences. But if you’re after a laugh and a bit of nostalgia for those confusing teenage years, Big Mouth is a winner. I’m going to miss it when it’s gone, but I’m also excited to see what the creators do next.

3. Blue Eye Samurai

Okay, Blue Eye Samurai is something else. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but wow. The animation style is gorgeous, and the story is gripping. It’s set in Edo-period Japan and follows Mizu, a mixed-race warrior on a revenge mission. Seriously, the fight scenes are incredible.

It’s not just mindless action, though. The show deals with some pretty heavy themes like identity, prejudice, and the search for belonging. The voice acting is top-notch too; Maya Erskine absolutely kills it as Mizu. If you’re after something with depth, stunning visuals, and a compelling story, this is it. It’s easy to see why it won an Emmy. I’d say it’s one of the best action movies on Netflix right now, animated or otherwise. Definitely worth checking out. I’m already hanging out for season two!

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Stunning animation style
• Compelling revenge story
• Explores themes of identity and prejudice

4. CoComelon Lane

Okay, so CoComelon Lane is definitely aimed at the younger crowd, but hey, sometimes you just need something bright and cheerful on the screen, right? It’s a spin-off from the mega-popular CoComelon, focusing on JJ and his pals as they navigate all those big kid milestones. Think learning the alphabet, understanding feelings, and just generally being good little humans.

It’s pretty simple stuff, but the songs are catchy (maybe a little too catchy – fair warning, they will get stuck in your head). Honestly, if you’ve got little ones, this is a lifesaver for keeping them entertained. And if you don’t? Well, maybe skip this one unless you’re really into super-sweet, educational content. No judgement here, though!

5. Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio

Okay, so this one isn’t exactly new, having dropped in 2022, but it’s still a must-watch and deserves a spot on this list. I mean, it’s Guillermo del Toro, right? You know it’s going to be something special. This isn’t your average Disney Pinocchio; it’s a darker, more mature take on the classic tale, set in Mussolini’s Italy. It’s visually stunning, with incredible stop-motion animation that just sucks you right in.

The film is a grand narrative that critiques fascism while celebrating the significance of family and the profound parent and child love. Seriously, the artistry is just breathtaking. But it’s not just pretty to look at; the story is genuinely moving, exploring themes of life, death, and what it means to be human (or, well, a puppet). If you missed it the first time around, definitely give it a watch. It’s the kind of film that stays with you long after the credits roll. Plus, who doesn’t love a good, slightly twisted fairy tale?

6. Leo

Okay, so Leo might seem like a bit of a left-field choice for a ‘must-watch’ animated show, especially when you’re thinking about stuff like Arcane or Castlevania. But hear me out. This movie, starring Adam Sandler as a lizard, is surprisingly heartwarming. It’s about a class pet who’s been stuck in the same classroom for decades, and he decides he needs to escape before he, well, kicks the bucket.

It’s got that classic Sandler humour, but it’s also got a really sweet message about growing up and figuring out what you want to do with your life. Plus, the animation is actually pretty good! It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s definitely watchable. If you’re after something lighthearted and a bit different, give animated movies like Leo a go. You might be surprised.

I reckon it’s a good one to chuck on when you just want to chill out and not think too hard. It’s definitely made its way into my regular rotation of stuff to watch when I’m feeling a bit blah.

7. The Dragon Prince

Okay, so The Dragon Prince is definitely making the list. I remember when it first came out, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it totally sucked me in. It’s got that Avatar: The Last Airbender vibe, but it’s also doing its own thing, you know? The animation style took a bit to get used to at first, but the story and characters are just so good that you quickly forget about it.

I think what really makes it stand out is the world-building. It’s so detailed and well-thought-out, and you can tell that the creators really put a lot of love into it. Plus, the characters are all so likeable, even the ones you’re supposed to hate. I’m always a sucker for a good redemption arc, and this show has a few of them. If you’re looking for binge-worthy documentaries, this isn’t it, but it’s a great animated series.

Here’s why it’s a must-watch:

• The story is engaging from start to finish.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable.
• The world-building is top-notch.

I’m really looking forward to seeing what they do with the later seasons. It’s one of those shows that just keeps getting better and better, and I can’t wait to see where they take it next.

8. The Cuphead Show!

Okay, so The Cuphead Show! might seem like it’s just for kids, but trust me, it’s got some serious charm for adults too. It’s based on that super hard video game with the amazing 1930s cartoon style, and the show nails that vibe perfectly. The animation is slick, the jokes are actually funny, and it’s just a fun, light-hearted watch.

I reckon it’s a great one to chuck on when you just want to switch your brain off after a long day. Plus, the theme song is an absolute banger. Seriously, try not to sing along, I dare ya.

9. Castlevania

Okay, so Castlevania is a bit of a classic at this point, right? It wrapped up its main storyline a while back, but it’s still worth a mention because it’s just that good. If you haven’t seen it, you’re missing out on some seriously stylish animation and a dark, gothic story that really sucks you in. It’s based on the video game series, obviously, but you don’t need to be a gamer to appreciate it.

It’s got vampires, demons, and a whole lot of action. Plus, the voice acting is top-notch. And if you have seen it, well, maybe it’s time for a rewatch? I reckon it holds up pretty well. Plus, Castlevania: Nocturne is a thing, so you can always check that out too!

10. Inside Job

Inside Job is a wild ride, and if you haven’t checked it out yet, 2025 is the year to do it. It’s an animated comedy about the shadow government – the people who really run things behind the scenes. Think conspiracy theories, but they’re all true, and someone has to manage the chaos. It’s created by Shion Takeuchi, who worked on Gravity Falls, so you know it’s got that smart, quirky humour.

The show follows Reagan Ridley, a brilliant but socially awkward engineer, as she tries to climb the ranks at Cognito Inc., the company that controls the world. She’s got big ideas about making the world a better place, but her dysfunctional team and the insane conspiracies they deal with make it a bit of a challenge.

Here’s why it’s a must-watch:

• The humour is sharp and satirical. It pokes fun at everything from government secrets to corporate culture.
• The characters are all messed up in the best way possible. You’ve got a dolphin psychic, a mushroom person from Hollow Earth, and a bunch of other weirdos.
• It’s surprisingly insightful. Underneath all the craziness, there are some real thoughts about power, control, and what it means to be human (or whatever these characters are).

I reckon if you’re into shows like Rick and Morty or Bojack Horseman, you’ll dig Inside Job. It’s smart, funny, and just plain bonkers. Plus, with new episodes potentially dropping in 2025, now’s the perfect time to get on board. You can catch up on the top Netflix series before the new season drops!

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it, the top animated shows on Netflix that you really shouldn’t miss in 2025. Whether you’re into heartfelt stories, laugh-out-loud comedies, or epic adventures, there’s something for everyone. These shows are not just for kids; they’ve got layers that appeal to all ages. Grab your snacks, get comfy, and prepare for some binge-watching sessions. With so many great options, you might just find your new favourite series. Happy watching!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best animated show on Netflix in 2025?

One of the top animated shows you shouldn’t miss is ‘Arcane’, which has received a lot of praise for its storytelling and animation.

Is ‘Big Mouth’ suitable for kids?

No, ‘Big Mouth’ is an adult animated series that deals with mature themes and may not be appropriate for younger viewers.

When does ‘Blue Eye Samurai’ come out?

‘Blue Eye Samurai’ is set to premiere in 2025, and it promises to be an exciting addition to Netflix’s lineup.

What age group is ‘CoComelon Lane’ aimed at?

‘CoComelon Lane’ is designed for preschool children, focusing on fun and educational content.

Is ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ a family-friendly movie?

Yes, ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ is suitable for family viewing, offering a unique take on the classic story.

What can we expect from ‘Leo’?

‘Leo’ is a fun animated film that follows the adventures of a lizard, making it great for family audiences.

Will ‘The Dragon Prince’ have more seasons?

Yes, ‘The Dragon Prince’ has been confirmed for additional seasons, continuing its captivating story.

Is ‘Inside Job’ a good show for teens?

‘Inside Job’ is aimed at an older audience, featuring themes that may be more suitable for teens and adults.