by Japan’s popular entertainment review platform Filmarks has officially released its “Anime Ranking for the First Half of 2026,” highlighting the highest-rated anime based on user reviews and star ratings.
The rankings cover anime that aired or were streamed in Japan between January 1 and June 30, 2026, offering a snapshot of the year’s biggest critical favorites. While highly anticipated sequel series dominated much of the list, several brand-new titles—including Nihon Sangoku and Ikoku Nikki—earned impressive scores and proved they could compete with some of anime’s biggest franchises.
Leading the rankings is Steel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, the long-awaited anime adaptation of Part 7 of Hirohiko Araki’s legendary manga series.
Steel Ball Run Claims the No. 1 Spot
Taking first place with an outstanding 4.45-star rating, Steel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has quickly become one of the most acclaimed anime of 2026.
The series adapts the seventh arc of Hirohiko Araki’s iconic JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure manga, widely regarded by fans as one of the franchise’s greatest storylines.
Filmarks users praised several aspects of the adaptation, particularly its breathtaking animation and faithful storytelling.
Many viewers commented on the stunning visuals of the horse races across the vast American landscape, while longtime manga readers applauded how faithfully the anime recreated Araki’s artwork and dramatic storytelling.
Fans also expressed excitement for upcoming episodes, suggesting that the adaptation has successfully met the enormous expectations surrounding one of the most beloved parts of the JoJo series.
Popular Sequels Continue Their Strong Run
The remainder of the Top 3 was filled by highly anticipated sequel anime that continued to receive strong support from audiences.
Dorohedoro Season 2 secured second place with a 4.33-star rating, earning praise for preserving the unique blend of dark fantasy, mystery, and offbeat humor that made the first season a cult favorite.
Meanwhile, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2 ranked third with 4.29 stars, continuing the emotional fantasy journey that has captivated anime fans around the world since the franchise’s television debut.
Both series demonstrate how successful follow-up seasons can maintain exceptionally high audience satisfaction when they build upon already beloved stories.
New Anime Stand Out Against Major Franchises
Although sequels occupied many of the highest positions, several completely new television anime also delivered impressive performances.
Nihon Sangoku — No. 4 (★4.27)
One of the biggest surprises of the rankings was Nihon Sangoku, which finished in fourth place with an excellent 4.27-star rating.
Competing directly against globally recognized franchises, the original storytelling and fresh world-building helped the series earn widespread praise from viewers.
Seihanta na Kimi to Boku — No. 5 (★4.26)
Another standout newcomer was Seihanta na Kimi to Boku, which secured fifth place with 4.26 stars.
Its compelling characters and emotionally engaging narrative made it one of the highest-rated new anime of the season.
Ikoku Nikki — No. 6 (★4.25)
Following closely behind was Ikoku Nikki, earning 4.25 stars and placing sixth overall.
The series impressed audiences with its heartfelt storytelling, thoughtful character development, and emotional atmosphere, proving that original dramas can still compete alongside blockbuster action franchises.
More Fan Favorites Round Out the Top 10
Several other major anime releases completed the Top 10 rankings.
- Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE Season 3 — ★4.23
The latest installment of Dr. STONE continued Senku’s scientific adventures while maintaining the franchise’s reputation for combining education, comedy, and action.
- Golden Kamuy: The Final Chapter — ★4.23
The concluding chapter of Golden Kamuy delivered another highly praised season, bringing viewers closer to the epic finale of the long-running historical adventure series.
- Medalist Season 2 — ★4.22
The sports drama Medalist returned with another emotional season centered on competitive figure skating, earning continued praise for its inspiring storytelling and beautifully animated performances.
- Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3: The Death Reversal Part 1 — ★4.20
Closing the Top 10 is the latest chapter of Jujutsu Kaisen, which continues one of the world’s most successful modern shonen franchises with intense battles and dramatic character development.
Filmarks Top 10 Anime of the First Half of 2026
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3
Rank Anime Rating
1 Steel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure ★4.45
2 Dorohedoro Season 2 ★4.33
3 Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2 ★4.29
4 Nihon Sangoku ★4.27
5 Seihanta na Kimi to Boku ★4.26
6 Ikoku Nikki ★4.25
7 Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE Season 3 ★4.23
8 Golden Kamuy: The Final Chapter ★4.23
9 Medalist Season 2 ★4.22
10 Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3: The Death Reversal Part 1 ★4.20
What Makes the Filmarks Rankings Important?
Unlike rankings based solely on television ratings or streaming numbers, the Filmarks Anime Ranking reflects user reviews and average star scores, making it a useful indicator of overall audience satisfaction.
The platform allows viewers to rate anime after watching, meaning the rankings highlight not just popularity but also how well each series resonated with fans.
Because the rankings are based on thousands of user reviews collected throughout the season, they provide a valuable snapshot of which anime left the strongest impression on audiences during the first half of 2026.
A Strong Start to Anime in 2026
The first half of 2026 showcased an impressive balance between blockbuster sequels and outstanding new series.
While established franchises such as JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Frieren, Dorohedoro, Dr. STONE, Golden Kamuy, and Jujutsu Kaisen continued to dominate fan discussions, newcomers like Nihon Sangoku, Seihanta na Kimi to Boku, and Ikoku Nikki proved that fresh stories can still earn widespread critical acclaim.
As the Summer and Fall 2026 anime seasons continue, fans can expect even more competition for the year’s highest-rated titles, making the race for the top of the annual Filmarks rankings even more exciting.
