A strong first season gets a series started, but some anime only become phenomena once later seasons arrive. These eight are regularly cited as shows that grew in popularity, acclaim or ambition after Season 1. “More popular” is hard to measure exactly, so this list leans on awards, ratings and critical coverage rather than viewing figures, and it covers eight titles rather than ten.
- Mob Psycho 100. The first season aired in July 2016 and was already praised, but later seasons were credited with deeper emotional storylines and better animation. The series won Crunchyroll’s Best Animation award for its second and third seasons and is considered one of the best anime of the 2010s. Read about another character-driven hit in our Maomao piece.
- Demon Slayer. Ufotable’s animation turned it into a spectacle, and its Mugen Train arc became a record-breaking film. The franchise later won Crunchyroll awards across five arcs. See why Demon Slayer became a global phenomenon.
- Kaguya-sama: Love Is War. Season 2 was described as stretching the first season’s formula into something more emotional, with more depth for Kaguya, Chika and Ishigami. The franchise went on to win and earn nominations across its seasons.
- Re:Zero. Reviews note that Season 2 turned the first season’s genre subversion into a deeper psychological story. It won Crunchyroll’s Best Isekai Anime in 2025 and 2026. See our Season 4 piece.
- Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Season 2 added more direct magical conflict and bigger world-building, and it briefly took the top spot on MyAnimeList in January 2026. Read how Season 2 compares to Season 1.
- Vinland Saga. Season 2, from MAPPA, shifted from revenge to redemption and is widely seen as the deeper half of the story.
- Dandadan. Season 2 was launched with a theatrical release and won Crunchyroll’s Best Animation award. Our look at Dandadan Season 2 has more.
- Attack on Titan. One list notes that Season 1 was not unique at first, and that the biggest twists came in later seasons, which turned the story into a political epic.
These entries are based on critical coverage and awards, and fans will argue about the order. Which anime grew on you the most?
Sources: CBR, Screen Rant, FandomWire, EarlyGame, Wikipedia.