One of the big appeals of anime based on light novels and novels is being able to enjoy stories spun from words through visuals.
In 2025, various titles have received anime adaptations, such as `Nazotoki wa Dinaa no Atode`, `An Shaarii`, and `Kaitou Kuiin no Yuuga na Kyuuka`.
Following up on the second half of 2024, Anime! Anime! conducted a reader survey titled “Which Light Novel/Novel Do You Want to See Animated? (First Half of 2025)”. We received responses from 1087 people during the survey period from June 6th to June 15th.
The gender ratio was roughly equal, with males making up about 55 percent and females about 45 percent. The age breakdown showed respondents in their 20s accounting for about 25 percent, 30s about 35 percent, and 40s about 15 percent.
Titles Published in the 2020s Make the Top 3!
1st Place
Coming in at 1st place is `Fushi Tantei: Hiyado Momiji`. It received approximately 9 percent of the support.
`Fushi Tantei: Hiyado Momiji` is a mystery story where the protagonist, Amanai Haruma, teams up with the enigmatic transfer student, Hiyado Momiji, to chase down the truth behind a `misshitsu satsujin` (locked-room murder) that occurred at their school.
Readers commented on the novel’s popularity, noting how it blends mystery, action, and drama. Comments included, “In addition to the clever tricks, the story is packed with thrilling developments like dynamic car chases and explosions. The abundance of visually striking scenes makes it feel like it was written with adaptation in mind. I think its anime potential is unmatched,” and “Not just the heroine, Hiyado Momiji, but even characters without illustrations have such distinct personalities that before I knew it, I grew attached to all of them. Amanai-kun’s relationship with her also hits you with heavy emotions that gradually sink in.”
Furthermore, comments expressing anticipation for the mystery element were also received, such as, “A ‘`dokusha e no chousenjou`’ (challenge to the reader) appears in the story, and I’m looking forward to seeing how that’s expressed in the anime. It’s a work full of the true pleasure of a genuine mystery.”
2nd Place
Taking 2nd place is `Majutsu Asari wa Erabitoru`, garnering about 8 percent of the votes. This title, published in April of this year, has quickly climbed the ranks.
This work is a fantasy where Kanata, a boy who survived by scavenging garbage on the battlefield, carves out his own destiny through his own power. Many readers expressed support for the protagonist, saying things like, “The classic story of gradually climbing up from rock bottom is comforting, and the magic battles flying back and forth have a sense of tension. The psychological portrayal is also detailed, conveying the characters’ struggles and doubts realistically,” and “I was encouraged by how an ordinary boy grows through his extraordinary will and talent while never losing his pure heart.”
Furthermore, the world-building was highly praised, with comments such as, “Technical terms like `rabisshu` (Magic Refuse) and `fatumu horudaa` (Fatum Holder) are also striking. I felt that the well-crafted world supports the realism of the characters.”
3rd Place
Claiming 3rd place is `Omagarisan to Maneki Neko`, with approximately 7 percent support.
`Omagarisan to Maneki Neko` is a slice-of-life fantasy set in Katsubushi Town, a downtown `shoutengai` (shopping street) by the sea. It depicts the interactions between Komaki Yuusuke, a police officer (`omawarisan`) who has just been assigned there, and Omochi-san, a talking cat who has taken up residence at the `kouban` (police box).
Many readers were drawn to the gentle storyline, with comments like, “It’s a world with `youkai` (supernatural beings), but warmth lingers more than fear. Every episode is full of kindness, leaving me feeling like my heart is gently unwinding,” and “It’s strange how it makes you feel happy, even though the developments are never overly convenient. If it gets animated, I think it could heal even more people.” There were also voices who felt charm in the setting itself, saying, “A seaside rural town, an old police box, a round and chubby cat… A somewhat nostalgic and calming scene comes to mind. I’d love to experience the scenery through an anime adaptation.”
Introducing Other Comments!
For `Wizaazu Burein`: “After over 20 years since the first volume, this timeless masterpiece from Dengeki Bunko has finally concluded. The `akousoku` (sub-light speed) battles of the mages who interfere with physical phenomena using a bio-quantum computer embedded in their brains should definitely be reproducible with modern visual technology!”
For `Suna no Umi no Reimei`: “Adding to the cuteness of the desert pirate Reimei, it’s packed with gimmicks like the seven other worlds floating in the sky and drill submersibles that travel through the sea of sand. It has a sense of speed that evokes imagery, making me strongly feel I want to see it in anime.”
For `Hirotta no ga Hontou ni Neko ka wa Utagawashii`: “This is a slice-of-life story chronicling the days spent living with Modoki, a mysterious creature that talks. Modoki argues endlessly with sophistry, which makes me chuckle. It seems like it would also match the current cat boom.”
For `Gin no Umi Kin no Daichi`: “This is an ancient `tensei fantajii` (reincarnation fantasy) by Himuro Saeko-sensei, which is also popular due to the revival screenings of `Umi ga Kikoeru`. I want to see the beautiful scenery of Oumi no Kuni and the way the protagonist, Maho, lives her life, confronting her destiny despite being tossed about by her background.” Votes were also received for titles that are being re-published.
In this survey, a variety of genres ranked, including mystery, fantasy, and love stories. Multiple new titles also entered the top ranks, not just those that are regulars in the survey.
Don’t miss the Top 20 on the next page!
Top 10 Ranking
[Which Light Novel or Novel Do You Want to See Animated? First Half of 2025 Edition]
1st `Fushi Tantei: Hiyado Momiji` Zero Shizuku
2nd `Majutsu Asari wa Erabitoru` Ramunabe
3rd `Omagarisan to Maneki Neko` Uehara Sui
4th `Koi shita Hito wa, Imouto no Kawari ni Shinde kure to Itta. -Imouto to Kekkon shita Kataomoi Aite ga Naze Ima sara Watashi no Moto ni? to Omottara-` Nagano Mitsuki
5th `Wizaazu Burein` Saegusa Reiichi
6th `Kyouto Fuukei Ayakashi ka no Jikenbo` Tenkeiji Sayaka
7th `Koware Sou na Kimi to, Ano Yakusoku wo Mou Ichido` Kuujou Ren
8th `Shinrei Tantei Yakumo` Kaminaga Manabu
9th `Gurimu Konekutou` Jyuuri Hare
10th `Maken Shoujo no Hoshi Sagashi Juushichi [Seputendekimu]` Saegusa Reiichi
10th `Basutaado Soodoman` Jieemusu Ricchiman
(Response Period: June 6 – June 15, 2025)
Next Page: Top 20 Ranking Revealed
Takakashi Katsunori
