With the summer 2026 anime season now about a third of the way through, it’s the perfect time to check in on the shows that are heating up the season. A writer from AnimeAnime.jp has selected three series that have them particularly hooked, each offering something unique and leaving viewers eager for what comes next.
Yoroi Shinden Samurai Trooper – Double the Bonds, Double the Drama
The first cour of this series aired in January 2026 with 13 episodes. The Samurai Troopers barely managed to stop the demon emperor Ramaga from invading the human world, but at a heavy cost: their comrade Aragaki Mirei was turned into a demon and lost forever, and the team’s central figure, Gai, sacrificed himself to seal Ramaga away in lava.
The second cour began on July 7, picking up three months later. The human world is slowly recovering, and the four remaining Samurai Troopers are trying to move forward. But a new shadow looms, threatening to destroy both the human and demon realms.
Even in the first cour, the series was a whirlwind of surprises, and the second cour continues that trend. One major development is the fall of senior Samurai Trooper Oda Ryuusei. In the first cour’s fifth episode, he was infected by demon poison and seemingly vanished while being watched over by his comrades. Many fans mourned his death, but in the second cour, he returns as an enemy, coldly attacking the juniors he once cherished. This painful twist has sparked both anguish and hope among viewers.
Another highlight is the Ten Warriors, who were originally enemies of the Samurai Troopers in the first cour. Led by the hot-blooded Sasuke, they were hard to hate despite being demon warriors. They cried for fallen comrades and sacrificed themselves for loved ones, leading some to call them more heroic than the Troopers themselves. Now, in the second cour, they join forces as allies. Episode 15 (the third episode of the second cour) delved into their tragic past, and fans rejoiced at their inclusion.
But the second cour is still in its early stages. What soul-shaking episodes lie ahead, possibly surpassing even Ryuusei and the Ten Warriors? This writer’s heart is already racing.
Otome Kaijuu Caramelize – A Monster of a Love Comedy
Based on the manga by Aoki Spica serialized in Monthly Comic Alive, this anime follows Akai Kuroe, a girl whose body partially transforms into a monster when her emotions run high. When she reaches a critical point, she becomes a giant monster known as “Hargoon.” This love comedy centers on Kuroe’s relationship with classmate Minami Arata.
Kuroe’s unique condition has made her shy and withdrawn, but meeting Arata awakens her feelings. Arata is the most popular boy at school, but he also carries a past trauma related to weight gain, which made him kind to everyone. However, once he realizes that his people-pleasing nature hurts Kuroe, he becomes devoted solely to her.
The key draw is the awkward romance between the inexperienced Kuroe and Arata. Arata doesn’t know about Kuroe’s monster condition, so he gently accepts her while also feeling jealous of her uncle-like figure, biologist Hibino Koutarou. His relatable struggles make even male viewers root for their love to succeed.
Another fun character is Tomosato Manatsu, a huge monster fan who cosplays as a certain “flying guardian monster” and sends love calls to Hargoon. Her unique quirk is wanting to be stepped on by Hargoon—a classic trope for monster movie fans.
While the series appeals to monster enthusiasts, its core is a love comedy that uses the “monster” concept as a metaphor for uncontrollable situations. Kuroe’s transformation into a giant monster when she becomes a maiden, and Arata’s embrace of her, creates a delightfully awkward romance that promises a big payoff down the line.
Grow Up Show ~Himawari no Circus-dan~ – A Retro Circus Dream
Set in the Showa 30s, when circus tours were at their peak in Japan, this original anime follows the small troupe “Himawari Circus” as they travel by bus and set up tents in various regions. For retro enthusiasts, the Showa 30s feel like a fantasy world, and the circus setting adds another layer of wonder.
The character designs by Fukuyama Kurihito are charming, and the series composition by Kikuchi Takeshi (known for TRPG work) brings addictive dialogue. Director Kamei Kanta balances comedy and intense moments, making each episode a dreamlike entertainment experience.
The story follows a classic success narrative: the Himawari Circus aims to compete in the world festival “Kircus Collection.” The protagonist, Tsurumaki Mizuka, is a genius performer who is thrown into the troupe’s environment and helps the members grow while shaking things up.
Episode 4 left a strong impression. Agano Imari, a brilliant magician who was too shy to perform, regains her confidence. Her timid nature had created distance from her childhood friend and acrobat Ikazuchi Isuzu, but as Imari finds her courage, the two reconcile. Seeing characters overcome loneliness and hardship is heartwarming, and it’s a relief to see their relationship restored.
As Mizuka transforms the circus from within, the bright future ahead makes this a series worth cheering for.
(C) SUNRISE
(C) Aoki Spica/KADOKAWA/Otome Kaijuu Caramelize Production Committee
(C) Kircus Collection Association / “Grow Up Show” Production Committee
《Kigasawa Masashi》
