Top 5 Anime You MUST Watch in May 2026 (Crunchyroll & Netflix)
The Spring 2026 anime season is officially in full swing, and frankly, the sheer amount of content dropping right now is overwhelming. Between massive returning sequels and highly anticipated brand-new adaptations, it is almost impossible to keep track of everything airing this month.
If you don't have the time to watch 20 different shows, don't worry—we have done the hard work for you.
We looked at the massive release slates across the biggest streaming platforms and narrowed it down to the absolute best of the best. Whether you are a hardcore Shonen fan or looking for a dark fantasy, here are the Top 5 Anime you absolutely must watch in May 2026!
(Did you miss our massive breakdown of the entire season? Read the Full Crunchyroll Spring 2026 Lineup Here!)
1.Daemons of the Shadow Realm (Crunchyroll)
If you only start one brand-new anime this month, make it this one. Created by Hiromu Arakawa (the legendary mangaka behind Fullmetal Alchemist), this dark fantasy is finally getting the premium anime treatment by Studio Bones. The story follows twins Yuru and Asa who live in a quiet village until their world is violently ripped apart by supernatural beings known as Daemons. The animation is top-tier, and the world-building is exactly what you would expect from the creator of FMA.
2. Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 4 (Crunchyroll)
The king of psychological Isekai is back. Re:ZERO Season 4 has officially started streaming, and it is already putting poor Subaru through absolute hell. This season adapts the much-awaited "desert arc," pushing the characters to their absolute physical and mental limits. Studio WHITE FOX has clearly upped their animation budget for this season, making it a visual masterpiece.
3. Devil May Cry: Season 2 (Netflix)
Netflix is continuing its incredible winning streak of video game adaptations. Showrunner Adi Shankar (Castlevania) is back with the second season of Devil May Cry. This season is promising to be significantly darker and more action-packed as it builds toward the ultimate, bloody showdown between Dante and his twin brother, Vergil. If you love high-octane, stylish action, this is your weekend binge.
4. Witch Hat Atelier (Crunchyroll)
If you need a break from blood and violence, Witch Hat Atelier is the most beautiful, wholesome show airing this May. Animated by BUG FILMS, this highly anticipated adaptation follows a young girl named Coco who discovers the magical secret to how witches cast their spells. The art style looks like a storybook brought to life, making it a perfect, cozy watch.
5. ONE PIECE – The Elbaph Arc
The Straw Hat Pirates have finally done it. After literally decades of teasing, Luffy and the crew have officially arrived at Elbaph, the legendary land of the giants! Toei Animation has shifted the anime into a slightly new seasonal format for this arc, and the pacing and animation quality have never looked better. If you took a break after Wano or Egghead, May 2026 is the perfect time to jump back into the grand adventure.
