Few anime and manhwa franchises have taken the world by storm like Solo Leveling. From a web novel sensation to an award-winning anime and now a global multimedia franchise, the world of Sung Jin-Woo continues to evolve—and fans can’t get enough.
Here’s everything you need to know about Solo Leveling as of August 2025—including the end of Ragnarok, the future of Season 3, and new expansions into gaming and live-action.
Major Developments You Should Know
1. ✅ “Solo Leveling: Ragnarok” Web Novel Ends
After 375 chapters of post-Jin-Woo storytelling, the Solo Leveling: Ragnarok web novel officially concluded on July 25, 2025. The story, which follows Sung Su-ho—Jin-Woo’s son—wrapped up its years-long run with a satisfying but bittersweet finale, earning praise for carrying forward the legacy while carving out new mythology.
🔸 The Ragnarok manhwa/webtoon, however, is still on hiatus and has not resumed serialization. Fans speculate it may return in 2026 to adapt the now-complete novel.
📚 Ragnarok’s storyline focused on Su-ho’s journey in a new world where the legacy of Shadow Monarchs meets fresh cosmic threats.
2. 🏆 Season 2 Recap & Critical Acclaim
Titled Solo Leveling: Arise From the Shadow, Season 2 ran from January 5 to March 30, 2025, and continued Jin-Woo’s transformation from elite hunter to monarch of unimaginable power.
Its quality didn’t go unnoticed. At the 9th Annual Crunchyroll Anime Awards, Solo Leveling won 9 awards, including:
- 🥇 Anime of the Year (beating out Frieren, Dan Da Dan, and Attack on Titan)
- 🎬 Best Animation
- 🧩 Best Action
- 🎤 Best Score
This marked the first time a Korean webtoon adaptation claimed the top anime prize—cementing Solo Leveling‘s place in anime history.
3. 🕵️♂️ Season 3: What We Know So Far
Despite Season 2’s success, Season 3 has not been officially confirmed by A-1 Pictures or Crunchyroll. However, insiders and producers have dropped intriguing clues:
- Producer Atsushi Kaneko teased that Sung Jin-Woo may suffer a deep personal loss (non-physical) in the next arc—potentially referencing the coming battles with the Monarchs of Destruction.
- Screen Rant reported that staff are excited to continue, but the production scale may require significantly more time.
📆 Release Window?
- Reddit leaker Chromafire (known for accurate anime timelines) suggests a late 2026 release at the earliest.
- Sota Furuhashi, another producer, joked that it may not arrive until the 2028 Olympics—a tongue-in-cheek nod to how demanding the production is.
🎙️ “We want to give fans something legendary, not just a sequel,” said one producer in an interview with TheDirect.
Season 3 – What We KNow Recap
The release date for Solo Leveling Season 3 is not yet officially announced. However, a producer mentioned wanting to align the release with the 2026 Winter Olympics or the 2028 Summer Olympics, sparking speculation of a possible release in either 2026 or 2028. The final decision rests with the producers and animation studio, A1 Pictures.
More Details:
- Producer’s Input:A producer, Sota Furuhashi said, he personally would like to see Season 3 coincide with an Olympics. He initially mentioned the Summer Olympics, but fans pointed out the Winter Olympics as a better fit based on the timing of past seasons.
- Production Timeline:The production of the anime takes time, and the goal is to maintain the quality expected by fans.
- Possible Release Windows:This has led to speculation that Season 3 could be released in either 2026 or 2028, with 2026 being the earlier potential date and 2028 being the latest.
- No Official Announcement:It’s important to note that this is not an official announcement, and the final decision is up to A1 Pictures.
4. 🎬 Netflix Live‑Action Adaptation in Production
In a bold move, Netflix is developing a Korean live-action adaptation of Solo Leveling. While casting details haven’t been fully confirmed, Korean actor Byeon Woo-seok (20th Century Girl, Lovely Runner) is reportedly attached to play Sung Jin-Woo.
Production began quietly in mid-2025, with Netflix aiming for a global release by late 2026 or early 2027. Fans are cautiously optimistic, especially after the success of Sweet Home and Parasyte: The Grey.
🎥 Expect a grounded yet high-budget retelling of the anime’s first arc, with more emotional beats and realism.
5. ✒️ New Manga Spin-Off Revealed
A new spin-off manga was announced this summer. Rather than focusing on Jin-Woo, it shifts the spotlight to his sister, Sung Jin-Ah, offering a fresh perspective on life inside a world haunted by gates and monsters.
Early reports suggest it will lean more on mystery and psychological tension rather than outright action.
6. 🎮 New Game Projects Expand the Universe
The Solo Leveling gaming universe is growing rapidly:
🕹️ Solo Leveling: Arise (2024)
- Released in May 2024 for PC and mobile.
- An action RPG with gacha elements and cinematic storytelling.
- Surpassed 20 million downloads globally.
🕹️ Solo Leveling: KARMA (2025)
- Announced July 2025, this roguelike RPG is set 27 years after Jin-Woo’s era.
- Follows a new protagonist navigating the shattered world left behind.
- Developed by Netmarble for PC and mobile, slated for release in Q4 2025.
🎮 Expect darker themes, nonlinear storytelling, and permadeath mechanics.
📊 Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ragnarok Web Novel | Ended July 25, 2025 (Ch. 375); webtoon still on hiatus |
| Anime Season 2 | Aired Jan–Mar 2025; won 9 major awards including Anime of the Year |
| Season 3 Status | Not confirmed; speculated release in late 2026 or beyond |
| Netflix Live‑Action | In production; Byeon Woo-seok rumored as Jin-Woo |
| Spin-Off Manga | New story focused on Jin-Woo’s sister, Jin-Ah |
| Games | Arise live; KARMA set post-Jin-Woo, launching Fall 2025 |
Final Thoughts
Solo Leveling is no longer just a popular manhwa—it’s a global phenomenon. From anime glory to ambitious live-action, this franchise is entering a new era with confidence. While fans may have to wait for Season 3, there’s no shortage of content to keep the hype alive.
Between new spin-offs, novel endings, award-winning adaptations, and boundary-pushing games, the world of Hunters, Monarchs, and Shadows has only just begun to evolve.
Best Anime Streaming Services in 2025
Anime fans have more choices than ever when it comes to streaming services. From new shows to classics, there are many places to watch your favorite anime online. Crunchyroll stands out as the top choice with the largest catalog in the genre, offering both new episodes and a deep library of content.
Finding the right anime streaming service depends on what you want to watch. Some platforms like HIDIVE focus on simulcasts and dubs, while others like Netflix and Hulu have smaller but still impressive anime collections. Each service has its own mix of shows, movies, and special features for fans.
1) Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll stands out as the leading anime streaming service in 2025. It offers the largest catalog of anime content compared to other platforms.
When new episodes come out in Japan, Crunchyroll often adds them to their platform the same day. This quick turnaround keeps fans up to date with their favorite shows without waiting weeks for translations.
The service has grown beyond just streaming. Fans can now play games and shop for anime merchandise directly through the Crunchyroll platform, making it a one-stop anime hub.
Many anime fans agree that Crunchyroll is the best option for most viewers. Its wide selection covers both new releases and classic titles that other services might miss.
The platform works on many devices including phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. This flexibility lets users watch their shows anywhere they want.
Crunchyroll offers both free and paid plans. The free option shows ads and has a more limited library, while paid subscriptions remove ads and unlock the full catalog.
For anime fans who want to stay current with popular shows and movies, Crunchyroll makes it easy to find what’s trending. Their homepage highlights new releases and fan favorites.
The service continues to add exclusive content that can’t be found on other platforms. These Crunchyroll Originals give subscribers even more unique viewing options.
2) Funimation
Funimation was once a top choice for anime fans. The service had a large library of both subbed and dubbed anime shows.
Sadly, Funimation is no longer active as of April 2, 2024. The company moved its content to Crunchyroll, which now hosts the combined library.
Before shutting down, Funimation was known for its impressive collection of anime. The service offered many fan favorites like Fruits Basket, which was praised for its beautiful animation and writing.
Funimation used to charge $5.99 per month for ad-free access to its complete library. This gave users the chance to watch shows and movies whenever they wanted.
The streaming service had built a loyal following over the years. Many anime fans appreciated its focus on English dubs, making shows more accessible to Western viewers.
Though Funimation is gone, its legacy continues through Crunchyroll. The merger has created an even stronger anime streaming option with more titles in one place.
For those who used to enjoy Funimation, switching to Crunchyroll is the natural next step. All the content they loved is now available there, along with many new titles.
The end of Funimation marks a big change in anime streaming. The market continues to evolve as services combine and grow to meet fan demands.
3) Netflix
Netflix offers a solid lineup of anime shows for both new viewers and longtime fans. The platform hosts popular titles like “BEASTARS,” “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners,” and “Delicious in Dungeon.”
The service features well-known classics alongside newer releases. Fans can find critically acclaimed series such as “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” and “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.”
Netflix creates original anime content too. Shows like “My Happy Marriage” have gained popularity among viewers looking for fresh stories. These Netflix originals often feature high production values and unique storytelling.
The interface makes finding anime easy. Netflix has a dedicated anime section where users can browse all available titles. This helps newcomers discover shows they might enjoy.
Many Netflix anime come with both subtitled and dubbed options. This flexibility lets viewers choose how they want to experience the shows. English dubs often feature professional voice actors who bring characters to life.
The main drawback is the rotating catalog. Shows sometimes leave the platform with little warning. Viewers might start a series only to find it gone before they finish.
Netflix includes anime as part of its standard subscription. No extra fees apply to access the anime library. This makes it a good value for casual anime fans who also want other content.
For those unsure where to start, Reddit users often recommend asking the community for suggestions based on personal interests. The variety ensures most viewers can find something they’ll enjoy.
4) Hulu
Hulu offers anime fans a solid streaming option with over 300 anime titles in its library. The platform makes it easy to find shows through its dedicated anime hub.
For new viewers, Hulu provides popular series like Demon Slayer, Hunter x Hunter, and Bleach. These mainstream titles give beginners a great starting point into the anime world.
Action fans will enjoy Hulu’s strong selection in this genre. Titles like Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War and My Hero Academia stand out for their fight scenes and engaging storylines.
Hulu also carries critically acclaimed anime such as Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. This show often tops lists of best anime series and gives viewers a mix of action, drama, and complex characters.
Recent additions like SandLand, Heavenly Delusion, and Zom 100 keep Hulu’s catalog fresh. These newer shows help the platform stay relevant in the competitive anime streaming market.
The service starts with a free trial period, letting curious viewers test the waters before committing. After that, various subscription options fit different budgets and needs.
One advantage of Hulu is its mix of anime with other content types. Subscribers get access to live TV, movies, and other shows beyond just anime, making it a good all-around entertainment option.
5) HIDIVE
HIDIVE is a specialized anime streaming service that caters to fans looking for unique content. It stands out by offering simulcasts, fresh dubs, and uncensored titles that may not be available on larger platforms.
The service has a strong focus on delivering both subbed and dubbed anime. Fans can watch popular shows like Ragna Crimson and The Eminence in Shadow with English voice acting or original Japanese audio with subtitles.
HIDIVE hosts some exclusive titles that make it worth considering. Shows like Vinland Saga have found a home on this platform, attracting viewers who might otherwise miss these gems.
The library includes a mix of action, adventure, and more thoughtful series. Fans recommend titles like Danmachi and Made in Abyss for new subscribers looking to get started.
For those who enjoy romance anime, HIDIVE offers titles like Whisper Me a Love Song and Bloom Into You. This variety helps the service appeal to fans across different anime interests.
The platform works on multiple devices, making it easy to watch shows at home or on the go. This flexibility lets users enjoy their favorite anime wherever they happen to be.
While smaller than some competitors, HIDIVE fills an important gap in the anime streaming world. It gives a home to shows that might not fit on mainstream services and provides a focused experience for anime enthusiasts.
6) RetroCrush
RetroCrush is a free anime streaming service that focuses on classic anime titles. Unlike other platforms that highlight new shows, RetroCrush brings back anime from the 1970s through the 1990s.
The service offers a simple approach to anime viewing. Fans can watch everything in the library without paying anything. RetroCrush also shows fewer ads compared to other free services.
Users can access RetroCrush on many devices. The platform works on Roku, Android phones, iOS, Web OS, Vizio, Android TV, TV OS, and Google TV. This wide availability makes it easy for anime fans to watch their favorite classics anywhere.
For viewers interested in anime history, RetroCrush stands out. The service has many short OVAs and hard-to-find shows that other platforms don’t offer.
RetroCrush does have a premium tier, but reviews suggest it adds little value beyond the free version. Most users find the free option perfectly suitable for their needs.
When compared to major services like Crunchyroll and HIDIVE, RetroCrush is better for older anime titles. Its focused library helps viewers discover forgotten gems that larger services might overlook.
The clean interface makes browsing easy. Finding shows by decade or genre takes just a few clicks, helping viewers quickly locate titles that match their interests.
7) Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video offers a solid collection of anime content for subscribers. While not as specialized as Crunchyroll or HIDIVE, it provides a convenient option for Prime members who already have access to the service.
The platform features popular titles like Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Naruto. Fans can stream directly from their smart TVs, Fire devices, game consoles, computers, or mobile devices.
Some standout recommendations include Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku and Ghost in the Shell. These shows highlight the range of content available on the service.
Prime Video also features highly-rated anime series. Shows like Pantheon and Scavengers Reign have earned impressive ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, with scores of 95% and 96% respectively.
The service allows users to watch, buy, and rent anime content. This flexibility gives viewers options beyond what’s included with their subscription.
For anime fans who already subscribe to Amazon Prime, the video service provides a good secondary platform. It may not match dedicated anime services in library size, but it offers enough quality content to keep casual fans happy.
8) AniWave
AniWave is a free anime streaming website that offers users access to anime content without requiring registration. It was previously known as 9anime before rebranding to AniWave.
The platform became popular among anime fans for its extensive library and user-friendly interface. Viewers could watch a wide range of anime titles spanning different genres and eras.
Unfortunately, AniWave has been taken offline. Many users who try to access the site now will find it unavailable, forcing them to look for alternatives.
Before its shutdown, AniWave offered premium features that users could access without having to create an account. This made it convenient for casual viewers who didn’t want to go through registration processes.
The site was part of a group of free anime streaming platforms that gained popularity as alternatives to paid subscription services. Its removal from the internet has left many anime fans searching for new places to watch their favorite shows.
Several alternatives have emerged to fill the gap left by AniWave. Sites like Miruro, HiAnime, and Animension now serve as options for those who used AniWave.
Another notable alternative is AniWatch, which many consider to be the best replacement since AniWave went offline. These sites aim to provide similar content and features to what AniWave once offered.
9) KissAnime
KissAnime has been a popular choice for anime fans looking for free content online. The site offers a wide range of anime titles from classics to new releases.
Users can watch anime in various quality options from 240p up to 1080p, making it flexible for different internet speeds. Many videos come with embedded English audio and subtitles to help viewers better understand the content.
The website organizes anime by genre and popularity, making it easy to find new shows. Their homepage features recently updated series and popular titles that are trending among viewers.
However, KissAnime has faced several challenges over the years. The original site has experienced shutdowns, leading to many clone sites with similar names but different web addresses.
Many anime fans have turned to alternative sites when KissAnime becomes unavailable. Sites like WatchCartoonOnline have gained popularity as backups.
The free access comes with drawbacks. KissAnime often displays ads that can be intrusive for viewers. Some users report that certain ad blockers work effectively on the site, improving the viewing experience.
KissAnime remains part of a larger ecosystem of free anime streaming websites. It continues to attract users who want access to anime without paying for subscription services.
10) Disney+
Disney+ has grown its anime library in recent years. Once not known for anime content, the streaming platform now offers several popular titles worth checking out.
My Hero Academia, Sword Art Online, and Demon Slayer are some of the big names available on the service. These hit shows have large fan bases and are great starting points for new anime viewers.
For those who enjoyed Spy × Family, Disney+ is the home of both seasons of this popular comedy-action series. The show follows a spy, an assassin, and a telepathic child forming a fake family while hiding their true identities from each other.
Classic anime fans will appreciate finding titles like Ranma 1/2 and Sailor Moon in the library. These older series helped introduce many Western viewers to anime in the 1990s.
Disney+ also features some unique anime content like Star Wars: Visions, which lets Japanese animation studios create their own stories in the Star Wars universe. This blend of Western IP with anime style shows Disney’s commitment to the format.
Newer titles like Sand Land: The Series and Undead Unluck have also found a home on the platform. These shows help keep the library fresh with current seasonal anime.
The service shares some content with Hulu in the US, which expands viewing options for subscribers who have both services. This partnership gives viewers access to a wider range of anime titles.
Disney+’s anime selection is smaller than specialized anime services, but its quality-over-quantity approach means most shows are worth watching. The platform continues to add new titles regularly.
Key Features of Anime Streaming Services
When choosing an anime streaming service, several features can make or break your viewing experience. The right platform offers both a wide selection of shows and technical reliability.
Content Libraries and Exclusives
The size and quality of content libraries vary greatly among anime streaming platforms. Crunchyroll stands out as a favorite for many fans, offering legal streaming in over 200 countries with a massive collection of titles.
For those seeking original content, Netflix offers high-quality original anime programming that can’t be found elsewhere. Their exclusive shows have gained significant popularity in recent years.
Some services specialize in specific types of anime. For example, RetroCrush focuses on classic anime from the 1970s to 1990s, making it perfect for viewers interested in vintage titles.
Simulcasts are another key feature to consider. These allow viewers to watch new episodes shortly after they air in Japan, with services like Crunchyroll offering simulcasts of popular shows like Jujutsu Kaisen.
Streaming Quality and Device Compatibility
Video quality differs between services, with premium tiers typically offering 1080p or even 4K streaming options. Lower-cost or free plans often limit resolution to 720p or include advertisements.
Device compatibility is crucial for a good viewing experience. Top anime platforms offer apps for:
- Smart TVs
- Gaming consoles
- Mobile devices
- Web browsers
User interface design impacts how easily viewers can find and enjoy content. The best services feature intuitive navigation, personalized recommendations, and easy-to-use watchlists.
Download options for offline viewing have become increasingly important. This feature lets fans watch episodes during travel or in areas with poor internet connectivity.
Streaming platforms continue to expand their global reach, improving subtitle quality and offering dubbed versions in multiple languages to make anime more accessible worldwide.
Subscription Plans and Pricing
Anime streaming services offer various pricing options that fit different budgets. Most platforms cost less than $10 per month, making them affordable for many fans.
Crunchyroll stands out by offering a free tier with ads, perfect for casual viewers. Their paid plans remove ads and provide early access to new shows.
HIDIVE keeps costs low with plans starting at less than $5 monthly. They also offer an annual subscription for $59.99, which saves money compared to monthly payments.
Many services use a tiered pricing structure:
- Basic (single stream, limited features)
- Standard (multiple streams, HD quality)
- Premium (maximum streams, offline viewing)
For example, some platforms charge around $4 for a single stream account and $7.99 for two streams. This flexibility lets viewers pick what works for their needs.
Most anime services include free trial periods (typically 7-14 days) so viewers can test the platform before paying. HIDIVE specifically offers a 7-day free trial for both monthly and annual plans.
Bundle options exist too. Some services let you add movie and TV show apps for a small extra fee, creating a more complete entertainment package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anime fans often ask key questions when choosing where to watch their favorite shows. These questions cover service options, dubbed content, free alternatives, and platform features.
What are the top anime streaming services available currently?
Crunchyroll stands out as the leading anime streaming service. It offers the largest catalog in the genre with hundreds of series across all types of anime.
Funimation provides excellent anime content with a focus on dubbed shows. While Netflix, Hulu, and HIDIVE round out the top options, each with unique anime libraries.
Many anime fans consider Crunchyroll the premier streaming service due to its extensive selection and quick release of new episodes.
Which streaming platforms offer the best selection of English-dubbed anime?
Funimation excels in English-dubbed content. Their focus on dubbing makes them a top choice for viewers who prefer watching anime in English.
Netflix also offers a good selection of dubbed anime, especially for their original anime productions and popular titles. Their dubs are often high-quality and feature professional voice actors.
HIDIVE provides a growing library of dubbed anime, including some exclusive titles not found on other platforms.
Are there any free anime streaming services that provide high-quality content?
Crunchyroll offers a free tier with ads that gives access to much of their library. New episodes are typically available to free users one week after they’re released to premium subscribers.
Many legal streaming services provide limited free trials. These trials let new users test the platforms before committing to a paid subscription.
Free options often come with trade-offs like ads, delayed releases, or lower video quality compared to paid services.
How do Crunchyroll and Hulu compare in terms of their anime libraries?
Crunchyroll has over 900 anime titles in its library, making it much more focused on anime than Hulu. It also gets new episodes faster, often within hours of their Japanese broadcast.
Hulu offers a smaller anime selection but includes popular titles and some exclusives. Their anime content is part of a broader streaming service that includes other TV shows and movies.
Crunchyroll specializes in subtitled content, while Hulu tends to focus more on dubbed shows for their anime offerings.
Which anime streaming service offers the best user experience and functionality?
Netflix provides one of the smoothest user experiences with a polished interface, robust recommendation system, and reliable streaming quality. Their app works well across all devices.
Crunchyroll recently updated their platform to improve navigation and search functions. Users can now more easily find shows by genre, season, or popularity.
HIDIVE offers useful features for anime fans, like customizable subtitles and multiple audio options, though its interface isn’t as refined as larger services.
What do users on platforms like Reddit recommend for anime streaming?
Reddit users often recommend Crunchyroll as the top choice. They cite its large library and affordability compared to Netflix, Hulu, and other options.
Many Reddit discussions mention using multiple services to access different exclusive titles. Some users subscribe to Crunchyroll year-round and add other services temporarily to watch specific shows.
Cost-conscious Reddit users point out that Crunchyroll offers the most anime for the price, making it the best value for dedicated anime fans.
