On September 30, 2026, Taiwanese media outlet Joshiyoung published an article introducing the anime of 2026 that Taiwanese netizens are watching.

The article posed the question, '2026 saw the emergence of anime from various genres. There were many sequels to popular series, and merely the announcement of new information generated significant buzz. So, which anime works garnered particular attention from netizens?' It then introduced that Taiwanese data analysis company Social Lab, based on OpView's social media analysis database, investigated the anime works that became hot topics online from January 1 to September 15, 2026.

The compiled ranking showed 1st place: 'Yani Neko,' 2nd place: 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2,' 3rd place: 'Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3,' 4th place: 'Yomi no Tsugai,' 5th place: 'Kami-ina Botan, Drunken Appearance is a Lily,' 6th place: 'BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War - Kagin Tan -,' 7th place: 'Two People Smoking Behind the Supermarket,' and 8th place: 'Fate/strange Fake.'

Regarding 'Yani Neko,' which topped the discussion rankings, the article explained: 'The story of this work unfolds around the protagonist's life through somewhat absurd depictions of everyday life, and while netizens initially thought it depicted 'the smoking life of a good-for-nothing person,' voices emerged stating that it was actually trying to depict 'social satire and the struggles faced by people in the lower strata of society.' On the other hand, because real-world tobacco brands and smoking scenes repeatedly appeared in the work, it was successively reported in Hong Kong and Taiwan, leading to the work being removed from streaming platforms.'

It also stated: 'In response to this commotion, a heated debate erupted online. While some voices questioned the removal, arguing that 'it could restrict creative expression,' there were also voices supporting it, saying 'it is illegal to show tobacco brands.' Furthermore, some viewers commented that 'after watching the work, they became more aware of the effects of smoking and addiction, and actually felt less inclined to try smoking,' suggesting that the work's high discussion volume was significantly influenced by the controversy.'

Regarding 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2,' which was the next most discussed, it was commented that 'many netizens expressed that precisely because the work's pace is relatively slow, they can calm their minds and fully immerse themselves in the world of the story. For the slice-of-life side stories, some netizens felt that 'different people perceive them differently,' and although the story contains a hint of sadness, many people felt 'their hearts were filled' after watching it, and this relaxed storytelling approach is precisely what makes the work a great charm that continues to attract viewers.'

Regarding 'Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3,' which ranked 3rd, it was mentioned that 'while the story depicts the protagonist confronting his own problems and growing while bearing responsibility, there are also voices saying 'it's disgusting and unbearable to watch' regarding the protagonist's character setting, which is not easily likable. However, others argue that precisely because the characters are not intentionally simplified or beautified, more realistic and complex human nature is depicted, and the subsequent changes and growth stand out even more. Ahead of the final episode's broadcast at the end of September, original fans are anticipating how the upcoming climax will be portrayed, and how it will be adapted and expressed in the anime version.'

It concluded by recommending: 'The anime works of 2026 cover a diverse range of genres, from fantasy, adventure, otherworld (isekai), and slice-of-life youth stories, to works dealing with deep themes, allowing viewers to find something that suits them. Why not choose one of your favorite works and spend some time enjoying anime?' (Translated and edited by Iwata)