As we move further and further into 2025, it’s no secret that the animation industry is seeing some big changes this year, whether it’s changes in how stories are shown and delivered or technological advances that are making animation more realistic than ever.
With the beginning of 2025 already behind us, these are the trends we are seeing emerge in animation this year so that you can be sure you’re always on top of the latest trends.
Animation, video effects, and video production are advancing faster than ever before. From AI-powered animation to hyper-realistic CGI, the animation industry is progressing quickly, so it’s important to keep up or risk getting left behind.
This article will run you through the top 5 trends in animation we’ve been seeing already this year so that you know exactly what to look out for.
- AI Automation
Whilst there’s no question that AI can’t replace human creativity, it can definitely help to boost it! AI automation is by no means a way to replace humans in the animating process, but it can work to automate tasks and speed up workflow. This is vital, especially when it comes to the more mundane aspects of animations, from compositions to motion capture.
This year, we are already seeing that AI is infiltrating the animation space, but it’s at the helm of helping animators automate complicated processes. There’s no need to worry, though. You’re never going to be able to replace that human touch when it comes to animations. But if you need some help with character rigging, screenwriting or any other aspect of animation that might not be your strong suit – AI can help streamline your process.
- Virtual Reality Technology
Virtual reality (VR) technology has been changing the game in the animation space over the past few years, and it looks like the same can be expected as we continue into 2025. VR puts the user at the centre by making them an active participant.
It provides an immersive experience that blurs the line between what’s real and what’s not. VR is a big trend we are seeing continue in the animation space this year. Whether it’s in the gaming space or the entertainment industry, VR is here to stay, so it’s important to familiarise yourself with its ins and outs if you want to ensure you’re ahead of the competition.
- Hyper-Realistic CGI
In 2025, people expect to see incredible examples of realism in the animations they consume every day. People are used to seeing examples of hyper-realism in their favourite games, TV shows and movies, and this expectation continues into 2025.
The developments in the rendering space have led to hyper-realism being much more commonplace. It’s a trend that’s making it harder to see what’s animated and what’s real-life whilst also showcasing animators ability to master incredibly complex techniques and skills. If you’re not already investing in hyper-realism in 2025, what are you waiting for?
- Sustainability & Animation
Sustainability is a trend everywhere in 2025. There’s no sector that’s immune to the need for more sustainable practices. With the environment and climate change such a hot topic (pardon the pun) in 2025, moves towards more environmentally friendly processes in the animation world are here – and they’re here to stay!
Try to have your manufacturing processes and the equipment you use be as environmentally friendly as possible, as it doesn’t just help the environment but also helps your business win support from environmental activists across the globe!
- Collage Animation
This year, more collage animations are being seen than ever before. The recent popularity can be attributed to the fact that it’s catchy, it’s fun and it caters to those who have shorter attention spans than ever before.
Collage animation combines pictures, illustrations and motion graphics to tell a story in a (generally) shorter form. From Instagram reels and TikTok to websites, collage animations will be seen all over the place, especially in the digital advertising space!
Keep Your Finger On The Pulse Of Animation Trends
These five examples of the most prevalent animation trends in 2025 are by no means an exhaustive list. It’s crucial as an animator to always stay on top of the most recent trends so that you can be ahead of the competition and create content that is going to resonate best with audiences.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed when it comes to finding trends and knowing which ones will work best for you, working with a video production company London can really help! Enlisting the help of the experts can make it easy for you to decipher which trends are best to invest your time in, rather than just throwing yourself (and your money) at animation trends that might not work for you!
From AI automation to collage animation, stay on top of trends, ahead of the competition and solidify your spot as one of the best in the business.