It’s hard to avoid seeing Marvel or DC branding everywhere – in movie theaters, on streaming platforms, and even in toy stores. This widespread popularity comes from decades of comic book history, and they’ve become so influential that most people immediately think of Spider-Man or Batman when they hear the word “superhero.” This makes it difficult for new, independent superhero stories to gain traction, and can even lead audiences to believe that DC and Marvel are the only companies that have ever created worthwhile comic book material.
DC Comics has a particularly strong history in animation, with many of its animated shows considered even better than the live-action versions. Classics like Batman: The Animated Series revolutionized dramatic storytelling in cartoons, and series such as Justice League Unlimited and Young Justice demonstrated that complex stories could work well for younger audiences. These shows established a high standard for quality, but focusing solely on DC and Marvel means overlooking some of the most creative and engaging animation available.
7) Freakazoid!
Steven Spielberg helped create Freakazoid!, a truly original and funny cartoon that was surprisingly modern for its time. The show centers on Dexter Douglas, a nerdy computer enthusiast (voiced by Paul Rugg) who becomes a wacky, blue superhero with access to everything on the internet. While it’s technically a superhero show, Freakazoid! was more about making fun of the genre than playing it straight. It constantly acknowledged it was a cartoon, didn’t bother with suspense, and used a fast-paced, unpredictable style of humor that feels very similar to today’s internet memes. Freakazoid! has remained popular over the years because it didn’t take saving the world seriously, offering a lighthearted and hilarious contrast to the darker, more serious action cartoons of the 1990s.
6) The Powerpuff Girls
Despite its cute and colorful appearance, The Powerpuff Girls is actually one of the most action-packed shows Cartoon Network has ever made. Created by Craig McCracken, the series follows Blossom (voiced by Cathy Cavadini), Bubbles (voiced by Tara Strong), and Buttercup (voiced by E.G. Daily)—three sisters created in a lab using sugar, spice, and a mysterious substance called Chemical X. The show cleverly combines sweet character designs with exciting battles against giant monsters, and it often playfully references popular culture. The Powerpuff Girls successfully puts a fresh spin on the superhero genre, showing that you don’t need a typical strong, serious hero to save the day. With its fast-paced action, memorable villains, and the heartwarming bond between the sisters, the show has earned its place among the best superhero series of all time.
5) Ben 10
The Ben 10 franchise has become a global phenomenon, and it’s easy to see why. Created by Man of Action, the show taps into the classic childhood dream of having incredible powers. Ten-year-old Ben Tennyson (voiced by Tara Strong) discovers a special watch that lets him transform into ten different aliens. It’s a fun mix of collecting, like in Pokémon, and superhero action similar to Spider-Man. The original series follows Ben, his cousin Gwen (voiced by Meagan Smith), and his Grandpa Max (voiced by Paul Eiding) as they travel across the country battling alien villains. What makes it so good is that Ben isn’t perfect – he’s a kid who has to learn and grow, making his path to becoming a hero feel realistic and well-deserved.
4) My Hero Academia
I absolutely adore My Hero Academia. Even though it’s created in Japan, it feels like a genuine tribute to classic Western superhero comics – honestly, it gets what makes the genre so special, sometimes even more than American shows do. The story is set in a world where most people have superpowers, called “Quirks,” but our main character, Izuku Midoriya (or Deku, as he’s known), is born without one. Despite this, he still clings to his dream of becoming a hero! What I love is how the show blends the typical superhero elements with the drama of high school life – it creates such intense stakes, where doing well in class is just as vital as saving people. Plus, the powers are incredibly creative, and the series really dives into what a world full of superpowered individuals would actually be like. But most of all, it’s Deku’s journey – watching him grow from a shy, devoted fan into a true protector – that really gets to me. It’s a total emotional ride and perfectly captures the selflessness that makes a hero truly great.
3) Spawn
Premiering on HBO in the late 1990s, Spawn offered a dark and intense take on the anti-hero genre. The series, based on the comic book created by Todd McFarlane, centers on Al Simmons – voiced powerfully by Keith David – a government assassin who is killed and then makes a deal with the devil to return to life. The animation style is dark and atmospheric, creating a horror-influenced mood that wasn’t meant for kids. Spawn dealt with serious topics like loss of innocence, corruption, and the decline of cities, showing a hero battling demons – both literal and figurative – as he tries to reclaim his humanity. Keith David’s voice acting is particularly memorable, adding depth and tragedy to a character that could have easily felt like a typical 90s creation.
2) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2003)
The 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon first brought the heroes to life, but the 2003 series really hit its stride. This version drew heavily from the original comic books, moving away from silly jokes and focusing on more intense action. The connection between Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo feels real and like a family, built on serious ninja skills and training. The show also presents a truly frightening Shredder and respectfully delves into the more magical and science fiction aspects of the TMNT universe. It finds a great balance, keeping things fun while still treating the characters and their martial arts battles with the seriousness they deserve.
1) Invincible
Many consider Invincible to be the best superhero story today, aside from those published by Marvel and DC. The Prime Video series, adapted from Robert Kirkman’s comic, centers on Mark Grayson (voiced by Steven Yeun), a teenager who gains superpowers from his father, Omni-Man (voiced by J.K. Simmons), the world’s strongest hero. What begins as a typical teen story quickly turns into a brutal and insightful take on the superhero genre. The show doesn’t shy away from violence, realistically portraying the destruction caused by powerful beings battling in cities. However, at its heart, Invincible is a moving story about family, deceit, and the burden of living up to a parent’s reputation. It questions everything you think you know about Superman-like heroes, offering a consistently surprising and emotionally gripping experience.
What animated series outside of Marvel or DC do you think should be recognized? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!
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2025-12-09 21:42