10 Netflix Sci-Fi TV Shows to Binge This Weekend

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People frequently seek respite from their everyday lives; they yearn for a means to momentarily divert themselves. For numerous individuals, that refuge is found within the realm of science fiction. Science fiction offers journeys to astounding and unimaginable realms. Alternatively, it may present a more familiar type of adventure. Regardless of our preferences, there’s a strong likelihood that a creative mind in the sci-fi community has conceived something similar. Moreover, science fiction often anticipates the future, making it a treasure trove of content well worth exploring. And here’s where Netflix enters the picture, as this streaming service has been meticulously amassing and handpicking content for years, thus contributing to some of the finest sci-fi productions of this era.

Despite some criticisms regarding the recent update to Netflix’s User Interface, there’s no denying that the platform continues to offer a wealth of quality content. Admittedly, locating certain titles may now require a bit more effort compared to before, but the abundance of engaging shows and series is certainly worth appreciating. While it might not boast iconic sci-fi series like Star Trek, Netflix has managed to amass an impressive collection of binge-worthy options that keep viewers coming back for more.

What truly sets Netflix apart, though, is its commitment to developing original and innovative sci-fi stories while breathing new life into beloved older series. This dual approach ensures a satisfying experience for fans of both contemporary and classic sci-fi tales on the platform.

1) Black Mirror

Black Mirror, one of Netflix’s more renowned originals, shouldn’t be overlooked on any list. It comprises a range of science fiction and dystopian narratives, often centered around technology or media. This thought-provoking series can pack quite a punch, with certain episodes resonating strongly in our society, much like a hard blow. Although it has earned some notoriety for foreshadowing societal issues such as AI and deepfake concerns, its gripping storylines and unique presentation are undeniably captivating.

Black Mirror, produced by Charlie Brooker, is an anthology television show that explores various stories in each episode, similar to The Twilight Zone. Originally aired on Channel 4 (UK network), the first two series were later moved to Netflix, where we’ve enjoyed 33 episodes and some specials since then.

2) Stranger Things

Watching Stranger Things, especially if you’re a fan of science fiction, is practically mandatory on Netflix. It’s become something of a tradition for many viewers, as most have either watched it or at least heard about it. As one of Netflix’s prominent series, this is quite significant. The story unfolds in the 1980s and revolves around a group of children, alongside the adults who care for them, as they embark on a quest to find their missing friend. This leads to numerous episodes filled with intrigue and danger. The show skillfully combines science fiction, drama, and horror elements into one compelling narrative, and it quickly gained widespread popularity.

At present, “Stranger Things” has four seasons out, with the fifth and concluding season set for release later in 2021. Beyond the TV show, there are numerous novels and graphic novels that delve into the terrors of Hawkins from unique viewpoints. Even though they aren’t exactly the same, these additional stories can provide distinct insights into the series’ horrifying elements.

3) Maniac

People seeking a more compact option might find appeal in “Maniac“, a concise psychological sci-fi series with a touch of humor, although it leans towards the darker spectrum. The balance is unique, catering to diverse tastes. It commences when two individuals meet during a pharmaceutical trial, all 12 participants having consented to test some potent experimental drugs. This leads to various hallucinations and escapades.

The character of “Maniac” feels particularly comfortable within a subtly sci-fi atmosphere that may deceive or confuse spectators. It boasts visually captivating imagery and fearlessly exhibits aspects of the human condition while delving into intricate themes. A peculiar, heartfelt mood pervades the entire series, ensuring it resonates with viewers on a deeper level.

4) Love, Death & Robots

If you enjoyed the anthology style of Black Mirror but were hoping for something animated, you might find Love, Death & Robots more to your liking. Each episode is a self-contained tale, similar to a brief movie. The title hints at the main subjects: love, death, and/or robots. However, it’s not all serious sci-fi; the series also incorporates humor, horror, and even elements of fantasy, offering a diverse and intriguing viewing experience.

The anthology series “Love, Death & Robots” is incredibly innovative, offering an assortment of distinct short stories. Each episode presents a unique narrative, and the teams behind these episodes may vary from one story to another. Interestingly, there are several recurring characters, including three robots, that viewers might develop affection for as the series unfolds across four seasons.

5) Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

The limited Netflix series, “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners,” is a spin-off from the video game “Cyberpunk 2077.” Though it’s only one season, fans are eager for more due to its captivating plot. Set a year before the events of “Cyberpunk 2077,” the story follows David Martinez (KENN/Zach Aguilar) and the band of runners he teams up with.

For enthusiasts of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, both old and recent, there’s exciting news – Netflix hinted at a revisit to Night City! While it’s likely that not the entire cast will return, we’ll need to stay tuned for further updates to learn more definitively.

6) Altered Carbon

When discussing the cyberpunk genre, it’s often brought up Altered Carbon, a live-action series adapted from Richard K. Morgan’s novel. The narrative unfolds in a world where one can move consciousness between different bodies. Here comes Takeshi Kovacs (portrayed by Joel Kinnaman, Anthony Mackie, or Ray Chase), a detective tasked with unraveling a murder mystery. As usual, events spiral as they often do.

Altered Carbon offers just two seasons for binge-watching, but there’s also an anime prequel to its first season. The show is captivating due to its unique perspective of consciousness, which enables three different actors to portray the same character. It’s a blend of pure science fiction and murder mystery, making it distinctive in its genre.

7) Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance

It’s quite possible that every fan of Gundam took notice when Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance debuted on Netflix. This narrative unfolds close to the end of the One Year War, a period that significantly alters the course of events for the soldiers. Known for its intricate portrayal of war, Gundam has consistently shown that every story has two sides, especially in the tumultuous heat of battle. In Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance, this idea was powerfully emphasized, with Iria Solari taking charge. Iria is a skilled pilot and leader of the Red Wolves team within the Principality of Zeon.

Any enthusiasts of the Gundam series ought to prioritize watching “Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance,” especially since it’s the most recent installment and we eagerly anticipate more like it in the future.

8) 3%

In a science fiction-drama vein, leaning heavily into dystopian thriller territory, “3%” presents an intense viewing experience. The narrative unfolds in a future setting where youth are forced to participate in perilous games, known as “The Process.” Those who manage to survive and succeed in these games are promised advancement within society, but the harsh reality is that the majority will either be eliminated or worse, meet their demise. This show derives its title from the fact that it’s said only 3% of those who participate make it through alive.

3% offers numerous themes that dystopian and sci-fi enthusiasts will recognize and appreciate, making it a worthwhile watch. With all four seasons now available, viewers can enjoy a complete binge without worrying about unresolved storylines or cliffhangers.

9) Inside Job

For those seeking a more humorous watch, Inside Job might be just what you’re looking for. This Netflix original animation blends sci-fi themes with office humor. The main character, Reagan Ridley (portrayed by Lizzy Caplan), is an engineer turned manager who navigates the quirks of her peculiar coworkers. This motley crew includes a yes-man, a fashionable PR officer, a military man transformed into half-dolphin, a drug-using biochemist, and a psychedelic-looking organism. Their mission? To ensure the government’s operations remain hidden from public view.

The show titled “Inside Job” delves into a mix of intriguing topics such as secretive power structures, unproven theories about aliens, and other tantalizing mysteries. Regrettably, there’s only one season to watch, as the series was unexpectedly terminated despite a commitment for Season 2 and an open-ended finale. Nonetheless, it’s definitely worth giving it a try; increased viewership could potentially lead to more episodes being produced.

10) Sense8

By no means least, there’s the intriguing sci-fi drama titled “Sense8“. This show focuses on a diverse ensemble of eight primary characters who discover they share a unique mental and emotional bond. Through this connection, they encounter an array of bizarre yet captivating situations, enabling them to delve into themes such as identity, sexuality, politics, and much more. At its release, it was a trailblazing series that continues to resonate with fans.

It should not go unnoticed that the much-loved sci-fi series Sense8, previously canceled by Netflix after season 2, sparked strong reactions from fans due to its cliffhanger conclusion. However, their persistence paid off when Netflix ultimately produced a two-hour long finale to wrap up the story.

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2025-07-04 16:41