Netflix’s Best Sci-Fi Cartoons Will Blow Your Mind!

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Sci-fi animation has made significant strides over the years. It found its footing in the 1960s with notable shows such as Astro Boy, which revolved around a scientist who built a robot to fill the void left by his deceased son, and The Jetsons, portraying a family residing in a future with cutting-edge technology. The 1970s further enriched this genre, introducing viewers to Star Trek: The Animated Series and several Japanese anime productions.

Ever since that breakthrough moment, my passion for animated science fiction has only grown stronger on the small screen. Today, there’s an abundance of fantastic series scattered across numerous streaming platforms. However, given Netflix’s massive subscriber base of over 300 million enthusiasts like myself, it’s safe to say they likely host a significant number of sci-fi animation fans seeking engaging shows to watch. Fortunately for us, their library is brimming with content. If you’re on the hunt for gripping series boasting high production values and intricate storylines, here are some priorities to keep in mind:

1. Quality of animation: Look for series that invest in top-notch visual effects, character design, and world-building.
2. Storyline depth: Choose shows with rich narratives, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.
3. Production values: Opt for series produced by studios known for their commitment to quality and attention to detail.
4. Consistency: Seek out shows that maintain a high level of quality throughout their seasons.
5. Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask fellow sci-fi enthusiasts or critics for their favorite animated series on Netflix.

Happy hunting, fellow animation lovers!

Here are the 10 best animated sci-fi series you can stream on Netflix.

10
‘Jurassic World: Chaos Theory’ (2024 – Present)

Six years after Camp Cretaceous, Jurassic World: Chaos Theory finds our heroes reuniting in the wake of their friend’s tragic demise. They embark on a new venture to expose and dismantle an international dinosaur trafficking ring, masterminded by someone called The Broker.

A New High for the Franchise

The intriguing “Chaos Theory” garnered three nominations at the Annie Awards, and it’s not hard to understand why. For those who don’t mind extensive travel, the series can be seen as a vibrant, dreamlike spectacle with stunning visuals. It can be interpreted as a thought-provoking critique on the grim reality of animal trafficking, serving as a warning about factors leading to extinction. On a broader scale, “Chaos Theory” is a profound exploration of the essence of friendship.

“Chaos Theory” received three nominations at the Annie Awards and it’s clear why. If you don’t mind traveling, the show feels like a vivid dream with amazing visuals. Some might see it as a commentary on animal trafficking and extinction, while others may view it as an exploration of friendship.

9
‘Pantheon’ (2022 – 2023)

The Pantheon investigates the idea of “Digitized Consciousness” or UI, a theory where human consciousness can be transformed into digital data and stored online for eternal life. This intriguing premise takes a personal turn for bullied teen Maddie Kim (Katie Chang) as she begins receiving mysterious messages, which she believes, are from her deceased father.

Tech Solutions to Human Problems

In the series Pantheon, the acting is outstanding, thanks to an exceptionally talented ensemble featuring Katie Chang, Paul Dano, and Taylor Schilling. Furthermore, the show stands out by skillfully interweaving themes of espionage, international politics, and cutting-edge technology. When it comes to technology, the series delves deep into advanced topics while making viewers feel informed about concepts they may not have been familiar with before. For instance, what is a DDoS attack? By the end, you’ll be well-versed in this subject matter.

8
‘Skull Island’ (2023)

The TV series we’re discussing is titled “Skull Island” and serves as the inaugural production in the Monsterverse, marking its fifth installment in total. This show is set during the 1990s, where a crew of adventurers find themselves adrift at sea after embarking on a mission to rescue a young girl. Over time, they come to understand that they have been castaways on the lethal Skull Island, home to various fearsome creatures, among them Kong.

Kong is Back

Experiencing a Monsterverse film is like stepping into a bizarre realm where common sense takes a backseat, and that’s what makes it so intriguing. The visuals in these movies are vivid and imaginative. While Skull Island should enthrall everyone, it might be more appealing to those who have been keeping up with the series. However, fans should take note that they will particularly appreciate it. In addition, a comic book series titled Return to Skull Island (expected in 2025) is on the horizon, providing an extension of the storyline for enthusiasts.

7
‘Arcane’ (2021 – 2024)

In the expansive world of League of Legends, the series Arcane explores the tension between the affluent, idealistic city of Piltover and the downtrodden, struggling underworld of Zaun. The narrative unfolds around sisters Vi (Hailee Steinfeld) and Powder (Ella Purnell), who butt heads due to contrasting beliefs.

A Fun and Expensive Ride

Don’t let the video game franchise roots of “Arcane” put you off from enjoying its skillfully designed enjoyments. With a massive $250 million budget, the production team creates an aesthetically appealing and engaging experience. The storyline also moves at a pace that is unusual for dystopian dramas, offering a swift flow. Although the small-screen project is packed with numerous subplots and surprises, the main plot remains easy to follow for all viewers.

6
‘Pacific Rim: The Black’ (2021 – 2022)

In “Pacific Rim: The Black,” we encounter a terrifying species of monsters that rise from the Australian mainland, causing widespread devastation. Despite humanity’s best efforts to combat them, they prove unstoppable, leading to the evacuation of the continent and the survival of only a handful of people. Among these survivors are the resourceful teenage siblings Taylor (played by Calum Worthy) and Hayley Travis (portrayed by Gideon Adlon). Five years later, they stumble upon an unused mecha and decide to use it in their quest to locate their missing parents.

The Kaiju Must Go

Pacific Rim: The Black offers an engaging exploration of how early childhood trauma can shape and scar individuals. Although the storylines may be reminiscent and somewhat unsettling, the creators introduce intriguing twists to keep viewers captivated. The lead voice actors deliver remarkable performances in challenging roles, while the supporting cast provides solid support.

5
‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ (2022)

In the gritty, crime-ridden world of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, we’re introduced to a character named David Martinez (Zach Aguilar), a streetwise kid who’s been through hard times. When he loses everything in a drive-by shooting, he takes on a new role – that of an Edgerunner: a mercenary skilled in high-tech, underground operations. But can this dangerous life bring him the happiness he seeks?

Echoes of ‘Blade Runner’

In essence, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners blends elements of thrilling crime narratives with chilling exploration journeys, offering an exhilarating adventure brimming with striking action sequences that leave a lasting impression. Buried within these combat scenes are intriguing sci-fi ideas that add depth to the series. The show is entertaining as it introduces a colorful cast of peculiar characters who intersect and clash in surprising manners. From corporate conspiracies to the risks associated with cybernetic augmentations, the series delves as deeply as one would anticipate from a high-quality cyberpunk production.

4
‘Love, Death & Robots’ (2019 – 2025)

Love, Death & Robots is a collection of episodes produced by various teams, each one offering unique perspectives. It delves into a range of genres, such as science fiction, comedy, horror, and fantasy. For instance, some sci-fi tales depict gladiatorial contests between beasts in a bleak future, or the journey of three robots traipsing across Earth after humankind’s extinction.

If ‘Black Mirror’ Had a Cousin

One remarkable anthology series to emerge in recent times is Love, Death & Robots, which stands out as a deeply moving and meticulously designed production that maintains a somber ambiance throughout its three seasons without succumbing to the typical contrivances of suspense. The show’s extraordinary quality is underscored by its numerous awards, including two Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards.

3
‘Terminator Zero’ (2024)

In Tokyo, 1997, prior to the events of James Cameron’s “Judgment Day”, the story unfolds with scientist Malcolm Lee (André Holland) working on Kokoro, an AI system meant to combat the powerful Skynet. However, a Terminator is dispatched from the future to eliminate him. Fortunately, a fighter from 2022 manages to travel back in time to safeguard the scientist and his loved ones.

Danger From the Future

Despite the franchise appearing overly exploited and repetitive, each new release continues to captivate audiences. Although the storyline remains similar to James Cameron’s vision for his live-action movies, the characters possess distinctive qualities that draw viewers in. Timothy Olyphant delivers a remarkable performance as the voice of the Terminator, allowing us to empathize with this cold-blooded, sociopathic entity.

2
‘Inside Job’ (2021 – 2022)

In a captivating first-person narrative, let me share my fascination with “Inside Job,” an animated sci-fi sitcom that delves into the unique world of Cognito, Inc., a clandestine government agency. This series invites us to explore an alternate reality where what we often perceive as conspiracy theories are actually factual. Here, powerful entities such as the Illuminati, the Catholic Church, the Juggalos, the Atlantians, and the Reptoids are said to orchestrate significant global events.

The World Is Not as It Seems

Instead of being filled with an abundance of witty banter, this show stands out from others in its genre by offering insightful critiques on topics such as capitalism, power struggles, gender stereotypes, and corporate manipulations. Is there any other satirical work that so brilliantly dissects the preposterousness of conspiracy theories? Although Netflix decided to terminate it after just one season (due to financial constraints), its impact is bound to endure for all time.

1
‘Star Trek: Prodigy’ (2021 – 2024)

Star Trek: Prodigy centers around a band of young alien misfits who stumble upon an abandoned Starfleet vessel, known as the USS Protostar. Under the guidance of Captain Janeway’s holographic likeness, they evade a malevolent figure intent on exploiting the Protostar for his personal gain.

Young One to the Rescue

Among the most enjoyable animated Star Trek series ever produced, this extensive masterpiece cleverly explores the trickery and ingenuity of young characters who are not yet adults. However, the timeless appeal of the series is largely due to its exceptionally skilled voice actors. Moreover, there are tie-in books and a video game available to keep fans actively involved. Jump aboard this treasure that’s ideal for all ages.

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2025-05-10 21:48