Top 10 Recent Adult Animated Shows You NEED to Watch

#10: “Hazbin Hotel” (2024-)

Nothing says “cartoon for adults” quite like a series set in literal hell. Although the spin-off “Helluva Boss” was a tempting alternative, “Hazbin Hotel” simply has a broader appeal. The show follows Charlie Morningstar, Lucifer’s daughter, who decides to create a rehabilitation hotel for sinners as an alternative to angels massacring them every few years. The vibrant art style, distinctive characters, and catchy musical numbers are certainly enough to draw people in. And while the humor isn’t for everyone, the redemptive premise and character-focused plot offer surprising depth. Plus, if you’re into fanfiction, this fandom has got you covered!

#9: “Smiling Friends” (2020-)

While far from the only bizarre show to grace Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim, “Smiling Friends” is among the latest and weirdest of the bunch. The series follows the staff of the titular charity, whose attempts to bring happiness to their clients often result in strange, hilarious, and/or terrifying events. A variety of animation styles, including several puppet versions of episodes, help create a truly surreal and bizarre look for the show. Between the outlandish characters, uncomfortable close-ups, and unique style, “Smiling Friends” is sure to make you smile…if you can appreciate its particular brand of weirdness, that is.

#8: “The Legend of Vox Machina” (2022-)

As anyone who’s played Dungeons & Dragons can tell you, it’s less about noble quests and more half-baked plans going hilariously awry and surprisingly epic moments. And few D&D properties have captured that feeling quite as well as “The Legend of Vox Machina.” Based on the Critical Role campaign of the same name, the show takes all the battles, character development, and comedy of the live play show and refines it into a well-animated and infinitely more watchable package. Whether “The Legend of Vox Machina” is your gateway into D&D or a fresh take on something you already enjoy, it’s definitely worth the adventure.

#7: “Harley Quinn” (2019-)

DC superhero shows are kind of everywhere, yet “Harley Quinn” has carved out its own niche as an adult take on a familiar universe. The show follows the eponymous supervillainess as she sets out to make a name for herself after breaking up with the Joker and forming her own gang of miscreants. Breaking free from its Saturday morning cartoon constraints, “Harley Quinn” features all the violence, language, and adult situations you’d expect of mature programming. However, there’s also a shocking level of emotional complexity and romance, as well as an excellent supporting cast. “Harley Quinn” is as unpredictable as the anti-heroine herself, and it’s all the better for it.

#6: “Scavengers Reign” (2023)

While this science fiction series may have been canceled, its first and only season is still must-see TV! And despite a continuation being unlikely, there’s plenty of in-depth worldbuilding and themes to pore over here already. “Scavengers Reign” depicts the aftermath of a spaceship crash on a strange alien world. Each group of survivors adapts to and changes the bizarre environments and animals they encounter on their journeys in their own way. The vibrant landscapes and creatures of the show alternate between beautiful and horrific. “Scavengers Reign” may not reign supreme, but it invites viewers to explore every inch of it.

#5: “Star Trek: Lower Decks” (2020-24)

Most “Star Trek” shows follow the bridge crews and officers of starships on bold adventures. This show is about the other guys - the lower decks crew who just work here. While not the first time the franchise has explored this idea, or indeed the first animated series, “Lower Decks” still feels fresh. The ensemble of quirky, entertaining characters are the perfect accompaniment to the kind of sci-fi weirdness that Starfleet encounters on a daily basis. While diehard Trekkies will obviously appreciate the finer details and references to episodes made decades ago, the comedy, occasional action, and the unique take on the “Star Trek” universe are still enough to create plenty of new fans.

#4: “Blue Eye Samurai” (2023-)

Japan doesn’t have a monopoly on stories set there. This American/French animated series follows Mizu, a female samurai of mixed race on a quest for revenge. Her actions see her make friends and enemies in equal measure, and set into motion much more than she intended. The animation is halfway between 2D and 3D, with nearly every scene feeling like a painting come to life. “Blue Eye Samurai” delves into complex themes with its well-realized characters, and examines contemporary ideas like gender roles. All that, on top of some brutal and exciting action scenes, and it’s no wonder everyone has had their eyes on this show, regardless of which shade they are.

#3: “Primal” (2019-)

Creator Genndy Tartakovsky is famous for his minimalist visual storytelling in series like “Samurai Jack.” However, he has refined his craft to perfection in this brutal adult animated show. “Primal” initially follows a caveman and a dinosaur who form an unlikely duo as they survive and battle their way through the unforgiving fictional prehistoric world they live in. Their adventures are conveyed with very little dialogue, and rely on body language and actions to tell the plot. Of course, said plot often amounts to the two of them going up against a series of vicious enemies in one outlandishly violent and badass fight scene after another…at least, at first. Plus, practically every frame looks like the cover art for a heavy metal album.

#2: “Invincible” (2021-)

Mature takes on superheroes aren’t exactly rare these days, even on this list. However, “Invincible” has still managed to strike a chord with many. Mark Greyson a.k.a. Invincible is a budding superhero who has to contend with not only his difficult choices as a superhero, but also with his father Omni-Man’s legacy. “Invincible” doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of superheroism, frequently depicting some positively savage deaths and beatdowns. The crisp animation, excellent worldbuilding, and strong performances across the board have helped make “Invincible” almost unbeatable in the adult animation space. Almost.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Hit-Monkey” (2021-)

A Monkey Assassin? Sure, Why Not?

“Inside Job” (2021-22)

A Conspiracy-Laden Comedy

“Castlevania: Nocturne” (2023-)

Even More Vampire Hunting Action in Revolutionary France

“Blood of Zeus” (2020-25)

The Makers of “Castlevania” Do Greek Mythology Justice with an Original Story

“Solar Opposites” (2020-)

What If the Folks Behind “Rick and Morty” Made the Space-“Simpsons?” It’s This, Basically

#1: “Arcane” (2021-24)

The acclaim of “Arcane” has been downright magical, and well-deserved! Based on the “League of Legends” video game series, “Arcane” tells the story of a building conflict between a utopian city above and a crime-ridden undercity, mostly through the eyes of two sisters and the leaders of both factions. The 3D animation is positively jaw dropping, with the music not far behind it. The characters develop in realistic, though often heartbreaking ways. We’d be shocked if you haven’t checked it out already, but just in case you haven’t, “Arcane” has to be seen to be believed.

Is there a modern animated series for grown-ups we forgot? Our door is open - share your favorites in the comments!