The 2010s were a transformative decade for science fiction on television. From animated adventures to gritty space operas, the genre exploded in creativity and popularity. Whether you're a fan of dystopian thrillers, cosmic mysteries, or galaxy-spanning epics, there was something for everyone. Let's take a journey through the decade, highlighting the best sci-fi show that debuted each year.
2010: Adventure Time
Kicking off the decade was Adventure Time, a show that defies simple labels. While it's often called a fantasy, it's equally a sci-fi, romance, and surreal comedy. Set in the post-apocalyptic Land of Ooo, it follows Finn the Human and Jake the Dog on wild adventures. Its blend of whimsy, emotional depth, and rich mythology made it a hit with all ages. Inspired by Dungeons & Dragons and classic sci-fi, it remains a cult classic that proved animation could be both fun and profound.
2011: Black Mirror
In 2011, Black Mirror arrived and redefined the anthology format. Often compared to The Twilight Zone, it explores the dark side of technology and modern society. Each episode is a standalone story, ranging from near-future dystopias to twisted satires. With its sharp writing and star-studded casts, it became a cultural phenomenon. For a deeper dive into how it compares to another iconic series, check out our analysis of how 'Battlestar Galactica' outshone 'Black Mirror'.
2012: Psycho-Pass
Anime fans were treated to Psycho-Pass in 2012, a cyberpunk psychological thriller set in a future where a system can predict criminal intent. Inspired by Blade Runner, it blends stunning visuals with deep philosophical questions about justice and free will. The show's complex narrative and moral ambiguity made it a standout in the sci-fi anime genre.
2013: Utopia
For those who love hidden gems, 2013's Utopia is a must-watch. This British conspiracy thriller follows a group of people who discover a mysterious graphic novel that holds the key to a global conspiracy. With its striking visuals, uncompromising violence, and layered storytelling, it earned a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score. Though short-lived, it remains a cult favorite.
2014: Forever
2014 brought Forever, a criminally underrated crime drama about a 200-year-old medical examiner solving cases while searching for the secret to his immortality. Starring Ioan Gruffudd, it blended procedural elements with existential sci-fi. Canceled too soon, it's a meditation on memory and time that deserved more seasons.
2015: The Expanse
Based on the novels by James S. A. Corey, The Expanse debuted in 2015 and quickly became a beloved space opera. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, it tackles political intrigue, alien mysteries, and hard sci-fi. Its realistic physics and complex characters earned it a devoted fanbase. If you're looking for more underrated sci-fi, don't miss why Netflix's 'Dark' is the sci-fi thriller you've been missing.
2016: Stranger Things
No list of 2010s sci-fi is complete without Stranger Things. Premiering in 2016, this Netflix hit became a pop culture juggernaut with its mix of 80s nostalgia, supernatural horror, and heartfelt friendships. The Duffer Brothers created a world that feels both familiar and fresh, and the show's success has spawned a massive franchise. For more on its expansion, see 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85' gets season 2.
2017: The Orville
In 2017, Seth MacFarlane's The Orville brought a lighter touch to sci-fi. Often compared to Star Trek, it blends comedy with genuine exploration of moral dilemmas. While it started as a parody, it evolved into a heartfelt homage to classic space adventures, earning a loyal following.
2018: Altered Carbon
Netflix's Altered Carbon (2018) adapted Richard K. Morgan's cyberpunk novel into a visually stunning series. Set in a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, it explores themes of identity and immortality. Its noir aesthetic and action-packed plot made it a standout.
2019: The Mandalorian
The decade ended with a bang as The Mandalorian premiered in 2019. Set in the Star Wars universe, it follows a lone bounty hunter in the outer reaches of the galaxy. With its Western-inspired tone and the breakout character Grogu (aka Baby Yoda), it became a massive hit for Disney+. For the latest on the franchise, check out Pedro Pascal's 'The Mandalorian' surges on Disney+ and the 'Mandalorian & Grogu' sneak peek.
The 2010s proved that sci-fi television could be both intelligent and entertaining. From the whimsy of Adventure Time to the epic scale of The Expanse and the cultural impact of Stranger Things, these shows defined a decade. Which one is your favorite?
