There's a persistent myth that shows made for children can't possibly be as good as those aimed at adults. But anyone who's actually watched Avatar: The Last Airbender knows that's nonsense. The truth is, plenty of kid-friendly series are packed with emotional depth, clever writing, and gorgeous visuals that deserve a spot in any grown-up's watchlist. Here are some of the most underrated gems that prove age ratings don't define quality.
Infinity Train (2019–2021)
Created by Owen Dennis after his success with Regular Show, Infinity Train quickly became a cult favorite for its sci-fi premise and mature themes. Each season follows a different passenger trapped on a mysterious train, forced to confront their personal struggles. The show earned rave reviews for its deep character arcs and beautiful animation. But despite its critical acclaim, Cartoon Network canceled it after four seasons, and HBO Max later removed it entirely—making it nearly impossible to watch today. Its fanbase remains passionate, but the show has largely vanished from mainstream conversation.
Hilda (2018–2023)
Often described as a spiritual successor to Gravity Falls, Hilda follows a brave blue-haired girl exploring a magical world filled with creatures and mysteries. The Netflix original ran for five strong seasons and shares the same blend of whimsy and heartfelt storytelling that made Gravity Falls a hit. Yet it never reached the same level of popularity. Some blame its streaming-only release, which requires active clicks rather than passive network viewing. Whatever the reason, Hilda is a must-watch for anyone who loves adventure and charm.
Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2018–2020)
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have seen many iterations, but Rise divided fans with its bold changes. The turtles gain mystical powers and a fresh art style, which some purists rejected. But those willing to embrace the new direction discovered a show with fantastic brotherly dynamics, exciting plots, and some of the most fluid animation in recent memory. It's a testament to how reinvention can breathe new life into a beloved franchise.
Ben 10: Omniverse (2012–2014)
The Ben 10 franchise has been a powerhouse for years, but Omniverse faced skepticism after the uneven later seasons of Alien Force and Ultimate Alien. The shift in art style turned off some longtime fans. Yet the show itself is a fun, creative ride with inventive aliens and action sequences. It may not be perfect, but it's far better than its reputation suggests.
Sonic X (2003–2006)
When Sonic X debuted, it introduced Chris Thorndyke—a human boy who becomes Sonic's friend—and that character became a lightning rod for criticism. But if you can look past him, the show offers solid adaptations of the video games, original stories, and charming animation. It's a nostalgic treat for Sonic fans and a decent entry point for newcomers.
Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (2025–Present)
This recent addition to the Spider-Man animated legacy has already won over fans with its fresh take on Peter Parker's early days. While it's still early, the series has been praised for its vibrant animation and relatable teen drama. For more on the web-slinger's animated adventures, check out our ranking of The Spectacular Spider-Man's best episodes. And if you're curious about the future of the franchise, read about Spider-Man: Brand New Day's box office prospects.
These shows prove that kid-friendly doesn't mean simple-minded. They tackle complex emotions, feature stunning artistry, and offer stories that resonate across generations. So next time you're scrolling for something to watch, don't skip the animated section—you might just find your new favorite series.
