Top 10 Best Animated Series For Adults

If you still think animated shows are just for kids, let me stop you right there. The world of animation has evolved so much that it's now packed with some of the best-animated series for adults—and trust me, these shows are anything but child’s play. Whether you’re into dark humor, thrilling adventures, or mind-bending sci-fi, there’s an animated series out there waiting for you to binge. Let’s dive into the top animated series for adults you should add to your watchlist. These shows aren’t just fun; they’re thought-provoking, visually stunning, and awesome.

Best Animated Series For Adults

1. Rick and Morty

If you haven’t heard of Rick and Morty, you’re missing out on one of the best animated series for adults. This sci-fi comedy follows the wild adventures of an eccentric and alcoholic scientist, Rick, and his easily influenced but kind of dumb grandson, Morty. The show is packed with dark humor, mind-bending science fiction, and plenty of pop culture references. It's the perfect mix of absurdity and brilliance that makes you think while you laugh.

Why You Should Watch It: The show's clever writing, unpredictable plot twists, and unique animation style make it a must-watch.

Best Episode to Start With: “Pickle Rick” – Trust me, you’ll never look at pickles the same way again.

2. BoJack Horseman

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a washed-up, alcoholic horse in Hollywood? No? Well, BoJack Horseman shows you anyway! This show dives deep into themes like depression, addiction, and the emptiness of fame—all while being incredibly funny. It’s a show that’ll make you laugh, cry, and ponder life’s big questions.

• Why Watch It? It’s a rare mix of humor and depth that hits all the right emotional chords.
• Best Episode to Start With: "Fish Out of Water" – a near-silent episode that’s a masterpiece in visual storytelling.

3. Attack on Titan

Okay, so this one’s technically an anime, but it’s so good that it deserves a spot on the list. Attack on Titan is one of the best anime in 2024 that you can watch. It’s set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures called Titans. The story is gripping, the animation is top-notch, and the action scenes are nothing short of epic.

• Why Watch It? The intense plot twists and action-packed scenes will keep you on the edge of your seat.
• Best Episode to Start With: Just start from Episode 1 and binge-watch your way through—it’s worth it!

4. F Is for Family

Set in the 1970s, F Is for Family is a hilarious, no-holds-barred look at a dysfunctional family trying to make it through life. It’s a perfect mix of crude humor and nostalgia. The characters are relatable, and the situations are so absurdly real that you’ll find yourself laughing out loud more often than not.

• Why Watch It? If you love dark humor with a touch of reality, this one’s for you.
• Best Episode to Start With: "The Trough" – family dynamics at their chaotic best.

5. Castlevania

Castlevania is based on a video game, but even if you’re not a gamer, you’re going to love it. It’s a dark, gritty, and beautifully animated series that follows the battle between Dracula and humanity. The storyline is gripping, and the animation is some of the best you’ll see.

• Why Watch It? The stunning animation and intense storyline make it one of the best-animated series for adults.
• Best Episode to Start With: "Witchbottle" – the beginning of an epic battle.

Tired of watching animated series and want some other suggestions? Check out these top 10 underrated movies that you can finish over the weekend! 

6. The Midnight Gospel

If you’re into trippy, philosophical conversations mixed with vibrant and surreal animation, The Midnight Gospel is the show for you. Created by the same guy who brought us Adventure Time, this series is like an animated podcast that explores deep topics like life, death, and everything in between.

• Why Watch It? It’s a unique blend of deep conversation and mind-bending visuals.
• Best Episode to Start With: "Taste of the King" – it sets the tone for the rest of the series.

7. Harley Quinn

We’ve seen Harley Quinn in movies, but in this animated series, she really shines. The show is wild, violent, and hilariously funny, showing Harley’s journey of self-discovery after breaking up with the Joker. It’s packed with dark humor, action, and some great character development. Girls get it done, what can I say. 

• Why Watch It? If you love DC Comics with a twist, this show is a must-watch.
• Best Episode to Start With: "Being Harley Quinn" – Harley’s mind is as chaotic as you’d expect.

8. Archer

Archer is the perfect mix of spy action and comedy. The show follows the world's most dangerous—and dysfunctional—spy agency, where the main character, Sterling Archer, is a self-absorbed, womanizing secret agent. The humor is sharp, the action is non-stop, and the animation style is sleek.

Why Watch It? The witty dialogue and non-stop action make it one of the best animated series for adults.

Best Episode to Start With: "Mole Hunt" – the first episode sets the tone for Archer’s chaotic life.

9. Death Note

Death Note is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows a high school student who finds a notebook that allows him to kill anyone by writing their name in it. The cat-and-mouse game between him and a genius detective is nothing short of gripping.

Why You Should Watch It: The intense plot and moral dilemmas make it one of the top animated series for adults.

Best Episode to Start With: “Overcast” – The tension between the main characters reaches new heights in this episode.

10. The Simpsons

Last but not least, we've got The Simpsons on our list of the best anime for adults to watch in 2024. You can’t talk about animated series for adults without mentioning it. It’s the longest-running animated series and has become a cultural icon. The show follows the Simpson family as they navigate life in the fictional town of Springfield, with a satirical take on society, politics, and everything in between. If nothing, you can watch it for it's world-famous "future predictions" and hilarious memes. 

Why You Should Watch It: It’s a classic, and the humor is timeless. Plus, there’s something for everyone, no matter your taste in comedy.

Best Episode to Start With: “Marge vs. the Monorail” – It’s one of the most iconic episodes, with plenty of laughs and memorable moments.

Conclusion

So there you have it—10 of the best animated series for adults that you need to add to your watchlist right now. Whether you're in the mood for a laugh, a cry, or just some good old-fashioned action, these shows have got you covered. And if you're looking for the best anime in 2024, you can’t go wrong with any of the options on this list.

Happy watching!