The Top 10 Animated Sci-Fi Series From the 90s Worth Watching

It's fair to say that the 1990s had some of the best animated series to date. After new and exciting sci-fi themed shows were introduced in the late 80's, the following decade only proved to produce more animated classics. And with the recent advent of computer-generated graphics, shows began to experiment with creative and new techniques.

Whether you are nostalgic for your childhood or just enjoy classic cartoons, these 10 animated series from the '90s are sure to keep you hooked.

Aeon Flux (1991-1995)

100% | Rotten Tomatoes

A unique, avant-garde science fiction adventure series, Aeon Flux continues to inspire many other works of fiction, as well as its own live-action movie and show, a graphic novel, comic books, and a video game. Set in a futuristic universe where two cities battle to impose their opposing ideologies, there has never been a show quite like it. With each episode featuring an entirely new storyline, the main character, Aeon, finds herself embroiled in schemes of espionage, rebellion, and conspiracy throughout the series.

The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest (1996-1997)

7.7/10 IMDB

Produced by the renowned Hanna-Barbera Studios, responsible for such famous cartoons as Scooby-Doo, The Flintstones, and The Smurfs, The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest is the continuing story of the character, but in an entirely new series. The show follows the teenage adventures of Jonny Quest and his friends as they investigate numerous strange mysteries in exotic locales. This version also brought a whole new life to the character, using computer animation for the first time.

ReBoot (1994-2001)

7.9/10 IMDB

The first ever made-for-TV show to use CGI, ReBoot was the original cyber-influenced series. Set in the computer world of Mainframe, a Guardian program and its friends must defend the system from viruses and outside threats. The show's early technological themes and cyberpunk styling have given the series quite a following even 30 years later.

Beast Wars: Transformers ( 1996-1999)

8.1/10 IMDB

Set in the far future of the original Transformers series, Beast Wars is something completely original in the Transformers universe. Following the descendants of the Autobots and Decepticons, known as the Maximals and Predacons, the show introduces a whole new generation of Transformers in the form of robotic animals. With a whole bunch of great new characters introduced to the franchise, and the use of some stylish computer animation, it's a Transformers series that really stands out.

Space Ghost Coast to Coast (1993-2012)

7.9/10 IMDB

Based on another 60's Hanna-Barbera production, Space Ghost, this reimagining took the original animation and turned it into a stroke of genius. Using the old show's artwork, they created an animated adult comedy late-night talk show that interviews real-life celebrity guests. Running for almost twenty years, the show has become a comedy classic that is worth watching whenever you get the chance.

Gargoyles (1994-1997)

8/10 IMDB

This accessible yet mature series features a unique blend of classic mythology and urban fantasy. The show centers on a group of gargoyle heroes who were once trapped in their stone form for a thousand years. Now living in modern-day New York City, they continue their mission to protect humans once again. Gargoyles does a fantastic job of mixing dramatic story arcs with its well-developed characters and dark tone, giving this fan-favorite its own distinctive style.

Exosquad (1993-1995)

100% Rotten Tomatoes

This galactic action space drama is set in the early 22nd century during an interplanetary war between humanity and the Neosapiens, an artificial slave race. The story follows an elite Terran unit called the Able Squad as they attempt to liberate Earth. Although a family series, the show is often praised for featuring a number of negative war themes, with characters dying in combat and others suffering the psychological effects of warfare.

Duckman (1994-1997)

93% Rotten Tomatoes

With a great voice cast (including Jason Alexander as the show's lead), interesting social commentary, and intelligent wordplay throughout, Duckman has earned a considerable cult following as one of the first animated comedies for adults. The show follows the cases of Eric Duckman, a crass and womanizing duck who works as a private investigator with his level-headed pig sidekick, Cornfed, while raising a family as a single dad. For those looking for a good laugh and some witty humor, look no further than the father of adult animated comedy itself.

Futurama ( 1999-Present)

8.5/10 IMDB

From the creators of The Simpsons came the rise of this new success, the science fiction animated sitcom Futurama. Winning multiple awards over its 8 season run, as well as being voted one of the top 60 greatest TV cartoons of all time, the series revolves around an interplanetary delivery company and its zany employees. Often providing goofy jokes and silly laughs, the show also has a very satirical nature, happily poking fun at itself as well as the science fiction genre it is based on.

Invader Zim (2001-2006)

100% Rotten Tomatoes

Although not technically a '90s show, it became a hit so quickly into the millennium that it's hard not to include it on this list. The series centers on an alien named Zim and his malfunctioning robot servant, GIR, and their mission to conquer Earth and enslave the human race. Unfortunately, a paranoid young boy discovers Zim's purpose and becomes obsessed with the goal of exposing Zim and his true nature to the world. The series is often celebrated for its simple humor, accessibility, and original storylines.