10 Fantasy Cartoons That Deserve More Recognition

Unveiling Underrated Fantasy Cartoons

Delve into the enchanting realm of fantasy with these lesser-known animated series that have captivated audiences with their unique storytelling and imaginative worlds. While they may not have garnered the spotlight they deserve, these fantasy cartoons offer a rich tapestry of magic, adventure, and compelling characters that are sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. From futuristic knights to intergalactic battles, each show on this list promises an unforgettable journey through the fantastical.

1. Visionaries: Knights Of The Magical Light (1987)

Embark on a futuristic twist of medieval knights and magical powers in 'Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light.' This sci-fi fantasy series intricately weaves a narrative of ancient magic systems and intergalactic conflicts, setting the stage for an epic adventure that transcends time and space.

A Knight in Visionaries Knights of the Magical Light - A futuristic twist on medieval knights and magical powers.

Background:

• Inspired by the popular toy line of the same name, 'Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light' is a sci-fi fantasy series that premiered in 1987.
• The show follows the adventures of a group of futuristic knights who possess magical powers and battle against an evil sorcerer.
• The series features a unique blend of medieval fantasy and futuristic technology, creating a captivating and imaginative world.

2. Conan The Adventurer (1992 - 1993)

Join Conan and his companions as they traverse realms to confront the malevolent Wrath-Amon in 'Conan The Adventurer.' Drawing inspiration from classic tales of heroism and sorcery, this animated series blends magic and swordplay to deliver a riveting saga of bravery and redemption.

Conan the adventurer cartoon poster - Conan and his friends travel the realms to defeat Wrath-Amon.

Background:

• Based on the iconic character created by Robert E. Howard, 'Conan The Adventurer' is an animated series that aired from 1992 to 1993.
• The show follows Conan as he travels through various realms, battling monsters, sorcerers, and other threats.
• The series is known for its faithful adaptation of the original Conan stories, as well as its stunning animation and action sequences.

3. Gargoyles (1994 - 1997)

Unearth ancient secrets and modern mysteries in 'Gargoyles,' a captivating tale of mythical creatures awakening in New York City. With a blend of folklore and contemporary themes, this Disney classic offers a spellbinding narrative that continues to enthrall audiences.

Two gargoyles and Xanatos from Gargoyles - Ancient

Background:

• Created by Greg Weisman, 'Gargoyles' is a Disney animated series that premiered in 1994.
• The show follows a group of gargoyles who awaken in modern-day New York City and must adapt to a new world while protecting the city from evil.
• 'Gargoyles' is praised for its complex characters, intricate mythology, and groundbreaking animation.

4. Lloyd In Space (2001 - 2004)

Embark on extraterrestrial adventures with Lloyd and his diverse group of friends in 'Lloyd In Space.' This whimsical series explores the challenges of adolescence against a cosmic backdrop, weaving a tale of friendship and self-discovery in the vastness of space.

Lloyd and his friends in Lloyd In Space - The doldrums of teenage life from the perspective of an alien.

Background:

• 'Lloyd In Space' is an animated series created by David Silverman and premiered in 2001.
• The show follows Lloyd Nebulon, an alien teenager who moves to Earth and must navigate the challenges of adolescence while also dealing with his extraterrestrial heritage.
• 'Lloyd In Space' is known for its quirky humor, relatable characters, and exploration of themes such as friendship and self-discovery.

5. Xiaolin Showdown (2003 - 2006)

Witness the martial arts prowess and mystical quests of 'Xiaolin Showdown,' where students must gather ancient artifacts to thwart their adversaries. This action-packed series blends martial arts with moral dilemmas, offering a compelling narrative of teamwork and honor.

Xiaolin Showdown on Cartoon Network - Martial arts students must collect magic artifacts before their enemies.

Background:

• 'Xiaolin Showdown' is an animated series created by Christy Hui and premiered in 2003.
• The show follows a group of young martial artists who must collect magical artifacts to prevent an evil sorcerer from taking over the world.
• 'Xiaolin Showdown' is known for its fast-paced action, humor, and exploration of Chinese culture and mythology.

6. Hero: 108 (2010 - 2012)

Explore the harmony between humanity and nature in 'Hero: 108,' a visionary series that tackles environmental themes with a touch of magic. As humans and animals unite to preserve their world, this show emphasizes the importance of cooperation and understanding.

Lin Chung in Hero: 108 - Humans work together to reunite their kind with animals and live in harmony.

Background:

• 'Hero: 108' is a Chinese animated series created by Wang Wei and premiered in 2010.
• The show follows a group of 108 heroes who must unite to protect their world from an evil sorcerer.
• 'Hero: 108' is known for its stunning animation, epic battles, and emphasis on environmental themes.

7. Infinity Train (2019 - 2021)

Embark on an emotional odyssey aboard the 'Infinity Train,' a series that delves into personal growth and introspection. With a diverse cast of characters and poignant storytelling, this innovative show explores the depths of human emotions within a surreal and captivating setting.

Infinity Train - Emotional growth is explored and developed aboard the Infinity Train.

Background:

• 'Infinity Train' is an animated series created by Owen Dennis and premiered in 2019.
• The show follows a group of passengers who are trapped on a mysterious train that travels through different worlds.
• 'Infinity Train' is praised for its emotional depth, exploration of mental health, and innovative storytelling.

8. The Pirates Of Dark Water (1991 - 1992)

Join Ren and his crew in a high-seas adventure to reclaim the world of Mer from the encroaching Dark Water in 'The Pirates Of Dark Water.' This swashbuckling series immerses viewers in a richly detailed world of piracy and magic, where courage and camaraderie reign supreme.

Ren in The Pirates of Dark Water - Ren and his crew fight the Dark Water to regain control of Mer.

Background:

• 'The Pirates Of Dark Water' is an animated series created by David Kirschner and premiered in 1991.
• The show follows a group of pirates who must battle an evil sorcerer to save the world of Mer.
• 'The Pirates Of Dark Water' is known for its swashbuckling adventure, stunning animation, and memorable characters.

9. Jayce And The Wheeled Warriors (1985 - 1986)

Embark on a thrilling quest with Jayce and the Lightning League as they battle the sinister Monster Minds in 'Jayce And The Wheeled Warriors.' This forgotten gem blends space-faring adventures with botanical wonders, offering a nostalgic journey filled with heroism and ingenuity.

Jayce in Jayce and the Wheeled Warriors - The heroic Jayce leads the Lightning League to victory against the Monster Minds.

Background:

• 'Jayce And The Wheeled Warriors' is an animated series created by Jean Chalopin and premiered in 1985.
• The show follows Jayce, a young man who must lead a team of warriors to battle against an evil empire.
• 'Jayce And The Wheeled Warriors' is known for its action-packed adventures, futuristic setting, and memorable characters.

10. Centurions (1986)

Prepare for an epic clash of cyborgs and heroes in 'Centurions,' where the fate of the universe hangs in the balance. With advanced technology and formidable foes, this classic series explores the boundaries between science and fantasy, delivering thrilling battles and futuristic intrigue.

Centurions Nacelle Verse 3 - An epic battle between cyborgs and The Centurions.

Background:

• 'Centurions' is an animated series created by Ruby-Spears Productions and premiered in 1986.
• The show follows a team of cyborgs who must battle against an evil organization.
• 'Centurions' is known for its futuristic setting, high-tech gadgets, and thrilling action sequences.

Uncover the hidden treasures of animated fantasy with these remarkable series that have left an indelible mark on the genre. From forgotten classics to timeless adventures, these cartoons invite audiences to embark on a journey beyond imagination and discover the magic of storytelling at its finest.