Top Sci-Fi Series on Max to Watch Now
Discover the ultimate Sci-Fi binge-watch list on HBO Max! From post-apocalyptic worlds in The Last Of Us and Station Eleven, to classic animated favorites like Batman: The Animated Series and The Jetsons, to mind-bending adventures in Rick And Morty and Doctor Who, this list has something for every Sci-Fi fan
Max, formerly known as HBO Max, underwent a rebranding in May 2023, signaling a new era for Warner Bros' streaming platform. In addition to a new logo and revised payment plans, Max now offers three tiers of subscription. However, despite these changes, Max's library remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, with many of the same movies and shows still available. Among these offerings are a solid selection of science fiction titles, which have long been a staple of the entertainment industry. While not comprehensive, Max's sci-fi collection includes some of the best modern releases in the genre, sure to captivate subscribers for hours on end.
The Last Of Us
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Number of Episodes | 9 |
Video game adaptations to film or television have had a rocky history, but The Last of Us has shown that the transition can be done successfully. Many consider Naughty Dog's survival horror game a masterpiece, with its character-focused narrative being an ideal match for Max. With the casting of Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey as Joel and Ellie respectively, the series adeptly captures the intensity and emotional depth of the source material, while also making necessary adjustments to ensure a seamless adaptation.
Station Eleven
The Last of Us may not be a full-fledged science fiction series, but it cleverly incorporates enough elements of the genre to make it a worthwhile watch. The show's core focus on the relationship between a father and daughter in a post-apocalyptic world is expertly acted and utterly captivating, making it a must-see for fans of the genre.
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Number of Episodes | 10 |
Max's original programming boasts some truly exceptional content, and Station Eleven is a standout amongst its sci-fi offerings. The show takes on a post-apocalyptic theme with a unique twist, diverging from the typical "survivors versus the new world" premise and instead delving into a more personal and captivating storyline.
Set in a world devastated by a flu pandemic, the plot follows various groups of survivors as they work to maintain civilization. One group, consisting of traveling performers, encounters a deranged cult that threatens their safety and well-being. Adding to the intensity is the revelation that the cult's leader has a connection to one of the performers. With an enthralling plot and plenty of suspense, Station Eleven is a must-watch miniseries for fans of the genre.
Fringe
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Number of Episodes | 100 |
Fringe took inspiration from the X-Files approach but instead explored parallel universes, leading to a slow start in season 1 but finding its footing in season 2. The show revolves around investigating unexplainable phenomena through a procedural lens, with the story evolving into a complex sci-fi epic that prioritized character development and serial storytelling. The show's main characters undergo significant changes throughout the series, making for a compelling and ambitious viewing experience.
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Number of Episodes | 100 |
Fringe is a remarkable television series that captivates its audience with its clever plot, exceptional acting, and thrilling adventure across various dimensions. With all five seasons conveniently accessible on Max, each episode will leave you wanting more.
Robot Chicken
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Number of Episodes | 159 |
Robot Chicken may not be solely sci-fi, but the animated series frequently explores the genre using stop-motion animation. Its signature approach involves parodying pop culture, often placing well-known fictional figures in ordinary situations, which has been successful for almost twenty years. With its imaginative writing and irreverent humor, Robot Chicken is one of the standout shows on Max, regardless of its classification. And with all eleven seasons available to stream, newcomers have plenty of content to enjoy for months to come.
Dr. Stone
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Number of Episodes | 35 |
Dr. Stone poses an intriguing question: what would happen if a brilliant scientist equipped with contemporary knowledge was transported to the Stone Age? The anime series explores this possibility by presenting a global event that petrifies most of humanity. Fast forward thousands of years, and Senku Ishigami emerges from his stony prison to discover a world ruled by nature. Despite the lack of modern technology and tools, Senku remains undaunted and sets out to expedite humanity's technological progress and save everyone through the power of science.
Doom Patrol
While the premise of this anime is fantastical, Dr. Stone's approach to science is firmly rooted in reality. Senku, the protagonist, is not a divine being capable of creating things out of thin air. He is a regular human who has mastered the art of utilizing the tools at his disposal. Unlike most battle shonen anime that prioritize physical prowess, Dr. Stone revolves around a hero who must use his intellect to navigate tricky situations. This deviation from the norm is a welcome change of pace.
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Number of Episodes | 40 |
Doom Patrol stands out among Max's live-action DC shows with its unique embrace of the surreal and the bizarre. The series delves into the deep psychological scars of outcast characters, prioritizing character development over traditional superhero-style action. Viewers are taken on an unpredictable and entertaining journey through a world populated by sentient streets, living robots, and meta villains.
Batman: The Animated Series
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Number of Episodes | 109 |
Although not strictly science-fiction, Batman: The Animated Series incorporates many of the genre's key elements. Batman's use of advanced technology is central to his crime-fighting persona, and although some of his gadgets are feasible in the present day, they still fall under the realm of fiction. Additionally, villains like Mr. Freeze and Bane are reminiscent of sci-fi characters, with Mr. Freeze's Heart of Ice episode standing out as a prime example of the genre.
Batman Beyond
arguably stands as the greatest adaptation of DC's legendary hero, Batman. Its first season is particularly remarkable, as it delves into some of Bruce Wayne's most intimate and unforgettable story arcs. Although the following seasons may not quite match the same level of excellence, they still offer plenty of thrilling entertainment in their own right.
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Number of Episodes | 52 |
Set in the year 2039, Batman Beyond presents a futuristic version of Gotham complete with flying cars and a new hero to take up the mantle. Bruce Wayne, now retired, watches as the city falls into chaos under the rule of gangs and crime. However, hope is not lost as a young high school student named Terry McGinnis becomes Bruce's potential successor after discovering the billionaire's secret. The show seamlessly blends elements from The Animated Series with futuristic iconography, resulting in an action-packed adventure with memorable characters and consistent quality. While perhaps not reaching the same heights as its predecessor, Batman Beyond is a must-see for any fan of DC's iconic superhero.
The Venture Bros
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Number of Episodes | 81 |
The Venture Bros is a remarkable show that transcends the boundaries of traditional animated series. It started out as a humorous take on various genres, particularly the superhero and spy genres, but quickly evolved into something that is truly one-of-a-kind. The show boasts an outstanding cast of characters that are unique to the sci-fi world, and it seamlessly blends humor, action, and character development to create a universe that is constantly changing. The show's ability to turn henchmen into heroes is a testament to the writers' skill, and these transformations are always well-earned.
The Venture Bros takes viewers on a seven-season journey filled with memorable escapades, emotional scenes, graphic violence, and nods to the legendary David Bowie. Although the initial episodes may not fully captivate audiences, once the show finds its footing, it never fails to impress.
DC's Stargirl
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Number of Episodes | 39 |
Stargirl stands out among other superhero shows with its charming B-movie vibe. Set a decade after the Justice Society of America's downfall, a new group of brave heroes emerge to confront the Injustice Society of America. Leading the charge is Courtney Whitmore, who gains possession of Starman's Cosmic Staff. Despite not receiving as much attention as other Arrowverse series, Stargirl offers a delightful mix of science fiction, action, and humor throughout its three completed seasons.
The Jetsons
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Number of Episodes | 75 |
The Jetsons, which draws inspiration from The Flintstones, takes its audience on a journey to a futuristic world where advanced technology such as sentient robots, flying cars, and oppressive bosses are the norm. Although the cartoon was only aired for one season during its initial run, it made a comeback in the 1980s. While the first season is regarded as the finest, both versions of the show evoke a great deal of nostalgia.
The Jetsons may not be a masterpiece, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of many viewers. While Hanna-Barbera's animation may not be as impressive as in some of their other shows, such as The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo, The Jetsons still manages to capture a certain charm that has kept it relevant even after all these years.
Samurai Jack
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Number of Episodes | 62 |
Samurai Jack, created by Genndy Tartakovsky for Adult Swim, stands out from other animated series with its unique storyline. The series follows the journey of a Japanese samurai named Jack, who is transported to a distant future by the demon Aku. Upon awakening, Jack discovers that the world has been taken over by Aku and embarks on a quest to defeat him and return to his own time.
One of the show's strengths lies in its world-building, which is truly exceptional. As Jack travels through the land, viewers are treated to a variety of settings and subcultures that reflect a cyberpunk-inspired aesthetic. Samurai Jack's animation, characters, and storytelling remain timeless, even years after the show's initial release.
Clone High
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Number of Episodes | 13 |
Clone High, originally aired on MTV, was unfortunately cancelled after only 13 episodes. The show is set in a high school where all the students are clones of famous historical and pop culture figures, such as Lincoln, Joan of Arc, and JFK. While the series satirizes high school dramas that were popular in the late '90s and early 2000s, it also manages to develop endearing characters who experience love, destruction, and captivating relationships. Clone High remains a hilarious and entertaining show to this day.
Unfortunately, the sequel season of Clone High, produced by Max and aired on May 23, 2023, is currently not available on the streaming service. It's a shame, but new subscribers can still enjoy the classic season, which is highly recommended for those who are new to the show.
Rick And Morty
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Number of Episodes | 51 |
Rick and Morty, a creation of Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon, is an animated show that is not suitable for children. It is a highly controversial television series that has graced small screens in the past decade. Its content is crude, very imaginative, and downright amusing. The comedy is unrestricted, with heavy sci-fi elements, making it a perfect fit for those looking for something that doesn't take itself too seriously.
Nevertheless, Rick and Morty is not all about wacky comedy. It delves into some incredibly heavy themes and adds depth to each episode. On the other hand, if someone is only seeking a good laugh, then this show more than satisfies that need. At its peak, Rick and Morty is one of the greatest sci-fi series of all time.
Regular Show
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Number of Episodes | 261 |
Max boasts an impressive collection of modern animated shows, with a few potentially falling under the sci-fi category. Adventure Time and Steven Universe, although predominantly fantasy, do incorporate elements of science fiction. On the other hand, Regular Show heavily draws from the latter genre. The story follows the daily lives of park employees, with episodes starting off as mundane before taking a turn towards the absurd. Pop culture references from movies and games are scattered throughout the series.
Regular Show's final season takes the gang to space, fully embracing its sci-fi roots. This shift in setting proves to be a perfect fit for the show's quirky characters and hilarious humor, culminating in a thrilling three-part finale that rivals those of other top series.
Tokyo Revengers
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Number of Episodes | 24 |
Takemichi, the protagonist of Tokyo Revengers, is a man in his mid-20s who is dissatisfied with his lackluster life. He spends his time looking back on his teenage years, during which he was a member of a gang and in a relationship with his childhood sweetheart, Hinata. However, after Hinata's untimely death, Takemichi suddenly finds himself transported back 12 years in time, with the chance to rewrite his past and potentially save her life. Along the way, he must navigate the dangerous world of gang warfare and rise through the ranks of the Toman gang. While the show is primarily an action-drama rather than a sci-fi series, it centers around Takemichi's time-traveling adventures and his attempts to change his fate. While some viewers may find the protagonist to be an acquired taste, Tokyo Revengers is an entertaining watch for those who enjoy a thrilling ride, even if the show's depiction of gang warfare may not always be entirely realistic. Note that only the show's first season is currently available.
Avenue 5
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Number of Episodes | 17 |
Science fiction doesn't always have to be serious, dangerous, and full of thrilling adventures. While it may not be as prevalent in the main sci-fi genre as some of its sub-genres, comedy can be a powerful tool that brings science-fiction themes to new heights while also providing side-splitting laughter. Avenue 5 is an excellent example of this, presenting itself as an intelligent adventure with some fantastic intellectual humor and outstanding performances by Hugh Laurie and Josh Gad.
The series follows the two actors as leads on an interplanetary cruise ship, a concept that works well as center stage for some truly imaginative (and funny) scenarios.
Years And Years
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Number of Episodes | 6 |
Years and Years, created by Russell T Davies, strays from the typical sci-fi genre as it presents a portrayal of Earth's near future that is firmly rooted in reality. The series spans over 15 years, beginning in 2019, and follows the lives of a closely-knit family as they navigate personal and societal transformations. Among these changes are advancements in technology, such as the possibility of uploading one's consciousness to the cloud. Although seemingly far-fetched, the show's futuristic concepts are not too far from current possibilities, making it a top contender among all genres on Max, including sci-fi.
Peacemaker
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Number of Episodes | 8 |
While some may be quick to dismiss superhero shows as their own genre, Peacemaker cannot be denied its sci-fi edge. However, the show's inspiration seems to come from the B-movies of the past rather than more cerebral properties. This is not a criticism, but rather a testament to James Gunn's ability to create an entertaining and well-written series. He has successfully redeemed a funny yet murderous villain without sacrificing the elements that make Peacemaker such a memorable character.
The reluctant vigilante reluctantly becomes part of A.R.G.U.S's Project Butterfly, which involves identifying and eradicating parasites that have infiltrated human bodies. Although the mission is far from simple, it delivers a mix of humor, thrilling action, and emotional moments.
Gen:Lock
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Number of Episodes | 16 |
Gen:Lock, a creation of Rooster Teeth, transports viewers to an alternate reality where the ongoing conflict between The Polity and the Union has defined the fate of Earth. The Polity, comprising of humans who possess the ability to mentally control mecha, must hone their skills in order to stand a chance against the Union. The show offers top-notch animation and exciting fight sequences, with both seasons delivering on those fronts. Additionally, the series boasts compelling characters, some of whom are voiced by top-tier actors such as Michael B. Jordan and David Tennant. While Season 1 is generally regarded as superior, the second season also has its share of positive aspects.
Doctor Who
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Number of Episodes | 166 |
Doctor Who, a sci-fi classic that has been captivating audiences for decades, is just one example of the established series available on Max. With approximately 869 episodes (although some are missing), there are plenty of seasons for both new and returning fans to explore the imaginative and engaging world of the Time Lord.
Doctor Who has stood the test of time as a beloved sci-fi series with a richly developed universe that provides endless opportunities for creators to explore various genres, including action, comedy, horror, and more.
The Sarah Jane Adventures
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Number of Episodes | 53 |
The Sarah Jane Adventures, a spin-off of Doctor Who, offers a more kid-friendly option with its charming sets, likable characters, and heartwarming storylines. As a rare live-action sci-fi show for children, it proves that the genre can be just as entertaining for younger audiences. Plus, die-hard Doctor Who fans may also enjoy this series as a fresh take on the show's writing style.
