Science fiction is enjoying a golden age, but while blockbuster hits like Dark, Severance, Stranger Things and The Expanse dominate conversations, some of the genre’s finest stories remain hidden in plain sight. These overlooked series have earned exceptional praise from both critics and audiences, yet many viewers have never heard of them.
From mind-bending tales of artificial intelligence and parallel worlds to breathtaking alien landscapes and gripping time-travel adventures, they prove that the best sci-fi often lies beyond the mainstream. If you’re searching for your next binge, TIMES Entertainment has put together 10 underrated sci-fi series that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
Scavengers Reign
Streaming on Max, this visually breathtaking animated survival drama follows the crew of a stranded spaceship trying to survive on an alien world unlike anything seen on television. Its astonishing world-building, haunting atmosphere and near-perfect critical acclaim make it one of the greatest modern sci-fi series.
Pantheon
Available on Prime Video in many regions, this acclaimed animated thriller explores artificial intelligence, uploaded human consciousness and digital immortality. Packed with emotional twists and big philosophical ideas, it delivers the depth of prestige television while remaining endlessly entertaining.
For All Mankind
Streaming on Apple TV+, this alternate-history epic imagines a world where the Soviet Union reached the Moon first, extending the space race for decades. Rich character development and realistic science have made it one of the most celebrated space dramas of the streaming era.
Counterpart
Available on Prime Video in selected regions, this intelligent thriller combines Cold War espionage with parallel universes. Led by an extraordinary dual performance from J. K. Simmons, it offers suspense, emotional depth and one of television’s most fascinating multiverse stories.
Station Eleven
Streaming on Max, this acclaimed post-apocalyptic drama focuses less on survival and more on hope, memory and the healing power of art. Beautifully written and emotionally rewarding, it stands apart from typical end-of-the-world stories.
The Lazarus Project
Available on Max in many markets, this fast-paced thriller follows a secret organisation capable of resetting time to prevent global disasters. Clever time-travel mechanics, high-stakes action and emotional dilemmas make it an addictive watch.
Devs
Streaming on Hulu in the US and other FX platforms internationally, Alex Garland’s limited series blends quantum physics, technology and philosophy into a hypnotic mystery that challenges ideas about destiny and free will.
The OA
Available on Netflix, this cult favourite follows a young woman who mysteriously returns after years of disappearance with her eyesight restored and an impossible story to tell. Its ambitious storytelling and unforgettable twists have earned it a fiercely loyal fanbase.
Raised by Wolves
Streaming on Max, this visually spectacular sci-fi drama from Ridley Scott follows androids raising human children on a distant planet after Earth falls. Its bold mix of religion, evolution and artificial intelligence makes it one of the genre’s most original series.
Tales from the Loop
Available on Prime Video, this beautifully crafted anthology, inspired by the artwork of Simon Stålenhag, tells interconnected stories where mysterious scientific experiments quietly reshape ordinary lives. Thoughtful, emotional and deeply atmospheric, it is science fiction at its most human.
