Science fiction TV shows often gain a devoted following and can become classics. But even the most beloved shows sometimes have weaker episodes or storylines. Even franchises like Star Trek aren’t perfect. However, a select few sci-fi shows manage to consistently deliver quality entertainment.
Creating a truly great science fiction TV show – one without any weak episodes – requires each installment to move the overall story forward. This is why many of the best sci-fi shows are designed to be watched all at once; it keeps the momentum going. However, some series manage to maintain their quality across many seasons, with every episode feeling like a standout achievement.
Dark (2017-2020)
26 Total Episodes
The German Netflix series Dark is a thrilling sci-fi show with three seasons and a very high critics’ score of 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. It takes the concept of time travel to its limits, filled with complex twists and a conspiracy that spans multiple generations. The show begins with a simple mystery – a missing person – and grows from there, which is a key reason why it’s so popular.
Every episode of Dark is skillfully crafted, with the story unfolding at a perfect pace. Although the plot becomes incredibly intricate, the show cleverly starts with a familiar scenario, easing viewers in before revealing its many twists. What sets Dark apart from other time travel sci-fi series is its unique approach to character interaction – characters actually meet and interact with their younger and older selves.
What makes Dark so clever is how it sidesteps common time travel problems. This approach often turns the show into a fascinating puzzle. But even with this complex plot, the series remains engaging because of its well-developed and captivating characters. Each character has at least one memorable scene per episode, preventing the show from becoming all plot and no heart.
The Expanse (2015-2022)
62 Total Episodes
Despite earning high praise from both critics (95% on Rotten Tomatoes) and scientists who study space, The Expanse remains a hidden gem in the sci-fi world. Set within our solar system, it’s considered by many to be the most scientifically accurate hard sci-fi show ever made, carefully portraying space travel based on current scientific understanding.
Though it lasted six seasons, The Expanse is a fantastic science fiction show that’s absolutely worth watching. Like many great TV series, it starts with a simple mystery – a missing person – and gradually reveals a much larger story about humanity’s expansion across the solar system.
The show is a fantastic adaptation of the source material. Because it’s based on the novels by James S.A. Corey, The Expanse always had a strong direction for each season. This clear planning kept the show consistently engaging and exciting, from beginning to end.
Andor (2022-2025)
24 Total Episodes
Look, let’s be honest, some recent Star Wars projects have leaned way too hard on what we loved about the originals, sometimes at the expense of what made those movies special in the first place. That’s why everyone’s so excited about Andor – it’s being hailed as the best Star Wars show on TV because it gets back to the heart of it all. This isn’t about lightsabers and familiar faces; it’s a gritty story about rebellion, courage, and standing up against a truly oppressive government. It feels like Star Wars stripped down to its core, and it’s incredibly effective.
Andor follows Cassian Andor, a thief who plays a crucial role in the rebellion against the Galactic Empire. Though some found the beginning a bit slow, many appreciated the show’s careful development and impressive climax, featuring some of the best action sequences seen in science fiction television. It’s a visually stunning series that prioritizes a compelling story.
Knowing how Cassian Andor’s story ends in Rogue One gave Andor a focused direction, resulting in a consistently well-paced show. Every scene, no matter how small, felt important, and there weren’t any unnecessary or weak episodes. This makes Andor a standout and compelling addition to the Star Wars universe.
Firefly (2002)
14 Total Episodes
It’s a real shame that Firefly, a fantastic sci-fi show, struggled from the very beginning. The episodes weren’t shown in the right order, and it didn’t get the promotion it needed. While it later gained a dedicated fanbase and concluded with the movie Serenity, Firefly remains famous as one of the best sci-fi shows ever to be canceled after just one season.
You can enjoy each episode of the show individually, but watching them in order really highlights how the characters’ relationships develop over time. This makes especially emotional episodes, like “War Stories,” even more impactful. Plus, the show subtly introduces details – like Inara’s syringe and Shepherd Book’s past – that pay off later on, rewarding viewers who follow the whole series.
What really made Firefly special was its warm, inviting feel, especially when most sci-fi at the time focused on huge spaceships and complex technology. The ship, Serenity, felt real and used, becoming one of the most memorable settings in sci-fi television, and the characters felt like a close-knit family. Every episode offered a fresh take on their relationships, and though some were particularly great, they were all exceptionally well-done.
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2025-11-01 22:59