11 Adult Animated Shows That Aren’t Raunchy Comedies

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As a lifelong cartoon enthusiast and connoisseur of all things animated, I must say that these shows have truly taken the genre to new heights. Each one offers something unique and captivating, from the dark and violent world of Invincible, to the emotionally complex character study that is BoJack Horseman.

BoJack, in particular, resonated with me on a deep level as someone who has also struggled with mental health issues and the pitfalls of Hollywood. The show’s raw and unflinching portrayal of BoJack’s journey towards redemption was both heartbreaking and inspiring, making it one of my all-time favorites.

That being said, I must admit that I found myself a little taken aback by the graphic violence in Invincible. But as someone who appreciates a good shock factor, I can’t deny that its use of violence to punctuate the darker themes of the show was truly effective.

All in all, whether you’re looking for a dark and violent superhero show, a poignant character study, or something in between, these shows have got you covered. Just be warned: if you leave them on in front of your kids, they might end up with some serious nightmares!

As a child of the ’90s, I grew up watching American cartoons like “Rugrats” and “Pinky and The Brain,” which were undoubtedly entertaining for their time. However, as I got older, my tastes evolved, and I found myself yearning for more mature and nuanced animated content. That’s when I discovered anime, a world that opened up a whole new dimension of storytelling in animation.

From the ocean-faring adventures of “One Piece” to the mature and thought-provoking themes of “Evangelion,” I found shows that resonated with me on a deeper level. The diversity and range of genres, characters, and stories in anime are truly astounding, offering something for everyone.

I believe that animation is a medium that transcends age and demographic boundaries, not just a genre stuck to the same old conventions. American animation has yet to fully explore its potential, with most shows still catering to either children or raunchy humor. It’s high time for American animators to take inspiration from Japan and create more diverse and mature animated content that caters to all ages and tastes. The rising popularity of anime over the past decade is a testament to the fact that people are hungry for more, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this amazing medium.

As someone who grew up watching cartoons, I can attest to the fact that American animation has often been overlooked and stereotyped compared to its Japanese counterpart. However, over the past few years, I’ve noticed a shift in this trend as more creators are drawing inspiration from Japan and creating animated shows about a wide range of topics. It’s refreshing to see the variety of exceptional adult-oriented animated series that have emerged in recent times, spanning different genres, some of which have even become massive hits on their own merit. Shows like “Invincible” and “Arcane” are prime examples that there is a demand for mature animation beyond just comedy. These shows are redefining what western animation can be, and I’m excited to see where the industry goes from here as it continues to push boundaries and challenge expectations.

11
Pantheon (2022–2023)

The animated sci-fi drama titled “Pantheon” delves into the philosophical conundrums that arise with technology’s progression. It draws inspiration from a series of short stories penned by the acclaimed Hugo award-winning author Ken Liu. In this future scenario, individuals have the ability to transfer their consciousness onto computers, potentially attaining immortality. This transformation grants them near godlike control over technology. Katie Chang portrays Maddie Kim, a character who discovers that her deceased father has secretly undergone such a transformation.

Gone Too Soon

This original series on AMC+ offers a chilling portrayal of the impact technology has on affected families, revealing how mega-companies could potentially misuse their power in downright sinister manners. Despite being underappreciated, this series is worthy of every ounce of attention it can receive. Regrettably, AMC decided to end the show after just two seasons and removed it from AMC+ (as reported by Deadline). Luckily, its talented cast (featuring Paul Dano, Aaron Eckhart, and Taylor Schilling) and intriguing setting have allowed it to thrive with a passionate fanbase. You can now stream Pantheon on Netflix.

10
The Legend of Vox Machina (2022–Present)

In simpler terms, “The Legend of Vox Machina” is an exciting journey series set within the universe of Dungeons & Dragons, a property that seems to have boundless potential. This tabletop role-playing game has achieved such popularity that even podcasts detailing people’s dungeon campaigns have made it into mainstream success. This is exactly what happened with “Critical Role,” a D&D podcast where a group of skilled voice actors immerse themselves in the game, bringing to life captivating original characters and engrossing long-form tales across each season.

The animated series, titled “The Legend of Vox Machina,” is a clear portrayal of the podcast’s events. It chronicles the escapades of Vox Machina, an unconventional group of heroic legends who embark on missions and unravel enigmas. Notable voices from the podcast return to their characters in this adaptation, including Laura Bailey, Taliesin Jaffe, Ashley Johnson, Matthew Mercer, Liam O’Brien, among others. The animation is handled by Production Reve, known for “The Legend of Korra” and “Voltron: Legendary Defender.

A Bombastic D&D Series

Enjoy a thrilling tale filled with exciting action, lovable characters, and just the right amount of mature themes such as violence, adult humor, and suggestive content – earning it a well-deserved spot on this list. Boasting an exceptional voice cast, each character from Vox Machina shines in their role, while staying true to the original podcast’s essence. Additionally, the series expands upon these characters, offering more complexity and depth than you might find in the podcast alone. Stream The Legend of Vox Machina on Amazon Prime Video.

9
Love, Death & Robots (2019–Present)

In the spirit of the gritty sci-fi magazines from the ’80s such as Heavy Metal, Love, Death & Robots stands out as a stunningly animated sci-fi anthology series brimming with mature themes you’d expect. At times, the show’s attempts to prove this maturity can feel immaturely adolescent, particularly in some adult scenes that seem excessively included. Nevertheless, the show’s boldness lies in challenging the stereotypes surrounding western animation, a subject this very discussion revolves around. From tales of alien invasions, post-apocalyptic landscapes, to surreal situations, Love, Death & Robots masterfully unites diverse artists and themes in a collection that sparkles more than it stumbles.

An Edgy Anthology Series

As a lifelong animation enthusiast who has grown tired of the same old children-focused content, I wholeheartedly recommend checking out “Love, Death & Robots” on Netflix. Having spent countless hours watching cartoons aimed at younger audiences, I can confidently say that this series is a breath of fresh air in the world of animation. The diverse range of short stories, art styles, and tones found within each episode is truly remarkable, and it serves as a powerful argument for why animation should not be confined to kids’ content.

Moreover, the graphic depictions of violence and adult themes that pervade most episodes are a testament to the medium’s potential to tackle mature subject matter with skill and sophistication. It seems that producers David Fincher and Tim Miller have had enough of the limitations placed on animation, and they’re determined to push boundaries by inundating viewers with a deluge of captivating, adult-oriented animated content.

In short, “Love, Death & Robots” is a must-watch for anyone who wants to see what the world of animation can truly achieve when it’s not shackled by the constraints of being ‘kid-friendly.’ So go ahead and stream this groundbreaking series on Netflix – you won’t be disappointed!

8
Fired on Mars (2023)

Stranded on Mars: A Sci-fi Comedy-Drama follows the story of graphic designer Jeff Cooper (Luke Wilson), who departs from Earth to begin a fresh career and life in a Martian colony. Upon his arrival, however, he finds that his job has already been filled, leaving him jobless and stranded on Mars. With no means of support or return to Earth, this humorous yet poignant series explores Jeff’s struggles to adapt and find his place among the red planet’s inhabitants. Nate Sherman and Nick Vokey co-created the show, which is based on a short film they made in 2016. Tim Heidecker, Sean Wing, Pete Davidson, Pamela Adlon, and Emily Watson round out the cast.

A Character-Focused Story

As a longtime connoisseur of adult animated shows, I must say that “Fired on Mars” is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Having watched countless hours of loud, joke-a-minute comedies, it was refreshing to find a show that focuses more on character development and drama. The setting on Mars and the long-form storytelling make for a compelling viewing experience, much like the intricate plotlines in shows such as “Severance”.

The art style of “Fired on Mars” is reminiscent of “King of the Hill”, but with its own unique flair that sets it apart from other animated productions. I haven’t come across another show quite like it in the animation landscape, and it’s a breath of fresh air in a genre that can often feel stale.

Intrigued by its uniqueness, I highly recommend giving “Fired on Mars” a try on Max. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking to expand their horizons beyond the usual fare of adult animation.

7
Entergalactic (2022)

Entergalactic, conceived by rapper Kid Cudi alongside his namesake album, is a heartfelt, day-to-day love story set in New York between two neighbors. Initially conceptualized as a television series, it was later transformed into a television special. In this special, we follow the journey of Jabari (Scott Mescudi), an artist who’s found a remarkable opportunity due to his street art exploits. Yet, when he finds himself drawn to Meadow (Jessica Williams), he must juggle his commitments to lead a fulfilling life.

A Down-to-Earth Story

The visual artistry and animation in “Entergalactic” is nothing short of stunning, drawing significant influence from the “Spider-Verse” movies, particularly in its creative world and character designs. However, what truly sets it apart from other adult animated series is its relaxed, authentic atmosphere that allows viewers to resonate with the city’s vibe, beautifully encapsulating the unique experience of young adulthood in New York City. The romance is straightforward yet captivating, enhanced by stunning visual elements that mirror the thoughts and emotions of its characters. This laid-back tone is seldom found in western animation nowadays and serves as another testament to the kind of content we should see more of in the animation world. Don’t miss out on “Entergalactic” – stream it on Netflix.

6
Primal (2019–Present)

Produced by Genndy Tartakovsky, who’s known for hit shows like Dexter’s Laboratory and Samurai Jack, Primal showcases a creator at the pinnacle of his skill. It combines the peaceful, contemplative scenes from Samurai Jack with explosive, brutal action. The narrative centers around an unusual alliance between a caveman named Spear and a T-Rex called Fang. After they both suffer devastating dinosaur attacks that claim their loved ones, they forge a near-symbiotic relationship as they learn to cooperate to stay alive. Unlike the first season, which was more episodic, Season 2 follows a continuous storyline with a larger cast. In contrast, Season 3 is expected to abandon this format and evolve into an anthology series, offering fresh tales.

Equally Beautiful and Violent

As a long-time fan of Genndy Tartakovsky’s work, I can confidently say that his latest creation, “Primal,” is a testament to the mastery he has developed over the years in visual storytelling. Having grown up with “Samurai Jack” and marveling at its innovative blend of action and humor, I was thrilled to see Tartakovsky delve deeper into more mature themes in his subsequent projects.

“Primal,” set in a world that is constantly fraught with danger and hostility, offers a fresh perspective on the survival instincts of two unlikely allies. Each episode introduces new threats that test their resilience, creating a sense of tension and anticipation that keeps viewers hooked. The animation is breathtakingly beautiful, from its serene moments to its pulse-pounding action sequences, making it a visual treat for the eyes.

What sets “Primal” apart from other animated series is Tartakovsky’s decision to rely heavily on body language and minimal dialogue. This allows the audience to focus on the dynamic between Fang and Spear and appreciate their evolving bond throughout the story. It feels like a natural evolution of Tartakovsky’s artistic journey, showcasing his ability to tell compelling stories without relying on conventional means of communication.

If you’re a fan of Genndy Tartakovsky or simply enjoy well-crafted animated series with a unique narrative voice, I highly recommend giving “Primal” a watch on Max. It’s an excellent expansion of his previous efforts and offers a captivating exploration of the human condition through the lens of two unlikely heroes.

5
Undone (2019–2022)

As a film enthusiast, I’ve got to share my thoughts on “Undone,” a captivating mystery drama masterfully crafted by Raphael Bob-Waksburg, who also brought us “BoJack Horseman.” This thought-provoking series follows the journey of a woman who miraculously survives a car crash and discovers she can traverse time. Seizing this unique opportunity, she delves into unraveling the enigma surrounding her father’s demise.

What sets “Undone” apart is its use of rotoscope animation, an innovative technique where live-action footage serves as a foundation for animated sequences. The final product beautifully blends the realms of animation and live action, creating a visually stunning fusion. While many rotoscope animations can be disconcerting due to the uncanny valley effect, “Undone” is one of the rare exceptions where this technique shines, offering consistent and aesthetically pleasing visuals that keep viewers hooked.

A Mind-Bending Mystery

In the animated series “Undone“, we see standout performances from Rosa Salazar who starred in Alita: Battle Angel, and Bob Odenkirk, famous for his roles in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Additionally, Angelique Cabral, Constance Marie, Daveed Diggs, and Siddharth Dhananjay deliver solid performances that contribute significantly to the series’ complex narrative.

Notably, the animation in this show has received much acclaim. It was nominated for both an Annie Award and a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Animated Series, and eventually won a Writers Guild of America Award in the Animation category. If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to check out “Undone” on Prime Video.

4
Castlevania / Castlevania: Nocturne (2017–Present)

In the vein of the well-known video game series titled “Castlevania,” including its spinoff “Castlevania: Nocturne,” we delve into the ongoing saga of the Belmont family, who are renowned for their vampire hunting exploits. These brave individuals confront the armies of Dracula and his minions, a host of undead creatures. The catalyst for this conflict begins when Dracula, once a peaceful figure, witnesses the Church burning his human wife at the stake on false charges of witchcraft. Enraged by this act, Dracula declares war against humanity and summons his legion of monstrous minions to eradicate all humans. The few left to challenge him are Trevor Belmont, the last remaining member of the Belmont lineage, a powerful mage, and Alucard, Dracula’s own half-human offspring.

A Surprising Video Game Adaptation

In this series, the character development is exceptional, ensuring that every minor figure seems intriguing and significant. The show spends a considerable amount of time exploring the backgrounds of the adversaries through thrilling political narratives, at times giving off a vibe similar to a political drama in a fantasy world akin to “Game of Thrones,” but with vampire clans instead. With its stunning anime-inspired visuals and expertly choreographed action scenes, “Castlevania” stands out as one of the finest video game adaptations. Notably, Richard Armitage lends his voice to the menacing character of Dracula in this production. Why not give Castlevania and Castlevania: Nocturne a watch on Netflix?

3
Arcane (2021–2024)

Arcane is another video game adaptation, hailing this time from the realm of League of Legends, the globe’s most renowned competitive game. Arcane constructs a steampunk fantasy universe, replete with character tension and political machinations reminiscent of a George R.R. Martin novel, centering mainly on the strained sibling bond between Vi (Hailee Steinfeld) and Powder (Ella Purnell). As a result of a brutal conflict between Piltover and Zaun, these sisters are forced to part ways, and the destiny of everyone involved hangs in the balance due to the influence of magical technologies.

An Incredible Expansion of the Game

In essence, League of Legends, known mainly for its multiplayer format and limited narrative depth, was dramatically expanded upon in the series Arcane, resulting in one of the most captivating fantasy landscapes in contemporary literature. Notably, it could be debated that Arcane is the finest animated TV show ever made, boasting a unique blend of hand-painted textures, computer animation, and cel shading, which gives it an artistic style that rivals only Sony’s Spider-Verse films for its stunning intricacy. This series made history as the first streaming program to win an Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program, along with numerous other awards. Experience Arcane on Netflix.

2
Invincible (2021–Present)

As a passionate fan, let me share my thoughts on a captivating series I recently discovered – Invincible. At first glance, its visual style and jovial tone might remind you of classic Saturday morning cartoons like Justice League Unlimited or Spider-Man. But don’t be fooled, for this show is far from the innocence those titles suggest.

If left unattended with your children, they may find themselves traumatized by the end of the very first episode. The story revolves around Mark Grayson (Steven Yeun), a promising teenager who suddenly acquires supernatural abilities due to his family lineage. When his father, the powerful superhero Omni-Man (J. K. Simmons), takes notice, the narrative unfolds into an unexpected tale of heroism that’s both inspiring and tainted with hidden truths and chilling revelations.

One of the Most Violent Superhero Shows

The show “Invincible,” perhaps the most brutally violent on this collection, could be the most graphically intense superhero series available. It skillfully employs a tone generally suitable for kids to create an illusion of safety, making the sudden, jarring instances of violence all the more startling and powerful. By juxtaposing the typical formula of a superhero show with real-world violence and its consequences, it offers a glimpse into what being a superhero might entail in a world where injury and death are common.

After years of witnessing heroes emerge victorious in every scenario, experiencing one where loss and defeat are frequent occurrences is a unique and exhilarating change. This results in an adult animation experience that’s nothing short of invigorating.

Don’t miss out on “Invincible” – stream it on Prime Video.

1
BoJack Horseman (2014–2020)

I must confess, at first glance, BoJack Horseman seemed like just another raunchy sitcom, but upon closer inspection, it stands out from the rest in a remarkable way. While BoJack Horseman, played brilliantly by Will Arnett, is a former sitcom star grappling with his troubled past and present struggles, it’s not merely his return to the spotlight that makes this show unique. Instead, it’s the deep exploration of his mental health and the challenges he faces in his comeback attempt that truly sets it apart. The stellar cast, including Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Paul F. Tompkins, and Aaron Paul, only adds to its allure.

One of Netflix’s Best Shows

BoJack Horseman is a thoughtfully crafted series that may not be for everyone due to its intense themes. Despite its playful animation and sharp humor, it delves into the intricate emotional journey of a struggling Hollywood star, BoJack. The narrative often unfolds in a somber and melancholic tone, tackling serious issues such as drug addiction, trauma, and mental health. Moreover, it serves as a scathing critique of the Hollywood industry and LA society, exposing the destructive mechanisms that shape individuals like BoJack.

The series boasts a rich ensemble of characters, each with their own complex personal histories, portrayed with a depth rarely seen in other shows, animated or live-action. This unique blend of dark humor, emotional complexity, and social commentary makes BoJack Horseman not just one of the best adult cartoons, but also one of the most remarkable television series in contemporary media.

You can stream BoJack Horseman on Netflix.

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2025-01-04 04:04