Influential Shows Like 'Arcane'

By michael vivar

Since debuting on Netflix in 2021, Arcane has become a favorite among anime lovers. Earlier this year, new episodes landed on the streamer, sparking a resurgence.

The series grew from the online PvP, battle arena video game, League of Legends. Arcane distilled a coherent storyline and introduced audience-resonating characters.

In Nov 2024, the creators decided to draw their adult-themed streaming steampunk universe to a close. Rather than mourn, here are shows like Arcane to scratch that itch.

'Cowboy Bebop' (Netflix)

This anime follows the misadventures of interplanetary bounty hunters and is a first-recommended favorite despite lasting just one season.

'Legend of Vox Machina' (Prime)

A progressive adaptation blending fantasy violence and hilariously crude comedy. Legend of Vox Machina comes from the tabletop podcast group, "Critical Role."

'Firefly' (Hulu)

This Nathan Fillion-led sci-fi series was canceled after one season, though the film Serenity (2005) gave it a dignified denouement.

'Castlevania' (Netflix)

Based on the vampire-hunting video game that dates back to NES days. Written by famed comic-book auteur, Warren Ellis, Castlevania ran for four seasons to immense critical acclaim.

'Scavengers Reign' (HBOMax)

The slow burn series tugs along the audience with a tale of morally ambiguous colonial settlement. The emotional rending of the soul hurts, but it hurts so good.

'The Expanse' (Prime)

It's always a motley crew of put-upon idealists. The first season is part gumshoe mystery, part pirate drama. It expands into an intergalactic political epic with space battles!

'Primal' (HBOMax)

Almost dialogue-free, the blood-soaked adventures of [man] and [dinosaur] elicit cheers and tears in the same half-hour. Samurai Jack's Genndy Tartakovsky goes ham.

Explore more must-watch sci-fi titles at the link below.

Movies Like 'Interstellar'