As anticipation builds for the upcoming season of Invincible, a popular animated superhero series on Amazon Prime Video, discussions are emerging around its standing in the animated action genre. While Invincible has garnered acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, several other animated series are considered to surpass it in quality and storytelling. Here are eight series that critics and fans alike argue excel beyond the achievements of Invincible.
Jujutsu Kaisen: A Compelling Rival
Streaming on Crunchyroll, Jujutsu Kaisen stands out as a formidable competitor. The Japanese anime follows Yuji Itadori, a teenager who becomes entwined with the world of Jujutsu sorcerers after being possessed by an ancient spirit. The series features intense battles, intricate martial arts choreography, and a gripping storyline that highlights themes of corruption and moral ambiguity, akin to those in Invincible. However, many viewers find that the fight sequences in Jujutsu Kaisen are more dynamic and visually striking, contributing to a more engaging narrative arc.
Samurai Jack: A Timeless Classic
Originally airing in the early 2000s and revived in 2017, Samurai Jack is celebrated for its storytelling and animation style. The series chronicles the journey of a samurai sent to a dystopian future to confront Aku, an ancient demon. Its focus on deep character development and innovative fight sequences gives it an edge over Invincible, making it a memorable experience for audiences.
Blue Eye Samurai: A Unique Perspective
Available on Netflix, Blue Eye Samurai diverges from the superhero genre but shares thematic similarities with Invincible. Set in the Edo period of Japan, it follows Mizu, a mixed-race protagonist seeking revenge against her estranged fathers. The series excels in character depth, allowing for a more profound exploration of Mizu’s psyche compared to Mark’s character development in Invincible. This focused narrative ultimately leads to a more compelling protagonist in Mizu.
Arcane: Mastering Ensemble Storytelling
Also streaming on Netflix, Arcane showcases a rich tapestry of characters from the worlds of Piltover and Zaun, exploring their struggles and aspirations in a society divided by class. Its ability to balance multiple storylines and character arcs without sacrificing depth sets it apart from Invincible. Viewers find themselves equally invested in various characters, which enhances the overall storytelling experience.
Castlevania: Dark and Engaging
Another noteworthy mention is Castlevania, which follows the legendary vampire Dracula and his adversaries, including Trevor Belmont. Despite its different tone and style, Castlevania offers rich world-building, fluid animation, and a captivating narrative. Its gothic atmosphere and character-driven stories resonate strongly with audiences, often outperforming Invincible in visual artistry.
Justice League Unlimited: The Superhero Benchmark
Regarded as one of the finest superhero animated series, Justice League Unlimited provides a vast array of characters and storylines, allowing for meaningful exploration of each hero’s personality. This series excels in character development, ensuring that every member of the Justice League receives attention and depth, a feat Invincible sometimes struggles with due to its narrower focus on Mark Grayson.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners: A Heartfelt Journey
Despite its single-season run, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners captivates audiences with its engaging narrative set in the dystopian Night City. Following David, who grapples with cybernetic enhancements and the price of power, the series is praised for its emotional depth and high-paced action. Viewers find that its concise storytelling delivers a complete and impactful experience compared to the ongoing journey of Mark in Invincible.
X-Men ’97: A Nostalgic Revival
Finally, X-Men ’97 reintroduces the beloved mutant team, exploring their complex relationships and struggles against societal prejudice. This animated series connects with audiences by tapping into the rich history of the X-Men franchise, enhancing its emotional resonance and making it a noteworthy contender against Invincible.
As Invincible prepares for its fourth season, the landscape of animated action series continues to evolve. While it remains a significant player in the genre, these eight series showcase the diverse storytelling and character development available in animated television, challenging Invincible to continually raise the bar.
