The animated series “Invincible” has garnered considerable attention for its vibrant visuals and intense storytelling. Centered around the character Mark Grayson, who discovers his superpowers on his 17th birthday, the show explores dark themes as he learns about his father’s true nature. While “Invincible” stands out in the adult animated genre, several other animated action series have captivated audiences even more effectively. Here are eight series that showcase extraordinary storytelling, animation, and character development, demonstrating that the animated landscape is rich with alternatives.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
One of the most celebrated anime series globally, “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” is set in Taisho-era Japan. The narrative follows Tanjiro Kamado, a compassionate teenager whose life is upended when he discovers the brutal murder of his family. The only survivor is his sister Nezuko, who has transformed into a demon. Driven by the desire to save her and eliminate demons, Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps. Known for its breathtaking animation and emotional depth, the series combines heart-pounding battles with poignant storytelling, making it a compelling alternative to “Invincible.”
Primal
“Primal” demonstrates that dialogue is not always necessary to convey powerful narratives. This series follows Spear, a caveman, and his unlikely friend, Fang, a dinosaur, as they navigate a dangerous prehistoric landscape. With no spoken words, the show relies on visual storytelling to deliver intense action and survival scenarios. Its striking animation and brutal sequences have earned it a perfect 100% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes. While “Invincible” excels in dialogue and plot complexity, “Primal” offers a raw, immersive experience that captivates viewers.
The Mighty Nein
An adaptation of the popular Dungeons & Dragons campaign from Critical Role, “The Mighty Nein” showcases a diverse group of outcasts who come together to face shared adversaries. Launching in 2025, this animated series has already attracted praise for its intricate character development and rich fantasy lore. As it shares a platform with “Invincible” on Prime Video, its deeper world-building and narrative complexities provide an engaging alternative for fans seeking adult-oriented animation.
Teen Titans
“Teen Titans” remains a defining classic in animated action. This series follows a group of young superheroes as they protect Jump City from various threats. Despite concluding its run after three years, the show left a lasting impact, thanks to its engaging humor, memorable theme song, and impressive character arcs. “Teen Titans” paved the way for future superhero shows, and its influence can be seen in series like “Invincible,” making it an essential part of animated television history.
Batman: The Animated Series
Regarded as one of the greatest animated series of all time, “Batman: The Animated Series” set a high standard for storytelling and animation. The show chronicles the adventures of Bruce Wayne as Batman, tackling villains in the dark streets of Gotham City. Its sophisticated narrative and atmospheric visuals appeal to both children and adults. With multiple awards to its name, this series remains a benchmark for superhero storytelling, often surpassing contemporary works like “Invincible” in character depth and narrative quality.
My Hero Academia
“My Hero Academia” stands as a standout in the superhero genre, depicting a world where most individuals possess unique abilities called quirks. The story follows Izuku “Deku” Midoriya, a quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. After receiving a quirk from his idol, Deku embarks on an emotional journey filled with epic battles and themes of perseverance and friendship. Its combination of vibrant animation, powerful storytelling, and a memorable soundtrack has made it a beloved series that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Often hailed as one of the best television series in history, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” blends elements of fantasy and action. The narrative follows Aang, the last Airbender and Avatar, as he strives to master all four elements to defeat the oppressive Fire Nation. With its rich character development, intricate world-building, and profound themes of destiny and redemption, the series transcends typical animated fare. While “Invincible” excels within its superhero niche, “Avatar” is celebrated for its broad appeal and cultural significance.
Blue Eye Samurai
Premiering on Netflix on November 3, 2023, “Blue Eye Samurai” stands out for its unique setting and captivating storyline. Set in feudal Japan, the series follows Mizu, a mixed-race female samurai navigating societal prejudice while seeking vengeance against those who wronged her family. With striking animation and intense action sequences, “Blue Eye Samurai” explores themes of identity and discrimination while delivering a thrilling viewing experience. This relatively new series has quickly earned its place among the animated greats, showcasing storytelling and artistry that rivals established titles.
These eight series illustrate the diverse and dynamic world of animated action, offering viewers a wide range of experiences that extend beyond what “Invincible” has to offer. Each series presents unique narratives and artistic styles, enriching the animation landscape and providing compelling alternatives for fans seeking quality storytelling.
