If you’re scrolling through Netflix and craving animation that actually delivers, whether it’s sharp storytelling, rich world-building, or laughs that land, there’s no shortage of great series waiting to be streamed. From deep, sophisticated mature-themed cartoons and anime that push emotional and narrative boundaries, to delightful shows kids can enjoy (and grown-ups won’t hate watching), Netflix’s animation slate is wide and varied.
Here are 15 of the best animated series on Netflix right now, chosen for their quality, creativity, and appeal across different tastes and age groups:
Arcane
A visually striking and emotionally rich League of Legends adaptation blending complex characters with breathtaking animation and a gripping story about class, family, and power.
BoJack Horseman
A dark comedy with heart, offering incisive satire and deep emotional exploration around fame, depression, and relationships in Hollywood’s anthropomorphic world.
Love, Death & Robots
This anthology series delivers short episodes spanning sci-fi, horror, fantasy, and comedy—each with distinct art styles and bold storytelling that often targets mature viewers.
Blue Eye Samurai
A stylish animated action series set in Edo-period Japan, following a mixed-heritage samurai navigating prejudice and violence in pursuit of vengeance.
Castlevania: Nocturne
A dark fantasy continuation of the Castlevania universe, rich with gothic atmosphere, intense battles, and a mature narrative that’s earned praise among mature viewers.
Devil May Cry
Based on the popular video game, this action-fantasy series features demon hunter Dante in high-energy demon-fighting escapades, blending comedy and spectacle with slick animation.
Big Mouth
A raunchy comedy that hilariously (and often insightfully) tackles puberty, relationships, and awkward growing-up moments with sharp humor.
Inside Job
A clever mature cartoon set in a conspiracy-driven version of the “deep state,” balancing absurd humor with pop-culture commentary that resonates with an older audience.
Disenchantment
From The Simpsons’ creator Matt Groening, this fantasy comedy blends medieval adventure with quirky humor and smart character work.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Though beloved by all ages, this masterfully crafted fantasy adventure remains a standout on Netflix, with rich world-building, heartfelt themes, and action that resonates far beyond its original Nickelodeon run.
Naruto
One of the most influential anime series ever, this long-running ninja epic combines emotional storytelling, dynamic battles, and deep lore, earning universal acclaim and fan devotion.
The Midnight Gospel
A trippy, philosophical animated series that uses surreal visuals and interview-based dialogue to explore life, death, and emotional growth in strange, imaginative ways.
Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts
A bright, creative series with vibrant design and strong themes of friendship, identity, and hope — perfect for older kids but layered enough for grown-ups too.
The Cuphead Show!
Based on the hit video game, this joyful slapstick comedy brings classic cartoon antics and bold animation style that’s both kid-friendly and fun for grown-ups.
Green Eggs and Ham
A wacky, colorful adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved book, offering adventurous storytelling kids can enjoy, with humor and visual flair that grown-ups can appreciate as well.
Whether you’re in the mood for deep, grown-up storytelling like BoJack Horseman or Love, Death & Robots, anime powerhouses like Naruto and Blue Eye Samurai, or family-friendly fun like The Cuphead Show! and Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts, Netflix’s animated offerings have something for everyone.
