15 Best Animated Shows for Adults You Probably Haven’t Started

I love animated shows for adults because they blend sharp humor, bold stories, and wild visuals in ways live-action often can’t match. While big names like ‘The Simpsons’ grab attention, there are tons of under-the-radar series that pack just as much punch.

This list uncovers 15 animated shows crafted for grown-ups, offering everything from dark comedy to sci-fi thrills. These hidden gems deliver clever writing, unique art, and stories that hit hard, making them perfect for your next binge. Let’s dive into the animated goodness you’ve probably missed.

15. ‘Superjail!’ (2008-2014)

Set in a chaotic, psychedelic prison, this show follows a sadistic warden running a nightmarish lockup. Its hyper-violent animation and surreal humor are wildly unique.

The art style explodes with color and insanity, perfect for fans of absurd comedy. It’s a cult classic that’s flown under many radars.

14. ‘Moral Orel’ (2005-2009)

This stop-motion series follows Orel, a naive boy in a hypocritical Christian town, tackling dark themes through satire. Dino Stamatopoulos’ creation is both funny and bleak.

Its sharp critique of religion and small-town life hits hard. A short-lived gem, it’s a must for fans of biting humor.

13. ‘The Midnight Gospel’ (2020)

Clancy, a space podcaster, interviews bizarre beings across trippy dimensions. Created by Pendleton Ward and Duncan Trussell, it blends philosophy with cosmic visuals.

The show’s deep conversations and wild animation make it unique. It’s a mind-bending Netflix original that deserves more buzz.

12. ‘China, IL’ (2011-2015)

Brad Neely’s absurd comedy follows misfit teachers and students at a chaotic university. Its crude humor and bizarre plots shine in a lo-fi art style.

Voices like Hulk Hogan add quirky charm. This Adult Swim gem is a hilarious, overlooked riot for late-night laughs.

11. ‘Happy Tree Friends’ (1999-2016)

Cute cartoon animals face gruesome, darkly funny deaths in this deceptive series. Its contrast of adorable visuals and brutal humor is shocking.

Short episodes make it easy to binge, though it’s not for the squeamish. This cult hit is a wild, underseen ride.

10. ‘Ugly Americans’ (2010-2012)

A human social worker navigates a New York City filled with monsters and demons. This Comedy Central show mixes workplace comedy with supernatural chaos.

Its clever take on urban fantasy and diverse cast keep it fresh. A short-lived gem, it’s perfect for quirky humor fans.

9. ‘Drawn Together’ (2004-2007)

Cartoon archetypes, like a superhero and a princess, live together in a twisted reality show. This raunchy parody skewers pop culture with bold humor.

Its over-the-top gags and meta-jokes hit hard. Though controversial, it’s a hilarious, forgotten satire for adult animation fans.

8. ‘The Maxx’ (1995)

Based on Sam Kieth’s comic, this MTV series follows a homeless man tied to a dreamworld warrior. Its blend of gritty reality and surreal fantasy is haunting.

The dark animation and psychological depth stand out. A ‘90s cult classic, it’s a must for fans of experimental toons.

7. ‘Aeon Flux’ (1991-1995)

A futuristic assassin navigates a dystopian world in this stylish, dialogue-light series. Peter Chung’s creation is a visual feast with bold, abstract storytelling.

Its sleek design and mysterious vibe set it apart. This MTV gem is a striking, underseen piece of animated art.

6. ‘Primal’ (2019-2020)

A caveman and a dinosaur bond in a brutal prehistoric world. Genndy Tartakovsky’s wordless series uses stunning visuals to tell raw, emotional stories.

Its action and heart make every episode gripping. This Adult Swim masterpiece is a quiet triumph that deserves more eyes.

5. ‘Invincible’ (2021-2025)

A teen superhero uncovers dark secrets about his father in this bloody, emotional series. Based on Robert Kirkman’s comic, Steven Yeun leads a stellar voice cast.

Its mix of gore and family drama hooks you fast. Though gaining traction, it’s still a hidden gem for superhero fans.

4. ‘Love, Death & Robots’ (2019-2025)

This Netflix anthology delivers short, sci-fi and fantasy tales with jaw-dropping animation. Each episode, from robot apocalypses to werewolf soldiers, feels fresh.

Its variety and bold visuals make it addictive. A modern classic, it’s still underseen by many animation lovers.

3. ‘Undone’ (2019-2022)

Rosa Salazar stars as Alma, a woman exploring her past through surreal, rotoscoped dreamscapes after a car crash. This Amazon series blends mental health and mystery.

Its emotional depth and unique art style captivate. A groundbreaking gem, it’s a must for fans of introspective animation.

2. ‘Bojack Horseman’ (2014-2020)

A washed-up ‘90s sitcom star, voiced by Will Arnett, navigates depression and Hollywood in this dark comedy. Its animal-human world is both absurd and profound.

The show’s raw take on mental health and sharp humor hit deep. Often praised but still missed by many, it’s a masterpiece.

1. ‘Arcane’ (2021-2025)

Set in the ‘League of Legends’ universe, this steampunk saga follows sisters Vi and Jinx in a divided city. Hailee Steinfeld and Ella Purnell voice a gripping tale.

Its stunning visuals and emotional weight redefine animated drama. A Netflix hit, it’s still a must-watch for non-gamers.

Which of these animated shows are you excited to check out, or is there another adult toon you love? Share your picks in the comments!