10 Best Apple TV+ Original Sci-Fi & Drama Series, Ranked by Innovation

Apple TV+ has quickly become a hub for bold storytelling since its 2019 launch, carving out a niche with its high-quality sci-fi and drama originals. These series push boundaries with fresh concepts, sleek visuals, and thought-provoking themes, making the platform a go-to for viewers craving something new.

I’ve ranked the 10 most innovative Apple TV+ sci-fi and drama series, focusing on their creative risks and groundbreaking ideas. From mind-bending workplace experiments to alternate histories, these shows redefine their genres. Starting from the bottom, here’s why each one stands out.

10. ‘Hello Tomorrow!’ (2023)

‘Hello Tomorrow!’ is a retro-futuristic dramedy where Jack Billings (Billy Crudup) sells lunar timeshares in a 1950s-inspired world. The series blends quirky sci-fi with a father-son story, exploring deception and hope through a pastel-colored lens.

Its innovative mix of comedy and con-artist drama feels fresh, though uneven character arcs hold it back. The stylized visuals and moon-colony pitch make it a unique, if flawed, addition to Apple’s lineup.

9. ‘Dr. Brain’ (2021)

‘Dr. Brain’ follows brain scientist Sewon Koh (Lee Sun-kyun) who hacks into the memories of the dead to solve a family tragedy. Directed by Kim Jee-woon, this dark Korean thriller merges neuroscience with psychological horror.

The show’s brain-syncing concept is a bold sci-fi leap, though its dense plot can feel overwhelming. Its visual flair and unsettling tone make it a standout for fans of twisted mysteries.

8. ‘Invasion’ (2021-present)

‘Invasion’ tracks an alien arrival through the eyes of ordinary people across the globe, from a Long Island mom to a Tokyo scientist. Its real-time, character-driven approach avoids typical invasion tropes, focusing on human resilience.

The global perspective and slow-burn storytelling innovate the genre, though pacing can test patience. The emotional depth and diverse cast keep it compelling across its ongoing seasons.

7. ‘Sunny’ (2024-present)

‘Sunny’ stars Rashida Jones as Suzie, an American in Japan unraveling her husband’s secrets with a mysterious robot companion. This dark comedy blends sci-fi with grief, using the AI bot to explore human connection.

Its mix of humor and heartbreak feels new, with Jones’ sharp performance grounding the odd premise. The robot’s quirky role adds a fresh spin, though some twists feel familiar.

6. ‘Amazing Stories’ (2020)

A reboot of Steven Spielberg’s 1980s anthology, ‘Amazing Stories’ delivers standalone sci-fi tales, from time-travel romances to ghost stories. Each episode experiments with tone and style, backed by talents like Dylan O’Brien.

The anthology format allows bold creative swings, though not every story lands. Its nostalgic yet modern approach makes it a playground for innovative storytelling.

5. ‘Murderbot’ (2025-present)

Based on Martha Wells’ novels, ‘Murderbot’ follows a self-hacking security bot (Alexander Skarsgård) protecting humans while secretly binging TV. This sci-fi comedy blends action with workplace satire, reflecting on autonomy and media obsession.

The bot’s cynical voice and relatable quirks break new ground, though its humor may not click for all. Its sharp tone and Skarsgård’s charm make it a fresh genre hybrid.

4. ‘Dark Matter’ (2024-present)

Adapted from Blake Crouch’s novel, ‘Dark Matter’ tracks physicist Jason (Joel Edgerton) navigating alternate realities after an abduction. With Jennifer Connelly, it explores identity and choice through a multiverse lens.

The show’s innovative take on parallel worlds keeps you guessing, with tight pacing and strong performances. Some plot twists feel conventional, but its emotional core elevates it.

3. ‘Silo’ (2023-present)

Based on Hugh Howey’s books, ‘Silo’ follows Juliette (Rebecca Ferguson), an engineer uncovering secrets in a dystopian underground bunker housing humanity’s remnants. Its mystery-driven plot and stark setting redefine post-apocalyptic drama.

The silo’s claustrophobic world and layered reveals are brilliantly fresh, though some answers come slowly. The stellar cast and gripping twists make it a sci-fi standout.

2. ‘For All Mankind’ (2019-present)

‘For All Mankind’ imagines a world where the Soviets landed on the moon first, sparking an endless space race. Created by Ronald D. Moore, it blends alternate history with ensemble drama, jumping decades each season.

Its bold timeline shifts and realistic space exploration push sci-fi forward, with rich characters like Joel Kinnaman. The ambitious scope makes it a must-watch, despite occasional sprawl.

1. ‘Severance’ (2022-present)

‘Severance’ follows Mark (Adam Scott) at Lumon Industries, where employees undergo a procedure to split work and personal memories. Directed by Ben Stiller, it’s a chilling sci-fi thriller about identity and corporate control.

The memory-split concept is a game-changer, blending workplace satire with existential dread. Its flawless cast, including Britt Lower and Patricia Arquette, and eerie visuals make it Apple’s most innovative series.

These series showcase Apple TV+’s knack for bold, genre-bending stories that linger long after the credits roll. Which one’s your favorite, or is there another innovative gem I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!