With the release of films such asSpider-Man: Across the Spider-verseandThe Super Mario Bros. Movie, it is safe to say that 2023 was a great year for animation. However, movies weren’t the only place for animation to shine. This year was incredible for animated television too. From brand-new series to new seasons of already established shows, there was something for every kind of viewer. In a year with so many great releases, it is time to look back at the best animated series of 2023.
Animation has proven itself to befar more than just a medium for children. This year’s animated shows represent the different genres, styles, and stories that can be told through it. From highly anticipated comebacks to brand-new surprises, these animated series stand as some of the best.
Based on
Slavery During The French Revolution in 1792by Clive Bradley
Voice cast
Edward Bluemel, Thuso Mbedu, Pixie Davies, Richard Dormer, Sydney James Harcourt
Number of seasons
1
Number of episodes
8
Episode duration
24–31 minutes
Release date
100%
45%
77
7.5/10
Where to watch
Netflix
A spin-off to Netflix’s critically acclaimedCastlevania,Castlevania: Nocturnetakes place during the French Revolution, 300 years after the events of the original. It follows Richter Belmont, a young monster hunter and the last descendant of the Belmont clan, and Maria Renard, a sorcerer revolutionary who leads small groups against the rich and powerful. Together, they try to preventthe rise of a powerful Vampire monster.
While Castlevania: Nocturnehas not gotten the same praise as its predecessor, it is a refreshing addition to the pre-established universe. Itstays consistent while also giving it enough personality of its ownto make it distinctive and fresh. It received positive reviews from critics, and it is an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre, especially those who enjoyed its predecessor.
Invincibleby Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker, and Ryan Ottley
2
12-
42–55 minutes
90%
83
8.7/10
Amazon Prime Video
Invinciblehas become one of the most critically acclaimed animated series for adult audiences, and its highly anticipated second season did not disappoint. This season takes a reflexive and emotional approach, following the events of the harrowing season 1 finale and Omni-Man being pitted against his own son. As Mark Grayson is still reeling from his father’s betrayal and Debbie grieves her marriage to a man who turned out to be evil,new threats and villains ariseand heroes have to reflect about their own purpose.
While season 2 will be released as two parts, with the second half coming out in 2024,Mark Grayson’s return to the screen has been greatso far, and it was one of the greatest animated shows on air in 2023. The first half has earned incredibly positive reviews, and one can only expect the rest of this action-packed season to continue delivering extraordinary episodes.
Scott Pilgrimby Brian Lee O’Malley
Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Satya Bhabha, Kieran Culkin, Chris Evans, Brie Larson
26-29 minutes
98%
78%
82
8.1/10
Fans went wild when an animated take on theScott Pilgrimuniverse was announced. With the original cast from the film reprising their roles,Scott Pilgrim Takes Offremains faithful to both the original comic by Brian Lee O’Malley and the Edgar Wright movie. While at first glance it may seem like a direct adaptation of the film, it is far from that. Instead, it is an alternate retelling of the original story. Everything seems to be going as expected, until Scott is seemingly killed during his battle against Ramona’s first evil ex, Matthew Patel. Everything and everyone changes as a result. Keeping its signature humor and style, it also features agreat share of incredible action sequences.
The series received positive reviews from fans of the original material, first-timers to theScott Pilgrimuniverse, and critics, with many describing it as the fresh breath of air Netflix needs right now. It is safe to say that the platform has surpassed expectations and delivered an original product thatrespects its source materialand its fans, while bringing a twist and serving as a great point of entry for new fans.
6
25–35 minutes
97%
8.0/10
Tear Along the Dotted Linewas one of the best Netflix releases of 2021. Its follow-up,This World Can’t Tear Me Down,met the same reception in 2023. Starring Italian cartoonist Zerocalcare as himself, this entry takes a more political approach than its predecessor. It centers around the opening of a refugee center in Rome, and a group of Nazis who have targeted it. Zero and an old friend become part of a group ofprotestors who fight against the Nazisand protect their community and the refugees.
The series tackles more serious subject matter, but it remains packed with Zero’s stapleself-deprecating humor and brutal honesty. It has been extremely well-received, and critics and viewers collectively agree that it is both a touching and an entertaining experience. More than just a great animated show,This World Can’t Tear Me Downis one of Netflix’s best overall releases of 2023.
32–62 minutes
95%
86
9.0/10
One of the biggest surprises of the year wasBlue Eye Samurai, an action epic that takes place in 17th century Japan, after all foreigners were banned from crossing the country’s borders. The 8-episode series follows Mizu, a biracial samurai master with striking blue eyes,who is looking for vengeance. Her goal is to kill the white men who were in Japan at the time of her birth, since her mixed-race origins have made her face bigotry and racism her entire life.
Blue Eye Samuraiis one of Netflix’s most ambitious animated projects, and its unique style resembles traditional Japanese watercolor paintings to classic samurai thrillers. It is an absolute must-watch for anyone interested in animation or Japanese culture, or who is looking for a compelling and thrilling ride.It was met with a widely positive reception, and it pleasantly surprised thousands of viewers around the world, rightfully earning it the title of the best animated series of 2023.
