The 13 Best Fantasy TV Shows You Need to See at Least Once in Your Life

The 13 Best Fantasy TV Shows You Need to See at Least Once in Your Life

Dragons, portals, prophecies, and the occasional snarky immortal—fantasy TV has never been richer or more binge-worthy. Whether you crave sweeping mythic sagas or quirky, character-driven adventures, these shows conjure worlds you’ll want to live in.

We’ve gathered the definitive 13 you should watch at least once, from culture-dominating epics to cult favorites that refuse to fade. Ready to trade reality for realms where destiny has teeth and magic has consequences?

1. Game of Thrones (2011–2019)

Few shows have captured global attention quite like this epic tale of power, betrayal, and icy creatures lurking in the shadows. The world of Westeros feels impossibly real—from the political schemes in King’s Landing to the ancient magic stirring in the North. It’s a show that keeps you guessing, mostly because no character is ever truly safe.

What makes it so addictive is the blend of huge battles and intimate character moments. One minute you’re watching an army clash in the snow, and the next you’re knee-deep in a tense conversation that changes everything. It’s that balance of spectacle and storytelling that turned it into a cultural phenomenon.

Even if you’ve heard all the debates about the ending, the journey itself is unforgettable. The dragons alone are worth the price of admission—but the layered plotlines and iconic characters are what truly make it legendary.

2. The Witcher (2019– )

This monster-filled adventure starts with one unforgettable character: Geralt of Rivia, a stoic, sword-swinging hunter who travels from town to town dealing with terrifying beasts and even more terrifying humans. The world is gritty, magical, and full of secrets that slowly unravel as the story unfolds.

Alongside Geralt, you’ll meet sorceresses with complicated loyalties and a young princess whose destiny changes everything. Each character brings their own flavor to the story, creating a mix of humor, tragedy, tension, and unforgettable chemistry. And yes—you’ll probably end up humming “Toss a Coin to Your Witcher” for days.

The show shines thanks to its blend of dark fantasy and emotional storytelling. One episode might feel like a fairy tale gone wrong, while another dives into political chaos. With all the timelines, monsters, and magic, it’s the kind of show that rewards you for paying attention—and keeps pulling you back for more.

3. Stranger Things (2016– )

At first glance, this series looks like a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s, but it quickly becomes so much more. The moment the doors to the Upside Down crack open, you’re thrown into a supernatural world full of creepy creatures and impossible mysteries—all tied to a group of lovable misfit kids. It’s equal parts heartwarming and spine-tingling.

The small-town charm of Hawkins makes every strange event feel personal. You start rooting for the friendships, the families, and even the nerdy science teacher who always seems to know more than he should. And then there’s Eleven, whose powers are as mesmerizing as her emotional journey.

What really sets the show apart is how it blends fantasy, horror, and adventure into something fresh and addictive. It’s scary without being overwhelming, emotional without being sappy, and nostalgic without feeling outdated. It’s the kind of show that grabs your attention—and never lets go.

4. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022– )

Fans of Middle-earth will feel right at home the moment this series begins. The sweeping landscapes, ancient lore, and powerful magic create a world that feels both familiar and brand new. It dives deep into the events that shaped the iconic stories we already know, making it a treasure for long-time fans and newcomers alike.

The characters are a standout here. From determined heroes to mysterious figures with unclear intentions, everyone plays a role in the unfolding tension between light and darkness. The show builds slowly, letting you savor its visual beauty while giving you time to connect with each storyline.

What makes it a must-watch is the pure cinematic experience it offers. Every episode looks like it belongs on a movie screen. The battles, the music, the mythology—it all combines into an immersive fantasy world that’s easy to get lost in and incredibly hard to leave.

5. Shadow and Bone (2021–2023)

From the moment the Fold appears—an endless stretch of darkness crawling with deadly creatures—you know you’ve stepped into a truly unique fantasy world. This series mixes magic with adventure and even a touch of heist vibes, giving it a fresh energy that sets it apart from typical fantasy shows.

Alina Starkov’s journey from ordinary soldier to powerful Grisha propels the story forward. Meanwhile, the Crows bring charm and chaos with their clever schemes and irresistible chemistry. The two storylines weave together so organically that you look forward to every twist, reveal, and clash of personalities.

The vibrant world-building is a huge part of the appeal. Every costume, power, and setting feels intentional and rich. The emotional moments hit just as hard as the action scenes, and the show balances darkness with humor in a way that keeps you wanting more. It’s imaginative, stylish, and incredibly bingeable.

6. His Dark Materials (2019–2022)

This show creates a world where every human has a dæmon—a physical animal companion that represents their soul. That alone makes it fascinating, but the story quickly expands into something much bigger, involving multiple worlds, cosmic destiny, and a brewing war that threatens everything.

Lyra’s adventurous spirit anchors the series, and her bond with her dæmon Pan adds heart to even the most intense moments. As she encounters armored bears, mysterious organizations, and a boy from another world, the stakes rise in ways that feel both thrilling and deeply emotional.

What makes the show special is how it balances fantasy with thoughtful themes. It’s magical without losing depth and philosophical without losing entertainment value. Whether you’ve read the books or not, the series invites you to question, imagine, and connect with a story that grows richer with every episode.

7. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)

This iconic series kicks off with a simple premise: a high school girl who looks ordinary but secretly fights vampires and other creepy creatures after class. What starts as a monster-of-the-week setup quickly transforms into a show packed with humor, heart, and surprisingly deep emotional arcs.

Buffy’s relationship with her friends—her supportive “Scooby Gang”—is the backbone of the series. They’re messy, hilarious, brave, and relatable in a way that still resonates today. Even when demons are involved, the show always finds a way to explore friendship, love, identity, and growing up.

The blend of supernatural action and genuine character development is what keeps this show timeless. It’s witty, clever, often heartfelt, and sometimes devastating. Whether you’re watching for the camp, the combat, or the character growth, it’s easy to understand why Buffy remains a fan favorite decades later.

8. Supernatural (2005–2020)

This long-running series starts with two brothers driving across the country in a classic car, hunting monsters, ghosts, and anything else that goes bump in the night. What seems simple at first evolves into an expansive story involving angels, demons, gods, and even alternate universes.

Sam and Dean’s relationship is the emotional core of the show. They argue, joke, sacrifice, and save each other in ways that make their bond feel incredibly real. Even with the wild plotlines, the show always circles back to family—chosen or otherwise.

What makes Supernatural such a beloved series is its ability to blend horror, humor, and heart. Some episodes will make you laugh out loud, while others break your heart in slow motion. With memorable villains, emotional arcs, and years of lore, it remains one of the most satisfying fantasy journeys you can take.

9. Wheel of Time (2021– )

This adaptation of Robert Jordan’s expansive book series brings a world full of prophecies, elemental magic, and ancient threats to life. From the very first episode, you’re pulled into a story shaped by destiny and guided by powerful forces that stretch back thousands of years.

Moiraine’s calm authority and unwavering mission set the tone as she leads a group of young villagers who each might be the key to saving—or destroying—the world. As their paths diverge, the show explores the challenges of leadership, identity, and power with surprising emotional depth.

Visual effects, lush landscapes, and intricate world-building make every episode feel rich and layered. The magic system is especially striking, offering a fresh spin on how power can look and feel. It’s an inviting entry into a massive fantasy universe—and a thrilling watch for fans of mythic storytelling.

10. The Umbrella Academy (2019–2024)

This quirky series begins with a bizarre event: dozens of women around the world give birth simultaneously, despite not being pregnant earlier that day. Seven of those children are adopted by a mysterious billionaire and trained to save the world—though things definitely don’t go as planned.

The grown-up siblings are messy, charming, and constantly at odds. Their powers are impressive, but their emotional baggage is even bigger, which makes their interactions both hilarious and painfully relatable. Every character brings a unique flavor to the team, blending chaos and heart in equal measure.

The show’s creativity is one of its biggest strengths. Time travel, secret agencies, apocalyptic threats—it’s all here, but wrapped in a stylish, offbeat package that feels fresh. Whether you’re watching for the powers or the family drama, it’s endlessly entertaining and full of surprises.

11. Outlander (2014– )

This time-traveling romance takes you from the 1940s straight into the heart of 18th-century Scotland, where political tension and Highland culture set the stage for a sweeping story. The blend of history and fantasy gives the show a unique emotional depth that draws you in from the start.

Claire’s journey is filled with danger and discovery, but her relationship with Jamie is what gives the series its heartbeat. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s their loyalty, bravery, and emotional resilience that make them unforgettable. Every new location and era adds richness to their story.

The show’s ability to mix fantasy with drama and adventure keeps it consistently engaging. It’s beautifully shot, powerfully acted, and packed with both quiet moments and epic twists. Whether you love romance or historical intrigue, it’s the kind of series that pulls you into its world completely.

12. Merlin (2008–2012)

This charming reimagining of the Arthurian legend focuses on a young wizard discovering his powers and a soon-to-be king learning what it means to lead. The relationship between Merlin and Arthur grows from annoyance to deep loyalty, giving the show a warm heart at its center.

Each episode brings new magical dangers, moral dilemmas, and comedic moments. Merlin often finds himself juggling secret magic, royal drama, and friendships that matter deeply to him. The blend of lightheartedness and sincerity keeps the tone fun while still delivering emotional weight.

The series also shines thanks to its sense of adventure. From mythical creatures to mysterious prophecies, every season expands the world in exciting ways. Even with its humble beginnings, the show creates a beautiful, timeless spin on a classic tale—one that’s surprisingly moving and endlessly easy to binge.

13. American Gods (2017–2021)

Adapted from Neil Gaiman’s novel, this series invites you into a world where gods—old and new—walk among humans, drawing power from belief. The concept alone is captivating, but the show’s surreal style and imaginative storytelling make it a true visual feast.

Shadow Moon’s journey begins with grief and confusion, but quickly transforms into a deeper exploration of identity and destiny. His partnership with the enigmatic Mr. Wednesday leads to revelations about loyalty, faith, and the strange power of stories themselves.

The show’s greatest strength lies in its boldness. It’s unafraid to be weird, philosophical, or visually extravagant. Every scene feels intentional and symbolic, encouraging you to pay attention and piece things together. For viewers who love mythology with a modern twist, it’s a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience.