Apple TV
Top Sci-Fi Shows to Binge on Streaming Platforms for the New Year
As the New Year approaches, streaming platforms are offering a plethora of science fiction shows perfect for binge-watching. With themes spanning technology, space exploration, and alternate realities, viewers can delve into a variety of sci-fi sub-genres. Below is a selection of top sci-fi series available across platforms, including Apple TV, that are must-watches for fans of speculative storytelling.
Apple TV's Sci-Fi Offerings
Apple TV continues to expand its library with a diverse range of sci-fi series that have garnered critical acclaim. Among them is Severance, a series produced by Dan Erickson and directed by Ben Stiller, which boasts an impressive IMDb rating of 8.7. Another standout, Silo, holds an IMDb rating of 8.1 and a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it a popular choice among sci-fi enthusiasts.
The adaptation of Isaac Asimov's classic, Foundation, with a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, released its third season in July 2025, with new seasons slated for 2026 and 2027. Produced by Ronald D. Moore, the series continues to capture the imagination of its audience. Another notable addition is Dark Matter, released in 2024 and adapted from Blake Crouch's book, featuring performances by Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly.
Classic Sci-Fi Gems
Streaming platforms also offer classic sci-fi series that have stood the test of time. Deep Space Nine is often hailed as the greatest Star Trek series, while Babylon 5, created by J. Michael Straczynski, is a cult classic set in the 23rd century. The show revolves around humanity's command of the Babylon 5 space station amidst interactions with various alien races.
Another classic, Farscape, which premiered in 1999, follows the journey of 20th-century astronaut John Crichton. Meanwhile, Battlestar Galactica, reimagined in 2004, explores the aftermath of a Cylon attack on their human creators and delves into contemporary political themes.
Exploring New Worlds and Realities
Fringe, which premiered in 2008, centers on the FBI's Fringe Division as they investigate speculative science and explore alternate universes. Based on the 1995 film, 12 Monkeys features time traveler James Cole's mission to prevent a viral apocalypse orchestrated by the Army of the 12 Monkeys. The series is renowned for its complex, mysterious narrative.
The critically acclaimed The Expanse, adapted from novels in 2015, is set against the backdrop of conflict between Earth and its colonies. The show is praised for its scientific accuracy and introduces audiences to the spacefaring freighter, Rocinante, and the discovery of extraterrestrial technology.
Futuristic Thrills and Dystopian Realities
Westworld, adapted from Michael Crichton's 1973 film, presents theme parks inhabited by lifelike androids. The storyline follows Dolores Abernathy's revolution and explores themes of freedom and control. Another series, For All Mankind, launched in 2019, imagines an alternate history where the Soviet Union beats the USA to the Moon, leading to advanced space developments and prolonged Cold War tensions.
In Raised by Wolves, which premiered in 2020, viewers are transported to an exoplanet where two androids raise human embryos after Earth's destruction. Created by Aaron Guzikowski, the series offers a unique take on survival and humanity's future.
Additionally, Disney+ offers Andor, a series that delves into the origins of Rogue One, with Diego Luna reprising his role as Cassian Andor, focusing on life under the Empire. Looking ahead, Apple TV's 2025 adaptation of Murderbot, a cyborg with sentience, promises to bring dark humor to the sci-fi genre.
With the New Year being a popular time to binge-watch content, these sci-fi series provide a gateway into imaginative worlds and profound narratives, making them perfect candidates for viewing marathons. As streaming services continue to update their libraries, fans of the genre can look forward to both classic and new offerings that push the boundaries of science fiction storytelling.