Discover Apple TV’s 7 Most Underrated Sci-Fi Shows Today

Apple TV has quickly established itself as a significant player in the streaming landscape, boasting a diverse range of high-quality content across various genres. Among its offerings, the platform is home to acclaimed science fiction series such as Severance and Foundation. Despite its successes, several underrated gems often go unnoticed, primarily due to marketing challenges. Here are seven of the most underrated sci-fi shows on Apple TV, showcasing their unique contributions to the genre.

Invasion: A Slow-Burning Exploration of Humanity

Created by Simon Kinberg and David Weil, Invasion has sparked mixed reviews since its debut in 2021. Critics often describe it as slow-paced, yet many fans appreciate its focus on emotional depth over action. Set against the backdrop of a global alien invasion, the series delves into the lives of ordinary people from various countries, offering a rich exploration of their fears and struggles.

The show ran for three seasons, concluding in 2023, and gradually connected the characters’ perspectives to create a comprehensive narrative. While Invasion may not feature the flashy spectacle typical of sci-fi, it is a thought-provoking series that rewards viewers willing to engage with its nuanced storytelling.

Hello Tomorrow!: A Retro-Futuristic Satire

Another hidden treasure is Hello Tomorrow!, a miniseries that aired in 2023, created by Amit Bhalla and Lucas Jansen. Set in an alternate version of the 1950s, this show blends drama and satire within a sci-fi context, focusing on a charismatic salesman, Jack Billings, portrayed by Billy Crudup. The narrative centers on Billings’ attempts to sell timeshares on the Moon while navigating personal challenges that arise after reconnecting with his estranged son.

The series showcases a visually stunning retro-futuristic aesthetic, but its unique combination of humor and drama has made it a challenging title to market. Despite this, Hello Tomorrow! stands out as a character-driven story that deserves more attention.

WondLa: A Family-Friendly Sci-Fi Adventure

Based on the novels by Tony DiTerlizzi, the animated series WondLa offers a vibrant storytelling experience for all ages. The show follows the journey of Eva Nine, a human girl raised in an underground world by a robotic mother. Upon discovering the surface, Eva embarks on an adventure filled with alien cultures and critical self-discovery.

Despite having strong world-building and emotional narratives, WondLa concluded after three seasons in 2025, often overshadowed by other animated series. Its engaging animation style and relatable themes make it a meaningful sci-fi experience for both children and adults.

Murderbot: A Unique Take on Free Will

Adapted from Martha Wells’ popular series, Murderbot follows a security android that gains free will after hacking its governing module. This character-driven series is marked by its dry humor and unique perspective on autonomy. The lead role, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård, brings confidence and depth to the narrative.

Despite initial expectations, Murderbot has found a dedicated audience but has not yet reached broader recognition. Themes of trust and connection permeate the story, making it a compelling watch until its final moments.

Dark Matter: A Beautifully Crafted Sci-Fi Narrative

Based on the novel by Blake Crouch, Dark Matter follows Jason Dessen, a physicist who becomes entangled in alternate realities after being abducted. The series combines classic sci-fi elements with complex human emotions, exploring themes of destiny and choice.

Despite being dismissed by some viewers as another multiverse story, Dark Matter excels in its execution and accessibility, providing a well-rounded narrative that balances suspense with emotional depth.

See: A Visionary Post-Apocalyptic World

Created by Steven Knight, See is set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity has lost the ability to see. The show follows Baba Voss, a leader of a mountain tribe who grapples with the challenges of raising children born with sight. Initially met with skepticism, the series evolved into a thought-provoking exploration of human dynamics and societal structures.

Its masterful production design and engaging action sequences have garnered a loyal following. As the second series released on Apple TV, See has significantly developed its lore and storytelling across its seasons, solidifying its place in the sci-fi genre.

For All Mankind: An Alternate History of Space Exploration

The first series launched by Apple TV, For All Mankind, created by Ronald D. Moore, presents an alternate history where the Soviet Union lands on the Moon first. This dramatic series chronicles the efforts of NASA and its personnel to catch up with the space race, showcasing the personal stories of astronauts and families during pivotal historical events.

Despite critical acclaim, For All Mankind has struggled to achieve the audience size it deserves. Its character-driven narrative, combined with stunning visuals, continues to elevate it as one of Apple TV’s most significant yet underappreciated offerings.

In conclusion, Apple TV has cultivated a rich library of sci-fi content that extends beyond mainstream hits. These seven underrated shows highlight the platform’s commitment to innovative storytelling and high production values. As viewers explore these series, they may discover compelling narratives that resonate on multiple levels, enriching their understanding of the sci-fi genre.