Top 20 Dystopian TV Shows Ever

Dystopian fiction has carved out a significant niche within the science fiction and horror genres, emerging as a powerhouse in its own right during the 21st century. This article delves into the cream of the crop when it comes to dystopian TV shows, showcasing a variety from apocalyptic landscapes overrun by zombies and AI-induced end-of-the-world scenarios to more nuanced nightmares, such as societies enslaved by social media metrics or realities where every moment is recorded in the brain as if it were a video file.

From devastating pandemics and nuclear winters to robot rebellions, time travel-induced paranoia, and mysterious disappearances, these 19 TV series (alongside one gripping miniseries) encapsulate the most ingenious, terrifying, and often emotionally resonant dystopian narratives ever crafted. Whether depicting life after the apocalypse or exploring the daily grind of office workers with consciousness-altering microchips, the unifying thread is a bleak vision of the future—be it imminent or distant—that pulses with intensity, intrigue, and boundless creativity.

For those more inclined towards cinematic experiences, don't miss out on the Top 10 Apocalypse Movies of All Time and the 6 Post-Apocalyptic Movies You've Probably Never Seen. Additionally, IGN readers have cast their votes for their Favorite Post-Apocalyptic World from Movies and TV!

However, if it's the small screen that captivates you, join us as we explore acclaimed series like *Fallout*, *Severance*, *The Walking Dead*, *The Handmaid's Tale*, *The Last of Us*, and many more. Here are the Top 20 Dystopian TV Shows of All Time!