Invincible, the acclaimed animated series on Amazon Prime Video, has garnered a substantial following since its debut. However, several animated action series have emerged that some viewers argue surpass it in terms of storytelling and animation quality. As anticipation builds for Invincible Season 4, a closer look at these eight series reveals strong contenders that may eclipse the superhero narrative.
Jujutsu Kaisen: A Compelling Rival
Jujutsu Kaisen, available on Crunchyroll, stands out as a formidable competitor. The series follows Yuji Itadori, a teenager possessed by an ancient spirit who joins the ranks of Jujutsu sorcerers. These heroes battle curses threatening humanity, delivering intense martial arts battles that rival those in Invincible.
Both series explore themes of inner conflict and corruption, as Yuji grapples with the influence of Sukuna, while Mark Grayson faces the looming threat of Omni-Man. Yet, many viewers find that Jujutsu Kaisen excels in its fight choreography and dynamic animation, alongside a gripping overarching narrative that enhances suspense.
Classic Heroism in Samurai Jack
Despite its age, Samurai Jack remains an iconic series that presents a compelling hero’s journey. Following a samurai sent to a dystopian future to combat the evil demon Aku, the show originally aired in the early 2000s and returned for a final season in 2017. Its unique animation style and narrative depth allow it to surpass Invincible in several respects.
The series showcases a hero’s resilience against overwhelming odds, while its experimental storytelling and visual artistry elevate it above the standard animated action fare.
Character Depth in Blue Eye Samurai
Blue Eye Samurai, streaming on Netflix, presents a starkly different setting in Japan’s Edo period but shares thematic connections with Invincible. The protagonist, Mizu, embarks on a quest for vengeance against her estranged fathers, navigating societal prejudices as a mixed-race character.
What sets Blue Eye Samurai apart is its focused character study of Mizu. Unlike Mark, whose development often hinges on interactions with supporting characters, Mizu’s journey is deeply personal and complex, resulting in a richer protagonist.
Arcane: A Multidimensional Narrative
Arcane, also available on Netflix, is known for its intricate storytelling and diverse cast. The series delves into the lives of characters from the cities of Piltover and Zaun as they grapple with class struggles and the fusion of magic and technology. This multifaceted approach allows Arcane to maintain viewer engagement across its ensemble cast, a feat that Invincible sometimes struggles to achieve.
Through its interwoven narratives, Arcane captivates audiences with the emotional depth of characters like Jinx and Vi, showcasing the impact of their choices within a broader societal context.
Castlevania: Dark Atmosphere and Engaging Story
Castlevania offers a different tone yet aligns closely with Invincible in its action-driven plot. Following Trevor Belmont as he battles Dracula, the series excels in character development and worldbuilding. Its animation style distinguishes it from Invincible, with fluid movements and a gothic aesthetic that creates a hauntingly beautiful experience.
This visually stunning series does not shy away from the darker aspects of its narrative, enhancing its appeal to fans seeking more than just typical superhero fare.
Justice League Unlimited: A Superhero Legacy
Justice League Unlimited, streaming on HBO Max, is often regarded as one of the best superhero animated series ever created. It features a vast array of DC heroes collaborating against formidable villains while developing deep personal connections. This series shines in its ability to give each character a moment to shine, which is sometimes lacking in Invincible.
The dynamic interactions among characters provide a richness that elevates the narrative, showcasing the strength of teamwork in the face of adversity.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and the Power of Brevity
Although Cyberpunk: Edgerunners only consists of one season, it delivers a tightly woven narrative that resonates with viewers. The story follows David, who navigates a dystopian world filled with cybernetic enhancements and moral dilemmas. Both protagonists, David and Mark, grapple with the consequences of power and the loss of humanity.
Yet Edgerunners stands out for its concise storytelling, providing a complete and emotionally charged experience in a single season, while Invincible continues to unfold its narrative over multiple seasons.
X-Men ’97: Revisiting a Classic
X-Men ’97, streaming on Disney+, revives the beloved 90s series and brings back the iconic team of mutants. This continuation combines action, drama, and social commentary, offering a rich narrative backdrop that many viewers find emotionally impactful due to its long history.
The series benefits from its legacy, creating a sense of nostalgia and continuity that enhances its storytelling, giving it an edge over Invincible in terms of emotional resonance.
While Invincible remains a standout in the realm of animated action, these eight series demonstrate that there are compelling alternatives that can match or even surpass its quality. Each of these shows offers unique storytelling elements and artistic styles, contributing to the evolving landscape of animated entertainment.
