Marvel’s contribution to animated television has often been overlooked, especially when compared to DC’s celebrated output. Yet across decades, Marvel has produced animated series that are ambitious, emotionally rich, and enduring. From street-level heroes to cosmic epics, these shows demonstrate that Marvel animation can rival, and at times surpass, anything in the superhero genre.
Here are the 10 greatest Marvel animated series of all time, ranked:
10. Iron Man: Armored Adventures (2009–2012)
A bold reimagining of Tony Stark as a teenage genius, this Nickelodeon series stood out for its serialized storytelling, striking visuals, and emotional depth. Its long-form narrative and unique take on Iron Man earned it lasting respect among fans.
9. Silver Surfer (1998)
A visually ambitious and philosophically heavy series, Silver Surfer explored cosmic Marvel like no other show. Though it lasted just one season, its adaptation of Norrin Radd’s tragic journey remains unmatched.
8. What If…? (2021–2024)
Marvel Studios’ animated multiverse anthology succeeded where many MCU projects struggled, offering bold, standalone stories that rewarded both casual viewers and longtime fans. Its first season in particular delivered inventive and emotionally resonant storytelling.
7. M.O.D.O.K. (2021)
A dark, stop-motion comedy that turned one of Marvel’s strangest villains into a deeply flawed antihero. Equal parts absurd and introspective, the series offered sharp satire and unexpected emotional weight.
6. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (2025– )
A fresh remix of Spider-Man lore, blending familiar elements with unexpected twists. Stylish animation, strong voice acting, and a willingness to get weird have made it one of Marvel’s most promising modern animated efforts.
5. Hit-Monkey (2021–2024)
A violent, offbeat revenge story about a Japanese macaque assassin guided by the ghost of a hitman. The series balanced brutal action with introspection, carving out a unique identity within Marvel animation.
4. The Spectacular Spider-Man (2008–2009)
Beloved for its cohesive storytelling and deep character development, this series redefined Spider-Man’s supporting cast and villains. Despite its premature cancellation, it remains one of the most acclaimed Spider-Man adaptations ever.
3. X-Men: Evolution (2000–2003)
Reimagining the X-Men as teenagers navigating both school and superpowers, the show blended coming-of-age drama with classic mutant conflicts. It struck a balance between youthful vulnerability and epic stakes.
2. Spider-Man: The Animated Series (1994–1998)
A definitive adaptation of Spider-Man that brought iconic comic arcs to life with maturity and heart. Its portrayal of Peter Parker and landmark storylines, including the alien symbiote saga, set a gold standard for superhero animation.
1. X-Men: The Animated Series (1992–1997) / X-Men ’97 (2024– )
The pinnacle of Marvel animation. With powerful storytelling, unforgettable characters, and ambitious comic adaptations like The Dark Phoenix Saga and Days of Future Past, the original series defined a generation. Its revival, X-Men ’97, has proven to be a rare continuation that honors the past while elevating it to modern heights.
Taken together, these series show that Marvel’s animated legacy is deeper, bolder, and more influential than it’s often given credit for.
