Top 10 DC Animated Shows, Ranked
10. The New Batman Adventures (1997–1999)
This darker, sleeker continuation of the original Batman: The Animated Series featured a distinct visual shift toward more angular designs and deeper shadows, embracing a slightly grimmer, more cohesive Gotham. It's essential for introducing the definitive modern designs of Robin (Tim Drake), Batgirl, and an even more psychotic Joker.
9. Green Lantern: The Animated Series (2011–2013)
This show stands out for its unique, streamlined 3D CGI animation style, which gave the cosmic battles and alien worlds a grand, epic scale. Focusing on Hal Jordan and Kilowog, the series was praised for its excellent, high-stakes storytelling and its commitment to the sprawling sci-fi mythology of the Green Lantern Corps, despite its short run.
8. Teen Titans (2003–2006)
Who doesn't love this show? Getting back from school, turning on the television, and watching your favorite superheroes battle it out while also navigating the same troubles you face as a teen is one hell of a concept. The show was praised for its distinctive, anime-influenced visual style and its willingness to delve into the complicated emotions and insecurities of its young heroes.
7. Static Shock (2000–2004)
A groundbreaking and essential part of the DCAU, Static Shock brought the Milestone Comics character Virgil Hawkins (Static) to the small screen. The show was praised for its focus on social issues, its vibrant humor, and its high-energy animation. It introduced many new superheroes to the DCAU while emphasizing the diversity of the superhero world.
6. Batman Beyond (1999–2001)
Batman Beyond is all about the future. Set after the events of Batman: The Animated Series, it features an older Bruce Wayne mentoring his new protégé to become the next Dark Knight. The series shines through its brilliant cyberpunk noir aesthetic, exploring themes of legacy, technology, and a modernized rogues' gallery. There's no doubt Batman can thrive in any era.
5. Harley Quinn (2019–Present)
Who says superhero and comic-book-inspired shows have to focus only on noble heroes saving the world? This series is praised for its sharp writing, satirical approach to the DC universe, and for allowing Harley to finally shed her toxic relationship with the Joker and evolve into a compelling lead—all while being extremely violent and very, very funny.
4. Superman: The Animated Series (1996–2000)
The OG show that truly expanded the DCAU beyond the dark streets of Gotham, this series established the continuity and tone that would eventually lead to Justice League. It's praised for its masterful handling of Superman's powers, its definitive redesigns of villains like Lex Luthor and Brainiac, and for making the Man of Steel feel relevant and grounded.
3. Young Justice (2010–Present)
Young Justice follows teenage sidekicks (Robin, Aqualad, Kid Flash, etc.) as they transition into adulthood and take on covert operations. The show is praised for its stunning visual quality, mature themes, and complex, serialized, season-long plotting that respects the audience's intelligence.
2. Justice League / Justice League Unlimited (2001–2006)
The entire DCAU came together in this series featuring the most iconic superheroes of the DC universe. The show is a towering achievement in continuity and ensemble storytelling, tackling moral ambiguity and cosmic stakes with unmatched brilliance. The sheer variety of stories and the way it highlights the importance of every hero showcased is on another level altogether.
1. Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995)
One of the greatest superhero series ever made, Batman: The Animated Series set the bar high with its dark, moody tone. Well, it's serious enough for adults but still accessible to kids. It became a truly universal series that any age group could enjoy. It is celebrated for its cinematic quality, its complex characterization of villains (like Mr. Freeze and Two-Face), and for creating the definitive modern versions of the Joker and Harley Quinn.
