Dystopian fiction has always been a pivotal element within the realms of science fiction and horror, but in the 21st century, it has evolved into a dominant genre of its own. From the harrowing landscapes of zombie apocalypses to the chilling scenarios of AI domination, and even the subtler yet equally unsettling societies ruled by social media metrics or those where every moment is recorded in your mind like a video file, the genre has truly diversified.
These 19 TV shows, along with one miniseries, showcase the most ingenious, terrifying, and often profoundly moving dystopian narratives ever crafted. Whether it's a post-apocalyptic world or a seemingly mundane office setting where employees have a microchip that splits their consciousness, the common thread is a bleak vision of the future—be it imminent or distant—that pulses with intensity, intrigue, and boundless imagination.
For those more inclined towards movies, don't miss out on the Top 10 Apocalypse Movies of All Time and the 6 Post-Apocalyptic Movies You've Probably Never Seen. Moreover, IGN readers have voted on their Favorite Post-Apocalyptic World from Movies and TV, showcasing the widespread appeal of these dark futures.
However, if your interest lies in television, delve into our curated list featuring shows like Fallout, Severance, The Walking Dead, The Handmaid's Tale, The Last of Us, and more. Here are the Top 20 Dystopian TV Shows of All Time!