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The Best Animated Series of 2018

Bringing together animation from all over the world, this list covers the best-animated series 2018 had to offer.
Rewind Animated Series
By  · Published on December 20th, 2018

9. Teen Titans Go!

Teen Titans Go

A few years ago this show was more hated than liked not because of the quality but because of what it proceeded. Teen Titans Go abbreviated as TTG is a more humorous take on the original Teen Titans series that aired in 2003. Fans were not pleased with the lighthearted approach, and character redesigns. As time progressed fans quickly realized that Teen Titans Go is not only worthy of its name but might actually be better than what came before it. TTG is Cartoon Network’s most successful series, even spawning a hit movie earlier this year. The humor can be enjoyed by all, and episodes picked up without any prior knowledge of the characters.


8. She-Ra and The Princesses of Power

She Ra

The phrase “surprise hit of the year” and She-Ra go hand and hand together. Based on the 80s cartoon of the same name, She-Ra is reimagined for a new generation, and quite frankly it gets the job done. Besides the great voice acting, and fluid animation, the show shines when it comes to delivering a role model to a younger generation across the globe. She-Ra like the other 80s reboots of the past few years is a show you can watch with your child or younger siblings and feel good about it. Catch the first season on Netflix before the inevitable season 2.


7. Castlevania

Castlevania

Last year Castlevania proved that video game adaptions could be great, and with season 2 we can safely say that the first season was not a fluke. Season 2 expands on the first with a larger episode count, more fleshed out characters, and some of the goriest action to grace western animation. If you are looking to scratch your horror itch, Netflix has you covered with the gothic horror Castlevania.


6. Voltron: Legendary Defender

Voltron

Now on its final season, Voltron has proved time and time again why it is one of the best revivals of an 80s cartoon. The showrunners have combined stylish anime-inspired action scenes, and emotional character arcs to make Voltron more enticing than the original.


5. My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia

Calling My Hero Academia a cult phenomenon might seem a bit much, but no other anime has reached such appeal since Attack on Titan. Based on the new manga of the same name, My Hero Academia is best described as an eastern take on western superhero tropes. The plot revolves around a world where most of the population are born with powers, and heroes are not only needed but considered a valuable profession. Catch the series streaming on Hulu, Crunchyroll, and airing on Adult Swim. The next season is scheduled to air next year.


4. Craig of the Creek

Craig Of The Creek

Craig of the Creek is the best new original series to air this year, and will most likely lead the next wave of series on Cartoon Network. In a society dominated by technology, and social media, Craig of the Creek captures what it is like to be a kid at heart. Most of the episodes feature adventures outside the house with a heartwarming message. Craig of the Creek exemplifies diversity with its large cast of characters and represents the next generation of cartoons.


3. Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby

Earlier this year it was said that Devilman Crybaby is the most ultra-violent, sexual, and demonic thing ever to touch Netflix. Now at the end of the year, never has a more accurate sentence been written. Representing Netflix push for more original content, Devilman Crybaby comes out the gate swinging. With its hyperactive style, crazy animation, and diverse themes of religion and identity, one must ask how did this ever get approved. Netflix efforts paid off with what feels only naturally say, the anime of the year.


2. Steven Universe

Steven Universe Fsr

Cartoon Network is the home of the best cartoons every year, but there is one series that has stood out even amongst the best. Steven Universe is one of the few cartoons that can make grown men and women argue like children over plot plots, and characters. Over the year the series has won numerous fans over with its heartwarming animation, addicting tunes, and rich world building. With the return of the series this month and a massive special next January, this show isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.


1. Big Mouth

Big Mouth

Big Mouth is my animation of the year and the one series on this list that should be shown in schools across the nation. The series captured the heart of what puberty is like and hits home on problematic family dynamics we have accepted as the new normal. The subject matter makes you feel uncomfortable but was puberty, let alone middle school comfortable for anyone? Big Mouth Season 2 is on Netflix and is well worth your time.

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Central Florida based Film Critic striving to be the best. Fighting for the ten percent.