Top 9 Cartoons You Need To Watch

Hey guys! Ever find yourself scrolling through channels, totally lost in the cartoon abyss? There's just so much out there, it's hard to know what's actually worth watching. Don't worry, I've got you covered! I’ve compiled a list of the top 9 cartoons that you absolutely need to check out. Whether you're a lifelong animation fan or just looking for something fun to watch, there's bound to be something here that tickles your fancy.

1. Avatar: The Last Airbender

Avatar: The Last Airbender is first on the list for a reason! Seriously, this show is a masterpiece. Set in a world inspired by Asian cultures, where people can control the elements of water, earth, fire, and air (bending), the story follows Aang, the last Airbender and the Avatar, destined to bring balance to the world. The Fire Nation is trying to take over, and it's up to Aang and his friends Katara and Sokka to stop them. What makes Avatar so special? It's the incredible character development, the complex themes it tackles (like war, genocide, and hope), and the sheer beauty of the animation. The fight scenes are epic, the humor is on point, and the emotional moments will hit you right in the feels. Plus, the world-building is phenomenal; you'll get completely sucked into this universe. The series does a fantastic job of blending action, adventure, comedy, and drama, creating a well-rounded and engaging narrative for viewers of all ages. Aang's journey from a playful kid to a responsible Avatar is both inspiring and heartwarming. The supporting characters are equally compelling, each with their own unique struggles and motivations, which adds depth and richness to the overall story. Even the villains are well-developed, with understandable (though not justifiable) reasons for their actions, making them more than just one-dimensional antagonists. Avatar: The Last Airbender is more than just a cartoon; it's a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless themes, memorable characters, and captivating storytelling. Whether you're a first-time viewer or a seasoned fan, Avatar: The Last Airbender is a must-watch that will leave you wanting more. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the greatest animated series of all time is well-deserved.

2. Rick and Morty

Okay, buckle up, because Rick and Morty is a wild ride! This isn't your average cartoon; it's a hilarious, mind-bending, and sometimes disturbing sci-fi adventure. The show follows the misadventures of Rick Sanchez, a super-genius scientist and alcoholic, and his somewhat dimwitted grandson, Morty Smith, as they travel through different dimensions and get into all sorts of trouble. Rick and Morty is known for its dark humor, its philosophical themes, and its willingness to go to some pretty crazy places. One episode might be a parody of a sci-fi movie, and the next might be a deep dive into existentialism. It's unpredictable, it's clever, and it's definitely not for kids! But if you're looking for a cartoon that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even question your own existence, then Rick and Morty is the show for you. The show's creators, Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, have crafted a truly unique and unforgettable viewing experience. The characters are complex and flawed, the storylines are inventive and thought-provoking, and the animation is visually stunning. Even though the show can be quite dark at times, it also has a lot of heart. The relationship between Rick and Morty is surprisingly touching, and the show often explores themes of family, friendship, and love. Rick and Morty has gained a massive cult following due to its clever writing, memorable characters, and willingness to push the boundaries of what a cartoon can be. Its influence can be seen in many other animated shows, and its popularity continues to grow with each new season. If you're a fan of sci-fi, comedy, or just plain weirdness, then Rick and Morty is a must-watch. Just be prepared for anything!

3. Adventure Time

Come on grab your friends, we'll go to very distant lands! With Adventure Time! This show is pure imagination, and it's absolutely delightful. Set in the Land of Ooo, a post-apocalyptic world filled with magic, monsters, and talking animals, the show follows the adventures of Finn the Human and Jake the Dog, two best friends who are always up for a quest. Adventure Time is known for its surreal humor, its heartwarming stories, and its surprisingly deep lore. What starts out as a seemingly random and silly show gradually reveals a complex and fascinating world, with characters who have rich backstories and complex motivations. The animation is bright and colorful, the music is catchy, and the voice acting is top-notch. Adventure Time is a show that you can watch with your kids, but also enjoy on your own. The show's creator, Pendleton Ward, has created a world that is both whimsical and thought-provoking. The Land of Ooo is filled with bizarre creatures, quirky characters, and unexpected twists. The show also explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and growing up. Finn and Jake are two of the most lovable characters on television, and their adventures are always entertaining. Adventure Time has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless fan theories, artwork, and cosplay. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the most creative and imaginative shows of all time is well-deserved. If you're looking for a cartoon that will make you smile, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear, then Adventure Time is the show for you.

4. Gravity Falls

Gravity Falls is next, and if you love mysteries, this one's for you! The show follows twins Dipper and Mabel Pines as they spend the summer with their Grunkle Stan in the mysterious town of Gravity Falls, Oregon. Strange things are always happening in Gravity Falls, and Dipper and Mabel are determined to uncover all of its secrets. Gravity Falls is known for its clever writing, its intriguing mysteries, and its lovable characters. The show is full of hidden clues, secret messages, and unexpected plot twists. It's a show that rewards careful attention, and it's one that you can watch over and over again and still discover new things. The animation is charming, the voice acting is excellent, and the humor is spot-on. Gravity Falls is a show that will appeal to both kids and adults. The show's creator, Alex Hirsch, has crafted a world that is both whimsical and suspenseful. The town of Gravity Falls is filled with quirky characters, supernatural creatures, and unsolved mysteries. The show also explores themes of family, friendship, and growing up. Dipper and Mabel are two of the most relatable characters on television, and their adventures are always captivating. Gravity Falls has gained a large and dedicated following due to its clever writing, intriguing mysteries, and lovable characters. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the most beloved animated shows of all time is well-deserved.

5. BoJack Horseman

Alright, time for something a bit more adult. BoJack Horseman is an animated sitcom about a washed-up 90s sitcom star (who happens to be a horse) trying to make a comeback in Hollywood. Sounds simple enough, right? Wrong! BoJack Horseman is a surprisingly dark and complex show that deals with themes of depression, addiction, and trauma. The show is known for its sharp writing, its witty humor, and its unflinching look at the darker side of fame and fortune. While it's definitely funny, it's also incredibly poignant and thought-provoking. The characters are all deeply flawed, and they make a lot of mistakes. But that's what makes them so relatable. BoJack Horseman is a show that will make you laugh, cry, and think about your own life. The show's creator, Raphael Bob-Waksberg, has crafted a world that is both hilarious and heartbreaking. The world of Hollywood is depicted as a superficial and cutthroat place, where dreams are easily crushed. The show also explores themes of identity, purpose, and the search for happiness. BoJack Horseman is a complex and compelling character, and his struggles are always engaging. BoJack Horseman has gained critical acclaim for its sharp writing, its witty humor, and its unflinching look at the darker side of fame and fortune. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the most groundbreaking animated shows of all time is well-deserved.

6. Steven Universe

Let's switch gears back to something a bit more heartwarming with Steven Universe. This show is all about love, acceptance, and the power of friendship. The show follows Steven, a young boy who is half-Gem, as he learns to control his powers and protect the Earth alongside the Crystal Gems: Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl. Steven Universe is known for its beautiful animation, its catchy music, and its positive message. The show explores themes of identity, family, and the importance of being true to yourself. It's a show that will make you feel good about yourself and the world around you. The characters are all unique and lovable, and their relationships are always heartwarming. Steven Universe is a show that will appeal to both kids and adults. The show's creator, Rebecca Sugar, has crafted a world that is both magical and relatable. The world of Steven Universe is filled with colorful characters, imaginative settings, and uplifting messages. The show also explores themes of trauma, loss, and healing. Steven Universe is an inspiring and empowering character, and his journey is always captivating. Steven Universe has gained a large and dedicated following due to its beautiful animation, its catchy music, and its positive message. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the most influential animated shows of all time is well-deserved.

7. Over the Garden Wall

If you're looking for something short, sweet, and a little bit spooky, then Over the Garden Wall is a must-watch. This miniseries follows two brothers, Wirt and Greg, as they travel through a mysterious forest called the Unknown, trying to find their way home. Over the Garden Wall is known for its beautiful animation, its haunting music, and its eerie atmosphere. The show is a blend of fairytale, folklore, and Americana, and it's sure to leave you spellbound. The characters are all memorable, and the story is both charming and unsettling. Over the Garden Wall is a show that you can watch in one sitting, and it's one that you'll want to watch again and again. The show's creator, Patrick McHale, has crafted a world that is both whimsical and sinister. The forest of the Unknown is filled with strange creatures, hidden dangers, and forgotten secrets. The show also explores themes of brotherhood, loss, and the search for identity. Wirt and Greg are two of the most endearing characters on television, and their journey is always captivating. Over the Garden Wall has gained critical acclaim for its beautiful animation, its haunting music, and its eerie atmosphere. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the most beloved animated miniseries of all time is well-deserved.

8. The Owl House

Next on the list is The Owl House! This show is about Luz, a human teenager who stumbles upon a portal to a magical realm and becomes an apprentice to a rebellious witch named Eda. The Owl House is known for its creative world-building, its compelling characters, and its positive representation of LGBTQ+ characters. The show is full of magic, adventure, and humor, and it's sure to keep you entertained. The characters are all unique and relatable, and their relationships are always engaging. The Owl House is a show that will appeal to both kids and adults. The show's creator, Dana Terrace, has crafted a world that is both whimsical and empowering. The Boiling Isles are filled with bizarre creatures, magical spells, and social commentary. The show also explores themes of belonging, self-acceptance, and fighting for what you believe in. Luz Noceda is an inspiring and relatable character, and her journey is always captivating. The Owl House has gained a large and dedicated following due to its creative world-building, its compelling characters, and its positive representation of LGBTQ+ characters. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the most important animated shows of the modern era is well-deserved.

9. Arcane

Last but certainly not least, we have Arcane. Arcane is an animated action-adventure series set in the League of Legends universe. It delves into the complex relationship between the utopian city of Piltover and the oppressed undercity of Zaun. The story primarily revolves around sisters Vi and Jinx, whose contrasting paths lead them to become key figures in a growing conflict. What sets Arcane apart is its mature storytelling, stunning visuals, and well-developed characters. It explores themes of social inequality, political corruption, and the consequences of violence. The animation style is a unique blend of 2D and 3D, creating a visually captivating experience. The action sequences are intense and dynamic, while the quieter moments are filled with emotional depth. Arcane has been praised for its ability to appeal to both fans of League of Legends and newcomers alike. It's a show that can be enjoyed on multiple levels, offering both thrilling entertainment and thought-provoking commentary. The voice acting is superb, and the soundtrack is unforgettable. Arcane is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates high-quality animation, compelling storytelling, and complex characters. Its impact on the animation industry is undeniable, and its legacy as one of the greatest animated series of all time is well-deserved.

So there you have it! My top 9 cartoon recommendations. Hopefully, you've found something new to add to your watch list. Happy watching, and let me know what your favorite cartoons are in the comments below!