Top 20 Dystopian TV Shows Ever

Dystopian fiction has long been a vital component of science fiction and horror genres, but in the 21st century, it has ascended to become a dominant category on its own. Here, we present the finest examples of dystopian television, spanning from zombie-infested wastelands to AI-induced apocalypses, and even more nuanced nightmares, such as societies controlled by social media metrics or realities where every moment is recorded in your brain as if it were a video file.

From devastating pandemics and nuclear winters to robot rebellions, time travel-induced paranoia, and mysterious disappearances, these 19 TV shows (along with one gripping miniseries) showcase the most ingenious, terrifying, and often heart-wrenching dystopian narratives ever crafted. Whether it's a post-apocalyptic scenario or a seemingly normal office setting where employees have microchips in their heads that fragment their consciousness, our criteria remain clear: a dark vision of the future, whether near or distant, that pulses with intensity, intrigue, and boundless imagination.

For those interested in cinematic dystopias, be sure to explore the Top 10 Apocalypse Movies of All Time and the 6 Post-Apocalyptic Movies You've Probably Never Seen. Moreover, IGN readers have even cast their votes for their Favorite Post-Apocalyptic World from Movies and TV!

However, if it's television that captivates you, delve further as we explore iconic series such as *Fallout*, *Severance*, *The Walking Dead*, *The Handmaid's Tale*, *The Last of Us*, and more. Without further ado, here are the Top 20 Dystopian TV Shows of All Time!