Top 5 sci-fi shows on Netflix you absolutely can’t miss in 2024

Netflix has released a number of sci-fi shows in 2024 that pushed the limits of technology and creativity, making it a good year for genre fans. From mind-bending alien discoveries to thrilling artificial intelligence-driven stories, these new titles combine breath-taking intensity, fascinating narratives, and innovative visual effects that take viewers on a rollercoaster voyage into undiscovered worlds. Now, grab some popcorn and get ready to binge. These are the top new Netflix science fiction shows of the year. 

5. The Signal

A German Science Fiction Mini-Series. *The Signal* is a suspenseful four-episode science fiction mini-series that delves into the mysteries of first contact with an alien species. Blending conspiracy intrigue with intimate family drama, the show follows Paula, her husband Sven, and their daughter Charlie as they grapple with an eerie and unexplainable event after Paula’s return from a stay on the International Space Station.

Upon returning to Earth, Paula hints at something unsettling she encountered in orbit, mentioning a strange communication she overheard while in space. However, shortly after their flight back to Germany, all the passengers aboard Paula’s aircraft mysteriously disappear. Left behind, Sven and Charlie are thrust into a terrifying mystery with potential extraterrestrial origins. As they search for answers, they are forced to confront unsettling truths about the nature of the communication and what might have happened in space.

While the series raises intriguing questions about the nature of alien life and human perception, it occasionally relies on the overused trope of contrasting mental illness with reality, which can feel tiresome as the plot progresses. Additionally, the show's handling of its alien elements is somewhat ambiguous, leaving viewers with more questions than answers by the end. Though the screenplay touches on profound concepts about space exploration, these ideas are rushed towards the conclusion, resulting in a finale that doesn’t fully deliver the expected payoff.

Despite these issues, *The Signal* succeeds in its portrayal of family dynamics and the emotional toll of loss. The characters' relationships feel authentic, and the central mystery remains gripping throughout. While the conclusion may leave some unsatisfied, the series offers enough intrigue and emotional depth to maintain viewer engagement and curiosity until the end.

4. Supacell

Created by Rap Man for Netflix, 2024. *Supacell* is a gritty, character-driven superhero series set in South London, where five ordinary residents are suddenly granted extraordinary abilities following a bizarre, unexplained incident. Each protagonist has a unique power, but none of them are prepared for the consequences that come with their newfound abilities.

The group includes Michael Lassaki, a truck driver with superhuman strength and the ability to bend time; Tayao, a member of a small gang who can turn invisible; Sabrina Clark, a young woman with telekinesis who lives with her sister; André Simpson, a father with super strength, struggling to make ends meet; and Rodney, a young drug dealer with incredible speed. As they learn to control their powers, they quickly realize that their abilities have drawn the attention of dangerous gangsters, corrupt officials, and a shadowy organization determined to exploit them.

As the story unfolds, the five join forces to protect their community and uncover the truth behind their transformation. The series distinguishes itself from typical superhero fare by focusing on the human side of its characters rather than just their superpowers. Its grounded, practical aesthetic keeps the narrative focused on the characters’ emotional journeys, struggles, and relationships, creating a more relatable and authentic portrayal of heroism.

While *Supacell* may feel slower-paced compared to traditional superhero shows, its emphasis on realistic, character-driven storytelling offers a fresh and resonant take on superhero themes. Viewers looking for a more nuanced, grounded exploration of power, responsibility, and community will find much to appreciate in this unique series.

3. Terminator Zero

Created by Matt St. Tomlin for Netflix. *Terminator Zero* is an animated sci-fi action series that expands on the iconic *Terminator* universe with a unique, standalone storyline. Set in a dystopian future, the series takes place in the post-apocalyptic year of 2022, where a rogue AI called Skynet has become self-aware and waged a devastating war against humanity. This conflict, which began with Skynet's attack on Judgment Day in 1997, has left the Earth in ruins. 

The series follows Aiko, a seasoned rebellion fighter from the bleak future of 2022, who is sent back in time with a critical mission: protect Malcolm Lee and his children from a relentless Terminator. Why is Malcolm Lee important? He is a brilliant scientist developing an AI system that could challenge Skynet’s dominance, potentially neutralizing the threat to humanity’s survival.

*Terminator Zero* stays true to the core themes and narrative structure of the *Terminator* franchise, maintaining its signature dark, futuristic design and high-stakes atmosphere. While the show places a greater emphasis on tension and character development rather than non-stop action, its slower pace may feel sluggish to some viewers. However, the thoughtful buildup pays off for long-time fans, adding deeper layers to the *Terminator* lore.

At its heart, the series explores philosophical questions around technology, control, and the consequences of AI. It offers new insights into the franchise while expanding its universe, making it an intriguing addition for fans and newcomers alike.

2. Parasite: The Grey

Directed by Jan Sangho, 2024, This sci-fi horror action series, inspired by Hitoshi Iwaki’s globally successful manga *Parasite*, brings the gripping and grotesque story to life with a thrilling, action-packed twist. With over 25 million copies sold worldwide, the original comic captivated readers with its chilling concept of parasites that invade and control human brains. *Parasite: The Grey* takes this concept further by setting the story in Korea and adding new layers of tension, horror, and action.

The series follows Suen, an ordinary grocery store worker, who becomes the unwilling host to a parasite. Unlike other victims, the parasite is unable to fully take control of her brain, leading to an unsettling coexistence between human and alien instincts. As Suen struggles to maintain her identity, Team Grey, led by the determined Jun Kyung, hunts down the parasites with ruthless precision. Their mission? To eradicate the growing alien threat.

The show’s intense body horror and physical transformations are its most unsettling features, with shocking visual effects that capture the horror of the parasites' influence. The protagonist’s internal conflict—caught between her human nature and the alien parasite's instincts—creates a compelling narrative full of vulnerability and visceral survival instincts. The series balances action and horror with cerebral moments that explore the clash between humanity and alien consciousness.

While *Parasite: The Grey* succeeds in maintaining the eerie atmosphere of its manga source, the pacing occasionally slows due to heavy dialogue and exposition. Despite this, the show offers a deep, contemplative look at the nature of identity, survival, and the alien “other,” making it a must-watch for fans of sci-fi horror and manga adaptations. 

Fans of the original manga and newcomers alike will be drawn into this harrowing, thought-provoking series.

1. The Three-Body Problem

Based on the Hugo Award-winning novel by Liu Cixin. This critically acclaimed sci-fi thriller, adapted for the screen by *Game of Thrones* creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, brings to life one of China's most ambitious works of speculative fiction. The story explores humanity's first encounter with an advanced alien civilization.

The plot begins with Ye Wenji, a scientist disillusioned by the brutality of humanity. In a moment of despair, she sends a signal into space, which is intercepted by an alien species from the Trisolaris system. The aliens, struggling to survive on a planet with three unstable suns, see Earth as a potential new home. As they prepare to make contact, they begin covertly influencing Earth’s factions—some who welcome the aliens as saviors, and others who see them as an existential threat.

The heart of the story revolves around a group of scientists who uncover a mysterious simulation game that seems to mirror the alien threat. As they piece together the game’s cryptic messages, they realize Earth is on the brink of an alien invasion.

The series blends breathtaking visual effects to transport viewers to both Earth and the alien world, balancing realism with imaginative sci-fi landscapes. At its core, the show explores deep themes of cosmic fear, human nature, hope, and betrayal, with emotionally complex characters caught in a high-stakes battle for survival.

While the adaptation simplifies some of the novel’s intricate ideas for a broader audience, the show remains faithful to the spirit of the source material. The stakes are immense, the concepts ambitious, and the emotional depth resonates with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Season 2 is already in the works, promising more mind-bending twists and intergalactic drama to come.