6 Best 80s Sci-Fi and Fantasy Shows to Stream

The 80s were full of various sci-fi and fantasy shows featuring new worlds, technology, and aliens, all in one place. While the CGI and other special effects may not be as good as they are today, these shows are filled with nostalgia for the beginnings of the genre on the television screen. Check out these six best 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows to watch now.

6. V (1984-1985)

Starting our list of 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows is V. Set a year after Liberation Day, the humanoid, lizard-like aliens are back. Developing a resistance to the red-dust bacteria, they are attempting to regain control of the Earth. However, this time they have help, in the form of humans knowingly working with them. Will the resistance be able to overcome the aliens again?

–IMDb score: 7.3

5. Amazing Stories (1985-1987)

Fifth on our list of 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows is Amazing Stories, created in part by Steven Spielberg. Similar to The Twilight Zone, each episode brings around a new story with a new cast, featuring fantasy, horror, mystery, science fiction, and thriller genres. What is always constant in each episode is the “Amazing” quality, whether it be in the form of comedy or drama.

–IMDb score: 7.4

4. Quantum Leap (1989-1993)

Next up on our list of 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows is Quantum Leap. Experimenting with time travel, Dr. Sam Beckett accidentally traps himself in the past in different people. Driven by an unknown force to help, Beckett “leaps” into new lives and helps sort out their problems. Helping him is Al, an observer from his time only he can see and hear, as he tries to make his way back to the present.

–IMDb score: 8.2

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3. Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)

Rounding out the top three 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows is Star Trek: The Next Generation. Set almost 100 years after Captain Kirk’s mission in Star Trek (1966), a new crew sets off into space. Under the command of Captain Jean-Luc Picard upon the U.S.S. Enterprise-D, their mission is to go where no one has gone before and discover new life.

–IMDb score: 8.7

Also Read: 6 Best 80s Drama and Action Shows to Stream

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

Second on our list of 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows is Dragon Ball Z. The only animated show on the list takes place five years after the end of Dragon Ball. Son Goku reunites with his friends and introduces them to his son, Gohan. However, when his alien origins are revealed, Goku and his allies must defend the planet against new extraterrestrial enemies.

–IMDb score: 8.8

1. The Twilight Zone (1985-1989)

Last but not least on our list of 80s sci-fi and fantasy shows is The Twilight Zone. The show is an updated version of the 1959 classic by Rod Serling. Each episode presents one to three tales about an unusual situation that becomes even more so by the story’s end. Whether the genre is horror, suspense, or humor, there’s always a twist to keep you hooked.