The Most Underrated Cartoon, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the cartoon you think is the most underrated!

Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:58

In the colorful world of animation, some gems don't always get the spotlight they deserve, overshadowed by blockbuster hits and mainstream favorites. By pinpointing and voting for underrated cartoons, we shine a light on these overlooked masterpieces, providing them with the recognition they merit. Each vote helps adjust the balance, giving every series a fair chance to charm a wider audience. Your participation in voting not only contributes to the appreciation of these lesser-known works but also influences the dynamic rankings live. This process ensures that new discoveries or shifting opinions are always reflected, keeping the list fresh and relevant. So, cast your vote and help determine which series deserves to climb out from under the radar and into the hearts of more viewers.

What Is the Most Underrated Cartoon?

1

57
votes
Gravity Falls

Alex Hirsch

This show is a brilliant blend of humor, mystery, and heart. It's a shame that it didn't receive as much attention as some other cartoons of its time.
Gravity Falls is an animated television show that aired on Disney Channel from 2012 to 2016. Created by Alex Hirsch, it follows the adventures of twins Dipper and Mabel Pines who visit their great-uncle in the mysterious town of Gravity Falls, uncovering supernatural secrets and encountering strange creatures along the way.

Genre: Adventure, Mystery, Comedy

Runtime: 22 minutes per episode

Number of seasons: 2

Number of episodes: 40

Premiere date: June 15, 2012
Gravity Falls in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Disney XD show
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Disney show
2

19
votes
Over the Garden Wall

Patrick McHale

This miniseries has a unique and charming art style, a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, and a story that's both whimsical and dark. It deserves much more recognition than it currently has.
Over the Garden Wall is an animated miniseries that follows two brothers, Wirt and Greg, as they find themselves lost in the Unknown, a mysterious forest full of strange creatures and magical beings. Throughout their journey, they encounter various surreal and whimsical adventures while desperately trying to find their way back home.

Genre: Fantasy

Format: Miniseries

Episodes: 10

Runtime: Approximately 11 minutes per episode

Release Year: 2014
3

28
votes
The Adventures of Tintin

Hergé

This animated series based on the classic comic books is full of action, adventure, and intrigue. It's a shame that it's not more well-known outside of Europe.
The Adventures of Tintin is a classic animated television series based on the comic book series of the same name, created by Belgian cartoonist Hergé. The show follows the thrilling adventures of a young Belgian reporter named Tintin and his loyal dog Snowy as they travel around the world, encountering mysteries, villains, and uncovering hidden treasures.

Genre: Adventure

Format: Animated TV series

Language: English

Original Network: HBO

Number of Seasons: 3
4

14
votes
Samurai Jack

Genndy Tartakovsky

This show has some of the most stunning visuals and action sequences in any animated series. It's a shame that it didn't receive more attention during its original run.
Samurai Jack is an American animated television series that aired on Cartoon Network from 2001 to 2017. It follows the adventures of an unnamed samurai prince (later known as Jack) in his quest to travel back in time and defeat the evil shape-shifting demon Aku, who has enslaved the world.

Genre: Action-adventure, Science fiction, Fantasy

Original run: August 10, 2001 - May 20, 2017

Number of seasons: 5

Number of episodes: 62

Episode duration: 22 minutes
Samurai Jack in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular Cartoon Network show
5

9
votes
The Spectacular Spider-Man

This show captures the essence of Spider-Man better than any other animated series. It's a shame that it ended after only two seasons.
The Spectacular Spider-Man is an animated television series based on the Marvel Comics character Spider-Man. It originally aired from 2008 to 2009. The series follows the story of Peter Parker, a high school student who gains spider-like abilities after being bitten by a genetically-enhanced spider. As Spider-Man, he battles various supervillains while also trying to navigate the challenges of his everyday life.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Superhero

Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Animation, Dong Woo Animation

Network: The CW (US), YTV (Canada)

Episodes: 26 (2 seasons)

Voice Cast: Josh Keaton, Lacey Chabert, Joshua LeBar, Grey DeLisle, James Arnold Taylor, Vanessa Marshall
6

13
votes
Futurama

This show is often overshadowed by "The Simpsons," but it's just as clever and hilarious in its own way. It's a shame that it was cancelled and then brought back only to be cancelled again.
Futurama is an American animated sitcom that follows the adventures of a delivery boy named Fry who gets cryogenically frozen and wakes up in the year 3000. He becomes a delivery boy for an intergalactic delivery company and encounters various futuristic beings and scenarios.

Genre: Animated sitcom

Country of Origin: United States

Original Language: English

Number of Seasons: 7

Number of Episodes: 140
7

11
votes
Gargoyles

This show had a unique premise and a complex mythology that set it apart from other animated series of its time. It's a shame that it didn't receive the attention it deserved.
Gargoyles are a popular Halloween decoration inspired by grotesque sculptures commonly found on the exteriors of Gothic-style buildings. These statues often depict a hybrid creature with the body of a lion or a similar animal, and the wings and head of a mythical creature, such as a dragon or a demon. Gargoyles are known for their menacing and eerie appearance, which make them a perfect addition to Halloween decor.

Material: typically made of stone or resin

Size: can range from small figurines to life-size sculptures

Color: varies, often in dark tones like gray or black

Design: features intricate details and exaggerated features

Placement: can be placed indoors or outdoors, often found on rooftops, pillars, or garden walls
8

8
votes
Avatar: The Last Airbender

This show is beloved by many, but it still doesn't get the recognition it deserves as one of the greatest animated series of all time. It has a rich world, memorable characters, and a powerful story.
Avatar: The Last Airbender is an animated television series that aired on Nickelodeon. It is set in a world where some people have the ability to manipulate the elements of water, earth, fire, and air. The storyline follows Aang, the last surviving Airbender who is also the Avatar, a person capable of bending all four elements and maintaining balance in the world. As he embarks on a journey to master the elements and defeat the Fire Nation, he is accompanied by his friends Katara, Sokka, and later on, Toph and Zuko.

Genre: Action-adventure fantasy

Original network: Nickelodeon

Number of seasons: 3

Total number of episodes: 61

Average episode runtime: 22 minutes
Avatar: The Last Airbender in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular Nickelodeon characters
- Position 6 of 10 in Most beloved cartoon
9

7
votes
Batman: The Animated Series

Bruce Timm and Eric Radomski

This show is often overshadowed by the live-action Batman movies, but it's just as iconic and influential in its own way. It set the standard for what a superhero cartoon could be.
Batman: The Animated Series is a popular animated television series that aired from 1992 to 1995. It is known for its dark and mature take on the Batman character and for its distinctive art deco-inspired animation style. The series was created by Bruce Timm and Eric Radomski.

Genre: Action, Adventure

Setting: Gotham City

Animation Style: Art Deco

Number of Seasons: 4

Number of Episodes: 85
Batman: The Animated Series in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular Batman game
10

4
votes
Nickelodeon · Public domain

Hey Arnold!

Craig Bartlett

This show had a unique and diverse cast of characters and tackled serious issues in a way that was both entertaining and thoughtful. It's a shame that it's not as well-remembered as some other Nickelodeon cartoons of its time.
Hey Arnold! is an animated television series that aired on Nickelodeon. The show follows the life of Arnold, a fourth-grader who lives in a boarding house with his grandparents. Arnold navigates the challenges of friendship, school, and city life while trying to solve problems and help others in his neighborhood.

Genre: Animated sitcom

Network: Nickelodeon

First Aired: October 7, 1996

Last Aired: June 8, 2004

Number of Seasons: 5
Hey Arnold! in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular Nickelodeon characters

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Ranking factors for underrated cartoon

Critical reception

How well-received was the cartoon by critics? Did it receive positive reviews and awards, or was it largely overlooked?
Fanbase

Even if a cartoon is not well-known or critically acclaimed, it may still have a dedicated fanbase who appreciate its storytelling, animation, and characters.
Longevity

Did the cartoon have a short run, or did it air for multiple seasons? A longer run may indicate that the show had a loyal audience and was able to maintain its quality over time.
Cultural impact

Some cartoons have a lasting impact on popular culture, even if they were not initially well-received. It's worth considering whether a particular cartoon has influenced other shows, inspired fan art or cosplay, or become a nostalgic favorite for a certain generation of viewers.
Originality

Was the cartoon doing something new or different that set it apart from other shows at the time? Even if a show wasn't a commercial or critical success, it may still be worth recognizing for its innovation and creativity.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most underrated cartoon. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or cartoon is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1521 views
165 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each cartoon once every 24 hours. The rank of each cartoon is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most underrated cartoon

Underrated cartoons have been a topic of debate among animation enthusiasts for years. While some shows gain massive followings and become cultural phenomena, others fly under the radar despite their quality storytelling, animation, and humor. These hidden gems deserve recognition, and that's why we've created this poll. From classic cartoons of the past to modern-day masterpieces, we want to know which underrated cartoon deserves more love from viewers. So, whether you're a fan of obscure titles or just looking for something new to watch, join us in celebrating the unsung heroes of the cartoon world.