Dystopian fiction has carved a significant niche within the science fiction and horror genres, blossoming into a dominant category in the 21st century. This genre offers a variety of unsettling futures, from zombie-infested wastelands and AI-driven apocalypses to more subtle yet equally disturbing scenarios, such as societies controlled by social media metrics or worlds where every visual experience is permanently recorded in one's mind like a video file.

This list encompasses 19 TV series, along with one miniseries, that delve into the most inventive, terrifying, and often poignant dystopian narratives ever conceived. From post-apocalyptic landscapes to office settings where employees have microchips in their heads, splitting their consciousness, these stories all share a dark vision of the future. Whether near or distant, these visions are charged with intensity, intrigue, and boundless imagination.

For those interested in dystopian narratives on the big screen, be sure to explore the Top 10 Apocalypse Movies of All Time and the 6 Post-Apocalyptic Movies You've Probably Never Seen. Additionally, IGN readers have cast their votes on their Favorite Post-Apocalyptic World from both movies and TV!

But if it's television that captivates you, dive into our exploration of standout series such as Fallout, Severance, The Walking Dead, The Handmaid's Tale, The Last of Us, and more. Here are the Top 20 Dystopian TV Shows of All Time!