The Best New Adventure TV Series of the Last Few Years

Updated August 22, 2023 6.9K votes 934 voters 31.5K views

Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best New Adventure TV Series of the Last Few Years

Voting Rules

Vote up the best adventure shows that have premiered on or after January 1, 2019.

Latest additions: Ahsoka

Most divisive: The Falcon and The Winter Soldier

If you're in need of a hefty dose of escapism combined with a little vicarious adrenaline, some new adventure TV series may be exactly what you're craving. Great adventure shows feature archetypal but compelling characters who navigate settings from modern cities to outer space. Which new TV shows with adventure plots are truly the best of the genre? Help decide by voting on the list below.

What are some of the best new television adventure shows? Action and adventure lurk around every corner in Netflix's The Witcher, in which Henry Cavil plays the titular gruff monster caught in a web of fate. His Dark Materials, based off the bestselling book series, is another great adventure show that has recently premiered. Space adventure returned to the small screen when The Mandalorian premiered in 2019. Other good new adventure shows featured on this list include Arcane, Around The World in 80 Days, and The Witcher.

Which new adventure TV series is your favorite? Give the best series a thumbs up and please add any good shows we may have missed.

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1
The Mandalorian
Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Giancarlo Esposito
121 votes
- Premiered: November 12, 2019
In a galaxy far, far away, The Mandalorian takes viewers on an exhilarating adventure through the uncharted territories of the Star Wars galaxy. This critically acclaimed series, nominated for multiple awards including 15 Primetime Emmy Awards, masterfully combines elements of sci-fi, action, and drama, creating a riveting narrative that keeps fans hooked. With Pedro Pascal in the lead role as Din Djarin, a skilled bounty hunter, the show delves into the complexities of his character while introducing new faces and revisiting some familiar ones. As the story unfolds, audiences become immersed in the captivating world-building and compelling storytelling that has come to define this enthralling series.
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2
The Witcher
Henry Cavill, Anya Chalotra, Freya Allan
124 votes
- Premiered: December 20, 2019
In a realm of magic and monsters, The Witcher presents a complex tale of destiny, love, and power. As an adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski's critically acclaimed novels, this fantasy series has garnered immense praise for its intricate storytelling and phenomenal acting. At the heart of the narrative is Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill, Liam Hemsworth), a skilled monster-hunter who navigates through political intrigue and supernatural dangers. Alongside him, powerful sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra) and young princess Ciri (Freya Allan) embark on their own transformative journeys. With its rich character development and immersive world-building, this show has earned multiple award nominations, solidifying itself as a must-watch for fans of the genre.
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3
Hawkeye
Jeremy Renner, Hailee Steinfeld, Vera Farmiga
64 votes
- Premiered: November 24, 2021
In a refreshing take on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this action-packed series delves into the life of skilled archer Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner) as he passes the mantle to his eager protege Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld). The show masterfully combines humor, heart, and adrenaline-fueled sequences while offering an intimate exploration of the characters' complex relationships. With its engaging storytelling and exceptional performances, the series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Viewers can expect thrilling surprises, emotional moments, and a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a hero in this compelling addition to the MCU.
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4
Vikings: Valhalla
Sam Corlett, Leo Suter, Frida Gustavsson
40 votes
- Premiered: February 25, 2022
Venturing into the uncharted waters of the Viking Age, Vikings: Valhalla delivers a gripping narrative that weaves together history, adventure, and complex character dynamics. As a continuation of its acclaimed predecessor, this series earns its place among Netflix's pantheon of successful productions. Navigating through the exploits of Leif Erikson (Sam Corlett), Freydis Eriksdotter (Frida Gustavsson), and Harald Hardrada (Leo Suter), the show delves into their struggles for power, legacy, and survival in a world fraught with political intrigue and brutal combat. Vikings: Valhalla has garnered praise for its meticulous attention to detail, riveting storytelling, and exceptional performances, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
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5
Arcane
Hailee Steinfeld, Katie Leung, Kevin Alejandro
50 votes
- Premiered: November 6, 2021
In the realm of animated television, Arcane stands out as a testament to the power of immersive storytelling. With its richly detailed steampunk-inspired world and a compelling narrative that traverses the divide between social classes, the show has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Among the show's highlights are the intricate relationships between characters like Vi (Hailee Steinfeld) and her sister Jinx (Ella Purnell), whose personal journeys are as engaging as the overarching plot. The series has also been lauded for its visual artistry, with vibrant colors and stunning animation breathing life into the city of Piltover and its inhabitants. As a testament to its impact, Arcane has received numerous award nominations, including the prestigious Annie Awards, further solidifying its status as an exceptional piece of entertainment.
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6
His Dark Materials
Dafne Keen, Ruth Wilson, Lin-Manuel Miranda
71 votes
- Premiered: November 3, 2019
His Dark Materials, an enthralling adaptation of Philip Pullman's beloved trilogy, weaves a rich tapestry of fantasy, drama, and adventure. The series has garnered critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including British Academy Television Awards and Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards. Set in a parallel universe, the story follows the courageous Lyra Belacqua (Dafne Keen) and her shape-shifting daemon companion, Pantalaimon, as they embark on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about a mysterious substance called "Dust." Alongside a diverse cast of characters, such as the enigmatic Lord Asriel (James McAvoy) and the cunning Mrs. Coulter (Ruth Wilson), the show expertly explores themes of personal discovery, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil.
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The Mandalorian

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The Witcher

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Hawkeye

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Vikings: Valhalla

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Arcane

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His Dark Materials

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