Top 20 HBO Sci-Fi Series You Must Watch

If you love mind bending stories, futuristic worlds, and shows that push the limits of imagination, HBO has built some of the most groundbreaking sci fi series ever made. Known for its bold storytelling and cinematic quality, HBO delivers science fiction that feels intelligent, emotional, visually spectacular, and deeply thought provoking. Whether you enjoy dystopian futures, alternate realities, artificial intelligence, supernatural mysteries, or philosophical explorations of humanity, these series invite you to experience worlds that challenge the way you think.

Get ready to dive into shows filled with suspense, creativity, and futuristic wonder.

1. Westworld

Westworld combines science fiction and philosophical drama through a story set in a futuristic theme park where lifelike androids begin to gain consciousness. The show explores free will, artificial intelligence, morality, and identity as the park spirals into chaos and the hosts fight for liberation. Each season expands the world into deeper timelines, conspiracies, and evolving technology that challenge both characters and viewers. Visually stunning and emotionally layered, the series blends mystery, action, and deep psychological themes. Its world building and narrative twists make it one of the most ambitious sci fi dramas on modern television.

Cast: Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Anthony Hopkins
Where to Watch: HBO Max

2. The Leftovers

The Leftovers tells the story of a world shaken by the sudden, mysterious disappearance of two percent of the population, exploring how grief, belief, and trauma reshape society. Although not traditional sci fi, the supernatural mystery surrounding the event drives the emotional intensity and philosophical questions at the heart of the series. The storytelling blends surreal sequences, psychological exploration, and intimate character arcs that slowly reveal how people cope with the unexplainable. Its haunting tone and emotional depth make it one of HBO’s most profound dramas.

Cast: Justin Theroux, Carrie Coon, Christopher Eccleston
Where to Watch: HBO Max

3. Raised by Wolves

Raised by Wolves follows two androids raising human children on a distant planet after Earth’s destruction, blending futuristic technology with spiritual conflict and survival. The series explores themes of parenting, religion, evolution, and the dangers of human ideology as societies attempt to rebuild. The alien landscapes, mysterious creatures, and atmospheric tension create a world both beautiful and unsettling. Each episode raises new questions about technology, faith, and what it means to be human. The visuals are bold and cinematic, making the series a haunting sci fi experience.

Cast: Amanda Collin, Abubakar Salim, Travis Fimmel
Where to Watch: HBO Max

4. The Nevers

The Nevers mixes Victorian era charm with supernatural sci fi elements as a group of women suddenly gain extraordinary abilities following a strange event. The show blends mystery, adventure, and social commentary, revealing how power, fear, and corruption shape society’s response to the gifted individuals. With richly designed sets and elaborate costumes, the series creates a unique blend of historical drama and futuristic imagination. Each character’s power connects to their emotional journey, adding depth to the unfolding mysteries.

Cast: Laura Donnelly, Ann Skelly, Olivia Williams
Where to Watch: HBO Max

5. Fringe

Fringe explores parallel universes, fringe science experiments, and bizarre unexplained phenomena through the investigations of a special FBI division. The series blends episodic sci fi mysteries with a deep, emotional long form storyline involving alternate realities, time loops, and scientific ethics. The characters’ relationships anchor the narrative, creating memorable arcs that connect the supernatural to human emotion. With creative storytelling and bold scientific concepts, Fringe remains a favorite among sci fi fans worldwide.

Cast: Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble
Where to Watch: HBO Max

6. True Blood

True Blood blends supernatural fantasy and sci fi genetics through a world where vampires live openly among humans thanks to synthetic blood. The show explores prejudice, desire, political tension, and the darker side of immortality in a Southern Gothic setting. Over time, the series expands into werewolves, fairies, witches, and other superhuman species, creating a rich supernatural ecosystem. Its mix of romance, mystery, and social commentary makes it a thrilling and addictive watch with imaginative world building.

Cast: Anna Paquin, Stephen Moyer, Alexander Skarsgård
Where to Watch: HBO Max

7. His Dark Materials

Based on the acclaimed novels, His Dark Materials blends fantasy and metaphysics with sci fi themes like parallel universes, sentient technology, and cosmic energy. The story follows a young girl uncovering dark truths about her world while navigating mystical creatures, forbidden knowledge, and dangerous religious forces. The series delivers emotional depth, stunning visuals, and complex world building that appeals to viewers who love multidimensional storytelling. Each season expands the mythology, raising the stakes across universes.

Cast: Dafne Keen, Ruth Wilson, James McAvoy
Where to Watch: HBO Max

8. Station Eleven

Station Eleven follows survivors of a devastating global pandemic as they rebuild both society and their identities in a world reshaped by emptiness and memory. The storytelling shifts across timelines, blending sci fi dystopia with intimate character studies and emotional artistry. Rather than focusing on destruction, the series explores hope, creativity, and human connection in the face of collapse. Its haunting atmosphere and beautifully interwoven narratives make it one of HBO’s most poetic sci fi dramas.

Cast: Mackenzie Davis, Himesh Patel, Matilda Lawler
Where to Watch: HBO Max

9. The Outsider

The Outsider blends crime drama with supernatural sci fi horror as investigators uncover a shape shifting entity tied to a mysterious murder. The show moves from grounded detective work into eerie, unexplainable territory as characters confront forces beyond human understanding. Tension builds slowly as the supernatural truth reveals itself through psychological horror, folklore, and chilling atmosphere. Strong performances and unsettling twists make this series a gripping hybrid of genres.

Cast: Ben Mendelsohn, Cynthia Erivo, Jason Bateman
Where to Watch: HBO Max

10. Lovecraft Country

Lovecraft Country mixes sci fi, historical drama, and cosmic horror as a young man journeys across 1950s America confronting racism, magic, monsters, and alternate dimensions. The show boldly reimagines classic sci fi tropes through a social and emotional lens, delivering thrilling adventures with deeper cultural messages. Each episode blends fantasy, horror, and surreal science fiction as characters fight both supernatural threats and real world oppression. The visuals are bold, imaginative, and unforgettable.

Cast: Jonathan Majors, Jurnee Smollett, Michael Kenneth Williams
Where to Watch: HBO Max

11. Watchmen

Watchmen reimagines the classic graphic novel as a bold sci fi drama exploring alternate history, masked vigilantism, time bending physics, and deep social commentary. The story follows Angela Abar as she uncovers hidden conspiracies that intertwine with generations of trauma and powerful technological secrets. The show moves confidently between timelines, using sci fi devices to explore justice, identity, and the consequences of unchecked power. Visually striking and thematically rich, Watchmen blends emotional storytelling with mind bending concepts. It is a rare series that feels both deeply human and wildly imaginative.

Cast: Regina King, Yahya Abdul Mateen II, Jeremy Irons
Where to Watch: HBO Max

12. The Time Traveler’s Wife

This romantic sci fi drama follows a man who uncontrollably travels through time due to a genetic anomaly, creating a complex and emotional relationship with the woman he loves. The series explores how time travel affects memory, destiny, connection, and loss as the couple fights to maintain a sense of normalcy despite unpredictable timelines. The emotional storytelling is grounded in the characters’ vulnerability, offering viewers a blend of heartfelt drama and futuristic mystery. With elegant pacing and intimate performances, the show delivers a sci fi story rooted in human experience.

Cast: Rose Leslie, Theo James
Where to Watch: HBO Max

13. The Last of Us

The Last of Us blends post apocalyptic drama with sci fi themes of infection, evolution, and human resilience as a hardened survivor escorts a girl who may hold the key to saving the world. The series explores grief, hope, brutality, and the emotional complexities of survival after society collapses. Each episode features cinematic landscapes, intense storytelling, and powerful character relationships that deepen the narrative. The sci fi elements center on the mutated fungus outbreak and its horrifying biological effects, creating a terrifying yet fascinating fictional world.

Cast: Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Anna Torv
Where to Watch: HBO Max

14. From the Earth to the Moon

This HBO docudrama explores the scientific and technological breakthroughs behind NASA’s Apollo missions, blending historical truth with cinematic sci fi portrayal of humanity reaching beyond Earth. The series takes viewers inside the emotional, political, and scientific challenges faced by the astronauts and engineers who made the unimaginable possible. Each episode highlights a different chapter of the mission, creating a sense of awe around the ambition of space exploration. Its storytelling balances inspiration with realism, celebrating human curiosity and innovation.

Cast: Tom Hanks, Lane Smith, Chris Isaak
Where to Watch: HBO Max

15. Avenue 5

Avenue 5 is a sci fi comedy about a luxurious space cruise ship that veers off course, trapping its passengers in a chaotic and unpredictable deep space journey. The series uses satire to explore futuristic technology, corporate incompetence, and humanity’s hilarious flaws when faced with disaster. The show blends sharp humor with imaginative sci fi scenarios, making space travel both absurd and frightening. Behind the comedy lies a clever exploration of leadership, responsibility, and human behavior under pressure.

Cast: Hugh Laurie, Josh Gad, Zach Woods
Where to Watch: HBO Max

16. The Righteous Gemstones

While primarily a comedy, select story arcs venture into sci fi territory with surreal visions, experimental technology, and mind bending sequences that add unexpected depth to the plot. The series follows a wealthy family of televangelists whose personal scandals collide with mysterious events and exaggerated realities. These sci fi tinged narrative choices create symbolic, humorous, and occasionally unsettling moments that elevate the overall drama. The result is a mix of satire, storytelling experimentation, and creative visual metaphors.

Cast: Danny McBride, John Goodman, Adam Devine
Where to Watch: HBO Max

17. True Detective: Night Country

This season introduces eerie, science influenced mysteries involving strange weather, unexplained phenomena, and psychological distortions that give the story a subtle sci fi edge. The isolated Arctic setting enhances the tension as investigators confront both human darkness and unknown forces surrounding a chilling disappearance. The series blends grounded crime drama with atmospheric sci fi elements that blur the line between supernatural suggestion and scientific anomaly. Emotional storytelling and deep symbolism make this one of the franchise’s most unique entries.

Cast: Jodie Foster, Kali Reis
Where to Watch: HBO Max

18. Carnivàle

Set during the Great Depression, Carnivàle blends mystical sci fi and supernatural prophecy through a sprawling narrative about good, evil, and destiny. Although grounded in historical America, the series introduces telepathy, visions, unexplained powers, and cosmic forces shaping humanity’s future. The slow burn mystery builds through symbolic storytelling and eerie sequences that feel mythic and futuristic at once. Its rich world building, atmospheric visuals, and layered mythology have made it a cult favorite among sci fi enthusiasts.

Cast: Nick Stahl, Clancy Brown, Amy Madigan
Where to Watch: HBO Max

19. The Third Day

The Third Day blends psychological mystery with supernatural sci fi as a man becomes trapped on a strange island where reality twists through ritualistic traditions, visions, and unexplained phenomena. The isolated community hides secrets that blur the line between science, belief, and human manipulation. Atmospheric storytelling and surreal imagery create a sense of disorientation, pulling viewers into a world where memory and truth feel unreliable. The show is rich with symbolism, emotional tension, and dramatic reveals that deepen the mystery. Its immersive world building and eerie tone make it one of HBO’s most unique genre bending experiences.

Cast: Jude Law, Naomie Harris, Katherine Waterston
Where to Watch: HBO Max

20. Doctor Who

Doctor Who is a legendary British sci fi series available on HBO, following the Doctor, a time traveling alien who explores galaxies, battles interdimensional threats, and protects civilizations across time. The show blends adventure, emotional storytelling, futuristic concepts, and imaginative alien worlds. Each episode offers new sci fi wonders, from advanced technology to alternate timelines and cosmic mysteries. The Doctor’s regenerations introduce fresh personalities and emotional arcs while maintaining the show’s heart and curiosity. Its blend of humor, danger, and heartfelt moments keeps it beloved across generations.

Cast: David Tennant, Matt Smith, Jodie Whittaker (varies by era)
Where to Watch: HBO Max

21. Babylon 5

Babylon 5 is an epic space opera set aboard a diplomatic space station where humans and alien races struggle to maintain peace amidst rising interstellar tensions. The series explores politics, war, prophecy, and the evolution of artificial and organic life. Its serialized storytelling weaves together long term arcs involving ancient alien species, advanced technology, and psychological transformations. The show was groundbreaking for its complex characters, deep lore, and philosophical sci fi questions. With its restored visuals on HBO, it remains a timeless masterpiece for fans of large scale space dramas.

Cast: Bruce Boxleitner, Claudia Christian, Mira Furlan
Where to Watch: HBO Max

22. The Peripheral

The Peripheral explores the future of virtual reality, advanced robotics, and time bending communication through the story of a young woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous future world. The series blends sleek sci fi concepts with emotional stakes as she discovers powerful forces manipulating timelines and human evolution. Its world building is dense and atmospheric, offering a vision of society shaped by corporate control and technological extremes. Action, mystery, and intriguing characters make the show a gripping watch for fans of high concept sci fi.

Cast: Chloë Grace Moretz, Jack Reynor, Gary Carr
Where to Watch: HBO International Territories

23. Euphoria

Though primarily a teen drama, Euphoria incorporates sci fi influenced dream sequences, symbolic visions, and surreal shifts in perception that give certain episodes a futuristic or alternate reality feel. These elements explore identity, addiction, technology, and emotional distortion through visually imaginative storytelling. The blending of hyperreality and cinematic experimentation creates moments that feel technologically abstract and psychologically sci fi. These sequences deepen the characters’ emotional journeys and challenge viewers to interpret meaning beyond the literal narrative.

Cast: Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi
Where to Watch: HBO Max

24. Years and Years

Years and Years follows a British family over multiple decades as political upheaval, technological evolution, climate instability, and social transformation reshape the world at alarming speed. The series blends dystopian sci fi with grounded emotional drama, showing how advances in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and surveillance impact everyday lives. Each episode pushes society further into a plausible future, making the drama eerily relatable. The storytelling is fast paced, powerful, and deeply human, offering a chilling look at where the world may be heading.

Cast: Emma Thompson, Russell Tovey, Rory Kinnear
Where to Watch: HBO Max

25. The Swarm

The Swarm explores global ecological collapse triggered by mysterious, intelligent forces emerging from the ocean depths. The show blends environmental science fiction with thriller elements as scientists race to understand the rapidly escalating threats affecting marine life, climate systems, and human survival. Its storytelling shifts across continents, giving the series a global sense of urgency and scale. Themes of evolution, communication, and humanity’s impact on nature are woven through each episode. With cinematic visuals and a haunting premise, it delivers a thought provoking and suspenseful sci fi experience.

Cast: Cécile de France, Leonie Benesch, Alexander Karim
Where to Watch: HBO Europe, HBO Max (selected regions)

Dive into these unforgettable HBO sci fi series and prepare to explore the unknown through powerful characters, visionary ideas, and stories that linger long after the final episode.