Animated comedy has evolved significantly over the past two decades, expanding beyond simple jokes into sharp satire, imaginative worldbuilding, and character-driven storytelling. Iconic shows like Rick and Morty, which follows a hilariously chaotic grandfather–grandson duo on adventures across the multiverses, may dominate discussions about the best comedic animated series—but it is honestly far from the only show that delivers peak fictional brilliance.

Quality shows like Futurama, whose long-running status has done nothing to diminish its brilliance, and <em>Final Space</em>, an underrated sci-fi gem that offers audiences a surprisingly heartfelt blend of sci-fi elements and character-driven emotion, are just two of the many animated epics that surpass Rick and Morty. The standouts compiled on this list are brilliant animated series that showcase some of the most inventive and resonant storytelling that fans of the genre have ever seen.

1

‘Bob’s Burgers’ (2011–)

Bob’s Burgers is a lovably hilarious animated series that is counted among the greatest TV cartoons of all time. The sitcom created by Loren Bouchard follows the Belcher family—Bob (H. Jon Benjamin), a burger-shop owner, his zany and supportive wife Linda (John Roberts), and their three quirky children, Tina (Dan Mintz), Gene (Eugene Mirman), and Louise (Kristen Schaal)—as they constantly struggle to run their family restaurant.

While Rick and Morty is a sci-fi comedic gem, Bob’s Burgers is an incredibly clever animated series rife with character-driven humor. The show’s comedy leans towards the lighter side of the cartoon spectrum—especially compared to something like Rick and Morty—yet it remains widely beloved for its humorous family dynamics, which are just as appealing to most adults. Bob’s Burgers is an honest blend of humor and heart, with a strong ensemble of characters. For those who favor family-centric comedy and warm character relationships, it stands as the perfect show to watch over Rick and Morty.

2

‘BoJack Horseman’ (2014–2020)

This rather dark comedy series is an American adult-animated drama that has often been hailed as one of the best animated series television has to offer. BoJack Horseman centers around a washed-up 1990s sitcom star—who also happens to be a horse—BoJack (Will Arnett), as he faces the truth about his depression and attempts to rekindle his celebrity status.

The comedy-drama is notably masterful in its art of dark comedy. BoJack Horseman has the enticing habit of bringing its audience to tears, swinging between heart-wrenching emotional pain and outright absurd hilarity. The animated show has often been cited as the superior series to Rick and Morty in both emotional weight and overall writing. Tackling tough themes like depression and addiction, BoJack Horseman stands out as a more mature and moving animated series in comparison to most adult cartoons, giving it a worthy edge over shows like the sci-fi, fun-loving epic that is Rick and Morty.

3

‘Archer’ (2009–2023)

Archer is a whopping bout of genuine jokes and spy thrills. The animated series created by Adam Reed follows the suave but incredibly narcissistic womanizing secret agent, Sterling Archer (H. Jon Benjamin), along with his colleagues at the dysfunctional ISIS spy agency.

From Archer‘s writing to its style, the animated series has received enough praise and awards to attest to its brilliance. It’s an underrated good time that wields meaningful character growth, spy antics, and outrageous humor. Featuring pop-culture references, a film-parody style, and clever world play, Archer stands as a notable spy sitcom that defiantly outshines Rick and Morty in sheer wit. With a satirical take on countless spy tropes and tons of character-driven gags, Archer is absolutely the superior animated series in comedic writing and originality in comparison to the addictive sci-fi series.

4

‘Futurama’ (1999–)

This fun sci-fi experience is a standout animated series that is well-known for its clever writing. Futurama stands as a long-running gem that centers around a 20th-century pizza delivery boy, Philip J. Fry (Billy West), who finds himself frozen and eventually revived, yet stranded in the 31st century. With no way home, Fry joins the Planet Express delivery company and works alongside a band of misfits.