by Sol Ortiz
What better way to spend your downtime than with cartoons? Here we’re going to be counting down our picks for the top five best cartoons out there. From Nickelodeon to Cartoon Network, these shows are guaranteed to be a great watch for any and all audiences.
5. “Steven Universe”
Sitting at number five we have “Steven Universe.” Airing in 2013 and recently concluding in 2020, “Steven Universe” was the first animated series on Cartoon Network to ever be written by a nonbinary individual, being Rebecca Sugar.
In the show we follow a young boy named Steven and his life with the Crystal Gems (magical human-like beings from outer space) in the small town of Beach City. We accompany Steven throughout his adventures around the world with the Crystal Gems, fighting monsters in order to keep the planet and mankind safe.
Throughout the show we see a strong emphasis on family and the bonds that make them. We get to see our main character struggle and grow in between seasons in such a beautiful way that we can’t help but learn with him.
However, the most notable thing about the show would have to be the soundtrack, which surpasses that of any typical cartoon out there. Overall the show is unlike any other, and is definitely a great addition to your watch list.
4. “SpongeBob Squarepants”
Here at number four we have “SpongeBob Squarepants.” Probably the most well-known cartoon on this list, “SpongeBob Squarepants” initially aired on Nickelodeon back in 1999 and is still on air to this day.
In this cartoon, we run along with a sponge named SpongeBob through his life in Bikini Bottom. Each episode appears to be it’s own story, full of many spontaneous adventures. This show is perfect if you’re looking for a good laugh, and is definitely timeless.
Although the first couple of seasons are what makes the show what it is, the overall series has maintained popularity over the years for good reasons. This show is great for an audience of all ages.
3. “Adventure Time”
At number three we have “Adventure Time”. Airing on Cartoon Network in 2010 and recently concluding its mini series on HBO Max in 2021, Adventure Time is a show loved by many who grew up watching Cartoon Network through the 2010’s.
In the show we follow Finn the human and his best friend Jake the dog through the magical and fantastical Land of Ooo. They encounter numerous enemies and obstacles but always manage to make it out victorious, even getting the help of several characters along the way.
Although great for a good laugh, the mysterious lore of the show has to be one of the most notable aspects. This show is a great watch for cartoon lovers of any kind.
2. “Teen Titans”
As a close second we have “Teen Titans.” Airing in 2003 on Cartoon Network, the show quickly became popular amongst viewers, going down as one of the best cartoons to ever air on Cartoon Network before eventually being cancelled in 2006.
In the show we follow DC’s Teen Titans and their adventures around the world, fighting crime and keeping evil at bay. Although a seemingly playful and fun cartoon at first glance, the show explores the sometimes deep lore of our heroes and villains. We see the bond between our heroes change and grow throughout the show, exploring the many complicated dynamics of friendships.
The series is a must-watch for anyone with a love for superheroes or even a love for cartoons.
- “Avatar: The Last Airbender”
And finally at number one we have “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” Although originally airing in 2005 on Nickelodeon, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” has seen a great revival in its fanbase with the show being put on Netflix in May of 2020.
In the show we follow the avatar Aang through his journey of mastering the 4 elements — being water, earth, fire, and air — in order to end the 100 year war. Along the way he meets friends who soon become his family and help him defeat the firelord in order to restore balance to the world.
The show is written in such a lovely and unique way, and expresses its themes of friendship beautifully. This series is a must-watch for anyone and everyone.
I hope you enjoyed my list! At the end of the day this is just my opinion, but maybe some of these made it to your watch-list.
