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List of animated Internet series worth watching

Daniel Carter

Daniel Carter

— 4 min read
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A dynamic action scene featuring characters from an animated internet series engaged in combat.

Animated Internet series are shows created specifically for online platforms rather than traditional TV or movies. They debut on websites, video platforms like YouTube or Vimeo, or streaming services focused on web content. These series often feature shorter episodes, unique animation styles, and storytelling that takes advantage of the creative freedom the Internet provides. This article lists notable animated Internet series, explains what qualifies as one, and offers tips for finding new series to watch.

What counts as an animated Internet series?

An animated Internet series is a show originally produced for and released on the Internet, not on traditional broadcast TV or in theaters. It premieres on websites, video platforms such as YouTube or Vimeo, or streaming services dedicated to web content. The series must be an original online creation, not a spin-off or secondary release from a TV show or movie. Episodes tend to be shorter and may use experimental animation styles. Production is often self-funded, crowdfunded, or supported by small studios. The key criteria are that the series debuts online and is primarily animated, distinguishing it from web comics, live-action web series, or traditional TV shows later uploaded online.

Which animated Internet series have gained popularity and acclaim?

RWBY

Created by Monty Oum and produced by Rooster Teeth, RWBY combines anime-style action with fantasy storytelling. It has a dedicated fanbase thanks to its unique combat choreography and expanding universe.

Hazbin Hotel

Vivienne "VivziePop" Medrano's Hazbin Hotel features mature themes, vibrant characters, and musical elements. It blends dark comedy with a richly detailed, hand-drawn animation style.

Bee and PuppyCat

Created by Natasha Allegri, this series mixes magical girl and slice-of-life genres with quirky humor and a pastel art style. It started as a Kickstarter-funded project and grew its audience online.

Bravest Warriors

Created by Pendleton Ward, the creator of Adventure Time, this sci-fi comedy series includes colorful characters and witty writing. It was an early success on the Cartoon Hangover YouTube channel.

Salad Fingers

David Firth's surreal and eerie series stands out for its unsettling atmosphere and minimalist animation, pushing boundaries in online animation.

The Midnight Gospel

Developed from Pendleton Ward's web-based work, this series was later picked up by Netflix. It combines philosophical storytelling with experimental animation.

Camp Camp

Another Rooster Teeth production, Camp Camp uses sharp humor and character-driven stories set in a summer camp. It appeals to fans of irreverent comedy and expressive animation.

These series have earned praise for their storytelling, animation quality, and ability to engage audiences independently of traditional TV channels.

Characters from an animated internet series performing a choreographed fight in a fantasy environment.

Each series brings something distinctive compared to traditional animation.

RWBY stands out for its 3D animation paired with anime influences, delivering dynamic fight scenes rarely seen online. Monty Oum’s choreography and world-building give the series depth.

Hazbin Hotel is notable for its adult themes and musical numbers, with a polished hand-drawn style and a strong creative voice from its creator.

Bee and PuppyCat combines whimsical storytelling with charming visuals and clever humor, feeling both nostalgic and fresh. Its crowdfunding origin shows strong community support.

Bravest Warriors offers Pendleton Ward’s quirky humor in a sci-fi setting, mixing episodic adventures with character development.

Salad Fingers challenges viewers with a minimalist, unsettling style that explores dark psychological themes.

The Midnight Gospel merges philosophical podcast interviews with vivid, surreal animation, creating a unique, reflective experience.

Camp Camp features sharp comedy and colorful character designs, attracting viewers who enjoy humor with an edge.

Together, these series demonstrate the creative freedom online animation allows in style, subject, and storytelling.

Where can I watch these animated Internet series?

Here are official places to watch each series:

  • RWBY: Rooster Teeth’s website and YouTube channel; some episodes are free, others require a subscription.
  • Hazbin Hotel: VivziePop’s official YouTube channel.
  • Bee and PuppyCat: YouTube and VRV; the first season was crowdfunded and is available for streaming.
  • Bravest Warriors: Cartoon Hangover YouTube channel.
  • Salad Fingers: David Firth’s website and YouTube channel.
  • The Midnight Gospel: Netflix exclusively.
  • Camp Camp: Rooster Teeth’s website and YouTube channel.

Watching through official channels supports the creators. Many episodes are free, but some content may require subscriptions or purchases for full access.

How can I discover new and upcoming animated Internet series?

To find new animated Internet series, try these methods:

  1. Follow animation-focused YouTube channels and networks like Cartoon Hangover or Channel Frederator, which regularly feature new web series.
  2. Explore crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon, where animators often launch projects and build communities.
  3. Join animation forums and social media groups focused on web animation, such as subreddits like r/webtoons or animation Discord servers.
  4. Watch animation festivals and online showcases that highlight independent creators, sometimes available on Vimeo or festival websites.
  5. Check sites like Newgrounds or itch.io, which host many experimental and indie animated projects.

Using these approaches helps you stay updated on emerging creators and find series that fit your interests.

Conclusion

Animated Internet series offer a wide range of inventive storytelling and diverse artistic styles not often found on traditional TV. Start by watching the established titles listed here, then use the suggested strategies to discover new creators and series. This will keep your viewing fresh and support the growing community of online animators producing original, engaging content.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are animated Internet series different from traditional TV animations?

Animated Internet series typically debut online and often have shorter episodes, smaller budgets, and more creative freedom than traditional TV animations. They can explore niche themes and experimental styles without network restrictions.

Are episodes of animated Internet series usually free to watch?

Many animated Internet series provide free episodes on platforms like YouTube, but some require subscriptions, purchases, or crowdfunding support to access all content.

What is the typical length of episodes in animated Internet series?

Episode lengths vary but are often shorter than traditional TV episodes, commonly ranging from 3 to 15 minutes to suit online viewing habits.

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