Why Is This Sci-Fi Series Now Ranked the Absolute Best of All Time?

Every year ends with its own set of rituals, and if you’re a pop culture addict (or just enjoy arguing with friends), you know the drill: it’s ranking season. Best games, best films, best anime—naturally, best series. But this time, it’s a particular sci-fi series that’s rocketed straight to the top, stirring as much applause as debate. What crowned champion managed to win over both hearts and remote controls? And is the audience always right?

Filmstarts and the Crowning of a New Sci-Fi King

Let’s set the scene: Filmstarts, a German website specializing in cinema and TV, recently compiled its annual user-based ranking of the best science fiction series. Forget the critics for a moment—this is democracy in (sci-fi) action! The list has resurfaced in discussions, highlighting one title that not only seduces fans but also fires up debate. And just to be clear: it’s the viewing public who cast the final vote.

Which show managed to absolutely annihilate the competition? According to Filmstarts users, the answer is clear—the series in question scored a 4.494 out of 5, a figure that brushes up against perfection. The not-so-secret weapon? The might of the Star Wars legacy. You guessed it: we’re talking about the beloved series “The Mandalorian.”

The Mandalorian: Outpacing Legends

Engineered by Jon Favreau (yes, the mind behind Iron Man 1 and 2), “The Mandalorian” is available exclusively on Disney+. And it has not just entered the galaxy of greats—it’s overtaken them. This bounty hunter’s saga blazes ahead of historic series like “Doctor Who” and “Star Trek,” staking a claim as a true sci-fi reference point.

It’s not just nostalgia or franchise loyalty at play. This series, based on Star Wars lore, has been earning its place in audience’s hearts since its launch, and, as reflected in the top 10 on Filmstarts, it’s not the only recent show to capture viewers’ imaginations.

Consensus—or Not? Is The Mandalorian Really the Best?

But before you go carving a statue of Pedro Pascal in beskar alongside R2-D2, let’s pause. An audience-fueled top spot is one thing; unchallenged supremacy is another. While “The Mandalorian” gathers widespread praise, not everyone would call it the best sci-fi series ever—and the numbers across platforms show the debate is far from settled.

On Filmstarts, “The Mandalorian” sits firmly atop the throne, but look elsewhere and the competition heats up. Metacritic, for example, shows it with a critic average of 71/100 and a public score of 7.8/10—not too shabby. Yet, it’s the 2022 Star Wars entry “Andor” sneaking up with 84 (critics) and 8.3 (public). Rotten Tomatoes echoes this trend: “The Mandalorian” features an impressive 90% (press) and 78% (public), but “Andor,” the prequel to “Rogue One,” edges ahead yet again with 96% and 89% respectively.

• Filmstarts: “The Mandalorian” reigns supreme with 4.494/5 from users
• Metacritic: “Andor” tops with better scores (84 critics, 8.3 public) compared to “The Mandalorian”
• Rotten Tomatoes: “Andor” also leads (96% critics, 89% public) vs. “The Mandalorian”

So next time you’re at a sci-fi convention, and the argument gets heated, remember: one list’s “absolute best” is another’s close second—and the debate is half the fun!

Six Years Later: Still Blaster-Hot Popular

Regardless of rankings, one fact is clear: The Mandalorian’s popularity is Tatooine-hot even six years after its premiere. The Disney+ flagship series isn’t just resting on its laurels (or its jetpack). News alert for fans: “The Mandalorian & Grogu”—a film continuation—has been announced and is scheduled to hit cinemas on May 22, 2026. Mark your calendars (and maybe start practicing your best Baby Yoda impression).

Whether you’re team Mandalorian, team Andor, or stubbornly holding out for the next sci-fi phenomenon to claim the title, one thing’s for sure: science fiction series are alive, well, and launching debates star systems wide. Grab your popcorn (and maybe a helmet), because this story is far from over.