10) Spider-Man (1967-70)
It might not be one of the densest, more intelligent superhero cartoons out there, but the 1960s Spider-Man series is one of the most culturally-significant, so it earns its place on this list.
The series is chiefly known today for its cheap animation – and as the inspiration for a series of memes – yet it also helped shape the image of Spidey in the public eye and is instrumental for making him as popular as he is today. It was also much more faithful to the comics than probably any of the feature films starring the character. Given that, what does it matter that they couldn’t afford to draw Spidey’s suit properly?
And we can’t not mention that theme tune, the one – alongside the classic Batman tune – that all superhero themes are measured up to. Good luck getting it out of your head for the rest of the day…
9) Superman: The Animated Series (1996-2000)
Though it is sometimes overlooked in favour of its predecessor, Batman: The Animated Series and its sequel Justice League, Superman: The Animated Series is still a very fine show, and one of the strongest in the always reliable DC Animated Universe.
For one, the animation is gorgeous, inspired as it is by the 1940s Superman cartoons. It is also most probably the best exploration of the Superman mythos that we’ve yet seen on screen. Every one of Supes’ major foes gets a shot in the limelight – from Braniac to Mr. Mxyzptlk.
Likewise, the voice acting is on top form, too. Tim Daly and Dana Delaney are great as Supes (as well a Clark Kent who is actually competent for once) and Lois Lane, while Clancy Brown just is Lex Luthor.
