It’s official: “The Wheel of Time” has stopped turning. Prime Video recently announced its decision to cancel the hit fantasy drama series, making the critically acclaimed third season its de facto series finale. While this means fans won’t see a satisfying conclusion to the saga of Rosamund Pike’s Moiraine and the prophecy of the Dragon Reborn, there are other high fantasy series that can fill the void.
For viewers who can’t get enough of intricate world-building and fantastical spectacles, we’ve compiled a list of top fantasy shows that are either ongoing or have concluded without leaving fans hanging. Here are the best alternatives to “The Wheel of Time” that you can stream right now.
The Witcher: A Gritty Fantasy Adventure
Netflix’s adaptation of “The Witcher” plunges viewers into a gritty, monster-filled fantasy world where magic is real and danger lurks around every corner. Based on the beloved novels by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski and CD Projekt Red’s video game series, it follows Geralt of Rivia, a no-nonsense, mutated monster-hunter-for-hire, now portrayed by Liam Hemsworth.
Geralt’s journey is complicated by fate, which leads him to a young princess with mysterious powers. The series is known for its dense plot and relentless pace, offering a thrilling watch that is bound to hook fans of “The Wheel of Time.”
“The Witcher” has captivated audiences with its sheer spectacle and complex storytelling, making it a must-watch for fantasy enthusiasts.
His Dark Materials: A Blend of Science and Fantasy
Philip Pullman’s beloved trilogy comes alive in this three-season television adaptation on Max. Set in a parallel world ruled by a powerful religious authority known as the Magisterium, it follows the adventures of Lyra Silvertongue, portrayed by Dafne Keen.
Lyra’s quest to find her missing friend leads her across multiple worlds, revealing secrets of her family’s heritage and the complex interplay of science, religion, and magic. “His Dark Materials” stands out for its ability to blend the familiar with the fantastical, creating a rich narrative that is both an epic adventure and a layered exploration of deeper themes.
With its intricate storytelling and compelling characters, “His Dark Materials” offers a narrative that is both an epic adventure and a profound exploration of human themes.
A Discovery of Witches: Magic and Mystery
Based on Deborah Harkness’ “All Souls” trilogy, “A Discovery of Witches” is a criminally underrated entry in the high fantasy genre. Starring Teresa Palmer as Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, the series delves into a world where witches, vampires, and daemons vie for control of an enchanted manuscript.
Diana’s alliance with vampire biochemist Matthew Clairmont, played by Matthew Goode, adds a simmering love story to the mix. The series is a spellbinding journey packed with unforgettable characters and epic battles, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of “The Wheel of Time.”
“A Discovery of Witches” captivates with its blend of romance, mystery, and high-stakes fantasy, offering a rich experience for viewers.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power
Despite its polarizing reception, “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” on Prime Video is a visually stunning return to Tolkien’s world. Set thousands of years before the iconic movies and novels, it explores the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron and the forging of the iconic rings.
Amazon’s investment in bringing this era of Middle-earth to life is evident in the series’ scale and detail. While it serves as a strong standalone story, it also offers an accessible introduction to the rich lore of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.”
With its grand scale and intricate world-building, “The Rings of Power” stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Tolkien’s universe.
The Legend of Vox Machina: Animated Fantasy Adventure
While Prime Video opted not to renew “The Wheel of Time,” it continues to support its animated fantasy series “The Legend of Vox Machina.” Based on the popular Critical Role web series, it follows a group of adventurers on epic quests filled with humor and heart.
The series blends high-stakes action with sharp humor, making it as emotionally resonant as it is entertaining. With an impressive 100% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, “The Legend of Vox Machina” is a must-watch for fans of Dungeons & Dragons-style adventures.
“The Legend of Vox Machina” combines humor, heart, and high-stakes action, creating an animated series that resonates with both critics and fans.
As “The Wheel of Time” concludes its journey, these series offer rich narratives and captivating worlds for fans to explore. Whether you’re drawn to gritty adventures, intricate world-building, or epic battles, these shows promise to satisfy your fantasy cravings.
