Discover the most iconic and immersive settings from science fiction series that have redefined television. From dystopian and post-apocalyptic futures to vast space operas and alternate realities, these worlds transport us to the unknown. Explore the environments that define genres and invite reflection on technology, society, and the universe. This list celebrates the creativity of production designers and screenwriters who have given us unforgettable landscapes.
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El Nido (The Mandalorian)
180 Global Votes
El Nido provides a visually striking and unique setting within 'The Mandalorian' universe, combining vast deserts with bodies of water and serving as a crucial refuge for the Mandalorians. Its design significantly contributes to the series' atmosphere, offering a memorable backdrop for the evolving relationship between Din Djarin and Grogu.
This setting stands out for its innovative concept and limitless capacity for transformation, being a realm where human imagination and psyche manifest physically. Its visual design is extraordinary, offering a unique representation of the dreams and nightmares that inhabit it, making it a deeply original and captivating science fiction and fantasy universe.
The setting of Babylon 5 is a landmark in televised science fiction due to its innovative design and central role in the narrative. The station is not merely a backdrop but a character in itself, a melting pot of alien cultures and an epicenter of interstellar diplomacy and conflict.
The Serenity is an iconic setting that defines the aesthetic and spirit of the Firefly series, functioning as a character rather than just a vehicle. Its unique Firefly-class design, combining transport functionality with an improvised home, creates a distinctive and memorable environment for sci-fi adventures. The ship embodies the freedom and struggle for survival of its crew, becoming a central narrative element and a symbol of the series.
Home for Ricks and Mortys from across all dimensions
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The Citadel is an exceptional science fiction setting due to its concept of a metropolis inhabited by infinite versions of the same characters, allowing for the exploration of identity and inequality through a multiversal lens. Its design and the complex social and political dynamics it harbors make it a vibrant and crucial backdrop for many of the series' most profound storylines.
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6
Westworld
0 Global Votes
Intelligent and thought-provoking
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The setting of Westworld is a Wild West-themed amusement park populated by androids, offering total immersion in a world of fantasy and advanced technology. Its intricate design and the interaction between humans and hosts create a complex backdrop for exploring artificial consciousness and morality.
The Earth setting in 'The 100' is central to the narrative, presenting a post-apocalyptic world that is both beautiful and brutally dangerous. Its evolution, from a supposedly uninhabitable planet to a battleground for survival and ultimately an abandoned place, offers a rich exploration of human resilience and the consequences of environmental destruction.
The Mirror Universe offers a fascinating and dark setting that inverts the morality and principles of the known Star Trek universe. Its portrayal in Star Trek: Discovery delves into the complexities of this parallel universe, showcasing twisted versions of beloved characters and exploring the implications of a xenophobic and oppressive Terran Empire.
Conveys a sense of community, commerce, and political tension
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Deep Space Nine is an iconic setting that transcends its function as a space station, becoming a vibrant hub for intergalactic trade, diplomacy, and conflict. Its design and central role in exploring complex themes establish it as a foundational environment in televised science fiction. The station is a character in itself, a meeting point for diverse cultures and a catalyst for countless stories.
Skaro is an iconic setting that defines the atmosphere of Doctor Who, being the origin of the Daleks and the backdrop for the devastating Thousand Year War. Its post-apocalyptic design and history of conflict make it a memorable and fundamental location in television science fiction.
This ranking evaluates the most impactful and memorable settings from science fiction series, based on their originality, depth, and how they contribute to the overall narrative of the series. We consider worlds like the Upside Down from Stranger Things or the Citadel of Ricks from Rick and Morty.
Users can participate by voting for their favorite settings or by suggesting new settings they deem relevant. Community interaction is key to reflecting the popularity and cultural impact of these worlds.
A setting connected to multiple dimensions, such as the Upside Down or the Citadel of Ricks, implies that its existence extends or interacts with other realities, adding complexity and narrative possibilities. This can include alternate dimensions or coexistence across multiple realities.
The results reflect the community's appreciation for the creativity and importance of each setting in its respective series. A higher position indicates greater resonance with the audience and significant impact on televised science fiction.
How we built this ranking and what to consider when choosing
This ranking of the best science fiction series settings is developed from a combination of their narrative relevance, the originality of their concept, and our community's interaction. We aim to highlight those worlds that have left an indelible mark on the genre.
Narrative relevance: We consider how the setting directly influences the plot and character development, such as the impact of the Upside Down on Hawkins.
Originality and concept: We value the uniqueness of the world's design and the science fiction ideas it presents, such as the Citadel of Ricks, which houses variants of Rick and Morty from infinite realities.
Cultural impact: The setting's ability to capture public imagination and generate discussion, as well as its presence in popular culture.
Community voting: The votes and suggestions from our users are an essential component in determining which settings resonate most with the audience.
The setting must be a central and distinctive element of a science fiction series, not just a generic backdrop.
It must present unique characteristics or innovative concepts that differentiate it from other fictional worlds.
The complexity and detail of the world, including its ecology, physics, or society (if applicable), are important factors.
Its existence must have a significant impact on the plot and character development within the series.