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Most influential science fiction universes in popular culture

Explore the science fiction universes that have left an indelible mark on global popular culture. Discover which franchises have shaped the collective imagination, inspiring technological innovations and narratives across films, series, books, and video games. We analyze the cultural impact of these iconic sagas, from their emblematic characters to their futuristic concepts. Delve into the creations that define the genre and continue to resonate in today's society.

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  1. 1

    The Expanse Universe

    340 Global Votes
    • Excels at building a believable hard sci-fi world

      (+4)

    The Expanse universe expands with the launch of the closed beta for the video game 'The Expanse: Osiris Reborn' in April 2026, promising an immersive experience that delves into its complex narrative and scientific realism.

  2. 2

    Mass Effect

    18 Global Votes
    • Set a new standard for science fiction storytelling

      (+4)

    Although no new main Mass Effect game is confirmed for 2026, its influence is lasting in science fiction game design, inspiring titles like 'The Expanse: Osiris Reborn' with its space RPG formula.

  3. 3

    Star Wars

    0 Global Votes
    • Fundamentally changed Hollywood film aesthetics and narratives

      (+4)

    Star Wars continues to be one of the most popular franchises with the greatest cultural impact globally. In 2026, the premiere of the film 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and the development of new video games keep its universe active and relevant.

  4. 4

    Black Mirror

    0 Global Votes
    • Rewrote the rules of science fiction

      (+4)

    Black Mirror has been renewed for an eighth season on Netflix in 2026, demonstrating its continued relevance and ability to spark cultural debate about technology and dystopia. Its influence is such that the phrase 'that's very Black Mirror' is in common use.

  5. 5

    Star Trek

    0 Global Votes
    • Raised the bar for science fiction quality and maturity

      (+4)

    Star Trek celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026 with a series of events and new content, including the series 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' and the animated series 'Star Trek: Scouts', expanding its multimedia presence and legacy.

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  7. 6

    Warhammer 40,000

    0 Global Votes
    • Gave rise to the grimdark sub-genre

      (+4)

    2026 is shaping up to be a very important year for Warhammer 40,000, with the launch of a new edition of the miniatures game, 'Warhammer 40,000: Armageddon', and new video games that keep the dark and gothic interstellar war alive.

  8. 7

    Dune

    0 Global Votes
    • Revolutionized science fiction

      (+4)

    Following the success of recent film adaptations, the movie 'Dune: Messiah (aka Dune 3)' is expected in 2026, keeping Frank Herbert's universe at the center of cultural and cinematographic conversation.

  9. 8

    Doctor Who

    0 Global Votes
    • Pushed boundaries of practical effects

      (+4)

    Doctor Who remains a global cultural phenomenon, with a Christmas special confirmed for 2026 and an animated series for CBeebies in pre-production. This ensures its continued presence and evolution in popular culture.

  10. 9

    Silo

    0 Global Votes
    • Incredible space opera inspiration

      (+4)

    The Apple TV+ television series based on the Silo novels has been a resounding success, and the third season is expected in 2026, maintaining interest in this dystopian universe and its subterranean mysteries.

  11. 10

    Alien

    0 Global Votes
    • Considered a classic

      (+4)

    The Alien franchise remains alive with the upcoming premiere of the film 'Alien: Romulus', maintaining its iconic status in the horror and science fiction genre and ensuring its continued influence in popular culture.

  12. 11

    Terminator

    0 Global Votes
    • Part of the influential "tech noir" sub-genre

      (+4)

    Despite its ups and downs, the Terminator franchise remains a turning point in science fiction, with a video game 'Terminator Survivors' in development for 2026 that ensures its continuity and relevance.

  13. 12

    Halo Universe

    0 Global Votes
    • Concept reminiscent of Ringworld megastructure

      (+1)

    The launch of 'Halo Campaign Evolved' is expected in 2026, a remake of the original game with remastered graphics and expanded story content, revitalizing interest in this iconic universe of military science fiction video games.