Not everyone wants to dive into sprawling fantasy epics filled with dragons, ancient prophecies, and impossible-to-pronounce kingdoms. But here’s the thing—fantasy isn’t always about swords and spells. Some shows weave just enough supernatural elements into relatable stories about love, loss, friendship, and identity. If you’re someone who usually says “fantasy isn’t my thing,” these series might change your mind. Here are 10 best fantasy shows for people who don’t like fantasy.
10 Best Fantasy Shows For People Who Don’t Like Fantasy
Stranger Things
Set in the small town of Hawkins during the 1980s, Stranger Things kicks off with the disappearance of a young boy and the arrival of a mysterious girl with telekinetic powers. What follows is a thrilling mix of secret government labs, parallel dimensions, and a group of kids who refuse to back down from danger.
What makes it irresistible—even if you’re not a fantasy fan—is the balance of nostalgia, heart, and mystery. At its core, it’s about friendship, bravery, and growing up. The fantasy elements serve as backdrop, while the real magic lies in the kids’ bond and the show’s cinematic tension.
Wednesday
This Addams Family spin-off follows Wednesday Addams as she joins Nevermore Academy, a boarding school for “outcasts.” Between her sharp wit, detective instincts, and psychic visions, Wednesday uncovers dark secrets hiding within the school walls.
It works for non-fantasy lovers because the show leans more into murder mystery and character-driven storytelling than heavy fantasy. The supernatural touches enhance the intrigue but never overshadow Wednesday’s sarcastic charm or the quirky gothic world she inhabits.
The Witcher
Following Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire, The Witcher serves up a mix of action, humor, and political drama. While there are sorcerers, monsters, and sprawling kingdoms, much of the show is built around Geralt’s dry wit, moral dilemmas, and reluctant heroism.
For skeptics, the appeal lies in its “monster-of-the-week” vibe and sharp character work. You don’t have to memorize endless lore—the focus is often on individual stories that feel like dark fairy tales. Plus, Henry Cavill’s performance as Geralt is magnetic enough to hook almost anyone.
Good Omens
When an angel and a demon team up to stop the apocalypse, chaos and comedy ensue. Based on Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s novel, Good Omens takes the end of the world and turns it into a witty, quirky, and surprisingly heartwarming tale.
Its charm lies in its humor and chemistry between Michael Sheen and David Tennant. Instead of overwhelming fantasy rules, you get clever banter, oddball characters, and a satirical take on good versus evil. It’s fantasy with a wink, making it accessible to anyone.
Outlander
Outlander begins with Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who mysteriously time-travels back to 18th-century Scotland. What starts as a fantastical premise quickly unfolds into a sweeping romance, filled with political intrigue, rebellion, and the complexities of living in the past.
Non-fantasy viewers will find the appeal in its human drama and historical backdrop. The fantasy element—time travel—is just the gateway into a story about love, sacrifice, and survival. For many, it feels more like historical drama with a magical twist.
American Gods
Based on Neil Gaiman’s modern classic, American Gods imagines a world where ancient deities live among us, battling for relevance in a society obsessed with technology and media. The story follows Shadow Moon as he’s drawn into this strange and symbolic war.
What makes it watchable for skeptics is its metaphorical edge. Rather than being about spells or sorcery, it’s a reflection on belief, culture, and modern life. The surreal visuals and layered themes make it feel like a stylish drama rather than a typical fantasy.
Locke & Key
After their father’s death, the Locke family moves into their ancestral home, only to discover magical keys that unlock extraordinary powers and doors. Mystery, family drama, and supernatural suspense all intertwine as the siblings try to protect the keys from dark forces.
The fantasy elements feel secondary to the themes of grief, family bonds, and resilience. It’s a show that uses magic as a storytelling device rather than the main attraction, making it a perfect choice for those who like grounded emotional stories with just a spark of the supernatural.
His Dark Materials
Set in a world where humans have animal companions called daemons, His Dark Materials follows young Lyra on a dangerous journey that spans across worlds. It tackles themes of truth, freedom, and the fight against authoritarian control.
What sets it apart is its depth. While there are fantastical creatures and parallel worlds, the story focuses on questions about morality, loyalty, and human connection. It’s both thought-provoking and thrilling, without drowning viewers in overwhelming fantasy tropes.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Buffy Summers, an ordinary teenager, discovers she’s destined to fight vampires and demons. Balancing school, friendships, and slaying, Buffy’s story is as much about growing up as it is about fighting the forces of darkness.
Non-fantasy lovers will appreciate its blend of humor, character development, and emotional depth. The supernatural acts as metaphor for real-life struggles—making it more relatable than you’d expect from a show about vampires.
Supernatural
For 15 seasons, brothers Sam and Dean Winchester traveled across America hunting ghosts, demons, and everything in between. At its core, though, Supernatural is about family, sacrifice, and the bond between two brothers who refuse to quit.
The fantasy here is dressed as road-trip adventure. Each episode often feels like a self-contained mystery or horror story, with long-running arcs layered in gradually. It’s approachable, funny, emotional, and often more about human connection than monsters.
