The 50 Best Mystery Series to Keep You Hooked and Guessing

Are you looking for the best mystery series? In the shadowy labyrinth of literature, mystery series has always held a captivating allure. They keep us on the edge of our seats, gripping us tightly with their surprising twists, cunning detectives, obscure clues, and the delicious promise of a puzzle to unravel.

The genre is a bottomless trove of suspense and intellectual stimulation, from cerebral whodunits to spine-tingling thrillers. It’s a world where the cunning outsmarts the powerful, the last page reveals what the first one concealed, and justice, though often blindfolded, isn’t as blind as you might think.

In the vast universe of mystery novels, it’s easy to get lost. Each alley is filled with countless stories; each door opens to a world more intriguing than the one before. But fear not, dear reader, because we’re here to light the way. We’ve explored the mysterious world of crime, murder, and deduction to curate a list of the Top 50 Best Mystery Series.

From classics that defined the genre to contemporary masterpieces, from forgotten gems to international sensations, this list is designed to guide both newcomers and seasoned mystery aficionados alike.

So pull up your armchair, put on your reading glasses, and prepare to delve into the minds of devious criminals, eccentric detectives, and the tortured souls caught in between. The game is afoot, and a world of intrigue, suspense, and excitement awaits in exploring the 50 best mystery series. Are you ready to step into the shadows and begin the investigation?

Quick Information About 50 Best Mystery Series

50 Best Mystery Shows Of All Time Ranked

Mystery shows are a complex tapestry woven with intriguing characters, mind-bending plots, and shocking revelations that keep viewers on tenterhooks. It’s a realm where truth hides in plain sight, and the line between the innocent and the guilty blurs. Through chilling narratives and convoluted puzzles, these shows engage our minds, ignite our curiosity, and keep us coming back for more, episode after riveting episode.

Dive into the depths of the unknown with us as we navigate this fascinating landscape, unveiling the 50 Best Mystery Shows of All Time, Ranked. From the shadowy alleyways of film noir to the sleek modernity of cyber-thrillers, from timeless classics that laid the groundwork for the genre to contemporary masterpieces redefining the boundaries of storytelling – this list captures the broad spectrum of mystery television.

Here is a list of the top 50 best mystery series, along with a brief description of each series:

1. “Sherlock”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 9.1/10

This modern-day adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective stories follows the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion, Dr. John Watson, solving complex and intriguing mysteries in contemporary London.

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2.”True Detective”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
• IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

Each season of this anthology series features a self-contained story, exploring dark and intricate mysteries that span multiple timelines. With stellar performances and atmospheric storytelling, it delves into the psychological depths of the characters and the crimes they investigate.

3.”Fargo”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film, each season of “Fargo” weaves together interconnected stories of crime, deception, and quirky characters in a small Midwestern town. The series combines dark humor with tense and unpredictable mysteries.

4.”The X-Files” 

• Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi 
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully investigate unsolved cases involving paranormal phenomena, aliens, and government conspiracies. This iconic series blends science fiction, horror, and mystery, captivating audiences with compelling storylines and memorable characters.

5.”Mindhunter”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

Set in the late 1970s, this series follows two FBI agents who delve into the minds of notorious serial killers in an attempt to understand their motivations and behavior. It offers a chilling exploration of criminal psychology and the early days of criminal profiling.

6.”The Killing”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery – 
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

A gripping crime drama that focuses on investigating a single murder case over multiple seasons. As detectives uncover layers of secrets and corruption, the series delves into the psychological toll the case takes on the investigators and the impact on the community.

7.”Broadchurch”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

This British series follows two detectives as they investigate the murder of a young boy in a small coastal town. With its robust character development and intense exploration of grief and secrets, “Broadchurch” keeps viewers guessing until the end.

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8.”Breaking Bad” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 9.4/10

While primarily known as a drama, “Breaking Bad” incorporates elements of mystery as it chronicles the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. The series is filled with suspenseful twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

9.”Dexter”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery  
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

Dexter Morgan, a forensic blood spatter analyst, leads a double life as a serial killer who targets other killers. This psychological thriller blends dark humor and suspense, taking viewers on a thrilling and morally complex journey.

10. “The Blacklist” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.0/10

Raymond “Red” Reddington, a former government agent, voluntarily surrenders to the FBI and offers to help them track down and apprehend criminals on his “blacklist.” This series combines mystery, espionage, and procedural elements, with intriguing plot twists and a charismatic lead character.

11.”Hannibal”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Horror 
• IMDb Rating: 8.5/10

Based on Thomas Harris’s novels, this psychological horror series explores the early relationship between FBI profiler Will Graham and the notorious cannibalistic psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter. With its atmospheric visuals and complex character dynamics, “Hannibal” delves into the depths of the human psyche.

12.”Twin Peaks”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.8/10

Created by David Lynch, “Twin Peaks” follows FBI Agent Dale Cooper as he investigates the murder of a young woman in a small town filled with eccentric characters. Known for its surreal storytelling and unique blend of mystery and supernatural elements, the series has garnered a cult following.

13.”The Wire”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 9.3/10

Although primarily categorized as a crime drama, “The Wire” delves into the intricacies of the criminal justice system, exploring the interconnectedness of law enforcement, the drug trade, and politics in Baltimore. Its complex narratives and realistic portrayal of urban life make it a standout series.

14.”Better Call Saul”

• Genre: Crime, Drama 
• IMDb Rating: 8.7/10

A prequel to “Breaking Bad,” this series focuses on transforming Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer, into the morally ambiguous attorney Saul Goodman. With its intricate storytelling and character-driven plot, “Better Call Saul” offers a fascinating exploration of the legal world.

15.”Stranger Things” 

• Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Horror 
• IMDb Rating: 8.7/10

While primarily a supernatural thriller, “Stranger Things” incorporates mystery elements as kids in a small town encounter strange occurrences, government conspiracies, and otherworldly creatures. Drawing inspiration from 1980s pop culture, it captivates audiences with its nostalgic charm and suspenseful plotlines.

16.”Banshee”

• Genre: Action, Crime, Drama 
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

After assuming the identity of a small-town sheriff, a former criminal seeks redemption while becoming embroiled in a web of crime and corruption. With its action-packed sequences and intricate character relationships, “Banshee” combines mystery, drama, and thrilling storytelling.

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17.”Midsomer Murders”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 7.7/10

Set in the picturesque English countryside, this long-running series follows Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby as he investigates murders in the seemingly tranquil county of Midsomer. With its classic whodunit format, each episode presents a new mystery to solve.

18.”Luther”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

A dedicated detective, John Luther, tackles complex and psychologically challenging cases in London. The series delves into Luther’s troubled personal life and the cat-and-mouse games he engages in with criminals, creating a tense and atmospheric experience.

19. “The Fall”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller  
• IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

This British-Irish series centers around a police investigation led by Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, who is pursuing a serial killer in Belfast. “The Fall” explores the psychological battle between Gibson and the killer while examining themes of misogyny and power dynamics.

20.”Line of Duty”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
• IMDb Rating: 8.7/10

Set in a fictional police anti-corruption unit, “Line of Duty” follows the investigations and internal affairs battles within the police force. The series is known for its intricate plots, unexpected twists, and exploration of institutional corruption.

21. “Ozark” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

When a financial planner gets entangled with a Mexican drug cartel, he is forced to relocate his family to the Ozarks to launder money and navigate dangerous criminal activities. “Ozark” combines gripping suspense with intricate character development and explores the consequences of choices made under extreme circumstances.

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22. “The Mentalist”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery  
• IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium, uses his keen observational skills to assist the California Bureau of Investigation solve complex crimes. With its charismatic lead character and clever mysteries, “The Mentalist” offers an entertaining blend of drama and detective work.

23. “Black Mirror”

• Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 8.8/10

While primarily a science fiction anthology, “Black Mirror” incorporates mystery and psychological thriller elements. Each standalone episode presents a different dystopian future or technological advancement, often exploring the dark side of human nature and the consequences of technological advancements.

24. “Peaky Blinders”

• Genre: Crime, Drama 
• IMDb Rating: 8.8/10

Set in post-World War I Birmingham, this British gangster drama follows the Shelby crime family as they rise to power and navigate the criminal underworld. With its gritty atmosphere, compelling characters, and intricate plotting, “Peaky Blinders” offers a captivating mix of crime and mystery.

25. “Narcos”

• Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama  
• IMDb Rating: 8.8/10

Based on real events, “Narcos” chronicles the rise and fall of the notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar and the efforts of law enforcement to bring him to justice. Mixing elements of crime, drama, and historical events, the series offers a gripping exploration of the drug trade and its consequences.

26. “The Americans” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

Set during the Cold War, this spy thriller follows two Soviet KGB officers who pose as an American couple while carrying out espionage activities in the United States. With its intricate storytelling and exploration of loyalty and identity, “The Americans” provides a suspenseful and thought-provoking viewing experience.

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27. “The Sinner” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery  
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

Each season of this anthology series focuses on a different ordinary person who commits a heinous crime seemingly without motive. As detectives unravel the truth, “The Sinner” explores the psychological factors and hidden traumas that lead to these shocking acts.

28. “Alias”

• Genre: Action, Drama, Mystery  
• IMDb Rating: 7.5/10

Sydney Bristow, a double agent for the CIA, navigates a world of espionage, international conspiracies, and personal betrayals. With its fast-paced action and intricate plot twists, “Alias” offers a thrilling mix of mystery, drama, and spy adventures.

29. “Killing Eve” 

• Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama  
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

An intelligence officer and a skilled assassin become obsessed with each other in a cat-and-mouse game across Europe. This stylish and darkly humorous series explores the complexities of their relationship while delving into international intrigue and murder.

30.”The Night Of”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 8.5/10

When a Pakistani-American college student is accused of murder, a down-on-his-luck lawyer takes on his case, unraveling a web of corruption and criminal justice system flaws. “The Night Of” offers a gripping exploration of the legal system and the complexities of guilt and innocence.

31. “True Blood” 

• Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10

Set in a world where vampires live among humans, “True Blood” follows the supernatural residents of the fictional town of Bon Temps, Louisiana. The series combines mystery, romance, and supernatural elements, depicting the conflicts and struggles between supernatural creatures and their human counterparts.

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32. “Orphan Black” 

• Genre: Action, Drama, Mystery  
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

After witnessing the suicide of a woman who looks exactly like her, Sarah Manning discovers she is part of a cloning experiment and becomes entangled in a conspiracy. This sci-fi thriller explores identity and genetic manipulation themes while keeping viewers engaged with its suspenseful storytelling.

33.”Veronica Mars” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Veronica Mars, a high school student with a knack for solving mysteries, becomes a private investigator in her small town, uncovering the truth behind crimes and corruption. Known for its witty dialogue and engaging storytelling, “Veronica Mars” offers a unique blend of teenage drama and mystery-solving.

34. “The Twilight Zone” 

• Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Horror  
• IMDb Rating: 9.0/10

This iconic anthology series, created by Rod Serling, presents standalone episodes that explore supernatural, science fiction, and psychological concepts. “The Twilight Zone” captivates audiences with its twist endings and thought-provoking narratives, often exploring the mysteries of the human mind.

35. “The Haunting of Hill House”

• Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

Inspired by Shirley Jackson’s novel, this chilling series follows the Crain family as they confront their haunted past and the mysteries surrounding the paranormal occurrences in their childhood home. With its atmospheric storytelling and family dynamics, “The Haunting of Hill House” offers a compelling blend of horror and mystery.

36. “Wallander” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

Based on the novels by Henning Mankell, “Wallander” follows the life of Kurt Wallander, a detective in the fictional Swedish town of Ystad. The series presents complex mysteries and explores Wallander’s struggles, offering a character-driven approach to the genre.

37. “Poirot” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

Adapted from Agatha Christie’s novels, “Poirot” features the renowned detective Hercule Poirot as he solves perplexing murder cases with his sharp intellect and attention to detail. With its period setting and intricate plots, the series remains faithful to Christie’s beloved character.

38.”Elementary” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

A modern-day adaptation of Sherlock Holmes, “Elementary” follows the brilliant detective and his partner Joan Watson as they solve crimes in New York City. With its unique twist on the classic characters and intriguing mysteries, the series provides a fresh take on Holmes and his deductive abilities.

39. “The Bridge” 

• Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller 
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

A Danish-Swedish co-production, “The Bridge” centers around two detectives—one Danish, one Swedish—as they collaborate to solve crimes on the border between their countries. With its complex characters and gripping storylines, the series delves into the tensions and secrets that arise in the cross-cultural investigation.

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40. “Death in Paradise”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10

When a British detective is assigned to a fictional Caribbean island, he must solve murders with a unique blend of cultural differences and island life. Combining lighthearted humor with engaging mysteries, “Death in Paradise” offers a delightful and sunny take on the genre.

41. “Daredevil” 

• Genre: Action, Crime, Drama 
• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10

Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer with enhanced senses, fights crime as the masked vigilante Daredevil in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City. “Daredevil” combines action, drama, and mystery to explore the city’s dark underbelly and the corruption lurking within.

42. “The Outsider” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Fantasy 
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10

This series follows a detective based on Stephen King’s novel as he investigates a baffling and seemingly impossible murder case, leading him into a supernatural realm. “The Outsider” combines elements of crime and horror, creating an eerie and suspenseful atmosphere.

43. “Mystery Road” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 7.5/10

Set in the Australian Outback, “Mystery Road” follows Detective Jay Swan as he investigates crimes in the remote and rugged landscapes of the region. With its stunning cinematography and culturally rich storytelling, the series delves into the complexities of Indigenous communities and their interactions with the broader society.

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44. “The Leftovers” 

• Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

After a global event called the Sudden Departure, which caused the disappearance of 2% of the world’s population, this series explores the lives of those left behind and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the event. “The Leftovers” delves into themes of grief, spirituality, and existential mysteries.

45. “The Missing”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

A gripping anthology series, “The Missing” explores the impact of a child’s disappearance on their parents, detectives, and the communities involved. Each season follows a different case, unraveling a complex web of secrets and culminating in surprising revelations.

46. “The Alienist” 

• Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 7.7/10

Set in 19th-century New York City, this psychological thriller follows a team of investigators pursuing a serial killer who targets young boys. “The Alienist” combines historical fiction, mystery, and psychological profiling to create a dark and atmospheric narrative.

47. “Dark”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.8/10

A German series that spans multiple timelines, “Dark” unravels a complex and interconnected story involving time travel, family secrets, and the unexplained disappearance of children in a small town. With its intricate plotting and mind-bending twists, the series keeps viewers guessing until the final moments.

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48. “Jessica Jones” 

• Genre: Action, Crime, Drama 
• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

Jessica Jones, a former superhero turned private investigator, uses her unique abilities to solve cases and confront her traumatic past. This Marvel series combines elements of noir detective stories with superhuman powers and complex character development.

49. “The Killing (Forbrydelsen)” 

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Set in Copenhagen, Denmark, “The Killing” follows Detective Sarah Lund as she investigates murder cases with political and personal implications. With its meticulous attention to detail and atmospheric storytelling, the series offers a gripping and immersive viewing experience.

50. “Ripper Street”

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• IMDb Rating: 8.0/10

Set in Victorian-era London in the aftermath of the Jack the Ripper killings, “Ripper Street” focuses on the detectives of H Division as they solve crimes in the gritty and impoverished East End. The series delves into the societal challenges of the time and offers a compelling mix of historical drama and mystery-solving.

Final Words

And there we have it; our journey through the nebulous realm of intrigue and suspense draws to a close. We’ve delved into the heart of darkness, unraveled fiendish plots, and followed trails of clues across fifty gripping mystery series. These tales have transported us worldwide and across time into the minds of the ingenious detectives, the malevolent villains, and the innocent bystanders entangled in their killer games. Each series is a masterful blend of tension, deduction, and narrative craftsmanship, a testament to the timeless allure of the mystery genre.

Remember, this list of the Top 50 Best Mystery Series is a portal to a universe teeming with countless other stories waiting to be discovered. The joy of reading mysteries doesn’t merely reside in reaching the final page and uncovering the secret. The thrill of the chase, the intellectual tussle, and the sudden revelations change everything we thought we knew.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Mystery Series

Check out some commonly asked questions here on the best mystery series.

What is a strange series?

Mystery is a type of fiction where the details of an event, usually a murder or other crime, are kept secret until the end of the story. Each suspect in a small group is usually given a good reason and an excellent chance to do the crime.

Who wrote the first mystery book?

Edgar Allan Poe made a new kind of story when he wrote “The Murders in the Rue Morgue.” riddle stories had been around for a long time, but Poe was the first to have a character who solved the riddle by looking at the facts of the case.

Why is mystery the best genre?

Mystery books are the right mix of a challenge and a sense of accomplishment. They are full of hints and false leads that keep us guessing until the end. And when we finally put everything together, we feel like we’ve done something unique.

How does scary mystery work?

Police procedurals, private detective stories, and “cozy” tales are mystery fiction. The story is about trying to figure out who did the crime, usually murder. There are gothic, paranormal, and non-supernatural stories in horror novels.

How popular is the subject of mysteries?

One of the most popular books today is still the mystery genre. Even though we no longer read classic pulp mags, writers continue to make mysteries that make readers of all ages scratch their heads.

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