Nickelodeon spent decades turning weird ideas into huge hits. Shows like Rugrats and Hey Arnold! proved that kids' TV didn't have to be boring. They were messy, funny, and sometimes a little gross. That orange splat became a symbol for the best animation on TV. Creators like Stephen Hillenburg and Butch Hartman helped the network win plenty of Emmy Awards while making us laugh every Saturday morning. It's hard to decide which show is actually the best. We let the fans decide which Nicktoons really mattered. This list includes the most popular picks based on your votes. Icons like SpongeBob SquarePants and Avatar: The Last Airbender are on here because they changed what a cartoon could be. Whether it's the 2D animation style of the early days or the newest CGI projects, these series stay popular for a reason. There's way too much history at Nickelodeon to fit into a small list. This collection looks at 50 cartoons from the early nineties to the newest premieres on Paramount Plus. We have the classics everyone knows and some deeper cuts you might have forgotten. This is the ultimate guide to the history of the network. You can even vote on your favorites to help keep the ranking fresh.
Tap upor downto vote. Your vote is added to Ranker's counts.
Voting identifies your browser with an anonymous fingerprint, stored only as a salted hash, to count one per visitor. Privacy
Source: Ranker, ranked by its voters.
Most cartoons stay in bright fantasy worlds, but this one stays grounded in a big city boarding house. Arnold lives in Hillwood with his grandparents and a bunch of quirky neighbors. Helga Pataki hides her crush on him while Gerald keeps things cool. Jim Lang wrote a jazz soundtrack that makes the whole show feel smooth and different. The story finally wrapped up years later when Arnold found out what happened to his parents in a movie.
A yellow sponge lives in a pineapple at the bottom of the ocean and changed pop culture forever. Stephen Hillenburg used his background as a marine biologist to create the world of Bikini Bottom. SpongeBob hangs out with his best friend Patrick and his grumpy neighbor Squidward. Tom Kenny gives the character his famous laugh that has lasted for hundreds of episodes.
Mischievous magic was abound for an unlucky-in-everything young lad who found solace in his newfound fairy godparents. With their wacky spells and hilarious mishaps constantly turning reality upside down, this enchanting show kept viewers hooked as they laughed at (and occasionally empathized with) every fiasco brought to life by these well-intentioned yet bumbling magical beings.
Tommy Pickles and his friends turn a boring living room into a giant jungle or a desert. Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo imagined what babies think about when adults aren't looking. Chuckie is always scared, but he follows Tommy anyway because he trusts his friend. Mark Mothersbaugh from the band Devo wrote the catchy music that everyone recognizes. The show got so big that it earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Doug Funnie writes in his journal every day about his life in the town of Bluffington. Jim Jinkins created a character who deals with normal kid stuff like bullies and crushes. Doug spends time with his dog Porkchop and dreams about being a superhero named Quailman. It doesn't use crazy magic or aliens to be interesting. People remember it for being honest about what it's like to grow up.
Aang has to learn how to control water, earth, fire, and air to stop a massive war. Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko created a world that still feels special today. People love how Zuko and Katara change over time as the stakes get higher. It won a Peabody Award for its great storytelling and high production value. You can still find new stories in the comics or the sequel series about Korra.
Rocko is just a wallaby from Australia trying to pay his bills in a weird town called O-Town. Joe Murray made a show that kids liked for the slapstick and adults liked for the social commentary. Rocko hangs out with a gluttonous steer named Heffer and a nervous turtle named Filburt. It pushed the limits of what a kid's show could do in the nineties. A Netflix special brought the characters into the world of smartphones and modern problems.
Jimmy Neutron has a head full of ideas and a lab full of inventions that usually explode. This show started as a movie before becoming the first big 3D cartoon on the channel. Jimmy brings his robot dog Goddard and his goofy friends on trips to space. It focuses on how science can solve big problems if you're smart enough. Every episode shows off a new gadget that changes life in Retroville.
Danny Fenton accidentally turned into a half-ghost while messing around in his dad's lab. Now he has to fight ghosts in Amity Park while trying to pass his high school classes. Butch Hartman designed the characters to look like they came straight out of a comic book. Danny uses his powers to protect the town with help from his best friends Sam and Tucker. The theme song is still stuck in everyone's head.
A playful blue pup invited young viewers to crack open the case of the day with her trusty paw print clues. As an interactive educational show, it encouraged children to think critically, problem-solve, and unleash their imaginations in a fun and engaging manner that has made it an enduring favorite among parents and kids alike.
Imagine being stuck to your brother for your entire life when one of you is a cat and the other is a dog. This show features a pair of brothers who couldn't be more different if they tried. They live in a house shaped like a bone and a fish in the town of Nearburg. They have to deal with a gang of mean dogs and a tiny mouse neighbor who likes to cause trouble. It's full of silly physical comedy and weird situations that only happen in cartoons.
Growing up as a monster isn't easy when you're still learning how to scare people. Ickis and his friends Oblina and Krumm live in a trash dump and follow the orders of a teacher named the Gromble. The art is a little gross and weird, which makes it perfect for a show about creatures living in the sewers. They use all sorts of tricks to make people jump, like taking out their own eyeballs or growing really big. It's a cult classic for anyone who likes things a bit spooky.
Traveling the world in a giant van sounds great, especially if you can talk to animals. Eliza Thornberry keeps her secret power hidden from her family while they film nature documentaries. Tim Curry voices her dad Nigel, who is famous for his big nose and loud personality. The show takes place in jungles and deserts all over the globe. It even had a big movie where the characters met the babies from Rugrats.
If it has wheels or a board, the kids in Ocean Shores are probably riding it. Otto and Reggie Rocket lead their friends Twister and Sam through a life of extreme sports. They spend their summers surfing and their winters on snowboards while staying out of trouble. The show came out when things like the X-Games were getting huge. It's all about playing hard and looking out for your teammates.
Two beaver brothers move into a cool bachelor pad in the woods and bicker constantly. Daggett is the wild one, while Norbert is the smooth talker. Mitch Schauer filled their lives with weird monsters and parodies of old science fiction movies. The actors have great chemistry that makes the sibling rivalry feel real. It was a staple of the late nineties for anyone who liked fast humor.
You won't find many cartoons as gross or weird as this one about a mean dog and a dumb cat. John Kricfalusi used a detailed style that made every pimple and sweat drop look real. It parodied old TV shows and made a lot of people angry back in the day. Billy West voiced both characters at different points and gave them a lot of personality. It helped put the network on the map when it first launched.
Zim is an alien who thinks he's a conqueror, but he's actually pretty bad at his job. Jhonen Vasquez gave the show a dark look that stood out from everything else on TV. GIR is a little robot who mostly cares about tacos and cupcakes instead of helping Zim. Richard Steven Horvitz screams his lines with a lot of energy. Even though it didn't last long, it has a huge fan base that keeps the memory of the show alive.
Jenny Wakeman has the body of a super-weapon but the heart of a high schooler. Rob Renzetti used a style inspired by old posters from the 1920s to give the show a unique look. Jenny has to fight off alien invaders from the Cluster while she tries to fit in with the cool kids at school. People love how the town of Tremorton feels like a mix of the future and the past. It's a fun look at how hard it is to be a teenager even when you're made of metal.
Growing up in middle school is tough, and Ginger Foutley writes about every awkward moment in her diary. Emily Kapnek made a show where the characters actually age and change clothes. It deals with real issues like fitting in and keeping friends. You see Ginger navigate the social ladder while staying true to herself. It feels more like a drama than a typical comedy.
A young artist discovered an enchanted piece of chalk that transported him into a magical world where his drawings came to life. Filled with wacky adventures and colorful characters created by our protagonist's vivid imagination, this whimsical show entertained viewers with its infectious creativity.
New York City has a team of four giant turtles living in the sewers who happen to be masters of martial arts. This version of the show uses 3D animation to make the fights look fast and punchy. Leonardo leads his brothers against the Foot Clan and weird brain-aliens from another dimension. They spend their time training with Master Splinter and eating as much pizza as they can find. It stays true to the old comics while adding plenty of new jokes for a modern audience.
Middle school is scary enough without having to deal with the Rugrats crew. The babies from the original show got older and now they're dealing with lockers and school dances. Tommy still has his screwdriver, but now he's making films instead of breaking out of playpens. Angelica is still bossy, and Chuckie is still nervous about everything. It's a nice way to see how the characters we knew as kids turned out.
The world changed a lot since Aang was around, and now there are cars and tall buildings in Republic City. Korra is the new Avatar and she's a lot tougher and more stubborn than the last one. She has to deal with politics and spirits while her friends Mako and Bolin help her out. The action looks great and the story gets deeper as it goes along. It's a cool look at what happens when magic and technology start to meet.
Set on a floating island amidst torrential storms, this quirky series follows the antics of an eclectic postal crew as they band together to deliver mail across their peculiar world. With its vibrant animation and offbeat humor, this show has quickly become a fan favorite for both children and adults seeking an adventurous escape.
While the humans at the Central Park Zoo are sleeping, four penguins are running secret missions. Skipper leads his team to protect the zoo or just to get a snack. They have to deal with a lemur named King Julien who thinks he's in charge of everyone. The 3D animation makes the slapstick comedy look really smooth. It's a spin-off from the movies that gives the birds plenty of room to be weird.
Patrick Star finally got his own show, and he's hosting it right from his family's living room. It's even more chaotic than SpongeBob because Patrick's imagination is all over the place. His sister Squidina helps him run the cameras while his parents watch from the sidelines. The show uses different animation styles and fast jokes that never stop. It's a fun way to see a different side of Bikini Bottom's funniest neighbor.
Farm life took on a whole new meaning when anthropomorphic animals engaged in wild antics behind the backs of their unsuspecting human caretakers. This hilarious series pushed the boundaries of imagination while providing non-stop laughs through absurd situations brought about by its lovable barnyard cast.
Following the chaotic lives of eleven siblings living under one roof was no small feat in this animated sitcom that tackled family dynamics head-on. With each character boasting unique personality traits and quirks, viewers quickly latched onto the relatable chaos that ensued as they navigated sibling rivalries, friendships, and growing pains together.
Diminutive blue creatures with distinct personalities inhabited an idyllic village where they encountered various challenges ranging from everyday mishaps to sinister villains. Combining classic charm with modern twists, this reboot introduced new generations to the whimsy and magic that has captivated audiences for decades.
The world's most inept superheroes joined forces in this side-splittingly funny stop-motion spin-off. With their exaggerated antics and unrelenting failures, this motley crew of misfit crime fighters left audiences in stitches while proving that even the most unlikely heroes can save the day.
The halls of a high school for supernatural teenagers were haunted by stylish ghouls, witches, and werewolves in this animated spin-off of a popular toy franchise. Addressing themes of identity, acceptance, and friendship through the lens of its monstrous characters, this series became a hit among young fans seeking relatable role models with a spooky twist.
Ancient martial arts wisdom met modern humor in this action-comedy series featuring an oversized panda who defended his homeland alongside his fellow kung fu masters. Filled with heart-pounding battles, memorable catchphrases, and valuable life lessons, this show proved that anyone could become a hero with hard work and determination.
In the world of secret agents and high-tech gadgets was an unsuspecting dog detective who worked tirelessly to keep his city safe from nefarious villains. With its blend of slapstick comedy, thrilling chases, and lovable characters, this animated series delivered non-stop entertainment for its devoted fanbase.
Three wealthy feline brothers navigated life together, facing absurd situations and engaging in hilarious misadventures while attempting to fit into human society. This quirky cartoon offered viewers a delightful blend of slapstick comedy, eccentric characters, and heartwarming moments between its lovable furry siblings.
A group of fashionable teenage fairies balanced friendship, romance, and homework with their magical training at an otherworldly boarding school. Combining elements of fantasy with relatable coming-of-age themes, this enchanting show quickly became a favorite among young viewers drawn to its captivating storylines and strong female leads.
A dynamic duo of superhero fanatics donned their colorful costumes and embarked on wild adventures in their quirky town. With its off-the-wall humor, zany antics, and lovable protagonists, this animated series captured the hearts of fans who couldn't get enough of the pair's boundless enthusiasm for all things heroic.
In a city where ancient Mexican folklore intermingled with modern-day life, a young boy grappled with his destiny as both the son of a legendary hero and grandson of an infamous villain. Full of action-packed battles and supernatural intrigue, this groundbreaking show brought together elements from different cultures to create a unique viewing experience.
An overachieving Honeybee scout with an unbreakable spirit embarked on outrageous quests to earn every badge imaginable in this high-energy cartoon. Through her unwavering determination and hilariously exaggerated antics, our pint-sized protagonist taught young viewers valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of dreaming big.
A fearless construction crew embarked on thrilling excavations alongside their lovable canine companion in this action-packed show aimed at preschoolers. Focusing on teamwork, problem-solving skills, and learning through play, it quickly became a staple for young viewers looking for excitement mixed with essential life lessons.
An unlikely duo consisting of a spirited human boy and his talking snake best friend engaged in side-splitting shenanigans throughout their suburban world. Packed with absurd humor and heartwarming moments, this offbeat show celebrated the power of imagination and the importance of true friendship.
Tim Rex lives on a cluster of asteroids with his family and spends his days solving normal kid problems in the town of Rumbleton. Sam Dransfield directed this series about a yellow T-Rex who uses a rocket scooter to get around the neighborhood. Tim hangs out with his big brother Tommy and his little sister Tia while his triceratops best friend Kai tags along for the fun. The world is full of colorful slides and trampolines that connect different floating rocks in the sky. It gives young kids a friendly look at space while teaching them how to listen to others and find creative solutions.
Lily Pak is a gamer who likes making a mess, while her new half-brother Jack Wylde prefers to play it safe. They have to live together for the first time when Jack's adventurous mom sends him to Canyon Valley for the summer. Now the two kids have to figure out how to be a family while helping run a pet grooming business called Wylde Pak Groom & Board. Their parents and their grandmother, Halmoni, try to keep the house from falling apart during the chaos. The show uses a 2D style with shaky lines that makes everything look like a hand-drawn sketchbook. It stays focused on the small, funny moments of a blended Korean-American family.
Three roommates who happen to be a rock, a piece of paper, and a pair of scissors spend their days arguing over chores and going on weird adventures. Kyle Stegina and Josh Lehrman created a world where even a simple game can turn into a giant mess. Rock is a lovable guy voiced by Ron Funches, while Thomas Lennon plays the high-strung Paper. Carlos Alazraqui brings a lot of energy to Scissors, who always thinks he’s the coolest guy in the room. They live in a shared apartment and constantly find themselves in bizarre situations with their neighbors. The show uses a fast-paced animation style that fits the non-stop jokes and slapstick humor.
A familiar yet eccentric genius found himself transported to another planet, where he attempted to survive its bizarre inhabitants and save Earth in the process. This spin-off series offered fans a new perspective on a beloved character while keeping them entertained with its outlandish adventures and extraterrestrial antics.
Kai, Lola, Rammy, and Bobbi are four heroic deer who protect the animals of Central Forest and the people of Platinum City. They use "Planet Powers" like water, wood, sun, and earth to fix problems and save the day. A billionaire named Sir Steel often causes trouble with his weird inventions, so the squad has to jump into their high-tech vehicles to stop him. The 3D animation is bright and full of fast action that keeps things moving. Every episode focuses on how the team can use their different skills to help their neighbors.
Being in a pop band is hard when you constantly have to fight off giant monsters. G leads her girl group, HJ5, as they try to play music and defend Harajuku City at the same time. They spend their days practicing for big concerts and picking out new outfits to wear on stage. Every time they start a gig, a weird alien or a giant robot ruins the show. Gwen Stefani produced the series to show off the street fashion and music she likes.
Max is a ten-year-old girl living in the 14th century who is tired of being a traveling minstrel. She wants to be a knight, even though everyone tells her that girls can’t do that. When she gets to her uncle’s hometown of Byjovia, she finds out a mean king named Gastley took over the throne. Max puts together a group of friends called the Midknights to save her uncle and fix the kingdom. Blu del Barrio voices Max with a lot of heart while Gary Anthony Williams plays a wizard named Mumblin who has seen better days. The show has a very specific look that makes it feel like you’re watching a stop-motion movie with puppets.
Bossy Bear has enough energy to power a whole city and he wants to lead every activity. He lives in Pleasantburg with his best friend Turtle who is way more relaxed and careful. Bossy always has a big idea that usually leads to some kind of mess but Turtle is there to help him figure it out. Jayden Ham voices the loud bear while Jaba Keh plays the quiet turtle and Viva Lee plays Bossy's sister Bissy. It looks like a moving version of the books by David Horvath with simple shapes and bright colors. Every story demonstrates that being a good friend means knowing when to step back and listen.
A pair of best friends known as The BeatBuds invigorated young audiences everywhere with their infectious tunes that combined catchy melodies with valuable life lessons. In each musical adventure, they encouraged kids to sing along while fostering creativity and teaching important morals through playful storytelling.
