Top Science Fiction
Series
for Fans of The Three-Body Problem
Hey there, sci-fi lovers! If you’ve just finished The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin and are itching for more stories that blend mind-bending science, epic stakes, and philosophical depth, you’re in for a treat. This groundbreaking novel, the first in the Remembrance of Earth’s Past trilogy, has captivated readers with its intricate plot, hard science, and big questions about humanity’s place in the cosmos. But once you’ve devoured the trilogy, what’s next?
In this blog post, we’ll explore five top science fiction series that fans of The Three-Body Problem will likely adore, plus a couple of honorable mentions for good measure. These series share the same ambitious scope, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes that made Liu’s work so unforgettable. Whether you’re into interstellar politics, alien encounters, or existential mysteries, there’s something here for you. Let’s dive in!
What Makes The Three-Body Problem So Special?
Before we get to the recommendations, let’s unpack why The Three-Body Problem stands out. Set against the backdrop of China’s Cultural Revolution, the story follows humanity’s first contact with an alien civilization, the Trisolarans, whose world faces collapse due to its chaotic three-sun system. The novel weaves together:
- Hard Science Fiction: Liu grounds the story in real physics, like the three-body problem in orbital mechanics, making the science both accessible and awe-inspiring.
- Epic Scale: The narrative spans decades, even centuries, tackling humanity’s collective response to an existential threat.
- Philosophical Depth: It’s not just about aliens—it’s about humanity’s morality, survival, and the ethics of civilization.
- Complex Plotting: Multiple timelines, perspectives, and twists keep readers guessing.
With these elements in mind, we’ve selected series that match this blend of intellectual rigor, grand storytelling, and emotional resonance. Here’s our list of the top science fiction series for fans of The Three-Body Problem.
Top Science Fiction Series
1. Foundation Series by Isaac Asimov
Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series is a cornerstone of science fiction, first published in the 1940s and 1950s. It follows Hari Seldon, a mathematician who develops “psychohistory,” a science that predicts the future of large populations using mathematics. As the Galactic Empire crumbles, Seldon establishes the Foundation to preserve knowledge and shorten the coming dark age from 30,000 years to just 1,000.
Why it’s similar: Like The Three-Body Problem, Foundation operates on a massive scale, exploring the rise and fall of civilizations. Both series grapple with how humanity navigates existential crises and preserves knowledge. While Liu focuses on physics, Asimov dives into social sciences, but the intellectual depth and long-term perspective are strikingly similar.
Where to start: Begin with Foundation, the first book, followed by Foundation and Empire and Second Foundation. Later novels expand the universe further.
Why you’ll love it: Asimov’s ideas about predicting societal trends feel eerily relevant today, especially with advances in data analytics. If you enjoyed pondering humanity’s future in The Three-Body Problem, Foundation will keep you thinking. Plus, it’s been adapted into a visually stunning series on Apple TV+.
Fun fact: Asimov’s work inspired countless sci-fi authors, including Liu Cixin, making Foundation a must-read for fans.
2. Dune Series by Frank Herbert
Frank Herbert’s Dune is often called the greatest science fiction novel ever written, and its series is a perfect match for The Three-Body Problem fans. Set in a distant future, Dune follows Paul Atreides, whose family takes control of Arrakis, a desert planet that’s the only source of the spice melange—a substance vital for space travel and longevity. The series blends politics, ecology, and religion into an epic saga.
Why it’s similar: Both Dune and The Three-Body Problem feature intricate world-building, complex political intrigue, and philosophical questions about power and destiny. While Dune leans into feudal systems and messianic themes, its cosmic scope and exploration of humanity’s fate echo Liu’s work.
Where to start: Start with Dune, then continue with Dune Messiah and Children of Dune.
Why you’ll love it: Dune’s influence on pop culture is massive, from Star Wars to Game of Thrones. Its recent film adaptations by Denis Villeneuve have brought new fans to the series, and its rich, immersive world will captivate anyone who loved Liu’s detailed settings.
3. Hyperion Cantos by Dan Simmons
Dan Simmons’ Hyperion Cantos is a literary sci-fi epic that begins with Hyperion, structured like Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. A group of pilgrims travels to the Time Tombs on the planet Hyperion, each sharing their story, which reveals a larger mystery involving the Shrike—a time-traveling entity—and the TechnoCore, a collective of AIs.
Why it’s similar: Like The Three-Body Problem, Hyperion Cantos uses multiple perspectives and timelines to build a complex narrative. It explores philosophical questions about humanity, AI, and consciousness, blending high-concept sci-fi with deep character studies, much like Liu’s work.
Where to start: Begin with Hyperion, followed by The Fall of Hyperion. The series continues with Endymion and The Rise of Endymion.
Why you’ll love it: If you enjoyed the layered storytelling and intellectual challenges of The Three-Body Problem, Hyperion Cantos will feel like a natural fit. Its literary style and rich world-building make it a standout.
4. The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey
The Expanse, written by James S.A. Corey (the pen name for Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck), is a modern sci-fi masterpiece spanning nine novels. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, it follows a diverse cast navigating political tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt, alongside the discovery of an alien artifact.
Why it’s similar: The Expanse shares The Three-Body Problem’s hard science foundation, intricate politics, and focus on first contact. Both series build suspense through layered mysteries and feature well-developed characters facing cosmic stakes.
Where to start: Start with Leviathan Wakes, and continue through to Leviathan Falls. The TV adaptation on Amazon Prime is also a hit, perfect for fans of the 3 Body Problem Netflix series.
Why you’ll love it: The series’ realistic science and gripping character arcs make it a page-turner, and its exploration of humanity’s response to alien technology will resonate with Liu fans.
5. Silo Series by Hugh Howey
Hugh Howey’s Silo series, originally self-published, is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity lives in underground silos, forbidden from going outside due to a toxic environment. The story unravels the truth behind the silos’ existence and humanity’s survival.
Why it’s similar: While the setting differs, Silo mirrors The Three-Body Problem’s sense of mystery and gradual revelation of hidden truths. Both explore how societies cope with limited knowledge and the consequences of secrecy.
Where to start: Begin with Wool, a compilation of the first novellas, followed by Shift and Dust. The Apple TV+ series brings the story to life.
Why you’ll love it: The emotional depth and claustrophobic tension make Silo a compelling read for fans of Liu’s character-driven storytelling.
Honorable Mentions
- The Culture Series by Iain M. Banks: This series explores a utopian, AI-run civilization with wit and philosophical depth. It’s lighter in tone but shares The Three-Body Problem’s interest in advanced technology and ethics.
- The Xeelee Sequence by Stephen Baxter: Spanning the universe’s entire history, this series offers mind-bending concepts and a cosmic scale that rivals Liu’s work.
Book Series Recommendations
Book series were identified through sources like Penguin Random House, which lists works with similar themes of world-building and hard sci-fi. The following table summarizes the recommended book series, their starting points, and key themes:
| Series Name | Starting Book | Key Themes | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Expanse | Leviathan Wakes | Political intrigue, alien encounters, hard sci-fi | Penguin Random House – Books Like The Three-Body Problem |
| Dune | Dune | Ecology, politics, religion, human destiny | Penguin Random House – Books Like The Three-Body Problem |
| Foundation | Foundation | Civilization collapse, scientific prediction | Mezha.Media – 12 Sci-Fi Series for Fans of 3 Body Problem |
| The Wayfarers | The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet | Hope, found family, interstellar diplomacy | Penguin Random House – Books Like The Three-Body Problem |
| Green Bone Saga | Jade City | Power, family loyalty, societal change | Penguin Random House – Books Like The Three-Body Problem |
These series were selected for their alignment with The Three-Body Problem‘s focus on large-scale narratives and scientific concepts. For instance, The Expanse mirrors the political and alien-contact themes, while Foundation offers a similar scale of civilization-level storytelling.
TV Series Recommendations
TV series recommendations were derived from multiple sources, including Mezha.Media, which lists 12 sci-fi series based on books, and Tom’s Guide, which highlights shows like 3 Body Problem. The following table details the TV series, their platforms, and why they fit for fans:
| Series Name | Platform | Based On | Why It Fits | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Apple TV+ | Isaac Asimov’s novels | Hard sci-fi, philosophical depth, large scale | Mezha.Media – 12 Sci-Fi Series for Fans of 3 Body Problem |
| The Expanse | Amazon Prime | James S.A. Corey’s novels | Realistic physics, political intrigue, first contact | Digital Trends – Sci-Fi Shows Like 3 Body Problem |
| Devs | Hulu | Original by Alex Garland | Quantum computing, free will, intellectual depth | Tom’s Guide – Shows Like 3 Body Problem |
| Dark | Netflix | Original German series | Time travel, complex narratives, scientific concepts | August Man – TV Shows Like 3 Body Problem |
| Childhood’s End | Syfy | Arthur C. Clarke’s novel | First contact, human evolution, philosophical themes | Mezha.Media – 12 Sci-Fi Series for Fans of 3 Body Problem |
| Altered Carbon | Netflix | Richard Morgan’s trilogy | Consciousness transfer, societal inequality, hard sci-fi | Mezha.Media – 12 Sci-Fi Series for Fans of 3 Body Problem |
These TV series were chosen for their alignment with The Three-Body Problem‘s emphasis on science and philosophy, with shows like Foundation and The Expanse being particularly noted for their hard sci-fi elements. The inclusion of Dark and Devs caters to fans who enjoyed the intellectual and narrative complexity.
A Note on Context
It’s worth noting that Liu Cixin’s comments supporting China’s policies toward Uyghurs have sparked controversy, with some questioning the ethics of promoting his work, including the Netflix adaptation of 3 Body Problem (Book Riot). This doesn’t directly affect the recommended series, but it’s a reminder to engage critically with sci-fi’s cultural and political implications. The series here focus on storytelling and thematic resonance, offering diverse perspectives.
Why These Series Stand Out
These series aren’t just great reads—they’re immersive experiences that challenge you to think about humanity’s future, much like The Three-Body Problem. Whether it’s Asimov’s predictions of societal collapse, Herbert’s exploration of power, Simmons’ literary depth, Corey’s realistic sci-fi, or Howey’s mysterious world, each offers a unique lens on the human condition. They’re perfect for anyone who loves stories that linger long after the final page.
Final Thoughts
If The Three-Body Problem left you hungry for more, these five science fiction series—plus two honorable mentions—will satisfy your craving for epic, thought-provoking sci-fi. From galactic empires to underground silos, they explore humanity’s struggles and triumphs in the face of cosmic challenges. Grab one of these books from Amazon or your local bookstore, settle in, and let your imagination soar through the stars.
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