While some of the most anticipated shows of 2026 are concluding, new series are launching, many of which are originating from Apple TV+, a platform demonstrating a remarkably high success rate. It comes as no surprise, then, that a new series boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes hails from this service.
Apple TV+ Scores Another Sci-Fi Hit
Indeed, it’s another Apple TV+ science fiction success story: Star City. This spin-off of “For All Mankind” currently holds a flawless 100% critic score, positioning it as the year’s highest-rated live-action sci-fi series, whether new or returning. If animated series are included, “Invincible” also maintains a perfect score, tying “Star City” for the top spot. Here’s a comparative look at other prominent sci-fi series:
- Star City – 100% critic score
- Fallout season 2 – 96% critic score
- The Boys season 5 – 93% critic score
- Spider-Noir – 91% critic score
- For All Mankind season 5 – 90%
- Star Trek: Starfleet Academy – 85%
Exploring an Alternate Soviet Space Program
Star City offers a distinct perspective by focusing on the Soviet space program, serving as a counterpoint to the narrative of “For All Mankind.” The series’ premise is described as follows:
“In this expansion of the ‘For All Mankind’ universe, experience a what-if take on the global space race from the Soviet Union perspective; go behind the Iron Curtain, where it’s more dangerous on the ground than in space.”
This narrative choice revisits the early days of the space race, specifically the Soviet Union’s moon landing, thereby establishing an alternate history where global space program development experienced a significant acceleration. Subsequent seasons of the original series have explored ambitious developments ranging from Mars colonies to complex asteroid heists, all stemming from this altered timeline.
Sustaining Momentum Amidst Strong Competition
The question remains whether “Star City” can maintain its current critical standing. With a limited number of reviews available, its score could fluctuate. Furthermore, the series faces considerable competition from a slate of highly anticipated sci-fi releases scheduled for the remainder of the year, including “Silo” season 3, “3 Body Problem” season 2, “Blade Runner 2099,” “Lanterns,” and “Neuromancer,” promising a robust second half of 2026 for the genre.
While a second season for “Star City” is not yet confirmed, its potential renewal is plausible, especially given that “For All Mankind” is slated to conclude with its sixth season. Apple may be inclined to continue the franchise, a move that underscores the platform’s commitment to its original programming. The longevity and creative freedom afforded to “For All Mankind,” despite its substantial budget and relatively muted public discourse, is a rare characteristic in the current streaming landscape and a hallmark of Apple’s distinctive approach to content development.
Business Style Takeaway: Apple TV+ continues to demonstrate a strong strategy in the competitive streaming market by investing in high-quality, critically acclaimed niche genres like science fiction. The success of “Star City,” a spin-off from an established series, highlights the effectiveness of expanding successful universes with unique perspectives, potentially driving subscriber loyalty and critical prestige.
According to the portal: www.forbes.com