Podcasts are really great if you want to learn about a topic or get the latest news updates, but sometimes you just want to get transported away and not think about the real world. Thankfully, there are thousands of fiction podcasts to help you do just that. But with so many out there, what are the best fiction podcasts to listen to? Here is a list of some of the best fiction podcasts that you will definitely want to check out.
Welcome to Night Vale
A pioneer in the fiction podcast world, Welcome to Night Vale is set in a fictional desert town where every conspiracy theory is true. The show blends humor, horror, and surrealism, narrated as a community radio broadcast. It’s perfect for fans of the bizarre and the uncanny.
The Magnus Archives
For those who love horror, The Magnus Archives is a must-listen. This anthology series follows the head archivist of the Magnus Institute as he investigates supernatural occurrences. Each episode is a self-contained story, but they all weave together into a larger, chilling narrative.
Alice Isn’t Dead
From the creators of Welcome to Night Vale, Alice Isn’t Dead follows a truck driver searching across America for the wife she had long assumed was dead. The journey is filled with strange towns, eerie occurrences, and a deep sense of mystery.
Limetown
Limetown is a gripping mystery podcast that follows a journalist investigating the disappearance of over 300 people from a research facility. The show combines elements of investigative journalism with a compelling fictional narrative, making it a thrilling listen.
Homecoming
Homecoming is a psychological thriller that was so compelling it was adapted into a TV series. The podcast follows a caseworker at a secret government facility and a soldier eager to rejoin civilian life. The story unfolds through phone calls, therapy sessions, and overheard conversations, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Wolf 359
Set aboard a space station orbiting the distant star Wolf 359, this podcast blends sci-fi with humor and drama. The story follows the crew’s daily lives and the strange occurrences they encounter. It’s a perfect mix of character-driven storytelling and cosmic mystery.
The Bright Sessions
The Bright Sessions is a unique blend of sci-fi and therapy. The podcast follows "Dr. Bright," a therapist for people with supernatural abilities. Each episode delves into the lives and struggles of her patients, offering a fresh take on the superhero genre.
LeVar Burton Reads
While not strictly a fiction podcast, LeVar Burton Reads features the beloved host reading his favorite short stories. The selections range from contemporary fiction to classic tales, all brought to life by Burton’s engaging narration.
Old Gods of Appalachia
This horror anthology podcast explores the past through and is set in an alternate Appalachia where a mining explosion occurs in the early 20th century. The show doesn't shy away from the worst of humanity, but its compelling writing and otherworldly elements make it a must-listen for horror fans.
Case 63
This podcast features a conversation between a psychologist and a patient who believes he is a time traveler. Voiced by Julianne Moore and Oscar Isaac, the podcast takes listeners on a journey through time and space, with a mission to save the world. The writing and acting are top-notch, and the production value is nearly cinematic.
Small Victories
Small Victories follows Marisol, a recently recovered drug addict, as she navigates her new life. The show paints a richly human landscape, balancing humor and depth to create a relatable portrait of the millennial crisis.
Malevolent
This dark audio drama follows Arkham investigator "Arthur Lester" as he tries to understand why he has woken up with no sight, a dark voice commanding him, and a dead friend at his feet. The show's attention to human psychology and its consistently unnerving atmosphere make it a standout in the horror category.
Ad Lucem
This speculative series from QCODE features Chris Pine and Troian Bellisario in a story about a near future where an augmented reality assistant revolutionizes the way humans and technology interact.
36 Questions
36 Questions isn't just a podcast, it's a podcast musical. The show follows a couple attempting to save their marriage by asking a series of questions designed to make two people fall in love. The podcast stands out for its strong vision, tightly written script, and expert production.
These fiction podcasts offer a wide range of genres and styles, ensuring there's something for every fiction lover out there. Whether you're into sci-fi, horror, mystery, drama, romance, or musicals, these are the best fiction podcasts to listen to.