Netflix's Bass X Machina has made a significant splash since its November 3 debut, offering a wildly imaginative reinterpretation of Bass Reeves, the first Black Deputy U.S. Marshal west of the Mississippi River. Unlike previous historical dramas, this animated series plunges Reeves into a lawless steampunk West, transforming him into a cybernetically enhanced bounty hunter. This creative license, blending historical figures with genre-bending elements reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds, has resonated strongly with viewers and critics.
Initially presented as a six-episode limited series, the buzz around Bass X Machina has led many to question whether Netflix will consider a renewal. While the streaming giant often keeps its renewal plans under wraps, the show's exceptional performance could sway their decision. As noted by Screen Rant, the series perfectly aligns with Netflix's recent success in adult animation, joining the ranks of critically lauded titles like Arcane, Love, Death & Robots, and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners.
The critical reception for Bass X Machina has been stellar, boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers have highlighted its thematic depth, particularly its exploration of justice through the eyes of Black and Native American characters. Roger Ebert praised how the series "brings Black justice to the steampunk old West." Similarly, a review from Screen Rant lauded the show as "engrossing as much as it is exciting," commending its substantive narrative and stunning animation that make it one of the most visually impressive Westerns in years.
Audience sentiment also appears overwhelmingly positive. While Rotten Tomatoes is still gathering enough viewer reviews for an official score, early indicators are promising. Metacritic has awarded the series a strong 82 out of 100, reflecting widespread appreciation for its gritty yet beautifully animated portrayal of American history. The show's compelling trailers and talented voice cast, including Brian Tyree Henry as Bass Reeves and Janelle Monáe as Glory, built considerable anticipation, which has only grown since its release.
The Door is Open for More
Crucially, the creators of Bass X Machina crafted an ending that cleverly sets the stage for future narratives. The series finale positions Reeves as the iconic lawman many are familiar with, revealing the entire first season as a stealth origin story. This narrative choice provides ample opportunities for a second season to delve deeper into his character, explore his unique approach to justice, and introduce more complex conflicts. While some critics, including Screen Rant, suggested that the six-episode run could have benefited from additional episodes or a more spread-out exploration of its many ideas, the consensus remains that the series is a perfect limited offering that could easily expand.
Given its blend of unique storytelling, critical acclaim, and a narrative foundation ripe for continuation, the prospect of Bass X Machina returning for a second season is more than just fan speculation; it's a distinct possibility that could further solidify Netflix's position as a hub for groundbreaking animated content.
<figure><picture><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/dana-leaning-around-bass-shoulder-looking-shocked-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=500&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 480px)"><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/dana-leaning-around-bass-shoulder-looking-shocked-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=800&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 767px)"><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/dana-leaning-around-bass-shoulder-looking-shocked-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=825&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 1023px)"><img src="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/dana-leaning-around-bass-shoulder-looking-shocked-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=825&dpr=2" alt="Dana leaning around Bass' shoulder looking shocked in Bass X Machina" decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="928" width="1650"></picture></figure>
<figure><picture><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/a-bull-suit-of-armor-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=500&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 480px)"><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/a-bull-suit-of-armor-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=800&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 767px)"><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/a-bull-suit-of-armor-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=825&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 1023px)"><img src="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/a-bull-suit-of-armor-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=825&dpr=2" alt="A bull suit of armor in Bass X Machina" decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="928" width="1650"></picture></figure>
<figure><picture><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/bass-looking-intensely-from-under-his-hat-in-a-close-up-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=500&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 480px)"><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/bass-looking-intensely-from-under-his-hat-in-a-close-up-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=800&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 767px)"><source srcset="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/bass-looking-intensely-from-under-his-hat-in-a-close-up-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=825&dpr=2" media="(max-width: 1023px)"><img src="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/bass-looking-intensely-from-under-his-hat-in-a-close-up-in-bass-x-machina.jpg?q=49&fit=crop&w=825&dpr=2" alt="Bass looking intensely from under his hat in a close-up in Bass X Machina" decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="928" width="1650"></picture><small>Credit: Netflix</small></figure>