When it comes to the Scooby-Doo series, there is no one more hated than Velma. In looking at what is considered a Scooby-Doo series, does the show even count? Most of us think that Scooby-Doo should be present.
Even so, the series ran for 2 seasons and a Halloween special. Given all the dislike from the fandom and general dislike from cartoon fans, the show was canceled. The news was confirmed by TVLine and Scooby-Doo fans have been rejoicing ever since.
In the wake of the show's cancellation, many of us are thinking about Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated. While the series wasn't geared towards adults, it quickly became a favorite for Scooby-Doo fans of all ages.
Whether you've watched the series or not, you're sure to enjoy it much more than Velma as it truly felt like a new stepping stone for those wanting some darker Scooby-Doo content.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated holds up even more now.
For those who haven't watched the series, I'm going to try not to give away too much of the plot as it's fun to go in not knowing much. As with most Scooby-Doo series, we're following the gang which is Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Fred, and Daphne. This time, their story is set in Crystal Cove which is a town known for its haunted happenings.
While the gang is still solving mysteries, they're starting to get bored with it until they stumble upon an even larger mystery. It also involves real monsters rather than people just dressing up. Of course, we find out that some human characters are more monstrous than we originally believed. All in all, it's a much heavier show than other Scooby-Doo series.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated also showcases the interpersonal drama that comes up with the gang. Whether it's Fred and Daphne's relationship or Shaggy and Velma, there is plenty of angst to go around. It plays into that teenage drama that other series haven't. If anything, it feels like we're looking at their lives with a microscope and finding out more about these characters than we've ever learned before.
While the series is different from its predecessor, it still has that classic Scooby-Doo charm we all know and love. Whether it's the "meddling kids" line or the characters having similar traits to past iterations, you still know you're watching Scooby-Doo. Plus, we see the return of the Hex Girls, which is something no one can complain about.
Even with Velma getting two seasons, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated did it better before Velma was even a thought. The series is dark and spooky while also having its fair share of funny moments and a larger plot to keep fans guessing. The only unfortunate thing is that Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated only ran for 2 seasons, making it a short-lived albeit amazing entry into the Scooby-Doo canon.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated is currently streaming on Netflix and Max.