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By the time big networks start producing their own original video content for the internet, the term "web series" seems almost outdated. What started out as viral videos produced by kids in their own basement have turned into slick marketing tools used by advertisers to sell more Axe body spray. In fact, the history of the web show probably follows a similar arc to that of the flash mob: what started out as a homegrown concept has quickly turned into a corporate hybrid, causing whatever original coolness the idea had into a quick sell-out. Oh well, time for more 'Glee'-inspired Improv Everywhere knockoffs, thanks Fox!

Still, it's hard to argue that the most popular web series last year wasn't one produced by any company, but by Fred, that hyperactive, uber-annoying kid that for some reason has almost 22 million views per month. Maybe we do need some professional help with these things, because for every "good" web series in development, there are a thousand crappy ones (look no further than FunnyOrDie to see what we mean). Still, we're dedicated to bringing you the best of what the web has to offer, and that includes the crème de la crème of internet shows. Enjoy!

The Guild

Most of us know Felicia Day from her role opposite Neil Patrick Harris in 2008s viral sensation 'Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog,' but this self-proclaimed geek actually got her start both writing and starring in The Guild, a YouTube series about the relationships of gaming nerds, both on the screen and IRL. Watch all three seasons here.



Hardly Working

Speaking of selling out, pushing News Corp-owned CollegeHumor videos might seem a little icky if they weren't so freaking funny. Hey, at least I'm not trying to sell you on Jake and Amir... the Hardly Working series is much funnier and shows a broader range of New York's wunderkinds.



The Bannen Way

Catch it while it's still brand-spanking new: 'The Bannen Way' is a slick production from Crackle.com and features some heavy-hitting talent including Robert Forster from 'Heroes,' Mark Gantt from 'Ocean's 11', and the guy from 'Scanners' who can explode heads.




ESPN's Conversations with Ben Schwartz

Not technically a web series, as these Sunday conversations are shown on television, but Ben's interviews with sports stars are funny enough that you might actually start to believe that athletes can have a sense of humor about themselves. Check out the whole series on Ben's website, RejectedJokes.com.



Gabe and Max 100 Seconds

New York comedy duo Gabe Delahaye and Max Silvestri already have one hysterical web series about ManStyle for Details.com under their belt, but this second incarnation is cut down into easily-digestible, 90-second chunks. So instead of taking that bathroom break at work, use your time more wisely and watch '100 Seconds.'