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How could you accomplish with infinite control? That's the central inquiry asked by all finest science fiction as well as fantasy stories. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a miraculous drug? What about each and every other human was dedicated to your personal happiness? Could you wield that power for good, or succumb to your darker impulses?

These shows featured below all grapple with this concept in distinct ways (with one key exclusion). Outlined below is a ranking of the ten best installments of sci-fi & fantasy television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over 60 years of history, the web-slinger continues to be reinvented by fresh creative voices. This series delivers a novel perspective at the hero's early years, cleverly combining classic comic story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to create something that feels both fresh and deeply engaging.

Instead of being alone or having Iron Man as a mentor, this iteration of the hero develops a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the iconic lesson of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical-comedy series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully found its footing in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing events of season 1, the narrative broadens significantly, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he takes control of the narrative, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic confrontations that naturally end in show-stopping musical numbers.

While it might not have a single viral hit quite like the first season's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being more complex. The fight sequences, character development, and especially the score and songs are collectively elevated. The season moves the overarching storyline forward while delivering plenty of weird, wild, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix series, this series faced immense expectations. Despite significant development issues, the resulting product demonstrates to be worth the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to enemies from his past and present in a slightly version of his familiar setting.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense feeling fans cherished from the prior incarnation. Although the middle chapters venture into some different narrative ground, the season concludes on a strong note, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A surprising 2025 highlight, this series could be described as a Breaking Bad filtered through the sensibility of King of the Hill. Helmed by Joe Bennett and comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a curative fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical CEOs to government authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the serious intensity of a 1970s conspiracy film. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an eerie score, the story delves into deeper mysteries about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed adaptation of the iconic gaming franchise came back with a second batch of episodes that expanded its sprawling mystery and expanded its nuclear wasteland setting. While it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct retelling of that title; rather, it continues to explore ideas of control and autonomy.

It skillfully balances several storylines and points of view, from Lucy's quest for answers to Maximus's struggle with the ideology of the his faction. The result is a deeply layered and utterly engaging addition to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt animated show continues its winning streak in season 3. Mark Grayson faces immense challenges on every side: preparing for a looming Viltrumite invasion, mentoring his young brother, and clashing with the secretive Global Defense Agency. The season once again includes some of the most brutally brutal action sequences the show has yet delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and emotional limits are repeatedly tested. He must grapple with opponents more powerful than himself, the consequences of his battles, and the moral weight of his decisions. Standout storylines for key characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent anti-hero series came back with increased significance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 executes on both fronts. Although it effectively lays foundations for future cinematic universe stories, it primarily presents a powerful and self-contained {