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What could you accomplish if you had unlimited control? That's a central question asked by all finest science fiction as well as fantasy narratives. What if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a life-altering drug? Or if each and every other human became dedicated to your personal satisfaction? Could you wield that power for good, or would you give in to your baser instincts?

These television series ranked below all explore that very dilemma in unique ways (with a single notable exclusion). Detailed below is a list of the ten best installments of science fiction and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after over 60 years of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reimagined by fresh creative voices. This series presents a novel perspective at the hero's early days, cleverly merging classic comic elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to craft something that feels simultaneously new and profoundly engaging.

Instead of being alone or Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of the hero forges a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the signature mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical series, which sprang from a fan-funded pilot, fully came into its own in its sophomore season. Building on the climactic events of the first season, the narrative expands considerably, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he takes control of the situation, igniting a chain of ever-more dramatic confrontations that inevitably culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

While it may lack a one viral song quite like the first season's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being more ambitious. The action, personal development, and especially the score and songs are collectively more sophisticated. The season advances the overarching plot dramatically while providing no shortage of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, this series faced immense expectations. Despite significant production challenges, the final product demonstrates it was worthy of the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him a target to enemies from his history and new threats in a slightly take of his familiar setting.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the intense tone fans cherished from the original incarnation. While the subsequent chapters venture into certain new territory, the first season concludes on a strong note, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected 2025 gem, this show is essentially a crime saga with the sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a miraculous fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical executives to federal agents.

Despite being a spoof, the show plays out with the grave intensity of a classic conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the story explores deeper mysteries about the substance's full capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit adaptation of the iconic video game franchise returned with a new batch of episodes that deepened its epic lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. While it ventures toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight retelling of that title; instead, it continues to explore ideas of authority and autonomy.

The show skillfully balances multiple storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's quest for answers to Maximus's struggle with the ideology of the his faction. The result is a deeply layered and wholly engaging chapter to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and emotionally charged animated series continues its powerful streak in its third outing. Mark Grayson confronts immense pressure on every fronts: training for a looming Viltrumite invasion, mentoring his powered brother, and clashing with the secretive GDA. The season also includes some of the most brutally intense fight scenes the series has ever delivered.

The protagonist's physical and emotional limits are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Standout arcs for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat anti-hero show returned with elevated importance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 executes on both count. While it successfully lays foundations for upcoming cinematic universe stories, it primarily tells a powerful and focused {