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How could you accomplish with infinite ability? That's a central inquiry posed by the finest science fiction and fantastical stories. Imagine if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary substance? What about every single human was wholly committed to your personal satisfaction? Would you wield such power for good, or would you succumb to your baser impulses?

These series ranked below each grapple with that very concept in distinct ways (with a single notable exception). Outlined here is a ranking of the ten best installments of science fiction & fantastical television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after over 60 years of history, Spider-Man is constantly reimagined by new creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a novel perspective at the hero's early years, skillfully combining essential source material elements with ideas from other adaptations to craft something which is both fresh and profoundly compelling.

Instead of operating alone or Iron Man as a guide, this version of Peter Parker develops a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the signature lesson of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, truly found its footing in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing events of the first season, the narrative expands significantly, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox as he seizes control of the narrative, sparking a chain of increasingly explosive confrontations that inevitably culminate in elaborate song.

While it might not have a one breakout song quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to everything in season 2 being more ambitious. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and above all the music are all elevated. The story moves the overarching plot forward while delivering plenty of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again had immense expectations. After significant production issues, the resulting product demonstrates it was worthy of the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him a target to enemies from his past and new threats in a refreshed version of his familiar world.

The premiere is explosive, evoking the intense tone fans loved from the prior series. While the middle chapters venture into certain new narrative ground, the first season finishes powerfully, leaving viewers keenly anticipating a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

A surprising 2025 gem, this series is essentially a crime saga filtered through a sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett and comedy Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who discovers a curative mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to government authorities.

Far from being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the serious intensity of a 1970s conspiracy thriller. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the plot delves into deeper mysteries about the mushroom's true effects. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and utterly gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation based on the popular video game franchise came back with a new batch of stories that expanded its epic lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. While it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a direct adaptation of that game; instead, it further explore ideas of control and autonomy.

The show expertly juggles multiple storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for justice to a knight's reckoning with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich layered and utterly absorbing addition to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and heartfelt adult animation series keeps its powerful streak in season 3. The hero faces immense pressure on every side: training for a looming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his young brother, and battling with his secretive Global Defense Agency. The season once again includes some of the most brutal fight scenes the series has ever delivered.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with opponents stronger than himself, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical weight of his choices. Excellent arcs for key cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent superhero show came back with increased importance within the revamped DC canon, and it delivers on both fronts. Although it successfully establishes foundations for future cinematic universe stories, it primarily tells a powerful and focused {