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How would you do if you had infinite control? This is the core question asked by the finest science fiction and fantastical stories. What if you were granted extraordinary powers? Or stumbled upon a revolutionary substance? Or if every single human was dedicated to your satisfaction? Could you wield that influence for good, or succumb to your own baser instincts?

The shows ranked herein all explore this concept in various manners (with one key exclusion). Outlined below is our countdown of the ten most outstanding installments of science fiction and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after over 60 years of history, Spider-Man continues to be reinterpreted by fresh talent. This series offers a refreshing look at the character's formative years, cleverly blending essential source material story beats with influences from other adaptations to craft something which is simultaneously fresh and deeply compelling.

Rather than being solo or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of the hero develops a evolving relationship with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical-comedy series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully came into its own in its sophomore season. Following the game-changing events of season 1, the story expands significantly, following the scheming TV demon Vox who seizes command of the narrative, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic confrontations that naturally end in elaborate musical numbers.

While it might not have a single breakout song quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to everything in this season being more complex. The fight sequences, personal development, and especially the music are all more sophisticated. The season moves the main plot dramatically while delivering plenty of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, this series faced enormous expectations. Despite well-documented production challenges, the final product demonstrates to be worthy of the effort. The plot centers on 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 refreshed take of his familiar setting.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense tone fans loved from the prior incarnation. While the subsequent episodes explore certain new narrative ground, the season concludes on a strong note, setting fans eagerly anticipating a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected 2025 gem, this series could be described as a Breaking Bad filtered through a humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, the series tells the saga of a nerdy fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself pursued by forces including unscrupulous Big Pharma CEOs to federal authorities.

Despite being a parody, the show plays out with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia thriller. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving score, the plot explores bigger mysteries about the mushroom's true effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series of the iconic gaming series came back with a second batch of episodes that deepened its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic world. While it travels toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct retelling of that title; rather, it further examine themes of authority and freedom.

It skillfully juggles several storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's mission for answers to Maximus's struggle with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a deeply detailed and utterly absorbing chapter to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and emotionally charged animated series continues its powerful streak in season 3. The hero faces immense pressure on every side: preparing for a looming alien threat, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story once again features some of the most brutal fight sequences the show has yet produced.

Mark's physical and emotional limits are constantly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical burden of his choices. Standout arcs for key cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent superhero show came back with increased significance within the new DC canon, and season 2 delivers on that fronts. Although it effectively establishes foundations for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it primarily presents a resonant and self-contained {