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What could you accomplish with infinite power? This is a central inquiry explored by the greatest science fiction as well as fantasy stories. What if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or discovered a miraculous substance? Or if every single person was dedicated to your satisfaction? Would you use that influence for good, or would you succumb to your own darker instincts?

These shows ranked below each confront that very theme in unique ways (aside from a single notable exclusion). Presented below is our list of the ten most outstanding installments of science fiction and fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite over six decades of stories, the web-slinger continues to be reinvented by new talent. This series presents a novel look at the character's formative years, cleverly blending classic comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to craft something which is simultaneously fresh and profoundly compelling.

Instead of being alone or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this iteration of the hero forges a evolving relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the iconic lesson of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical show, which originated as a crowdfunded short, fully hit its stride in its sophomore installment. Building on the climactic revelations of season 1, the narrative broadens significantly, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox who takes control of the narrative, igniting a series of ever-more dramatic confrontations that naturally culminate in elaborate musical numbers.

While it might not have a single viral song on the level of the first season's "iconic tune," this is due to each element in season 2 being increasingly interwoven. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are all more sophisticated. The story moves the main storyline dramatically while providing plenty of bizarre, wild, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again had enormous expectations. Despite significant production issues, the resulting product proves to be worthy of the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him vulnerable to enemies both history and present in a refreshed version of his familiar setting.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the gritty feeling fans loved from the original incarnation. While the middle chapters explore certain new territory, the season concludes powerfully, leaving fans eagerly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected this year's highlight, this series could be described as a Breaking Bad filtered through a sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a nerdy mycologist who finds a curative fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma CEOs to government agents.

Despite being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the serious intensity of a classic conspiracy film. Accentuated by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the plot delves into bigger mysteries about the substance's true effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the iconic gaming series returned with a new batch of episodes that deepened its sprawling lore and expanded its nuclear wasteland world. Although it ventures in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct retelling of that game; rather, it continues to examine themes of control and autonomy.

The show skillfully balances multiple narrative threads and perspectives, from Lucy's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a deeply layered and wholly absorbing chapter to the expanding Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and emotionally charged adult animation show keeps its powerful momentum in its third outing. The hero confronts tremendous challenges on all side: preparing for a coming alien invasion, guiding his young sibling, and battling with his secretive Global Defense Agency. The season also features some of the most brutally brutal fight scenes the series has ever delivered.

Mark's physical and emotional limits are constantly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent superhero show returned with elevated importance within the new DC universe, and season 2 executes on that count. Although it effectively lays groundwork for future DCU projects, it primarily presents a resonant and self-contained {