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What would you do with boundless control? That's the core question asked by the finest science fiction as well as fantasy narratives. Imagine if you possessed extraordinary powers? Or discovered a life-altering substance? What about every other person became dedicated to your personal happiness? Would you use that influence for the greater good, or give in to your own darker instincts?

The series listed herein each grapple with that very dilemma in distinct manners (aside from one key exclusion). Outlined here is a list of the 10 most outstanding installments of science fiction and fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after over six decades of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reinterpreted by fresh talent. This series offers a novel perspective at the character's formative years, cleverly merging essential source material story beats with influences from other adaptations to create something that feels both fresh and profoundly compelling.

Rather than operating solo or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of the hero forges a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, learning the iconic mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical series, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, truly hit its stride in its second season. Building on the climactic revelations of the first season, the story broadens significantly, following the ambitious TV demon Vox who seizes control of the narrative, sparking a series of increasingly explosive conflicts that naturally culminate in elaborate musical numbers.

Although it might not have a single viral song quite like the first season's "iconic tune," this is due to everything in this season being more ambitious. The action, personal arcs, and above all the score and songs are all elevated. The season moves the overarching storyline forward while providing no shortage of bizarre, wild, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again faced enormous expectations. Despite significant development issues, the final show proves to be worthy of the effort. The plot follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to foes from his history and present in a slightly version of his familiar world.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the gritty tone audiences cherished from the prior series. Although the subsequent chapters venture into some new territory, the first season concludes powerfully, leaving fans eagerly awaiting a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A surprising 2025 gem, this series is essentially an animated Breaking Bad filtered through the sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett and comedy Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who finds a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by forces including unscrupulous pharmaceutical CEOs to government authorities.

Despite being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy thriller. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story explores deeper mysteries about the mushroom's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed adaptation based on the popular video game series came back with a new season of episodes that deepened its epic lore and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. While it ventures toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight adaptation of that title; rather, it further examine themes of control and freedom.

It expertly balances several storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's mission for answers to a knight's reckoning with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a deeply layered and wholly engaging chapter to the ever-growing wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and heartfelt animated series continues its powerful streak in its third outing. The hero faces immense pressure on every side: preparing for a looming alien threat, guiding his powered brother, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season once again includes some of the most brutal fight scenes the series has yet produced.

Mark's physical and emotional endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with opponents more powerful than himself, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical burden of his choices. Excellent arcs for key cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat superhero series came back with elevated significance within the revamped DC canon, and it executes on both count. While it effectively lays foundations for upcoming DCU projects, it also presents a resonant and self-contained {