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What would you do with infinite control? That's a fundamental question explored by the finest sci-fi and fantastical tales. What if you possessed superhuman abilities? Or discovered a revolutionary drug? Or if each and every single human became dedicated to your personal happiness? Would you wield such influence for good, or give in to your own darker instincts?

The shows listed herein all grapple with that very dilemma in various ways (aside from a single key exception). Presented here is a countdown of the 10 most outstanding installments of sci-fi & fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than 60 years of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reinterpreted by new talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man presents a novel perspective at the character's early days, skillfully merging classic source material elements with influences from other adaptations to create something which is simultaneously new and profoundly compelling.

Instead of being alone or Iron Man as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical series, which sprang from a crowdfunded short, fully found its footing in its second season. Following the climactic events of the first season, the story expands considerably, following the ambitious media overlord Vox as he takes command of the situation, igniting a series of increasingly explosive conflicts that inevitably culminate in elaborate song.

Although it might not have a one breakout hit quite like the first season's "Loser, Baby," this is due to everything in this season being increasingly interwoven. The fight sequences, character development, and especially the music are all more sophisticated. The story advances the main storyline dramatically while delivering no shortage of bizarre, unhinged, and simply fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again faced immense shoes to fill. Despite significant development issues, the resulting product proves it was worthy of the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him a target to foes both past and present in a slightly version of his familiar world.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, evoking the intense feeling audiences cherished from the original incarnation. Although the subsequent episodes explore some different territory, the season concludes on a strong note, leaving fans eagerly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising 2025 highlight, this series could be described as a crime saga with the sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, it tells the saga of a nerdy mycologist who finds a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical executives to federal agents.

Despite being a parody, the show plays out with the serious intensity of a classic paranoia thriller. Accentuated by trippy animation and an eerie score, the plot explores deeper mysteries about the substance's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and utterly compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit series of the popular video game franchise returned with a second batch of stories that expanded its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight adaptation of that game; instead, it further examine themes of authority and autonomy.

The show skillfully juggles multiple storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's mission for answers to Maximus's struggle with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a deeply layered and wholly absorbing chapter to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and emotionally charged animated show continues its winning momentum in season 3. The hero faces tremendous challenges on all side: training for a looming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and battling with the secretive Global Defense Agency. The season also features some of the most brutally intense fight sequences the show has yet delivered.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical burden of his decisions. Standout arcs for key characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat superhero show came back with increased significance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 executes on that count. While it successfully lays foundations for upcoming DCU stories, it also presents a powerful and focused {