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How could you accomplish if you had boundless control? This is the central inquiry explored by the best sci-fi as well as fantasy stories. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a miraculous substance? What about every other human was wholly committed to your personal happiness? Could you use such power for good, or would you give in to your own baser impulses?

These shows listed herein all grapple with that very theme in various ways (aside from a single notable exclusion). Presented here is a list of the ten most outstanding installments of science fiction & fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over 60 years of history, the web-slinger is constantly reinvented by fresh talent. This series offers a novel look at the hero's formative years, skillfully blending classic source material story beats with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to create something that feels both fresh and deeply compelling.

Rather than being solo or having Iron Man as a guide, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is still just the head of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter becomes a true hero, internalizing the iconic lesson of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical show, which originated as a fan-funded short, truly hit its stride in its sophomore installment. Following the climactic events of the first season, the narrative expands considerably, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox as he seizes control of the narrative, igniting a series of ever-more explosive confrontations that inevitably end in show-stopping song.

Although it may lack a one breakout song quite like the first season's "Loser, Baby," this is due to everything in this season being more interwoven. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and above all the music are all elevated. The story advances the main plot dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, wild, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the acclaimed Netflix show, this series faced enormous shoes to fill. After significant production issues, the resulting show proves to be worth the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him vulnerable to enemies from his past and present in a refreshed take of his familiar world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty tone audiences cherished from the prior series. Although the middle chapters venture into some new territory, the season concludes on a strong note, setting viewers keenly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A 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 comedy Steve Hely, it tells the story of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a miraculous fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical CEOs to government agents.

Despite being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the grave intensity of a classic conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an eerie score, the plot explores bigger questions about the substance's true capabilities. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series of the iconic gaming franchise came back with a new season of episodes that expanded its sprawling lore and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. Although it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct retelling of that game; instead, it further explore ideas of authority and freedom.

It expertly juggles multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and wholly engaging chapter to the ever-growing wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and emotionally charged animated show keeps its winning streak in season 3. The hero confronts immense pressure on every fronts: preparing for a coming alien threat, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with his secretive GDA. The story once again includes some of the most brutally intense fight scenes the series has yet produced.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological limits are repeatedly tested. He must grapple with opponents more powerful than he is, the consequences of his battles, and the ethical weight of his choices. Standout storylines for key cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent superhero series came back with elevated importance within the new DC canon, and it delivers on both count. Although it effectively lays groundwork for future DCU projects, it primarily tells a resonant and self-contained {