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What could you accomplish if you had unlimited control? This is a central inquiry posed by the best sci-fi and fantasy narratives. Imagine if you were granted superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a life-altering drug? What about every single human became wholly committed to your happiness? Could you wield such influence for good, or succumb to your own baser instincts?

The shows featured below all grapple with this theme in unique ways (with one notable exception). Presented below is our ranking of the 10 top installments of sci-fi and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after over 60 years of stories, Spider-Man remains reimagined by fresh talent. This series offers a refreshing perspective at the character's early days, cleverly combining essential source material elements with influences from other adaptations to craft something that feels both new and deeply engaging.

Instead of operating solo or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a complex partnership with the future Green Goblin, who here is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy show, which originated as a crowdfunded short, truly found its footing in its second season. Following the game-changing revelations of the first season, the narrative expands significantly, following the ambitious media overlord Vox as he seizes control of the narrative, sparking a chain of ever-more dramatic confrontations that inevitably culminate in elaborate song.

Although it might not have a one viral song on the level of the first season's "Loser, Baby," that's because everything in this season being increasingly interwoven. The action, personal arcs, and above all the score and songs are collectively elevated. The story moves the overarching storyline forward while providing no shortage of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, this series had enormous expectations. Despite well-documented production issues, the final product proves it was worthy of the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to foes from his history and new threats in a refreshed take of his well-known setting.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense tone fans loved from the original incarnation. While the subsequent chapters explore some new territory, the season finishes powerfully, leaving viewers keenly anticipating a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising 2025 gem, this show could be described as a crime saga with the sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the saga of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical CEOs to federal authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the show plays out with the serious intensity of a classic paranoia thriller. Enhanced by trippy animation and an unnerving score, the plot delves into bigger mysteries about the substance's true capabilities. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the iconic gaming series returned with a second batch of stories that expanded its sprawling lore and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. Although it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is not a direct retelling of that title; instead, it further examine themes of control and freedom.

It expertly balances multiple storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for justice to a knight's reckoning with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a deeply detailed and utterly absorbing chapter to the expanding Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt animated show keeps its powerful streak in season 3. Mark Grayson confronts tremendous pressure on every side: preparing for a coming alien threat, mentoring his young brother, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story once again features some of the most brutal action scenes the series has ever produced.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are constantly tested. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the consequences of his actions, and the moral burden of his choices. Excellent arcs for supporting cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat superhero series came back with increased significance within the new DC canon, and season 2 delivers on both count. While it successfully establishes groundwork for future DCU stories, it also presents a powerful and focused {