🔗 Share this article

How could you accomplish with infinite control? This is the central inquiry asked by the greatest science fiction and fantasy tales. What if you gained extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a life-altering substance? Or if each and every single human became dedicated to your satisfaction? Would you use that influence for the greater good, or would you give in to your own baser impulses?

The television series ranked below each confront this dilemma in various ways (with a single notable exclusion). Outlined here is our ranking of the ten most outstanding installments of sci-fi & fantastical television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite more than six decades of history, the web-slinger is constantly reinterpreted by fresh talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a refreshing look at the character's early days, cleverly combining classic source material elements with ideas from other adaptations to craft something that feels simultaneously new and deeply engaging.

Instead of operating alone or Iron Man as a guide, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is still just the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into a true hero, learning the signature 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 crowdfunded short, truly found its footing in its second installment. Building on the game-changing revelations of season 1, the narrative expands significantly, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox who seizes command of the narrative, sparking a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally culminate in show-stopping song.

While it might not have a single breakout song quite like the first season's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being more complex. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and above all the score and songs are collectively more sophisticated. The season advances the main storyline forward while delivering no shortage of weird, wild, and simply entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, this series faced immense shoes to fill. After significant production issues, the final product demonstrates it was worthy of the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, making him a target to foes both past and new threats in a refreshed take of his well-known world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense feeling fans loved from the original incarnation. While the middle episodes venture into some different narrative ground, the season finishes on a strong note, leaving fans keenly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected this year's highlight, this series could be described as a crime saga with the humor of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, it follows the saga of a mild-mannered mycologist who finds a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical executives to government agents.

Far from being a parody, the narrative plays out with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story explores bigger questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, beautifully animated, and completely compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed adaptation based on the popular video game series came back with a new season of episodes that expanded its sprawling lore and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. Although it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct retelling of that game; rather, it further examine themes of authority and autonomy.

It skillfully juggles multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for justice to Maximus's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a rich detailed and wholly engaging addition to the ever-growing wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt adult animation series continues its powerful momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces immense pressure on every fronts: preparing for a looming alien threat, mentoring his young brother, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season also includes some of the most brutal fight scenes the show has yet produced.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with foes more powerful than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical burden of his decisions. 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 show returned with increased importance within the new DC universe, and season 2 executes on both count. While it effectively lays groundwork for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it also presents a powerful and focused {