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How could you accomplish if you had unlimited power? That's the core question explored by all finest sci-fi and fantastical stories. Imagine if you gained extraordinary powers? Or stumbled upon a life-altering drug? What about every single human became dedicated to your satisfaction? Could you wield such influence for good, or would you give in to your own darker instincts?

These series ranked herein each explore that very concept in various ways (with a single notable exception). Presented here is our list of the ten best installments of science fiction and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over 60 years of history, the web-slinger remains reinterpreted by fresh talent. This series presents a novel look at the character's early days, cleverly merging essential comic elements with ideas from other adaptations to craft something which is simultaneously fresh and profoundly compelling.

Rather than operating solo or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of the hero forges a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, learning the iconic mantra of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical series, which sprang from a crowdfunded short, fully hit its stride in its second season. Building on the game-changing events of season 1, the story expands significantly, following the ambitious TV demon Vox who seizes command of the narrative, igniting a chain of increasingly dramatic confrontations that naturally culminate in elaborate song.

While it might not have a one breakout hit quite like season one's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being increasingly ambitious. The action, personal development, and especially the score and songs are all more sophisticated. The season advances the main storyline dramatically while providing plenty of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again faced enormous expectations. Despite well-documented production issues, the resulting product proves to be worth the wait. The plot centers on Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, making him vulnerable to enemies both past and present in a slightly take of his well-known world.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense tone fans cherished from the prior incarnation. While the middle episodes venture into certain different territory, the season finishes on a strong note, leaving viewers keenly awaiting a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's highlight, this series could be described as a crime saga with a humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, it tells the story of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical executives to federal authorities.

Far from being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a classic paranoia thriller. Enhanced by trippy animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's full capabilities. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed adaptation based on the iconic video game franchise came back with a new batch of episodes that expanded its epic lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it ventures toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight retelling of that title; rather, it continues to explore themes of control and autonomy.

The show expertly balances multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for justice to a knight's reckoning with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a deeply layered and utterly engaging addition to the ever-growing Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and heartfelt animated series continues its powerful streak in its third outing. The hero confronts immense pressure on all side: training for a coming Viltrumite invasion, mentoring his young brother, and clashing with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story also includes some of the most brutally intense action scenes the show has ever produced.

The protagonist's bodily and emotional limits are constantly tested. He must contend with opponents stronger than himself, the aftermath of his battles, and the moral weight of his decisions. Excellent storylines for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat superhero series returned with increased significance within the new DC canon, and it delivers on that fronts. While it effectively establishes foundations for upcoming DCU projects, it primarily presents a powerful and self-contained {