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How would you do if you had boundless power? This is a fundamental inquiry explored by all greatest sci-fi and fantasy narratives. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a miraculous drug? What about every single person became dedicated to your satisfaction? Could you use such influence for the greater good, or succumb to your darker instincts?

The shows ranked herein all explore this theme in various ways (with a single key exclusion). Presented here is a ranking of the 10 top installments of science fiction and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after more than 60 years of history, the web-slinger remains reimagined by new talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a refreshing look at the character's formative years, skillfully combining classic comic story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is simultaneously fresh and deeply engaging.

Instead of being alone or Iron Man as a mentor, this version of the hero forges a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the iconic lesson of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy series, which originated as a crowdfunded short, truly came into its own in its sophomore season. Following the climactic revelations of the first season, the narrative expands significantly, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox as he takes command of the narrative, sparking a series of ever-more dramatic confrontations that naturally end in elaborate musical numbers.

While it might not have a one breakout song quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to everything in season 2 being more interwoven. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and above all the music are collectively elevated. The story advances the overarching plot forward while providing plenty of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, this series had enormous shoes to fill. Despite well-documented development challenges, the final show proves to be worthy of the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, making him vulnerable to foes from his past and present in a refreshed version of his well-known setting.

The premiere is explosive, evoking the intense tone fans cherished from the prior incarnation. Although the middle episodes venture into certain different territory, the season finishes powerfully, leaving fans eagerly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising 2025 gem, this show could be described as an animated Breaking Bad filtered through the humor of a suburban satire. Created by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from unscrupulous Big Pharma executives to government authorities.

Despite being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the grave atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia film. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an eerie score, the story explores deeper mysteries about the substance's full capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and utterly gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed series based on the iconic gaming series came back with a second season of stories that deepened its epic mystery and expanded its post-apocalyptic world. While it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is far from a straight retelling of that game; instead, it further explore themes of control and autonomy.

It expertly balances multiple narrative threads and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The result is a rich layered and wholly engaging addition to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt adult animation show continues its winning momentum in season 3. The hero confronts tremendous pressure on every fronts: training for a coming alien threat, guiding his young brother, and battling with his shadowy GDA. The season also includes some of the most brutally brutal fight scenes the series has ever produced.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological limits are constantly pushed. He must contend with foes stronger than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the moral weight of his decisions. Excellent storylines for key characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat anti-hero series came back with elevated importance within the new DC canon, and season 2 delivers on that count. While it effectively establishes groundwork for future DCU projects, it also presents a resonant and self-contained {