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How would you do if you had unlimited control? This is a core inquiry explored by all best science fiction and fantastical tales. Imagine if you possessed extraordinary powers? Or discovered a miraculous drug? Or if each and every other human was dedicated to your personal satisfaction? Could you use that influence for good, or would you give in to your own baser impulses?

These shows featured herein all grapple with this concept in distinct ways (with one notable exclusion). Detailed here is our list of the 10 top installments of science fiction & fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after over 60 years of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reinterpreted by new creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a novel look at the character's formative years, skillfully combining classic source material story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is both fresh and deeply compelling.

Instead of operating alone or having Iron Man as a guide, this iteration of the hero develops a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is still just the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter becomes a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical show, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully hit its stride in its sophomore season. Building on the game-changing events of season 1, the narrative broadens significantly, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox as he seizes control of the situation, igniting a chain of ever-more dramatic confrontations that inevitably culminate in elaborate song.

While it may lack a one breakout song on the level of the first season's "Loser, Baby," this is due to everything in season 2 being increasingly complex. The fight sequences, character development, and above all the score and songs are all more sophisticated. The season advances the overarching storyline forward while delivering no shortage of bizarre, unhinged, and simply fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, this series faced enormous shoes to fill. After significant development issues, the resulting show demonstrates to be worth the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to enemies both past and present in a refreshed take of his familiar world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, capturing the gritty feeling fans loved from the prior series. Although the subsequent chapters venture into some new territory, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting viewers eagerly awaiting a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected 2025 highlight, this show could be described as an animated Breaking Bad with a sensibility of King of the Hill. Helmed by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, it tells the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma CEOs to government authorities.

Despite being a parody, the narrative plays out with the grave atmosphere of a classic paranoia film. Enhanced by trippy visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the story delves into bigger questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and completely gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit adaptation of the popular gaming series returned with a second batch of stories that expanded its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct adaptation of that game; rather, it further explore themes of control and autonomy.

The show skillfully juggles several narrative threads and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and wholly engaging addition to the expanding wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and heartfelt animated show keeps its winning streak in its third outing. Mark Grayson confronts tremendous pressure on every side: preparing for a coming alien threat, guiding his young sibling, and clashing with his secretive GDA. The season once again includes some of the most brutally brutal action sequences the show has ever delivered.

Mark's bodily and psychological limits are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with foes more powerful than he is, the consequences of his battles, and the moral weight of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent anti-hero series came back with elevated importance within the revamped DC universe, and it executes on that count. While it effectively establishes foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it primarily tells a powerful and self-contained {