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How would you do with infinite control? That's a central question asked by the finest sci-fi and fantastical narratives. Imagine if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a miraculous substance? Or if each and every single person became dedicated to your happiness? Could you wield that power for the greater good, or succumb to your own baser instincts?

These shows ranked below each grapple with this theme in distinct ways (with a single notable exclusion). Presented here is a list of the ten top installments of science fiction and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite more than six decades of history, Spider-Man continues to be reimagined by fresh creative voices. This series delivers a refreshing perspective at the character's formative years, skillfully blending classic source material elements with influences from other adaptations to create something which is simultaneously fresh and profoundly engaging.

Rather than being solo or having Iron Man as a guide, this iteration of the hero forges a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the iconic mantra of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical show, which originated as a fan-funded pilot, truly found its footing in its sophomore installment. Following the game-changing events of season 1, the narrative expands considerably, following the ambitious media overlord Vox as he seizes control of the narrative, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic conflicts that inevitably culminate in elaborate song.

While it might not have a single breakout song on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," 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 plot forward while delivering plenty of weird, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, this series had immense shoes to fill. After significant development challenges, the final show proves to be worthy of the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to enemies from his past and new threats in a refreshed take of his well-known world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty feeling audiences loved from the prior incarnation. While the subsequent chapters explore some new narrative ground, the first season finishes on a strong note, leaving fans eagerly anticipating a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising 2025 highlight, this show could be described as an animated crime saga filtered through a sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, it tells the saga of a mild-mannered fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by forces including ruthless Big Pharma CEOs to government agents.

Far from being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the grave intensity of a 1970s conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie score, the plot delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's full capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series of the iconic video game series returned with a new season of stories that deepened its sprawling mystery and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it ventures toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a direct retelling of that title; instead, it continues to examine ideas of control and autonomy.

The show skillfully balances multiple narrative threads and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich detailed and wholly absorbing addition to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt animated show continues its powerful streak in season 3. The hero faces immense pressure on all side: training for a looming Viltrumite invasion, mentoring his young brother, and clashing with the secretive Global Defense Agency. The story once again includes some of the most brutal action sequences the show has yet produced.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must grapple with opponents stronger than himself, the consequences of his battles, and the moral burden of his choices. Excellent storylines for key characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat anti-hero series came back with elevated significance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on both fronts. While it effectively establishes foundations for future DCU stories, it also presents a powerful and self-contained {