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What could you accomplish with unlimited ability? That's a central question asked by all greatest sci-fi as well as fantasy stories. What if you were granted superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a life-altering substance? What about every single human became dedicated to your personal satisfaction? Could you wield such power for good, or would you give in to your baser instincts?

These shows ranked herein each explore this dilemma in various manners (aside from one notable exclusion). Detailed here is our countdown of the 10 top installments of sci-fi and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over six decades of stories, the web-slinger remains reinterpreted by fresh talent. This series offers a refreshing look at the hero's early years, cleverly combining essential comic elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to create something which is simultaneously new and deeply engaging.

Rather than operating solo or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker forges a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes a true hero, learning the iconic mantra of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy show, which originated as a fan-funded pilot, truly hit its stride in its second installment. Following the game-changing revelations of season 1, the narrative broadens considerably, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he takes command of the situation, sparking a series of increasingly explosive conflicts that naturally culminate in elaborate song.

Although it might not have a single breakout song quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in this season being more ambitious. The fight sequences, personal development, and above all the music are all more sophisticated. The story moves the overarching storyline dramatically while delivering plenty of weird, unhinged, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again had enormous shoes to fill. After well-documented development issues, the resulting product demonstrates it was worth the wait. The plot centers on Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him a target to enemies from his past and new threats in a refreshed take of his familiar setting.

The first episode is explosive, evoking the intense tone audiences cherished from the prior incarnation. While the subsequent chapters explore some different narrative ground, the first season concludes on a strong note, setting viewers eagerly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected 2025 highlight, this series could be described as a crime saga with the sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma CEOs to government authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the show unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a classic paranoia film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie score, the plot explores deeper questions about the mushroom's true effects. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series of the popular gaming franchise returned with a second season of stories that expanded its epic mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. Although it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct adaptation of that title; instead, it continues to explore ideas of control and freedom.

It expertly balances several storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's mission for answers to a knight's struggle with the ideology of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and utterly engaging addition to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt animated show keeps its powerful momentum in season 3. The hero confronts tremendous challenges on all fronts: preparing for a coming Viltrumite threat, mentoring his powered brother, and clashing with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story once again includes some of the most intense fight scenes the series has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and emotional endurance are constantly tested. He must contend with foes more powerful than he is, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical burden of his choices. Excellent arcs for supporting characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent superhero series returned with elevated significance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on both fronts. While it effectively lays groundwork for future cinematic universe stories, it primarily tells a powerful and self-contained {