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What would you do with infinite control? That's the fundamental question posed by the best science fiction and fantastical narratives. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Or discovered a life-altering substance? Or if each and every single human was dedicated to your satisfaction? Would you use that influence for good, or would you succumb to your darker impulses?

These shows listed herein all explore this theme in unique ways (with a single key exception). Outlined here is a ranking of the ten most outstanding installments of science fiction & fantastical television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than six decades of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reinterpreted by new talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man presents a refreshing perspective at the hero's formative years, skillfully blending classic comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to create something that feels simultaneously new and deeply engaging.

Instead of operating alone or having 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. Across their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical show, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, fully came into its own in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing events of season 1, the story broadens considerably, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he takes command of the narrative, igniting a chain of increasingly explosive conflicts that naturally culminate in show-stopping song.

While it may lack a single breakout hit on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in season 2 being increasingly complex. The fight sequences, character arcs, and above all the score and songs are collectively elevated. The season moves the main plot forward while providing no shortage of weird, wild, and simply fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the acclaimed Netflix show, this series had enormous shoes to fill. Despite well-documented development challenges, the final show proves to be worthy of the wait. The story centers on Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him vulnerable to foes both history and present in a slightly take of his familiar setting.

The premiere is explosive, capturing the gritty tone fans cherished from the prior series. Although the middle episodes venture into certain different narrative ground, the season concludes powerfully, setting fans keenly anticipating a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this show is essentially a Breaking Bad filtered through the humor of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a curative mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by everyone from unscrupulous Big Pharma executives to government authorities.

Far from being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy thriller. Accentuated by hallucinogenic visuals and an unnerving score, the plot explores bigger mysteries about the substance's full capabilities. It's a smart, beautifully animated, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit series based on the popular gaming series returned with a second season of stories that expanded its epic mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland setting. Although it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is not a straight adaptation of that title; instead, it further examine ideas of authority and autonomy.

It skillfully balances multiple narrative threads and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and wholly engaging chapter to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and heartfelt adult animation series keeps its winning momentum in its third outing. Mark Grayson faces immense pressure on all fronts: training for a coming Viltrumite threat, guiding his young brother, and clashing with the secretive GDA. The story once again includes some of the most brutally intense action sequences the show has yet produced.

The protagonist's physical and emotional endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with opponents stronger than he is, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical burden of his decisions. Excellent storylines for supporting cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent superhero series came back with elevated significance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 executes on both count. Although it effectively lays groundwork for upcoming cinematic universe stories, it also presents a resonant and self-contained {