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How would you do with infinite power? This is the core question posed by all best science fiction and fantastical narratives. Imagine if you gained extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a life-altering drug? What about each and every other person was dedicated to your happiness? Could you use such power for the greater good, or give in to your baser instincts?

These shows ranked herein each confront that very dilemma in unique manners (with a single key exclusion). Detailed below is our ranking of the ten best installments of sci-fi and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after over 60 years of stories, the web-slinger is constantly reinterpreted by new creative voices. This series delivers a novel look at the character's early years, cleverly blending classic comic story beats with ideas from other adaptations to create something that feels simultaneously new and deeply compelling.

Instead of operating solo or Iron Man as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a complex partnership with the future Green Goblin, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, learning the signature mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical show, which sprang from a fan-funded pilot, truly came into its own in its sophomore installment. Following the climactic revelations of season 1, the story broadens significantly, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox who seizes control of the narrative, sparking a series of ever-more explosive confrontations that naturally culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

While it might not have a one viral song quite like season one's "iconic tune," this is due to everything in season 2 being more interwoven. The fight sequences, personal development, and especially the music are collectively elevated. The story moves the overarching plot forward while delivering plenty of bizarre, wild, and simply entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, this series had immense shoes to fill. After significant development challenges, the resulting show demonstrates to be worth the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to foes both history and new threats in a refreshed take of his familiar world.

The first episode is explosive, evoking the intense tone fans cherished from the prior series. While the middle episodes explore some different narrative ground, the first season concludes on a strong note, setting viewers keenly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this series could be described as an animated Breaking Bad with the sensibility of King of the Hill. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a mild-mannered mycologist who discovers a curative mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical executives to government agents.

Despite being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the grave intensity of a 1970s paranoia film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot delves into deeper mysteries about the mushroom's true effects. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed series of the popular video game series came back with a second batch of stories that deepened its epic lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. Although it ventures toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct adaptation of that title; rather, it continues to examine ideas of control and freedom.

It skillfully juggles multiple narrative threads and points of view, from Lucy's mission for justice to a knight's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich detailed and utterly engaging chapter to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt adult animation series keeps its winning momentum in its third outing. Mark Grayson faces immense challenges on all fronts: preparing for a looming Viltrumite threat, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with the shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story once again features some of the most brutally brutal action scenes the series has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and emotional endurance are constantly pushed. He must contend with foes stronger than himself, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical burden of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent anti-hero show came back with increased significance within the new DC universe, and season 2 executes on that count. Although it successfully establishes groundwork for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it primarily presents a resonant and self-contained {