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What could you accomplish if you had infinite power? This is a fundamental question asked by all best sci-fi and fantasy stories. Imagine if you gained extraordinary powers? Perhaps stumbled upon a revolutionary drug? What about each and every other human became dedicated to your satisfaction? Could you wield that influence for the greater good, or succumb to your darker impulses?

The shows listed herein all explore this concept in distinct ways (with one key exclusion). Presented here is our list of the ten top installments of sci-fi & fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite more than six decades of history, the web-slinger remains reinterpreted by fresh talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man offers a refreshing look at the hero's early years, skillfully combining classic source material elements with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something that feels both fresh and deeply engaging.

Rather than operating solo or Tony Stark as a mentor, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a complex partnership with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is still just the head 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 adult musical series, which sprang from a fan-funded short, truly came into its own in its sophomore season. Building on the game-changing revelations of season 1, the story expands considerably, following the ambitious media overlord Vox who seizes control of the narrative, igniting a chain of ever-more dramatic confrontations that inevitably end in show-stopping song.

While it might not have a one breakout hit on the level of the first season's "Loser, Baby," that's because each element in season 2 being more ambitious. The action, personal development, and especially the music are all elevated. The story advances the overarching plot forward while delivering no shortage of bizarre, wild, and simply entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, this series had enormous expectations. Despite well-documented production challenges, the final show demonstrates it was worthy of the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to foes both past and present in a refreshed version of his well-known world.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the intense tone fans loved from the original series. While the middle episodes venture into certain new territory, the season concludes on a strong note, setting fans keenly anticipating a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected 2025 highlight, this show is essentially an animated crime saga with a sensibility of King of the Hill. Helmed by Joe Bennett alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series follows the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical CEOs to federal agents.

Far from being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia thriller. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the plot delves into deeper questions about the substance's true capabilities. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed series of the popular video game franchise came back with a second batch of stories that expanded its epic lore and expanded its nuclear wasteland world. Although it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct retelling of that game; instead, it further explore ideas of control and freedom.

It skillfully juggles multiple storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's mission for justice to a knight's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and utterly engaging chapter to the expanding wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and emotionally charged adult animation show keeps its powerful streak in season 3. The hero faces immense pressure on all side: training for a looming alien invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and clashing with the secretive Global Defense Agency. The story once again features some of the most intense fight scenes the series has ever produced.

Mark's physical and emotional limits are repeatedly tested. He must contend with foes stronger than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the moral weight of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent anti-hero show came back with elevated importance within the new DC universe, and season 2 delivers on that fronts. Although it effectively establishes foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it primarily presents a resonant and self-contained {