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How would you do if you had infinite ability? This is a fundamental question explored by the best sci-fi as well as fantasy narratives. Imagine if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a life-altering drug? Or if every single person was wholly committed to your personal satisfaction? Could you use such influence for good, or would you give in to your baser impulses?

These series featured herein all explore this theme in unique ways (with a single notable exclusion). Detailed here is our list of the ten best installments of sci-fi & fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than 60 years of stories, Spider-Man continues to be reinvented by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a novel perspective at the hero's early days, cleverly combining essential source material elements with influences from other adaptations to craft something that feels both new and deeply compelling.

Instead of being alone or having Tony Stark as a guide, this version of Peter Parker forges a evolving partnership with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is still just the head of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter becomes 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 originated as a fan-funded pilot, fully found its footing in its sophomore installment. Following the climactic events of season 1, the story broadens considerably, following the scheming media overlord Vox as he seizes command of the situation, sparking a chain of ever-more explosive confrontations that naturally culminate in elaborate song.

While it may lack a single viral song on the level of season one's "iconic tune," this is due to everything in this season being more complex. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are all elevated. The story advances the overarching storyline forward while providing plenty of weird, wild, and simply fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again had immense expectations. Despite well-documented production challenges, the resulting product demonstrates to be worthy of the wait. The story centers on Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to enemies from his history and new threats in a slightly version of his familiar setting.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the gritty feeling audiences cherished from the original incarnation. Although the middle chapters venture into some different territory, the first season concludes on a strong note, setting fans keenly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected 2025 gem, this series could be described as an animated crime saga with the humor of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a curative mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by forces including unscrupulous Big Pharma executives to government agents.

Far from being a spoof, the show unfolds with the grave intensity of a 1970s paranoia thriller. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an eerie score, the story delves into bigger mysteries about the substance's full capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the iconic video game series came back with a new batch of stories that deepened its epic mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. While it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight retelling of that game; instead, it continues to explore themes of authority and freedom.

It expertly juggles multiple storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's mission for answers to a knight's reckoning with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a deeply layered and wholly absorbing addition to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and heartfelt animated show keeps its powerful momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous pressure on all side: training for a coming alien threat, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with his secretive GDA. The story also features some of the most brutally intense fight sequences the series has yet delivered.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are constantly tested. He must contend with foes more powerful than himself, the consequences of his battles, and the ethical burden of his choices. Excellent storylines for supporting characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat superhero show returned with elevated significance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on that count. Although it successfully establishes foundations for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it primarily presents a powerful and self-contained {