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How would you do if you had unlimited power? That's a core question asked by the greatest science fiction as well as fantastical tales. Imagine if you were granted superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a miraculous substance? What about each and every other human was dedicated to your satisfaction? Could you use that influence for the greater good, or succumb to your own darker impulses?

The shows listed herein each explore that very theme in distinct ways (aside from one notable exclusion). Detailed here is a ranking of the 10 most outstanding installments of sci-fi and fantasy television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite more than six decades of history, Spider-Man is constantly reinterpreted by new creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a novel look at the character's formative days, skillfully merging classic comic story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to create something that feels both fresh and deeply compelling.

Rather than being solo or Tony Stark as a mentor, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a evolving relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes a true hero, internalizing the iconic lesson of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical series, which originated as a crowdfunded short, truly hit its stride in its sophomore season. Following the climactic events of season 1, the story broadens significantly, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox who seizes command of the situation, igniting a series of increasingly explosive confrontations that naturally culminate in show-stopping song.

Although it may lack a single viral hit quite like season one's "iconic tune," that's because everything in season 2 being increasingly complex. The fight sequences, character development, and above all the score and songs are all elevated. The season advances the main storyline dramatically while providing no shortage of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again faced immense expectations. After well-documented production issues, the final show demonstrates to be worth the wait. The plot centers on Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to foes from his history and new threats in a slightly take of his well-known world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty tone fans loved from the original series. While the middle chapters explore certain new territory, the season concludes powerfully, leaving fans keenly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's highlight, this show is essentially a Breaking Bad with a humor of King of the Hill. Created by Joe Bennett and comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the saga of a nerdy mycologist who finds a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself pursued by forces including ruthless Big Pharma executives to government authorities.

Despite being a spoof, the show unfolds with the grave intensity of a classic conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an eerie score, the plot delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's full capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit series based on the iconic video game franchise came back with a new season of stories that deepened its epic lore and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. Although it ventures in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct retelling of that game; rather, it further explore ideas of control and autonomy.

It skillfully balances multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for justice to Maximus's struggle with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a deeply layered and wholly engaging chapter to the ever-growing Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and emotionally charged adult animation show continues its powerful momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces immense challenges on all fronts: training for a coming Viltrumite threat, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season also features some of the most brutally intense action sequences the show has yet delivered.

The protagonist's physical and emotional limits are constantly pushed. He must grapple with opponents stronger than himself, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Standout arcs for key characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat superhero show came back with elevated importance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 delivers on that fronts. While it successfully establishes groundwork for future cinematic universe stories, it also presents a powerful and self-contained {