🔗 Share this article

How would you do with boundless control? This is a central inquiry explored by the finest science fiction as well as fantasy stories. What if you were granted extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary substance? What about every other human became dedicated to your satisfaction? Would you use that influence for good, or succumb to your own darker instincts?

The television series ranked herein all explore that very theme in distinct manners (aside from one key exception). Presented here is our countdown of the ten top installments of science fiction and fantasy television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than six decades of history, the web-slinger continues to be reinterpreted by new creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a novel perspective at the hero's formative days, cleverly blending classic source material story beats with ideas from other adaptations to craft something which is simultaneously fresh and deeply engaging.

Rather than operating alone or having Iron Man as a guide, this version of Peter Parker develops a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the signature lesson of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical show, which sprang from a crowdfunded short, fully found its footing in its sophomore season. Following the climactic revelations of the first season, the story broadens significantly, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox who seizes command of the situation, sparking a series 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 season one's "iconic tune," that's because everything in season 2 being increasingly complex. The action, personal arcs, and above all the music are collectively more sophisticated. The story advances the main plot dramatically while providing plenty of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again faced immense shoes to fill. After significant development challenges, the resulting show demonstrates to be worth the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to enemies from his past and new threats in a refreshed version of his well-known setting.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the gritty feeling fans loved from the original incarnation. Although the middle episodes explore some different territory, the first season concludes powerfully, setting fans keenly anticipating a second installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this show is essentially a Breaking Bad with a humor of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a nerdy fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical CEOs to federal authorities.

Far from being a parody, the narrative plays out with the grave intensity of a 1970s conspiracy film. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an unnerving score, the story explores deeper mysteries about the substance's full effects. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit series of the iconic video game franchise returned with a new season of stories that expanded its sprawling lore and expanded its nuclear wasteland world. While it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct adaptation of that title; instead, it further examine ideas of authority and freedom.

It expertly balances several storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's mission for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a deeply layered and utterly engaging addition to the ever-growing Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt adult animation show keeps its winning streak in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous challenges on every side: training for a looming alien threat, guiding his powered sibling, and battling with his shadowy GDA. The story also includes some of the most brutal fight scenes the show has ever delivered.

Mark's bodily and psychological endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with opponents more powerful than he is, the aftermath of his actions, and the moral burden of his choices. Standout arcs for key characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat superhero series came back with increased importance within the revamped DC universe, and it executes on that count. Although it successfully establishes groundwork for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it also presents a resonant and self-contained {