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What could you accomplish if you had infinite control? That's a core inquiry explored by all best sci-fi and fantastical stories. What if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a life-altering substance? What about every single human became dedicated to your happiness? Would you use such power for good, or give in to your baser instincts?

These series listed below each grapple with this concept in unique ways (aside from a single key exception). Presented here is our list of the 10 best installments of sci-fi and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after over 60 years of history, the web-slinger is constantly reinterpreted by new talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a refreshing perspective at the hero's early years, skillfully merging essential comic elements with ideas from other adaptations to craft something that feels simultaneously fresh and profoundly engaging.

Rather than being alone or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of the hero develops a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the signature mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical show, which originated as a crowdfunded short, fully hit its stride in its second season. Building on the climactic revelations of season 1, the narrative broadens considerably, following the scheming media overlord Vox as he seizes control of the situation, sparking a chain of increasingly explosive conflicts that naturally culminate in show-stopping song.

While it may lack a one breakout song on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," that's because everything in season 2 being more ambitious. The action, character arcs, and above all the score and songs are all more sophisticated. The season moves the main plot forward while providing plenty of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again faced enormous expectations. After significant production challenges, the final show demonstrates to be worth the effort. The plot follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to enemies both history and new threats in a slightly take of his familiar world.

The first episode is explosive, evoking the gritty tone audiences cherished from the original series. Although the middle chapters venture into certain different narrative ground, the season finishes powerfully, setting fans eagerly anticipating a second installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's gem, this series is essentially an animated Breaking Bad filtered through a humor of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett and writer Steve Hely, it tells the saga of a nerdy fungi expert who discovers a curative fungus and soon finds himself hunted by forces including unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to federal agents.

Far from being a parody, the show plays out with the grave atmosphere of a classic conspiracy film. Enhanced by trippy visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's true effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit adaptation based on the iconic gaming franchise came back with a second season of stories that deepened its epic lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. Although it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight retelling of that game; instead, it further examine ideas of authority and autonomy.

The show skillfully balances several storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The result is a rich layered and utterly absorbing addition to the expanding wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt adult animation series keeps its winning streak in season 3. Mark Grayson confronts immense pressure on every side: preparing for a looming alien threat, guiding his powered sibling, and clashing with the shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story also features some of the most brutally intense fight sequences the show has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and emotional limits are repeatedly tested. He must grapple with opponents stronger than he is, the consequences of his battles, and the moral weight of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat anti-hero series returned with increased importance within the revamped DC canon, and it delivers on both fronts. While it effectively lays foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it also tells a resonant and focused {