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What would you do if you had boundless control? That's a fundamental inquiry explored by the finest sci-fi and fantasy stories. What if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a miraculous drug? Or if every single person was wholly committed to your happiness? Would you use that power for good, or give in to your own darker instincts?

These shows ranked below all explore that very concept in various ways (with one key exception). Presented here is our ranking of the 10 best installments of sci-fi & fantasy television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over 60 years of history, Spider-Man continues to be reimagined by new talent. This series delivers a novel look at the hero's formative days, cleverly combining essential source material elements with influences from other adaptations to create something that feels both new and profoundly engaging.

Instead of being alone or Tony Stark as a guide, this version of Peter Parker develops a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic lesson of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy series, which sprang from a fan-funded short, fully came into its own in its second installment. Following the game-changing revelations of the first season, the story broadens considerably, centering on the ambitious media overlord Vox who takes control of the situation, igniting a series of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally end in elaborate musical numbers.

While it may lack a one viral hit quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in this season being more complex. The fight sequences, character arcs, and above all the music are collectively elevated. The season moves the overarching storyline dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, unhinged, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix series, this series faced immense shoes to fill. Despite significant production challenges, the resulting show proves it was worthy of the wait. The story centers on Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, making him vulnerable to foes both history and new threats in a slightly version of his familiar setting.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the intense tone audiences cherished from the original incarnation. Although the middle chapters venture into certain new territory, the first season finishes powerfully, leaving fans eagerly anticipating a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's highlight, this series is essentially an animated Breaking Bad filtered through the humor of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the saga of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to federal authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the narrative unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a classic paranoia thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an eerie score, the plot explores bigger mysteries about the substance's true effects. It's a smart, beautifully animated, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the popular video game series came back with a second batch of stories that expanded its sprawling lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. Although it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct retelling of that title; instead, it further explore themes of control and freedom.

The show skillfully balances multiple storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the ideology of the his faction. The result is a deeply detailed and wholly engaging addition to the expanding Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt adult animation series continues its powerful momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces immense challenges on every fronts: training for a coming alien invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and clashing with the secretive GDA. The season once again features some of the most intense action scenes the show has yet delivered.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the consequences of his battles, and the moral burden of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat anti-hero series came back with elevated importance within the revamped DC canon, and it delivers on both count. Although it successfully lays foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it also tells a resonant and focused {