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How would you do with boundless ability? That's a core question explored by the finest sci-fi as well as fantasy stories. Imagine if you gained extraordinary powers? Or stumbled upon a miraculous drug? Or if every single person became wholly committed to your personal happiness? Could you wield that power for good, or succumb to your own baser impulses?

These series ranked below all explore that very theme in distinct ways (aside from one notable exclusion). Outlined here is our ranking of the ten best installments of sci-fi & fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over 60 years of stories, Spider-Man continues to be reinterpreted by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a refreshing look at the character's formative years, cleverly combining classic comic elements with ideas from other adaptations to create something that feels both new and deeply compelling.

Rather than being solo or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of the hero forges a evolving relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, learning the signature lesson of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical show, which sprang from a fan-funded short, fully came into its own in its second installment. Following the climactic events of the first season, the story broadens significantly, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox who takes control of the narrative, sparking a chain of increasingly dramatic confrontations that inevitably culminate in show-stopping song.

While it might not have a one viral song on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in season 2 being increasingly interwoven. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are collectively elevated. The season advances the overarching plot forward while providing plenty of weird, wild, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, this series had enormous shoes to fill. Despite significant production challenges, the final product demonstrates it was worthy of the effort. The story centers on Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, making him a target to foes both history and new threats in a refreshed version of his well-known world.

The first episode is explosive, evoking the gritty tone audiences loved from the prior series. Although the middle episodes venture into some new narrative ground, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting viewers eagerly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

A surprising this year's highlight, this series could be described as a Breaking Bad with the humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, it follows the story of a nerdy mycologist who finds a curative mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical executives to government authorities.

Despite being a parody, the show unfolds with the serious intensity of a classic conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story delves into bigger questions about the mushroom's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit series based on the iconic gaming series came back with a second season of episodes that expanded its epic mystery and expanded its post-apocalyptic world. While it ventures toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct retelling of that game; rather, it further examine themes of control and freedom.

The show skillfully juggles several storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a rich detailed and wholly engaging addition to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and emotionally charged adult animation series continues its winning momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous challenges on every fronts: preparing for a looming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his powered brother, and clashing with the shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story also features some of the most brutally brutal action sequences the series has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological endurance are constantly tested. He must contend with foes stronger than himself, the aftermath of his actions, and the moral weight of his decisions. Standout storylines for key cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent anti-hero show returned with increased significance within the new DC canon, and season 2 executes on both count. Although it successfully lays groundwork for upcoming DCU stories, it also tells a resonant and self-contained {