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What could you accomplish if you had unlimited power? This is a core question posed by the best sci-fi and fantastical narratives. Imagine if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or discovered a revolutionary drug? What about every single person was wholly committed to your personal happiness? Could you wield that influence for good, or give in to your baser instincts?

The television series ranked below each explore that very dilemma in various ways (aside from a single notable exception). Detailed here is a list of the ten best installments of science fiction and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after over six decades of history, Spider-Man is constantly reimagined by fresh talent. This series delivers a refreshing look at the character's formative days, skillfully combining classic source material elements with influences from the broader Marvel universe to create something that feels both fresh and profoundly compelling.

Instead of operating alone or having Tony Stark as a guide, this version of the hero develops a complex partnership with the future Green Goblin, who here is still just the head of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter becomes his own man, learning the iconic mantra of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical series, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, fully found its footing in its second installment. Following the climactic revelations of the first season, the narrative expands considerably, following the scheming media overlord Vox who seizes control of the situation, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic confrontations that inevitably culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

Although it might not have a single breakout hit quite like the first season's "Loser, Baby," that's because everything in this season being more complex. The fight sequences, personal development, and above all the music are collectively elevated. The season advances the overarching storyline forward while providing plenty of weird, wild, and ultimately fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, this series had immense expectations. After well-documented development issues, the final show proves it was worthy of the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to enemies from his past and present in a refreshed version of his familiar setting.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, evoking the intense tone audiences cherished from the prior incarnation. While the subsequent chapters venture into certain new territory, the season finishes powerfully, setting viewers keenly awaiting a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this series could be described as a crime saga filtered through the humor of a suburban satire. Helmed by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to government agents.

Despite being a spoof, the narrative unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a classic paranoia film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the plot explores bigger mysteries about the substance's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed adaptation of the popular video game series came back with a new season of episodes that expanded its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. While it travels toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight retelling of that game; rather, it continues to explore themes of control and freedom.

It skillfully balances several narrative threads and perspectives, from Lucy's quest for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a rich layered and wholly absorbing chapter to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt animated show continues its powerful streak in season 3. Mark Grayson confronts tremendous challenges on all fronts: preparing for a coming alien threat, mentoring his young brother, and battling with the shadowy GDA. The story once again includes some of the most brutally brutal action scenes the series has yet delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological limits are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with foes more powerful than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical burden of his choices. Standout arcs for key cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat superhero show returned with elevated importance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on that fronts. While it successfully lays foundations for upcoming cinematic universe stories, it primarily presents a resonant and self-contained {