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What could you accomplish with boundless control? That's a central question asked by all finest science fiction as well as fantasy stories. What if you possessed superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a miraculous substance? What about every other person became wholly committed to your satisfaction? Could you use that influence for good, or succumb to your darker instincts?

The shows listed below all explore that very theme in various ways (aside from one key exception). Outlined here is our ranking of the 10 most outstanding seasons of science fiction & fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than six decades of history, Spider-Man continues to be reinvented by new creative voices. This series presents a novel perspective at the hero's formative days, skillfully merging essential source material story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is both new and deeply engaging.

Rather than being solo or having Iron Man as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical-comedy series, which sprang from a crowdfunded short, truly came into its own in its sophomore installment. Following the game-changing revelations of season 1, the narrative expands considerably, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox who seizes command of the narrative, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic confrontations that inevitably culminate in elaborate musical numbers.

While it may lack a one breakout hit on the level of season one's "iconic tune," this is due to each element in season 2 being more complex. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and especially the music are all more sophisticated. The season advances the main storyline dramatically while delivering no shortage of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, this series faced enormous expectations. Despite significant development challenges, the resulting show proves it was worthy of the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to foes from his history and new threats in a slightly version of his well-known world.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the gritty tone fans cherished from the original series. Although the middle episodes explore certain new narrative ground, the season concludes powerfully, leaving fans keenly awaiting a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's gem, this series could be described as an animated crime saga filtered through a sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who finds a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to federal authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the show unfolds with the grave intensity of a classic conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by trippy animation and an unnerving score, the plot explores bigger mysteries about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the popular gaming series came back with a second season of episodes that deepened its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is not a direct adaptation of that title; rather, it continues to examine ideas of authority and freedom.

The show skillfully juggles 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 result is a rich layered and wholly engaging addition to the expanding Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt animated series keeps its winning momentum in its third outing. Mark Grayson confronts immense pressure on every fronts: preparing for a looming alien threat, mentoring his young brother, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story once again includes some of the most brutal action scenes the series has yet delivered.

The protagonist's physical and psychological limits are repeatedly tested. He must contend with opponents more powerful than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the moral burden of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat superhero series came back with elevated significance within the new DC universe, and it executes on both fronts. Although it effectively establishes groundwork for future DCU stories, it primarily tells a resonant and focused {