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How would you do with infinite power? This is a fundamental question explored by the best science fiction and fantasy narratives. What if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary drug? Or if each and every other human became dedicated to your personal happiness? Would you use such power for the greater good, or give in to your darker instincts?

The shows featured herein each confront that very concept in unique manners (aside from one notable exception). Detailed here is a list of the ten best installments of science fiction and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after over 60 years of history, Spider-Man is constantly reinterpreted by fresh creative voices. This series presents a novel perspective at the character's early years, skillfully merging classic comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to craft something which is both new and deeply compelling.

Instead of being alone or Iron Man as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a evolving relationship with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter becomes a true hero, internalizing the iconic lesson of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical-comedy show, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, fully came into its own in its second installment. Building on the climactic revelations of season 1, the narrative broadens significantly, centering on the ambitious media overlord Vox as he seizes command of the narrative, sparking a chain of increasingly dramatic conflicts that naturally end in elaborate song.

While it might not have a one breakout song on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in this season being more complex. The action, personal development, and above all the score and songs are collectively elevated. The season advances the overarching storyline dramatically while providing plenty of bizarre, wild, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again had immense shoes to fill. Despite well-documented production issues, the final show demonstrates it was worthy of the wait. The plot centers on Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him vulnerable to enemies both past and present in a refreshed version of his familiar world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty feeling fans cherished from the original series. While the subsequent episodes explore certain new territory, the season finishes on a strong note, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected 2025 gem, this show is essentially an animated Breaking Bad filtered through a sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a nerdy mycologist who finds a curative mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including unscrupulous pharmaceutical CEOs to federal agents.

Far from being a parody, the show plays out with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia film. Accentuated by trippy animation and an eerie score, the story delves into deeper questions about the substance's true effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed adaptation of the popular video game series returned with a second batch of episodes that deepened its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. While it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is not a direct adaptation of that game; instead, it continues to explore themes of authority and autonomy.

The show expertly balances multiple storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's mission for justice to Maximus's reckoning with the ideology of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and wholly absorbing addition to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and heartfelt animated show continues its winning momentum in season 3. The hero faces immense challenges on all fronts: preparing for a looming alien invasion, guiding his young sibling, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story also features some of the most brutal fight sequences the series has yet delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with opponents stronger than he is, the consequences of his battles, and the moral burden of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent anti-hero show came back with elevated significance within the new DC canon, and season 2 executes on that fronts. While it successfully establishes foundations for upcoming DCU stories, it primarily presents a powerful and focused {