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How could you accomplish with boundless power? This is the fundamental inquiry posed by the greatest science fiction as well as fantastical narratives. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a life-altering drug? What about every other person was dedicated to your personal happiness? Would you wield that influence for good, or succumb to your darker instincts?

The television series ranked herein each grapple with that very dilemma in various ways (with a single notable exception). Outlined here is our countdown of the 10 best installments of science fiction and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite over six decades of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reimagined by fresh creative voices. This series presents a novel look at the hero's early years, skillfully merging essential comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to create something that feels both fresh and deeply engaging.

Rather than being solo or having Iron Man as a guide, this version of the hero forges a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who in this story is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the signature lesson of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, truly hit its stride in its sophomore season. Following the game-changing revelations of the first season, the narrative broadens considerably, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he seizes command of the situation, sparking a chain of ever-more explosive conflicts that inevitably end in show-stopping song.

While it may lack a single viral hit quite like season one's "iconic tune," this is due to everything in season 2 being more interwoven. The fight sequences, character arcs, and especially the music are collectively elevated. The story advances the overarching storyline forward while providing no shortage of bizarre, wild, and simply entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again faced enormous expectations. Despite significant development issues, the final show demonstrates it was worth the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock after 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 world.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the intense tone fans loved from the original series. Although the subsequent episodes explore certain different narrative ground, the season finishes powerfully, setting fans keenly anticipating a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected this year's highlight, this show could be described as an animated Breaking Bad with a sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a nerdy mycologist who finds a curative fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma CEOs to federal agents.

Despite being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an eerie score, the plot explores deeper questions about the mushroom's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and completely compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the popular gaming franchise came back with a second batch of stories that expanded its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight retelling of that game; rather, it further explore ideas of authority and freedom.

The show skillfully balances multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for justice to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The result is a deeply detailed and wholly engaging addition to the expanding wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt adult animation show keeps its powerful momentum in its third outing. Mark Grayson confronts tremendous challenges on every side: training for a coming alien invasion, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with the shadowy GDA. The season also features some of the most brutally intense fight scenes the series has ever produced.

The protagonist's physical and emotional endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with opponents stronger than he is, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical weight of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent superhero show came back with increased significance within the revamped DC universe, and it delivers on that fronts. Although it effectively establishes groundwork for future DCU stories, it also tells a powerful and focused {