🔗 Share this article

How could you accomplish if you had boundless control? That's a fundamental question posed by the greatest science fiction as well as fantasy tales. Imagine if you gained superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a revolutionary substance? Or if each and every single human was wholly committed to your personal satisfaction? Would you use such influence for good, or would you give in to your darker instincts?

The television series ranked below all grapple with that very theme in distinct manners (aside from one notable exception). Presented here is our countdown of the 10 top seasons of sci-fi & fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after over six decades of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reinvented by fresh creative voices. This series offers a refreshing look at the hero's formative days, skillfully merging classic source material elements with influences from the broader Marvel universe to create something that feels simultaneously new and deeply compelling.

Rather than operating solo or Tony Stark as a mentor, this iteration of the hero forges a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, learning the signature mantra of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical show, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, fully came into its own in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing events of the first season, the narrative broadens considerably, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox who takes command of the narrative, sparking a series of ever-more explosive confrontations that inevitably culminate in elaborate song.

While it may lack a single breakout hit quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," that's because each element in this season being more complex. The action, personal development, and above all the score and songs are all elevated. The story advances the main storyline dramatically while providing plenty of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the legendary Netflix show, this series faced immense expectations. After significant production challenges, the resulting product demonstrates it was worth the effort. The plot follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, making him a target to foes both past and new threats in a slightly version of his well-known setting.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the gritty tone audiences cherished from the original incarnation. While the middle episodes explore some new territory, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting fans eagerly awaiting a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising 2025 gem, this show could be described as an animated Breaking Bad filtered through the humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by Joe Bennett and comedy Steve Hely, it tells the saga of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including unscrupulous pharmaceutical CEOs to federal agents.

Far from being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a classic paranoia thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the story delves into bigger questions about the mushroom's full capabilities. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit series of the iconic gaming series returned with a second batch of episodes that expanded its sprawling mystery and expanded its nuclear wasteland setting. While it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight adaptation of that game; rather, it continues to explore themes of control and autonomy.

It skillfully balances multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for justice to a knight's reckoning with the ideology of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply layered and wholly engaging chapter to the expanding wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and heartfelt adult animation series keeps its powerful momentum in season 3. The hero faces immense challenges on all fronts: preparing for a looming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his young sibling, and clashing with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The story also features some of the most brutally brutal action sequences the show has ever produced.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are constantly pushed. He must contend with opponents stronger than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his choices. Standout storylines for key cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent superhero show returned with increased significance within the revamped DC canon, and season 2 executes on both fronts. While it successfully lays foundations for upcoming DCU stories, it primarily tells a powerful and focused {