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How would you do with infinite ability? That's the fundamental inquiry posed by all greatest sci-fi and fantastical tales. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Or discovered a miraculous substance? Or if every other human was wholly committed to your personal happiness? Could you use such influence for good, or would you give in to your baser instincts?

The shows listed below each confront that very dilemma in unique ways (with one key exclusion). Presented here is our ranking of the ten top installments of sci-fi & fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite more than six decades of history, the web-slinger remains reinvented by new talent. This series offers a novel look at the hero's early days, cleverly blending classic source material elements with influences from other adaptations to craft something that feels simultaneously fresh and profoundly engaging.

Instead of operating solo or Tony Stark as a guide, this version of the hero develops a evolving relationship with the future Green Goblin, who here is still just the head of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, learning the signature lesson of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical-comedy show, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully came into its own in its sophomore season. Building on the climactic events of the first season, the narrative expands significantly, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox who seizes command of the situation, sparking a chain of ever-more explosive confrontations that naturally culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

Although it might not have a one viral hit on the level of season one's "iconic tune," this is due to everything in season 2 being more interwoven. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are collectively elevated. The season moves the overarching plot forward while delivering plenty of bizarre, unhinged, and simply entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the acclaimed Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again faced immense expectations. After significant production issues, the final product proves it was worth the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him vulnerable to foes from his past and present in a slightly take of his familiar world.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty feeling audiences loved from the prior incarnation. While the subsequent chapters explore certain different territory, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting viewers eagerly awaiting a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's gem, this show is essentially a Breaking Bad with a sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who finds a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma executives to government authorities.

Despite being a spoof, the show unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed series based on the iconic gaming series came back with a new batch of stories that deepened its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. Although it ventures in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct adaptation of that game; rather, it further explore themes of authority and freedom.

It expertly juggles multiple narrative threads and points of view, from Lucy's quest for justice to a knight's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a rich detailed and wholly engaging addition to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and emotionally charged animated show continues its powerful momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous challenges on all fronts: training for a looming alien invasion, mentoring his young brother, and clashing with the shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season once again features some of the most brutally brutal action sequences the series has ever produced.

Mark's physical and emotional limits are constantly tested. He must grapple with foes more powerful than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical weight of his choices. Standout storylines for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent anti-hero series returned with increased significance within the new DC universe, and season 2 delivers on both fronts. While it effectively establishes foundations for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it primarily presents a resonant and self-contained {