🔗 Share this article

How would you do if you had unlimited control? That's the fundamental question explored by the greatest science fiction and fantastical tales. Imagine if you were granted superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a miraculous substance? What about each and every single human was wholly committed to your personal satisfaction? Could you wield such power for good, or would you give in to your own baser instincts?

The series ranked herein all grapple with that very dilemma in various ways (with one key exception). Outlined here is a ranking of the ten top installments of sci-fi and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after more than six decades of history, the web-slinger is constantly reinvented by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man presents a novel perspective at the character's formative years, skillfully merging essential source material story beats with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to create something which is both fresh and profoundly compelling.

Instead of operating alone or Tony Stark as a guide, this version of the hero develops a evolving relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical-comedy show, which originated as a fan-funded pilot, truly came into its own in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing revelations of the first season, the narrative expands significantly, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox as he takes control of the narrative, igniting a series of ever-more explosive conflicts that inevitably culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

While it might not have a single viral song quite like the first season's "iconic tune," that's because each element in this season being increasingly complex. The action, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are collectively elevated. The story moves the overarching plot forward while providing no shortage of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again faced immense expectations. After well-documented development challenges, the final product demonstrates it was worth the effort. The story centers on Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him vulnerable to enemies both history and new threats in a refreshed version of his well-known setting.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense tone audiences cherished from the original incarnation. While the subsequent episodes venture into certain different territory, the first season finishes on a strong note, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this series could be described as an animated Breaking Bad with a sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by Joe Bennett and writer Steve Hely, the series follows the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to federal authorities.

Far from being a parody, the narrative plays out with the grave intensity of a 1970s paranoia film. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving score, the plot delves into bigger mysteries about the substance's true effects. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit adaptation of the iconic gaming franchise came back with a second season of episodes that expanded its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. Although it ventures toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is far from a direct adaptation of that title; rather, it continues to examine themes of control and freedom.

It skillfully balances several narrative threads and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for justice to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich detailed and wholly absorbing chapter to the ever-growing wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt animated show continues its powerful momentum in its third outing. The hero confronts tremendous challenges on all fronts: preparing for a coming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his powered brother, and clashing with his secretive Global Defense Agency. The story also features some of the most intense action scenes the show has ever delivered.

Mark's physical and emotional limits are constantly pushed. He must grapple with foes more powerful than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical burden of his decisions. Excellent storylines for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent anti-hero series returned with elevated importance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 delivers on both count. Although it effectively lays foundations for future cinematic universe stories, it primarily presents a resonant and focused {