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How would you do with unlimited control? This is a core question posed by all best science fiction and fantasy tales. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a revolutionary substance? Or if each and every other person was wholly committed to your satisfaction? Would you wield such influence for good, or would you give in to your baser instincts?

These television series ranked below each explore this theme in unique manners (with a single notable exception). Outlined here is a list of the 10 best seasons of sci-fi and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after more than six decades of stories, the web-slinger remains reimagined by new creative voices. This series delivers a novel perspective at the character's formative years, skillfully blending classic comic story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is simultaneously fresh and deeply engaging.

Rather than being alone or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who in this story is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into a true hero, learning the signature mantra of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy show, which sprang from a fan-funded pilot, truly came into its own in its second season. Following the game-changing events of the first season, the narrative broadens considerably, centering on the ambitious media overlord Vox as he takes command of the narrative, sparking a chain of ever-more explosive confrontations that naturally end in show-stopping song.

While it may lack a one viral song on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in season 2 being increasingly complex. The action, character arcs, and above all the score and songs are collectively elevated. The story moves the overarching plot forward while providing no shortage of weird, wild, and simply fun dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again faced immense expectations. Despite well-documented development challenges, the resulting show demonstrates it was worthy of the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him vulnerable to foes both past and new threats in a refreshed version of his well-known setting.

The first episode is explosive, evoking the gritty tone fans loved from the original incarnation. Although the middle chapters venture into certain new territory, the first season concludes on a strong note, setting fans eagerly awaiting a follow-up installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this series is essentially an animated crime saga filtered through a sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran alongside writer Steve Hely, it tells the story of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma executives to federal agents.

Despite being a parody, the narrative plays out with the grave intensity of a 1970s conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot explores deeper questions about the substance's true effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series based on the iconic gaming franchise returned with a second batch of episodes that deepened its epic lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight adaptation of that title; rather, it further explore ideas of authority and autonomy.

The show expertly juggles multiple narrative threads and perspectives, from the protagonist's mission for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The result is a deeply layered and wholly engaging chapter to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt adult animation show keeps its winning streak in its third outing. The hero confronts immense challenges on every side: preparing for a coming alien threat, guiding his powered sibling, and clashing with the secretive GDA. The season once again includes some of the most brutal action sequences the series has ever produced.

The protagonist's physical and emotional endurance are repeatedly tested. He must contend with opponents stronger than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the moral weight of his decisions. Standout storylines for key cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat anti-hero series returned with elevated significance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on that fronts. Although it successfully establishes foundations for future DCU projects, it also presents a resonant and self-contained {