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What could you accomplish with infinite control? This is a central inquiry explored by all greatest science fiction and fantastical narratives. Imagine if you gained superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a miraculous substance? What about each and every other person was dedicated to your personal satisfaction? Would you use such power for the greater good, or succumb to your darker instincts?

The shows ranked below each explore that very concept in unique manners (with one notable exclusion). Detailed here is a list of the 10 most outstanding installments of sci-fi & fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than 60 years of stories, Spider-Man remains reimagined by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man offers a novel look at the character's early years, skillfully combining classic source material elements with influences from the broader Marvel universe to create something which is simultaneously new and profoundly engaging.

Instead of being solo or Iron Man as a mentor, this version of the hero develops a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, internalizing the signature mantra of power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical show, which originated as a crowdfunded short, truly came into its own in its sophomore installment. Following the climactic revelations of the first season, the narrative broadens considerably, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox as he seizes control of the narrative, sparking a series of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally culminate in elaborate song.

Although it may lack a single breakout song quite like season one's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being increasingly ambitious. The action, character arcs, and above all the score and songs are collectively more sophisticated. The story moves the overarching plot dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, wild, and simply entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again had enormous shoes to fill. After well-documented development challenges, the final product demonstrates it was worth the effort. The plot centers on Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him vulnerable to foes both past and present in a slightly version of his well-known setting.

The premiere is explosive, evoking the intense feeling fans cherished from the prior series. Although the subsequent chapters explore certain new narrative ground, the season finishes on a strong note, setting fans keenly anticipating 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 and comedy Steve Hely, the series follows the story of a nerdy mycologist who finds a miraculous fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by forces including ruthless Big Pharma CEOs to federal agents.

Far from being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the serious atmosphere of a classic conspiracy thriller. Accentuated by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie score, the plot delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, beautifully animated, and utterly gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed series based on the popular gaming series came back with a new batch of stories that deepened its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is far from a direct retelling of that title; rather, it further explore ideas of authority and freedom.

The show expertly 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 outcome is a rich layered and utterly absorbing addition to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt animated series continues its winning streak in season 3. Mark Grayson confronts immense pressure on every side: training for a coming Viltrumite invasion, mentoring his young sibling, and battling with his shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season also features some of the most brutally brutal fight scenes the show has ever produced.

The protagonist's physical and emotional limits are constantly tested. He must contend with opponents stronger than himself, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his choices. Excellent arcs for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat superhero series returned with elevated significance within the new DC universe, and season 2 executes on both count. Although it successfully establishes groundwork for future cinematic universe projects, it also tells a powerful and focused {