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What would you do with unlimited control? This is a core question posed by all finest sci-fi and fantasy narratives. Imagine if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a revolutionary drug? What about each and every other person became wholly committed to your personal happiness? Would you wield such influence for good, or give in to your baser instincts?

These series ranked below all confront that very concept in distinct ways (with one key exclusion). Presented below is our ranking of the 10 top installments of science fiction and fantastical television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Even after more than 60 years of history, Spider-Man continues to be reimagined by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man presents a novel look at the character's formative years, cleverly blending classic comic story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is both fresh and profoundly engaging.

Rather than being solo or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of Peter Parker develops a evolving partnership with the future Green Goblin, who here is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter grows into his own man, learning the iconic mantra of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical show, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, truly came into its own in its sophomore installment. Following the climactic events of the first season, the story expands significantly, following the ambitious media overlord Vox who seizes command of the situation, sparking a series of increasingly explosive conflicts that naturally end in show-stopping musical numbers.

Although it might not have a single breakout hit quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," that's because everything in this season being more ambitious. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are all elevated. The story advances the main storyline forward while providing plenty of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, this series had immense shoes to fill. Despite well-documented production issues, the resulting show proves it was worth the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock once his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to foes from his history and new threats in a refreshed take of his well-known world.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, evoking the intense tone fans cherished from the prior series. While the subsequent chapters venture into some different territory, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting viewers keenly awaiting a second installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected this year's gem, this series could be described as an animated Breaking Bad with the sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical CEOs to federal agents.

Despite being a parody, the show unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by trippy visuals and an unnerving score, the story explores deeper questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, beautifully animated, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This acclaimed series based on the popular video game franchise returned with a new batch of episodes that expanded its sprawling lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight retelling of that game; rather, it further examine themes of control and autonomy.

The show skillfully juggles multiple narrative threads and perspectives, from Lucy's mission for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a deeply layered and utterly engaging addition to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and emotionally charged adult animation show keeps its powerful streak in season 3. The hero confronts tremendous challenges on every fronts: training for a coming alien invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and battling with his secretive Global Defense Agency. The story also includes some of the most brutally intense fight sequences the series has yet delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological limits are constantly tested. He must grapple with foes more powerful than himself, the consequences of his battles, and the ethical burden of his choices. Standout storylines for key characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent superhero show came back with increased significance within the new DC canon, and it delivers on that fronts. Although it successfully establishes foundations for future DCU projects, it primarily tells a powerful and self-contained {