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What could you accomplish with unlimited control? This is a central question posed by the best science fiction and fantasy tales. Imagine if you possessed extraordinary powers? Perhaps stumbled upon a miraculous drug? What about each and every other human became dedicated to your personal satisfaction? Would you wield that influence for good, or would you succumb to your baser instincts?

The television series listed herein each explore this theme in unique manners (with one notable exclusion). Presented here is a ranking of the ten top seasons of science fiction & fantasy television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite over 60 years of history, Spider-Man remains reimagined by new creative voices. This series delivers a refreshing perspective at the hero's formative days, cleverly combining classic comic story beats with ideas from other adaptations to craft something which is both new and deeply compelling.

Rather than operating alone or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a complex partnership with the future Green Goblin, who here is still just the head of Oscorp. Through their interactions, Peter becomes a true hero, learning the signature mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical show, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, fully hit its stride in its sophomore installment. Following the game-changing revelations of the first season, the narrative broadens considerably, following the ambitious media overlord Vox as he takes command of the situation, igniting a series of ever-more explosive conflicts that naturally end in elaborate song.

While it may lack a one viral hit on the level of the first season's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in this season being more complex. The action, personal development, and especially the score and songs are all elevated. The story advances the main plot dramatically while delivering plenty of weird, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, this series had immense expectations. Despite significant development issues, the resulting product proves to be worthy of 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 familiar setting.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, evoking the intense feeling fans cherished from the prior incarnation. Although the middle chapters explore certain new territory, the first season finishes on a strong note, leaving viewers keenly anticipating a second installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A unexpected this year's highlight, this series is essentially an animated Breaking Bad with a sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett and writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless pharmaceutical executives to federal agents.

Despite being a parody, the show unfolds with the grave intensity of a classic conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an eerie musical soundtrack, the story explores bigger mysteries about the mushroom's full capabilities. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit series based on the iconic gaming series came back with a new season of stories that expanded its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it ventures in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is not a direct adaptation of that game; instead, it further explore ideas of authority and freedom.

The show skillfully balances multiple narrative threads and points of view, from Lucy's quest for justice to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The result is a deeply layered and utterly absorbing addition to the ever-growing wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and heartfelt animated show keeps its powerful streak in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous pressure on all side: preparing for a looming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and battling with the secretive GDA. The season once again features some of the most brutal action sequences the series has yet delivered.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are constantly pushed. He must contend with foes stronger than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical weight of his choices. Excellent storylines for key characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat superhero show returned with elevated significance within the revamped DC universe, and it delivers on that count. While it successfully establishes groundwork for future cinematic universe stories, it primarily tells a resonant and self-contained {