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How could you accomplish with unlimited control? That's a fundamental question explored by the best science fiction and fantasy narratives. What if you possessed extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary substance? Or if each and every single person was dedicated to your happiness? Could you use that influence for good, or would you succumb to your own darker instincts?

These television series featured below each confront that very dilemma in unique manners (aside from one notable exclusion). Detailed here is a list of the 10 most outstanding seasons of sci-fi & fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite more than six decades of history, the web-slinger remains reinvented by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man offers a refreshing perspective at the hero's early days, skillfully blending essential comic story beats with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something that feels both fresh and deeply engaging.

Rather than being solo or having Iron Man as a mentor, this version of the hero forges a complex relationship with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical-comedy series, which originated as a crowdfunded short, truly found its footing in its second installment. Building on the game-changing revelations of season 1, the story expands significantly, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox who takes command of the situation, sparking a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally end in elaborate song.

While it might not have a one breakout hit quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in season 2 being increasingly interwoven. The fight sequences, personal development, and above all the score and songs are collectively more sophisticated. The story moves the overarching storyline forward while delivering no shortage of weird, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, this series had immense shoes to fill. Despite significant development challenges, the final show proves it was worthy of the effort. The story centers on Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to foes from his past and present in a slightly take of his well-known setting.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty feeling audiences loved from the original incarnation. Although the middle chapters explore some new narrative ground, the season finishes powerfully, setting fans eagerly anticipating a second installment.

7. Common Side Effects

A surprising this year's highlight, this show could be described as a Breaking Bad with the humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by Joe Bennett alongside writer Steve Hely, the series tells the saga of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by forces including unscrupulous Big Pharma executives to federal authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the show plays out with the serious intensity of a 1970s paranoia film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving score, the plot explores deeper questions about the substance's full capabilities. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series based on the iconic video game series returned with a second batch of episodes that deepened its sprawling mystery and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is not a direct retelling of that game; instead, it continues to explore themes of authority and autonomy.

It expertly juggles multiple storylines and points of view, from Lucy's quest for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply layered and utterly engaging addition to the expanding wasteland saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and emotionally charged adult animation series continues its powerful momentum in its third outing. The hero faces tremendous challenges on all side: preparing for a looming alien threat, guiding his powered brother, and clashing with his secretive Global Defense Agency. The story once again includes some of the most brutal action sequences the show has ever delivered.

The protagonist's physical and psychological limits are constantly tested. He must grapple with foes more powerful than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the moral burden of his choices. Standout storylines for supporting characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent anti-hero series returned with increased importance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on that count. Although it effectively establishes foundations for future cinematic universe stories, it primarily tells a powerful and focused {