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How would you do if you had boundless control? That's a fundamental question posed by all finest science fiction as well as fantastical stories. Imagine if you were granted extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary drug? What about every other human was wholly committed to your satisfaction? Would you wield that power for good, or give in to your baser instincts?

These shows featured herein all grapple with this concept in distinct ways (with one key exception). Detailed here is our countdown of the ten top seasons of sci-fi & fantasy television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite more than 60 years of history, Spider-Man is constantly reinvented by fresh creative voices. This series delivers a novel look at the character's early years, cleverly merging essential comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to craft something that feels simultaneously new and deeply compelling.

Rather than being solo or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker develops a evolving relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the signature lesson of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical-comedy series, which originated as a fan-funded short, truly hit its stride in its second season. Following the game-changing events of season 1, the story broadens significantly, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he seizes control of the narrative, sparking a series of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally end in show-stopping musical numbers.

While it might not have a one breakout hit on the level of the first season's "Loser, Baby," that's because everything in season 2 being more ambitious. The action, character arcs, and especially the score and songs are collectively elevated. The story advances the overarching storyline forward while providing no shortage of weird, wild, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, this series had enormous shoes to fill. Despite significant production issues, the final show demonstrates it was worth the wait. The plot follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to enemies from his history and new threats in a refreshed version of his familiar setting.

The premiere is explosive, capturing the intense feeling audiences cherished from the prior series. Although the subsequent chapters venture into certain different territory, the season concludes on a strong note, leaving fans keenly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An unexpected this year's gem, this series is essentially a Breaking Bad with the sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by Joe Bennett and comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the story of a nerdy fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous Big Pharma CEOs to federal agents.

Despite being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a classic conspiracy thriller. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an eerie musical soundtrack, the story delves into bigger mysteries about the mushroom's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and completely gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The hit series of the popular video game franchise came back with a new batch of episodes that expanded its sprawling lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic world. While it travels in the direction of the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight adaptation of that game; instead, it further explore ideas of authority and autonomy.

The show skillfully balances multiple narrative threads and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for justice to Maximus's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a rich layered and utterly absorbing chapter to the ever-growing Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This bloody and emotionally charged adult animation show keeps its winning streak in its third outing. The hero faces tremendous pressure on all side: preparing for a coming alien threat, mentoring his young brother, and clashing with his secretive GDA. The season once again includes some of the most brutal action sequences the show has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological endurance are repeatedly tested. He must contend with foes stronger than he is, the consequences of his battles, and the moral burden of his choices. Standout arcs for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent superhero show returned with elevated importance within the revamped DC canon, and season 2 executes on both count. Although it successfully lays foundations for future DCU stories, it also presents a powerful and focused {