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How could you accomplish with infinite control? That's the central question posed by all greatest science fiction as well as fantastical tales. Imagine if you possessed superhuman abilities? Or discovered a life-altering drug? What about every single human became wholly committed to your personal satisfaction? Could you wield that power for the greater good, or give in to your own baser instincts?

The shows listed below all explore this theme in unique ways (aside from a single key exclusion). Detailed here is a countdown of the ten most outstanding installments of sci-fi and fantasy television from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Even after more than 60 years of stories, the web-slinger remains reimagined by fresh creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a novel perspective at the character's formative years, skillfully merging classic comic elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is simultaneously new and deeply engaging.

Rather than being solo or having Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of the hero develops a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, learning the signature lesson of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical show, which originated as a fan-funded pilot, truly hit its stride in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing events of season 1, the story broadens significantly, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he seizes command of the situation, igniting a chain of increasingly explosive conflicts that inevitably culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

While it may lack a single breakout song on the level of the first season's "iconic tune," that's because each element in this season being increasingly interwoven. The fight sequences, character development, and especially the music are collectively elevated. The season moves the overarching plot dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the acclaimed Netflix series, this series had enormous expectations. After well-documented development challenges, the final product demonstrates to be worthy of the wait. The plot centers on Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him vulnerable to foes from his history and present in a slightly version of his well-known world.

The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the gritty tone fans cherished from the original incarnation. While the subsequent chapters explore some different narrative ground, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting fans keenly anticipating a second installment.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's highlight, this show could be described as an animated Breaking Bad filtered through a sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a mild-mannered fungi expert who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical executives to government authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the show plays out with the grave intensity of a classic conspiracy thriller. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story explores deeper questions about the mushroom's true effects. It's a smart, beautifully animated, and utterly gripping first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit adaptation based on the iconic gaming franchise came back with a second season of stories that expanded its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. While it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is far from a straight adaptation of that game; instead, it further examine themes of authority and freedom.

The show expertly juggles multiple storylines and points of view, from Lucy's mission for answers to a knight's struggle with the ideology of the his faction. The outcome is a rich layered and wholly absorbing addition to the ever-growing wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and emotionally charged animated series continues its winning momentum in its third outing. The hero faces immense challenges on all fronts: preparing for a coming alien invasion, guiding his powered brother, and clashing with the shadowy GDA. The story once again includes some of the most intense action scenes the show has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and emotional limits are constantly pushed. He must contend with opponents stronger than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's irreverent superhero show returned with increased significance within the revamped DC universe, and it delivers on both count. Although it effectively lays foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it also presents a powerful and self-contained {