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What could you accomplish with unlimited ability? That's a core inquiry explored by the greatest science fiction and fantasy stories. Imagine if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary substance? What about every other person became dedicated to your happiness? Would you wield that influence for the greater good, or give in to your own baser impulses?

These series listed herein all grapple with that very concept in unique manners (aside from a single notable exception). Detailed here is a ranking of the 10 best seasons of sci-fi & fantasy television from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Despite more than 60 years of history, the web-slinger continues to be reinterpreted by new talent. This series presents a refreshing look at the hero's early days, skillfully merging classic comic elements with ideas from other adaptations to craft something which is both new and profoundly engaging.

Rather than being alone or Iron Man as a mentor, this iteration of Peter Parker develops a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes a true hero, internalizing the iconic lesson of great power and responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully found its footing in its second installment. Building on the climactic events of the first season, the narrative expands significantly, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox who takes command of the situation, sparking a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally end in elaborate song.

Although it may lack a single viral song quite like the first season's "iconic tune," that's because each element in this season being increasingly ambitious. The action, personal arcs, and especially the music are all more sophisticated. The story moves the main storyline dramatically while delivering plenty of weird, wild, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again had immense expectations. After well-documented development issues, the resulting show proves it was worthy of the effort. The plot centers on Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him a target to foes from his history and new threats in a refreshed take of his well-known world.

The first episode is explosive, capturing the gritty tone audiences cherished from the original series. While the middle chapters venture into some different narrative ground, the first season concludes on a strong note, setting fans keenly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

A surprising this year's highlight, this show is essentially an animated Breaking Bad with a sensibility of a suburban satire. Created by Joe Bennett and writer Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a nerdy mycologist who discovers a curative mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by forces including ruthless Big Pharma executives to federal authorities.

Far from being a parody, the narrative plays out with the serious atmosphere of a classic paranoia film. Enhanced by trippy visuals and an eerie score, the story explores deeper mysteries about the substance's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

This hit series based on the iconic video game series returned with a new season of episodes that deepened its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. Although it travels in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is not a straight retelling of that title; instead, it continues to explore ideas of authority and autonomy.

It skillfully juggles multiple storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for justice to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a rich layered and wholly absorbing chapter to the expanding Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

This visceral and heartfelt adult animation series keeps its powerful momentum in season 3. The hero confronts tremendous pressure on all fronts: training for a coming alien invasion, mentoring his powered sibling, and clashing with the secretive GDA. The story also features some of the most brutally intense action scenes the show has yet delivered.

Mark's bodily and psychological endurance are constantly tested. He must grapple with foes stronger than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the moral burden of his decisions. Standout storylines for supporting characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's offbeat anti-hero series returned with elevated importance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 executes on that count. Although it effectively lays groundwork for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it also tells a resonant and focused {