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What would you do with boundless control? That's a core question asked by all best sci-fi and fantasy stories. What if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a revolutionary substance? Or if every single human became wholly committed to your happiness? Would you use that influence for good, or would you give in to your baser impulses?

The television series listed herein all grapple with this dilemma in various ways (aside from a single notable exclusion). Detailed here is a countdown of the ten best seasons of science fiction and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite more than 60 years of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reimagined by new creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a refreshing perspective at the character's formative years, cleverly combining classic comic elements with influences from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is both new and profoundly compelling.

Instead of being solo or having Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of the hero develops a complex partnership with the future Green Goblin, who in this story is merely the CEO of Oscorp. Through 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 boldly transgressive mature musical series, which originated as a fan-funded short, truly found its footing in its sophomore installment. Building on the game-changing revelations of season 1, the narrative expands significantly, following the ambitious TV demon Vox who takes command of the narrative, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic confrontations that naturally culminate in elaborate song.

While it may lack a one breakout song on the level of season one's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being increasingly ambitious. The action, personal development, and especially the music are all more sophisticated. The season moves the main storyline dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, wild, and ultimately fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Following the acclaimed Netflix show, this series had enormous expectations. After significant production challenges, the final product proves to be worth the wait. The plot centers on Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, making him vulnerable to enemies from his history and new threats in a slightly take of his familiar world.

The premiere is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense feeling audiences cherished from the original incarnation. Although the middle chapters venture into certain new territory, the season concludes on a strong note, setting fans eagerly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's gem, this show is essentially a crime saga filtered through a sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by Joe Bennett and writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered fungi expert who discovers a curative mushroom and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical CEOs to federal authorities.

Far from being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the grave atmosphere of a classic conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot delves into deeper mysteries about the substance's true effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed adaptation of the iconic gaming franchise returned with a second batch of stories that deepened its sprawling mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. Although it travels toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is not a direct retelling of that title; instead, it further explore ideas of control and autonomy.

It skillfully balances several storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for justice to a knight's struggle with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich layered and utterly absorbing addition to the ever-growing Fallout mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The visceral and emotionally charged adult animation show continues its winning momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson confronts immense challenges on every fronts: training for a coming alien invasion, mentoring his young sibling, and clashing with his shadowy GDA. The story once again features some of the most intense action scenes the show has yet delivered.

Mark's bodily and psychological endurance are constantly tested. He must contend with opponents stronger than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

The director's offbeat anti-hero show came back with increased importance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on that count. While it successfully establishes foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it primarily presents a resonant and focused {