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How would you do with unlimited ability? That's a central inquiry asked by the best sci-fi and fantastical narratives. What if you gained superhuman abilities? Or stumbled upon a revolutionary drug? What about every single human was wholly committed to your happiness? Would you wield such power for the greater good, or give in to your darker impulses?

The television series ranked below all explore that very theme in distinct manners (with one key exclusion). Detailed here is our countdown of the 10 most outstanding installments of sci-fi and fantasy TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

Despite over 60 years of stories, Spider-Man is constantly reinvented by fresh talent. This series delivers a refreshing perspective at the character's early days, skillfully combining classic source material elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to craft something which is both new and deeply compelling.

Rather than operating solo or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of Peter Parker develops a evolving relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the signature lesson of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical series, which sprang from a crowdfunded short, fully hit its stride in its sophomore installment. Building on the climactic revelations of the first season, the narrative expands considerably, following the scheming media overlord Vox who takes command of the narrative, igniting a chain of ever-more explosive confrontations that naturally end in elaborate musical numbers.

Although it might not have a one breakout hit on the level of the first season's "iconic tune," that's because each element in this season being increasingly complex. The action, personal arcs, and especially the music are all more sophisticated. The season advances the overarching storyline forward while providing plenty of weird, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again had enormous expectations. After well-documented production challenges, the resulting show proves it was worthy of the effort. The plot centers on Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to enemies both history and present in a refreshed take of his familiar setting.

The premiere is explosive, evoking the intense feeling audiences cherished from the prior series. Although the middle episodes venture into some new narrative ground, the season concludes on a strong note, setting viewers keenly awaiting a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

An surprising this year's gem, this show is essentially an animated Breaking Bad filtered through a sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by Joe Bennett alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series tells the saga of a nerdy mycologist who finds a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma executives to government authorities.

Despite being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy thriller. Enhanced by trippy visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot explores bigger mysteries about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely gripping ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

The acclaimed series based on the popular gaming franchise came back with a new batch of episodes that deepened its sprawling mystery and broadened its post-apocalyptic world. While it ventures in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is far from a straight adaptation of that game; instead, it further examine themes of authority and freedom.

The show expertly balances several narrative threads and points of view, from Lucy's mission for justice to Maximus's struggle with the ideology of the his faction. The outcome is a deeply detailed and utterly engaging addition to the ever-growing wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

The bloody and heartfelt animated series continues its winning momentum in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous pressure on every side: training for a looming alien invasion, mentoring his powered sibling, and battling with his shadowy GDA. The story also features some of the most brutal action sequences the show has ever produced.

Mark's physical and psychological endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than he is, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Excellent storylines for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn's irreverent anti-hero series returned with increased significance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 delivers on both fronts. Although it successfully lays foundations for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it also tells a resonant and focused {