The Best 10 Sci-Fi & Fantastical Television of This Year
How could you accomplish if you had infinite power? This is a fundamental inquiry explored by the greatest science fiction and fantasy tales. Imagine if you were granted extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a revolutionary drug? Or if each and every other human was dedicated to your personal happiness? Would you use that influence for good, or succumb to your baser instincts?
The series listed herein all grapple with this theme in unique ways (aside from a single notable exception). Outlined here is our list of the ten top seasons of sci-fi & fantasy TV from the past year.
10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood
Even after more than 60 years of stories, the web-slinger continues to be reimagined by fresh talent. This series delivers a refreshing perspective at the character's early years, cleverly combining essential comic elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to create something which is both new and deeply compelling.
Rather than being alone or Iron Man as a mentor, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a evolving relationship with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the head of Oscorp. Across their interactions, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the iconic lesson of great power and responsibility.
9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2
Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious mature musical-comedy show, which sprang from a crowdfunded short, fully hit its stride in its sophomore season. Building on the game-changing revelations of the first season, the narrative expands considerably, following the ambitious media overlord Vox who seizes control of the situation, igniting a series of increasingly dramatic conflicts that naturally culminate in elaborate song.
While it may lack a one viral song on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in this season being more complex. The action, character development, and above all the score and songs are collectively more sophisticated. The season moves the overarching storyline dramatically while providing plenty of bizarre, wild, and simply fun fantasy.
8. Daredevil: Born Again
Following the acclaimed Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again had immense expectations. After significant development challenges, the final show proves to be worth the wait. The story follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, making him a target to foes both history and present in a slightly version of his familiar setting.
The first episode is explosive, evoking the gritty feeling audiences cherished from the original series. While the subsequent episodes venture into some new narrative ground, the first season finishes on a strong note, setting viewers keenly awaiting a second season.
7. Common Side Effects
An unexpected 2025 highlight, this series could be described as a Breaking Bad filtered through the sensibility of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, it follows the story of a nerdy mycologist who finds a miraculous mushroom and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous Big Pharma executives to federal authorities.
Despite being a parody, the narrative unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s conspiracy film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an unnerving score, the story delves into bigger questions about the mushroom's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and completely compelling first season.
6. Fallout Season 2
This acclaimed series of the iconic gaming series returned with a new batch of stories that deepened its sprawling lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. While it ventures toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight retelling of that title; rather, it continues to examine themes of control and freedom.
The show skillfully juggles multiple storylines and perspectives, from Lucy's quest for answers to Maximus's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich detailed and utterly engaging addition to the expanding Fallout saga.
5. Invincible Season 3
This visceral and emotionally charged adult animation show keeps its winning streak in season 3. Mark Grayson faces immense pressure on all side: preparing for a coming alien invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and battling with his secretive GDA. The story once again features some of the most brutally intense fight sequences the show has yet produced.
Mark's bodily and emotional limits are repeatedly tested. He must contend with foes more powerful than himself, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical burden of his decisions. Standout storylines for key characters such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic season.
4. Peacemaker Season 2
James Gunn's irreverent superhero show came back with elevated importance within the revamped DC canon, and it delivers on both count. While it successfully establishes foundations for future cinematic universe stories, it also presents a powerful and focused {