Our Top 10 Science Fiction and Fantasy Television of This Year
How could you accomplish with unlimited control? This is the central inquiry asked by all best science fiction and fantasy stories. Imagine if you possessed extraordinary powers? Perhaps discovered a life-altering substance? Or if each and every single person became wholly committed to your happiness? Could you use that power for good, or give in to your baser instincts?
The television series featured herein each grapple with that very concept in distinct manners (aside from a single notable exclusion). Presented below is a ranking of the 10 top seasons of science fiction & fantasy television from the past year.
10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
Even after over 60 years of history, Spider-Man continues to be reinterpreted by fresh talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man offers a novel perspective at the hero's early days, skillfully merging essential source material story beats with ideas from other adaptations to craft something which is simultaneously new and deeply engaging.
Instead of operating solo or having Iron Man as a mentor, this iteration of the hero develops a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who in this story is still just the head of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, learning the iconic mantra of great power and great responsibility.
9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2
Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical show, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully found its footing in its second season. Following the climactic revelations of season 1, the story broadens considerably, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox as he seizes command of the narrative, sparking a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that inevitably end in elaborate musical numbers.
Although it might not have a single viral hit quite like the first season's "Loser, Baby," this is due to each element in season 2 being more interwoven. The action, personal arcs, and above all the music are collectively elevated. The story advances the main storyline dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, unhinged, and simply entertaining fantasy.
8. Daredevil: Born Again
Following the legendary Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again had immense shoes to fill. After well-documented production challenges, the resulting product demonstrates to be worthy of the effort. The plot centers on Matt Murdock once his dual life as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him a target to enemies from his past and present in a slightly take of his familiar setting.
The first episode is a thrilling return to form, evoking the gritty feeling fans cherished from the prior incarnation. Although the subsequent chapters venture into certain different narrative ground, the season concludes powerfully, leaving fans keenly awaiting a follow-up season.
7. Common Side Effects
An unexpected 2025 highlight, this series could be described as an animated Breaking Bad filtered through the humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran and comedy Steve Hely, it follows the saga of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a miraculous fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical CEOs to government agents.
Despite being a spoof, the show plays out with the serious intensity of a 1970s paranoia film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving score, the plot delves into bigger questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and completely compelling first season.
6. Fallout Season 2
The hit series of the popular gaming franchise returned with a second season of episodes that expanded its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic setting. While it travels toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct retelling of that title; rather, it continues to examine themes of authority and freedom.
It expertly balances multiple storylines and perspectives, from the protagonist's quest for justice to a knight's reckoning with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich layered and wholly engaging chapter to the expanding Fallout mythology.
5. Invincible Season 3
The bloody and emotionally charged animated show continues its powerful streak in season 3. Mark Grayson faces tremendous pressure on every fronts: training for a looming Viltrumite threat, mentoring his young sibling, and clashing with the secretive GDA. The season also includes some of the most intense action sequences the series has yet delivered.
The protagonist's physical and emotional endurance are repeatedly tested. He must contend with foes more powerful than he is, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting cast members such as Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a superb installment.
4. Peacemaker Season 2
The director's irreverent superhero series came back with increased importance within the new DC universe, and it delivers on that fronts. While it effectively lays groundwork for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it also presents a powerful and self-contained {