Our Best 10 Sci-Fi and Fantastical Series of This Year
What could you accomplish with boundless ability? This is a central question posed by all best science fiction and fantastical narratives. What if you gained superhuman abilities? Perhaps stumbled upon a revolutionary drug? Or if each and every other human became wholly committed to your happiness? Could you wield such power for the greater good, or give in to your own darker impulses?
The series listed herein each grapple with that very concept in unique manners (aside from a single key exception). Outlined here is a ranking of the 10 top seasons of sci-fi and fantasy TV from the past year.
10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood
Even after more than six decades of stories, the web-slinger is constantly reinterpreted by new creative voices. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man presents a refreshing look at the character's early years, skillfully blending essential comic elements with influences from other adaptations to craft something that feels both fresh and profoundly engaging.
Rather than operating solo or Iron Man as a guide, this iteration of the hero develops a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, learning the signature lesson of power and great responsibility.
9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2
Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical-comedy series, which sprang from a fan-funded pilot, fully came into its own in its second installment. Following the game-changing revelations of the first season, the story broadens significantly, centering on the scheming media overlord Vox as he seizes command of the situation, igniting a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that naturally culminate in elaborate musical numbers.
Although it may lack a one breakout hit on the level of season one's "iconic tune," this is due to everything in this season being more ambitious. The fight sequences, personal arcs, and above all the score and songs are all more sophisticated. The season advances the main plot forward while delivering plenty of bizarre, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.
8. Daredevil: Born Again
As a successor to the legendary Netflix series, this series had enormous shoes to fill. Despite significant development challenges, the resulting product proves to be worthy of the effort. The plot centers on Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him vulnerable to foes both past and present in a slightly take of his familiar setting.
The premiere is explosive, capturing the gritty tone fans loved from the prior series. Although the middle chapters explore some new narrative ground, the season finishes on a strong note, leaving viewers keenly anticipating a second season.
7. Common Side Effects
An unexpected 2025 highlight, this series is essentially an animated Breaking Bad with a humor of King of the Hill. Created by Joe Bennett and writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a nerdy fungi expert who finds a curative fungus and quickly finds himself hunted by everyone from unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to federal agents.
Far from being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious intensity of a classic conspiracy film. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story explores deeper mysteries about the mushroom's true capabilities. It's a intelligent, beautifully animated, and utterly compelling first season.
6. Fallout Season 2
This acclaimed series based on the popular video game franchise returned with a second season of episodes that expanded its sprawling mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. While it ventures in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct retelling of that game; instead, it continues to examine themes of authority and freedom.
The show skillfully juggles multiple storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a rich detailed and utterly engaging chapter to the expanding Fallout saga.
5. Invincible Season 3
The visceral and emotionally charged adult animation show keeps its winning momentum in season 3. The hero confronts tremendous pressure on every side: preparing for a looming alien invasion, guiding his powered sibling, and battling with his shadowy GDA. The story once again includes some of the most brutally brutal fight sequences the series has yet produced.
The protagonist's physical and psychological limits are constantly pushed. He must contend with opponents stronger than himself, the consequences of his battles, and the ethical weight of his choices. Excellent storylines for key characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.
4. Peacemaker Season 2
The director's irreverent superhero series came back with elevated significance within the revamped DC universe, and it executes on both fronts. While it successfully lays foundations for future cinematic universe projects, it also presents a powerful and self-contained {