Our Finest 10 Sci-Fi & Fantastical TV Shows of This Year

How could you accomplish if you had infinite power? This is the fundamental question asked by all finest sci-fi and fantastical stories. Imagine if you gained extraordinary powers? Or discovered a revolutionary drug? What about every single person became wholly committed to your happiness? Could you use such influence for the greater good, or give in to your darker impulses?

These shows listed below each confront that very dilemma in distinct ways (aside from a single notable exception). Presented below is our list of the ten best installments of sci-fi & fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

An innovative take on Spider-Man
Illustration: Marvel

Even after more than 60 years of stories, Spider-Man continues to be reimagined by fresh talent. This series delivers a refreshing perspective at the hero's formative days, cleverly blending classic comic elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to craft something that feels both fresh and profoundly engaging.

Instead of operating alone or having Iron Man as a guide, this iteration of the hero forges a complex partnership with Norman Osborn, who in this story is merely the head of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter becomes his own man, internalizing the iconic mantra of power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Theatrical mayhem in the underworld
Visual: SpindleHorse

Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical-comedy show, which sprang from a crowdfunded pilot, fully came into its own in its sophomore installment. Following the game-changing revelations of season 1, the story expands significantly, following the scheming media overlord Vox as he seizes command of the situation, sparking a series of increasingly dramatic conflicts that naturally culminate in show-stopping musical numbers.

Although it may lack a one viral song on the level of season one's "iconic tune," that's because everything in this season being increasingly complex. The fight sequences, character arcs, and especially the score and songs are all elevated. The story moves the main plot dramatically while delivering no shortage of weird, wild, and simply fun fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Daredevil fighting
Photo: Marvel Studios

As a successor to the acclaimed Netflix series, Daredevil: Born Again had enormous expectations. After significant production issues, the final show proves it was worth the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him a target to foes both past and present in a slightly version of his well-known world.

The premiere is explosive, evoking the gritty feeling audiences cherished from the prior series. While the middle chapters venture into certain different narrative ground, the first season finishes powerfully, setting viewers eagerly awaiting a follow-up season.

7. Common Side Effects

Animated characters in a tense scene
Visual: Network

An surprising 2025 highlight, this series could be described as a crime saga with a humor of a suburban satire. Created by an Adult Swim veteran and writer Steve Hely, it follows the story of a mild-mannered mycologist who finds a miraculous fungus and soon finds himself pursued by everyone from ruthless pharmaceutical executives to government authorities.

Despite being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia film. Accentuated by trippy visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot delves into bigger questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling first season.

6. Fallout Season 2

Post-apocalyptic landscape from Fallout
Screenshot: Prime Video

The hit series of the iconic gaming franchise returned with a new season of stories that expanded its sprawling lore and broadened its post-apocalyptic setting. While it travels toward the legendary location of New Vegas, the story is far from a straight retelling of that game; rather, it further explore themes of authority and autonomy.

The show skillfully juggles several narrative threads and perspectives, from the protagonist's mission for answers to a knight's reckoning with the dogma of the his faction. The result is a deeply layered and wholly engaging addition to the ever-growing Fallout saga.

5. Invincible Season 3

Invincible in a brutal battle
Art: Prime Video

This visceral and heartfelt adult animation series continues its powerful momentum in season 3. The hero faces tremendous challenges on all fronts: training for a coming alien invasion, guiding his powered brother, and clashing with his secretive GDA. The season once again includes some of the most brutal fight sequences the series has ever produced.

The protagonist's physical and psychological endurance are constantly pushed. He must grapple with foes stronger than he is, the consequences of his battles, and the ethical burden of his decisions. Excellent arcs for supporting characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a superb installment.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

Peacemaker in gear
Image: Streamer

The director's offbeat anti-hero series returned with increased importance within the revamped DC universe, and season 2 delivers on both count. Although it successfully lays foundations for future DCU projects, it primarily tells a powerful and focused {

Morgan Harper
Morgan Harper

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on society.