The Top 10 Sci-Fi and Fantasy TV Shows of This Year

What could you accomplish if you had boundless ability? That's a core inquiry posed by all greatest science fiction as well as fantasy tales. What if you possessed extraordinary powers? Perhaps stumbled upon a life-altering drug? Or if each and every single person became wholly committed to your satisfaction? Would you use such influence for the greater good, or succumb to your baser impulses?

The television series featured below each grapple with this concept in various ways (with one key exclusion). Detailed here is our countdown of the 10 top seasons of science fiction and fantastical TV from the past year.

10. Spider-Man: Your Friendly Neighborhood

A fresh interpretation on Spider-Man
Illustration: Marvel

Even after more than six decades of stories, the web-slinger continues to be reinterpreted by fresh talent. This series presents a refreshing perspective at the character's early years, cleverly merging classic comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to craft something which is simultaneously new and deeply compelling.

Rather than being alone or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is merely the head of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the signature mantra of great power and great responsibility.

9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2

Theatrical chaos in the underworld
IMAGE: SpindleHorse

Showrunner Vivienne Medrano's audacious adult musical series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, fully found its footing in its second season. Following the game-changing events of the first season, the story expands significantly, following the scheming TV demon Vox as he takes command of the narrative, igniting a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that inevitably end in show-stopping song.

While it might not have a one viral hit quite like season one's "Loser, Baby," that's because each element in this season being more interwoven. The action, personal arcs, and especially the score and songs are all elevated. The season moves the overarching storyline forward while providing no shortage of weird, unhinged, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.

8. Daredevil: Born Again

Matt Murdock fighting
Image: Marvel

Following the legendary Netflix show, this series had immense expectations. After well-documented production issues, the resulting product proves to be worth the effort. The story follows Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is exposed, making him vulnerable to enemies from his past and new threats in a refreshed version of his familiar setting.

The first episode is explosive, evoking the intense feeling audiences loved from the original series. While the middle episodes venture into some different territory, the first season concludes on a strong note, setting viewers eagerly anticipating a second season.

7. Common Side Effects

Animated characters in a tense scene
Visual: Adult Swim

An unexpected 2025 gem, this show could be described as a crime saga with a humor of a suburban satire. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran alongside writer Steve Hely, it follows the saga of a mild-mannered fungi expert who finds a curative mushroom and soon finds himself hunted by everyone from ruthless Big Pharma executives to government authorities.

Despite being a spoof, the narrative plays out with the serious atmosphere of a 1970s paranoia thriller. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an unnerving score, the plot delves into bigger questions about the substance's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly compelling ten-episode season.

6. Fallout Season 2

Post-apocalyptic vista from Fallout
Screenshot: Prime Video

The acclaimed adaptation based on the popular gaming franchise returned with a second season of episodes that deepened its epic lore and expanded its post-apocalyptic world. While it ventures toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the story is not a straight adaptation of that game; rather, it continues to examine themes of control and autonomy.

It skillfully balances several narrative threads and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for justice to Maximus's struggle with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The result is a deeply detailed and utterly absorbing addition to the expanding wasteland mythology.

5. Invincible Season 3

Mark Grayson in a brutal battle
Art: Prime Video

This visceral and emotionally charged animated show keeps its powerful streak in its third outing. Mark Grayson confronts immense challenges on every fronts: training for a coming alien invasion, guiding his powered brother, and battling with the shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season also includes some of the most intense fight scenes the show has ever delivered.

The protagonist's bodily and psychological endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must grapple with opponents stronger than himself, the aftermath of his actions, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Standout arcs for supporting cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode complete a fantastic season.

4. Peacemaker Season 2

John Cena in gear
Photo: HBO Max

James Gunn's irreverent superhero show returned with elevated significance within the revamped DC canon, and season 2 delivers on that fronts. Although it effectively lays foundations for future DCU projects, it also presents a resonant and self-contained {

Christopher Walter
Christopher Walter

Maya is a passionate gaming journalist and strategist, known for her detailed reviews and engaging storytelling in the gaming community.