Our Best 10 Science Fiction & Fantasy TV Shows of This Year
What could you accomplish with infinite power? This is a core question posed by the best science fiction as well as fantastical narratives. Imagine if you were granted extraordinary powers? Perhaps stumbled upon a life-altering substance? What about every single person was wholly committed to your personal satisfaction? Could you wield that power for the greater good, or give in to your darker instincts?
The shows ranked herein each grapple with this dilemma in unique manners (aside from a single notable exception). Detailed here is our list of the 10 top installments of science fiction and fantastical television from 2025.
10. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
Even after more than six decades of stories, the web-slinger is constantly reinterpreted by new talent. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man presents a refreshing perspective at the character's formative years, cleverly combining classic source material elements with ideas from the broader Marvel universe to craft something that feels simultaneously new and profoundly engaging.
Rather than operating solo or Tony Stark as a mentor, this version of Peter Parker forges a evolving partnership with Norman Osborn, who here is still just the head of Oscorp. Across their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of great power and great responsibility.
9. Hazbin Hotel Season 2
Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive mature musical-comedy series, which originated as a fan-funded pilot, fully found its footing in its sophomore season. Building on the game-changing revelations of the first season, the narrative expands considerably, centering on the scheming TV demon Vox who seizes command of the narrative, sparking a chain of increasingly explosive conflicts that naturally end in show-stopping song.
While it might not have a one viral hit on the level of season one's "Loser, Baby," that's because each element in season 2 being increasingly interwoven. The fight sequences, character arcs, and above all the music are all more sophisticated. The story advances the main storyline forward while providing no shortage of weird, wild, and ultimately entertaining fantasy.
8. Daredevil: Born Again
As a successor to the legendary Netflix show, Daredevil: Born Again had enormous expectations. After well-documented development challenges, the final show demonstrates to be worthy of the effort. The plot follows Matt Murdock after his dual life as Daredevil is exposed, leaving him vulnerable to foes from his history and present in a refreshed take of his familiar setting.
The first episode is explosive, evoking the intense tone fans loved from the prior series. Although the middle chapters venture into certain different territory, the first season finishes powerfully, setting viewers keenly anticipating a follow-up installment.
7. Common Side Effects
An unexpected this year's highlight, this show is essentially an animated Breaking Bad with the humor of King of the Hill. Helmed by an Adult Swim veteran alongside writer Steve Hely, it follows the saga of a nerdy mycologist who finds a miraculous fungus and quickly finds himself pursued by everyone from unscrupulous Big Pharma executives to federal agents.
Far from being a spoof, the show unfolds with the serious atmosphere of a classic paranoia film. Accentuated by hallucinogenic animation and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the story delves into deeper questions about the mushroom's full effects. It's a smart, visually striking, and utterly gripping ten-episode season.
6. Fallout Season 2
The hit adaptation of the popular video game series returned with a new season of episodes that deepened its sprawling mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland world. While it travels toward the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a direct adaptation of that game; rather, it continues to explore themes of control and autonomy.
The show skillfully balances several storylines and points of view, from the protagonist's mission for justice to a knight's struggle with the ideology of the Brotherhood of Steel. The outcome is a rich layered and utterly engaging addition to the expanding Fallout saga.
5. Invincible Season 3
This bloody and heartfelt animated show continues its winning streak in its third outing. Mark Grayson faces immense challenges on every side: preparing for a coming Viltrumite threat, guiding his young sibling, and clashing with the shadowy Global Defense Agency. The season also features some of the most brutally intense action scenes the series has ever produced.
The protagonist's bodily and emotional limits are repeatedly tested. He must contend with foes stronger than himself, the consequences of his actions, and the ethical burden of his decisions. Standout storylines for key characters like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic season.
4. Peacemaker Season 2
The director's offbeat superhero show came back with increased importance within the revamped DC canon, and it executes on both fronts. Although it effectively establishes foundations for upcoming cinematic universe projects, it primarily tells a resonant and focused {