Top Comics of 2024 Ranked: Marvel, DC, Indie
In 2024, readers found comfort in familiar narratives, yet many of these stories were exceptional and innovative. Navigating the vast sea of comics released weekly by traditional publishers, along with the diverse array of graphic novels available across various book divisions, can be daunting. Here's a curated list of our favorite comics from 2024.
Before diving into the list, a few notes:
- The focus is primarily on the Big Two (Marvel and DC), with a few notable exceptions from near-superhero genres.
- Only comics with at least 10 issues were considered, excluding newer series like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, or Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
- The entire run of each comic was evaluated, not just the issues released in 2024, with the exception of Jed McKay's Moon Knight and Joshua Williamson's Robin.
- Anthologies were not included due to their varied authorship (e.g., Action Comics, Batman: The Brave and the Bold).
Table of Contents:
- Batman: Zdarsky Run
- Nightwing by Tom Taylor
- Blade + Blade: Red Band
- Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu
- Outsiders
- Poison Ivy
- Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson
- Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver
- The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier
- The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing
- Venom + Venom War
- John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America
- Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko
Batman: Zdarsky Run
Image: ensigame.com
This series could have been a disaster, but instead, it was a technically impressive yet unremarkable comic about battling the wrong Batman. The neuro-arc with the Joker was a notable misstep.
Nightwing by Tom Taylor
Image: ensigame.com
Had it concluded twenty issues earlier, Nightwing might have topped the list. Unfortunately, the series accumulated too many filler issues by its end. Despite this, Tom Taylor's work will be remembered fondly, though it didn't reach the heights of the new Hawkeye and remained an average DC ongoing.
Blade + Blade: Red Band
Image: ensigame.com
While the movie languished in production limbo, the comic filled the niche perfectly, delivering a bloody action-packed story featuring the Daywalker.
Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu
Image: ensigame.com
Moon Knight's year was tumultuous. Revived too soon, the series struggled to develop its characters and storylines effectively. Despite the disappointment, there's hope that Jed McKay can turn things around in the current series.
Outsiders
Image: ensigame.com
A reimagining of Planetary, seamlessly integrated into the DC Universe, this comic offers meta-commentary that, while predictable, doesn't detract from the original's charm.
Poison Ivy
Image: ensigame.com
Poison Ivy's ongoing soliloquy has reached over thirty issues, a remarkable feat. The series oscillates between surprising and skippable, yet retains a unique psychedelic-astrosocial allure.
Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson
Image: ensigame.com
Williamson returns with Damien Wayne facing a new adversary: school. While not reaching the heights of the first Robin series, it's a compelling narrative about growing up, father-son dynamics, and self-discovery. Plus, the Robinmobile adds a fun touch.
Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver
Image: ensigame.com
A dark horse in the rankings, this comic surprised with its cozy and beautiful storytelling. "Scarlet Witch" embraces simplicity, making it a delightful read.
The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier
Image: ensigame.com
This series is intentionally complex and not for everyone. It challenges readers, but those who persevere may find rewards in its winding narrative.
The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing
Image: ensigame.com
Without Al Ewing's name on the cover, this series might have been abandoned. It struggles as both a modern saga and a superhero comic, with tedious references to older works. Yet, the stunning artwork and Ewing's long-term concepts keep readers engaged, hoping for a zenith akin to The Immortal Hulk.
Venom + Venom War
Image: ensigame.com
A chaotic yet inspiring read, this series has been revisited multiple times for its captivating depth.
John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America
Image: ensigame.com
The UK segment is a masterpiece, with elements like a mermaid and a unicorn surpassing many other comics. The US segment, however, feels like a heavy-handed lecture on freedom and ideals. Despite this, Spurrier's brilliant characterization of Constantine shines through, though the overwrought parts may fade from memory, leaving only the memorable moments.
Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko
Image: ensigame.com
A manga about girls with superpowers, infused with psychological Japanese horror and the X-Men, consistently drawn by Peach Momoko. This series is a dream come true, blending all its elements into an extraordinary creation.
Latest Articles
