Top Comics of 2024: Marvel, DC, and More

In 2024, readers found comfort in familiar narratives, yet many of these stories excelled and pushed boundaries. Navigating the vast array of weekly comics from traditional publishers and the diverse graphic novels available across various book divisions is a daunting task. Here's a curated list of standout comics from 2024 that we cherished.

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 series.
• Comics included must have at least 10 issues. Therefore, new releases such as Ultimates, Absolute Batman, X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, or Aaron's Ninja Turtles did not make the cut.
• I evaluated all issues of a comic series together, not just those published in 2024. This includes series that spanned multiple titles. Exceptions are Jed McKay's Moon Knight and Joshua Williamson's Robin.
• Anthologies like Action Comics and Batman: The Brave and the Bold were excluded due to their varied authorship.

Table of Contents

1. Batman: Zdarsky Run
2. Nightwing by Tom Taylor
3. Blade + Blade: Red Band
4. Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu
5. Outsiders
6. Poison Ivy
7. Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson
8. Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver
9. The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier
10. The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing
11. Venom + Venom War
12. John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America
13. Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

Batman: Zdarsky Run

Image: ensigame.com

The Batman: Zdarsky Run teeters on the edge of mediocrity. While technically impressive, it was largely unremarkable, save for the intriguing neuro-arc involving the Joker. The battle against the wrong Batman felt lackluster, yet the comic managed to stay just above the threshold of being considered subpar.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

Image: ensigame.com

Nightwing by Tom Taylor would have been a contender for the top spot had it concluded twenty issues earlier. Unfortunately, it succumbed to an overload of filler content. Despite this, the series had its moments of brilliance that will be fondly remembered. It had the potential to be the next Hawkeye but settled into typical DC ongoing series territory.

Blade + Blade: Red Band

Image: ensigame.com

While the movie lingered in production hell, the Blade comic thrived, filling the niche for Daywalker fans with a fast-paced, blood-soaked action narrative.

Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu

Image: ensigame.com

Moon Knight's journey in 2024 was tumultuous. Revived too soon, it left many plot threads unresolved, from the successor's development to the quick resolution of tragic events around Mark. While Ms. Marvel's death and resurrection were less disappointing, hope remains that Jed McKay can steer the series in the right direction.

Outsiders

Image: ensigame.com

Outsiders, a reinterpretation of Planetary woven into the DC Universe, peppers its narrative with meta-commentary. However, its delivery becomes predictable, though it remains a respectful nod to the original.

Poison Ivy

Image: ensigame.com

Poison Ivy's ongoing soliloquy has reached over thirty issues, a testament to its enduring appeal. The series blends psychedelic and social elements, sometimes surprising, other times urging readers to skim, yet always maintaining its unique charm.

Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson

Image: ensigame.com

Joshua Williamson returns with Damien Wayne, introducing a new adversary—school. While it hasn't reached the heights of the initial Robin series, it remains a compelling narrative about growth, father-son dynamics, and self-discovery, complete with the delightful addition of the Robinmobile.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

Image: ensigame.com

A dark horse in the rankings, Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver offers a cozy and visually stunning reading experience. Its charm lies in its simplicity and warmth, reminiscent of Wanda's Emporium, making it a standout without needing to push experimental boundaries.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

Image: ensigame.com

The Flash by Simon Spurrier is a deliberately complex read, challenging readers to engage deeply. While its winding narrative path is unpredictable, those who persevere are rewarded with a unique and intriguing journey.

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing

Image: ensigame.com

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing might feel monotonous as both a modern god saga and a superhero comic, with its references to older comics feeling stale. Yet, the allure of Al Ewing's overarching concepts keeps readers invested, hoping for a climactic resolution. The artwork, however, remains breathtakingly divine.

Venom + Venom War

Image: ensigame.com

Venom + Venom War is a whirlwind of chaos and inspiration. Its compelling narrative has prompted multiple re-reads, drawing readers deep into its abyss.

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America

Image: ensigame.com

The UK segment of John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America is a masterpiece, featuring memorable elements like a mermaid and a unicorn. In contrast, the US segment delves into overwrought themes of freedom and ideas, though Spurrier's portrayal of Constantine remains brilliant. Over time, the filler content will fade, leaving only the series' memorable moments to be cherished.

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

Image: ensigame.com

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko combines manga storytelling with psychological horror, featuring girls with superpowers and the iconic X-Men. This monthly release is a dream come true, blending all its elements into a remarkable and cohesive creation.