Top Comics of 2024 Ranked: Marvel, DC, Indies

In 2024, readers found comfort in the familiar, yet many of these stories were exceptionally well-crafted and innovative. Navigating the vast sea of weekly comic releases from major publishers, not to mention the diverse range of graphic novels available across various age groups, 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 titles like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, the X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, and Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
• The entire run of each comic was evaluated, not just the issues released in 2024, even if it spanned multiple titles. Exceptions include 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:

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

A technically impressive comic, though it falls short in excitement. It's a tale of battling the wrong Batman, with the exception of the neuro-arc involving the Joker, which was a misstep.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

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This series had the potential to be a top contender had it concluded 20 issues earlier. Unfortunately, it ended up with too much filler content. Despite this, the memorable moments will linger in fans' memories, though it didn't reach the heights of the new Hawkeye.

Blade + Blade: Red Band

Image: ensigame.com

With the movie stuck in production limbo, the comic filled the niche perfectly, offering a thrilling, action-packed experience centered on the Daywalker's battle against vampires.

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

Image: ensigame.com

Moon Knight's year was tumultuous. Revived too soon, the character's arcs and those of his allies were rushed, leaving much to be desired. Despite the disappointment, there's hope that Jed McKay can steer the series back on track.

Outsiders

Image: ensigame.com

This remake of Planetary is deeply woven into the DC Universe. Its meta-commentary, while frequent, becomes predictable, but it doesn't detract from the original's charm.

Poison Ivy

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Poison Ivy's ongoing soliloquy has reached 30 issues, a testament to its appeal. It's a mix of surprises and moments you might skim through, but it carries a unique psychedelic-astrosocial allure.

Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson

Image: ensigame.com

Williamson brings back Damien Wayne, placing him in a new arena: school. While it doesn't reach the heights of the first Robin series, it's a compelling narrative about growth, father-son dynamics, and self-discovery, enhanced by the addition of the Robinmobile.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

Image: ensigame.com

A dark horse in the rankings, this series surprised with its cozy and beautiful storytelling. It doesn't push boundaries but offers a charming simplicity that captivates.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

Image: ensigame.com

This series is intentionally complex, not for the faint of heart. It challenges readers but promises a rewarding journey, though the end remains a mystery.

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing

Image: ensigame.com

Without Al Ewing's name, this might have been abandoned. It's neither an exciting saga nor a compelling superhero story, with its references to older comics feeling tedious. Yet, the hope of reaching the culmination of Ewing's interconnected narratives keeps readers engaged, and the artwork is stunning.

Venom + Venom War

Image: ensigame.com

A chaotic yet inspiring read, this series has been revisited multiple times for its intense storytelling.

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America

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The UK segment is a masterpiece, with elements like a mermaid and a unicorn setting it apart. The US segment, however, feels overdone with its themes of freedom and law. Despite this, Spurrier's portrayal of Constantine remains brilliant, and the memorable moments will outlast the forgettable ones.

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

Image: ensigame.com

A unique blend of manga, psychological horror, and the X-Men universe, consistently delivered by Peach Momoko. This series is a remarkable achievement, blending all its elements seamlessly.