In 2024, readers found comfort in familiar stories, and many of these tales not only met but exceeded expectations, pushing boundaries within their genres. Navigating the vast ocean of weekly releases from traditional publishers, along with the diverse array of graphic novels for all ages, can be daunting. Here's a curated list of our top picks from the year, focusing on exceptional works from the Big Two (Marvel and DC), with a few notable exceptions.
Before diving into the list, a few points to note:
- The focus is primarily on Marvel and DC, with some near-superhero series included.
- Only comics with at least 10 issues were considered, excluding newer titles like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, or Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
- All issues of a comic were evaluated, not just those from 2024, even if they spanned multiple titles. Exceptions were made for 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
- 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 teetered on the edge of mediocrity, but managed to stay afloat with its technically impressive storytelling. While the overall narrative felt unremarkable, the neuro-arc with the Joker was a notable low point.
Nightwing by Tom Taylor
Image: ensigame.com
Had Nightwing concluded 20 issues earlier, it might have secured a top spot on this list. Unfortunately, the series was weighed down by an excess of filler content by its end. Despite this, the good moments are worth cherishing, and Tom Taylor's work will likely be remembered fondly, though it didn't reach the heights of a potential new Hawkeye.
Blade + Blade: Red Band
Image: ensigame.com
With the movie stuck in development limbo, the comic found its niche perfectly, delivering a thrilling, blood-soaked action experience centered around the Daywalker.
Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu
Image: ensigame.com
Moon Knight's journey in 2024 was tumultuous. Revived prematurely, the series struggled to find its footing, leaving many storylines unresolved and character developments unfulfilled. Despite this, there's hope that Jed McKay's current run can turn things around.
Outsiders
Image: ensigame.com
A reimagining of Planetary within the DC Universe, Outsiders offers a meta-commentary that, while predictable, remains engaging. It's a testament to the original's enduring legacy.
Poison Ivy
Image: ensigame.com
Poison Ivy's ongoing soliloquy has reached over 30 issues, a remarkable feat. The series oscillates between captivating and skippable, yet its unique psychedelic-astrosocial charm keeps readers intrigued.
Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson
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Joshua Williamson's return with Damian Wayne introduces a new challenge: 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 entry, this series was a delightful surprise. Its cozy and beautiful storytelling, reminiscent of Wanda's Emporium, offers a refreshing simplicity that's deeply appealing.
The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier
Image: ensigame.com
This series demands an engaged reader willing to navigate its complexities. While the journey is unpredictable, Simon Spurrier's storytelling rewards those who persevere.
The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing
Image: ensigame.com
Al Ewing's name on the cover keeps readers invested, despite the series feeling somewhat lackluster as both a modern saga and a superhero comic. The references to older comics can be tedious, but the divine beauty of the artwork and the promise of Ewing's overarching narrative keep hope alive.
Venom + Venom War
Image: ensigame.com
A chaotic yet inspiring read, Venom + Venom War has been revisited multiple times for its sheer impact and depth.
John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America
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The UK segment of this series is a masterpiece, highlighted by its unique elements like a mermaid and a unicorn. The US segment, however, feels overly didactic. Despite this, Simon Spurrier's writing of Constantine is brilliant, blending the exceptional with the overwrought. Over time, the memorable moments will overshadow the weaker ones.
Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko
Image: ensigame.com
A manga featuring superpowered girls, psychological horror, and the X-Men, all drawn consistently by Peach Momoko, is a dream come true. This series is a testament to creative storytelling and artistic excellence.
