Top Comics of 2024 Ranked: Marvel, DC, Indies

In 2024, readers found comfort in familiar narratives, and this year, many of these stories not only met but exceeded expectations. Navigating the vast ocean of comics released weekly by traditional publishers, along with the diverse array of graphic novels available for readers of all ages, can be overwhelming. Here's a curated list of standout titles from 2024 that captured our hearts.

Before we dive into the list, a few notes:

• The focus is primarily on the Big Two (Marvel and DC), with a few exceptions for near-superhero series.
• Only comics with at least 10 issues were considered. New releases like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, or Aaron's Ninja Turtles were not included.
• The entire run of each comic was evaluated, not just the issues released in 2024, even if the series spanned multiple titles. Exceptions were made for Jed McKay's Moon Knight and Joshua Williamson's Robin.
• Anthologies were excluded 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

This comic teeters on the edge of mediocrity but saves itself with technical prowess. It's an otherwise unremarkable tale of battling the wrong Batman, with the exception of the intriguing neuro-arc involving the Joker.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

Image: ensigame.com

If Nightwing had concluded twenty issues earlier, it might have secured a top spot on our list. Unfortunately, the series accumulated too many filler issues by its end. Still, the good moments will be cherished, and Tom Taylor's work will leave a lasting impression, despite falling short of the potential to be the next Hawkeye.

Blade + Blade: Red Band

Image: ensigame.com

With the movie stuck in development limbo, the comic found its niche as a thrilling, blood-soaked action series featuring the Daywalker.

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

Image: ensigame.com

Moon Knight's year was marked by a premature resurrection that disrupted all narrative threads. The successor's story was cut short, and Marc's personal growth was stifled. Yet, there's hope that Jed McKay can turn things around in the current series.

Outsiders

Image: ensigame.com

A reimagining of Planetary set within the DC Universe, this comic integrates meta-commentary that, while predictable, still pays homage to its original inspiration.

Poison Ivy

Image: ensigame.com

Poison Ivy's ongoing monologue has reached an impressive thirty issues, a testament to its enduring appeal. The series blends psychedelic and astrosocial elements, offering a unique reading experience.

Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson

Image: ensigame.com

Williamson returns with Damian Wayne facing a new adversary: school. While it doesn't reach the heights of the first Robin series, it's a compelling story about growing up, father-son dynamics, and self-discovery, enhanced by the introduction of the Robinmobile.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

Image: ensigame.com

An unexpected gem, this comic offers a cozy, beautiful narrative centered around Wanda's Emporium. Its charm lies in its simple yet captivating storytelling.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

Image: ensigame.com

This series is not for the faint of heart; its complexity demands patience and engagement. The winding narrative of The Flash keeps readers guessing, making for an intriguing journey.

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 to balance modern godly sagas with superhero elements, and its references to older comics can be tedious. Yet, the stunning artwork and the promise of a narrative payoff keep readers hooked.

Venom + Venom War

Image: ensigame.com

A chaotic yet inspiring series that has been reread multiple times. It's a testament to its captivating nature and the abyss it invites readers to explore.

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America

Image: ensigame.com

The UK segment is a masterpiece, featuring a mermaid and a unicorn that elevate it above other listed comics. The US segment, however, veers into overwrought territory with its heavy-handed themes. Still, Spurrier's brilliant characterization of Constantine shines through, ensuring memorable moments like the vegetable joke and Clarissa's monologue will endure.

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

Image: ensigame.com

A manga about girls with superpowers, infused with psychological Japanese horror and the X-Men universe, drawn consistently by Peach Momoko. It's a dream come true, blending all elements into an extraordinary creation.