The 15 absolute best comic books of the year

As a seasoned comic book enthusiast who’s spent countless hours poring over panels and turning pages with anticipation, I can confidently say that 2021 was a year that truly delivered for us comic fans! From the nail-biting action of Absolute Power to the heart-wrenching journey of Wonder Woman, there was no shortage of thrilling stories that kept us on the edge of our seats.

2024 has been a whirlwind year for me as a comic book enthusiast. The X-Men managed to save the universe, Amanda Waller briefly seized control, and the Energon Universe remained a captivating read. There’s an abundance of underappreciated comics such as David Pepose’s Space Ghost, Declan Shalvey’s Thundercats, and Ed Brisson’s The Displaced. These titles, in my opinion, are often overlooked but definitely worth checking out.

This year’s exceptional caliber of comics has left us struggling to determine a definitive ranking for the top comic books. However, I present to you the Top 15 Comic Books of 2024, listed without any specific order.

Ultimate Spider-Man

Writer: Tom King
Artists: Marco Checchetto, David Messina

Among many commendable aspects of Jonathan Hickman’s “Ultimate Spider-Man,” the bond between Peter Parker and his family stands out most prominently, as it significantly contributes to his development into a heroic figure.

On Earth-616, Peter Parker isn’t merely Spider-Man; he’s a husband, a father, and has additional family commitments like his Uncle Ben. This means each decision he makes impacts those around him significantly more so than his counterpart on this plane. Unlike our world where Peter doesn’t have children or a wife, the Earth-616 version became Spider-Man later in life at 30 years old. With age comes newfound powers and consequently, unique responsibilities. Chief among these is safeguarding those he cherishes most. It will be intriguing to observe if misfortune befalls them in the year 2025.

Transformers

Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson
Artists: Mike Spicer, Jorge Corona, Daniel Warren Johnson

In the ongoing saga of the Transformers, fans are still finding exactly what they’ve been yearning for from the series. The characters are now showcasing a depth and charm that surpasses any portrayal in previous animated adaptations, films, or comics.

As great as that is, the best part is there are actual stakes to everything. People die and don’t return and the things that happen directly affect the Autobots and Decepticons. It hits readers hard.

Uncanny X-Men

Writer: Gail Simone
Artist: David Marquez

Each successive issue of Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men surpasses its predecessor, which speaks volumes given its strong beginning. The series is not just about the evolution of an X-Man, but also their struggle from the oppression they face as mutants to the battles that highlight their abilities.

Additionally, Gail Simone has introduced a group of five fresh characters, referred to as The Outliers, who have already received rich histories that have managed to engage readers’ emotions.

Birds of Prey

Writer: Kelly Thompson
Artists: Gavin Guidry, Robbi Rodriguez, Leonardo Bastos Romero, Jordie Bellaire

Kelly Thompson’s “Birds of Prey” showcases the essence of comic books, offering an entertaining narrative filled with profound, impactful scenes and character growth. The characters, such as Harley and Big Barda, who have a knack for fun, are not treated lightly, but instead, their depth is explored and emphasized through team development. Additionally, the artwork is exceptional.

Hey there fellow gaming enthusiast! As a comics aficionado myself, I can tell you that no matter what kind of superhero tales you dig into, Birds of Prey should definitely be in your monthly comic book rotation. Trust me, the action-packed adventures and intriguing characters will keep you hooked!

Void Rivals

Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist: Lorenzo De Felici

Void Rivals” is one of the year’s most gripping comic books you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Robert Kirkman doesn’t hold back on the action and excitement, yet it isn’t the main theme. Instead, it revolves around two individuals from distinct backgrounds discovering each other, collaborating, and forging a deep bond of friendship. Throughout their adventure, they stumble upon a secret that could potentially unite their populations and, at the same time, potentially threaten their planets.

All of the comic books in Skybound/Image Comics’ Energon Universe are worth buying. However, Void Rivals is the crown jewel. This writer can’t wait until this comic book connects to everything happening on Earth. It’s easily one of the three best comic books of the decade.

Nightwing

Writer: Tom Taylor
Artist: Bruno Redondo

Tom Taylor successfully transformed Nightwing into a distinguished comic book figure throughout his writing journey. From the beginning, he ensured that Nightwing was not just a hero but a complex character, and this theme remained consistent until the end. He guided Nightwing through confronting his fears, grappling with his past, and exploring his personal identity as both an individual and a superhero.

Unlike certain comic book tales, it finished on a positive note – a dream come true for any comic book author and illustrator.

Fantastic Four

Writer: Ryan North
Artists: Carlos Gomez and Ivan Fiorelli

Ryan North expanded the scope of the Fantastic Four narrative beyond the traditional team members, featuring characters like Valeria and Franklin Richards, Alicia Masters, her adoptive children N’kalla (Skrull) and Jo-Venn (Kree), as prominent figures. These new additions, along with their thrilling journeys through space, the Negative Zone, and other realms, enriched the series.

Another great thing is seeing the teams switch issues. During Blood Hunt, it was the unlikely duo of Alicia and Reed protecting the citizens of New York. There was also a fun single issue where Johnny Storm talked Reed into random shenanigans that ended with a skull that vomited blood. There’s also Fantastic Four No. 25 the saddest comic book of the year. So you get silliness, sadness, and some love. What more could you want from a comic book?

Wolverine: Sabretooth War

Writer: Victor Lavalle, Benjamin Percy
Artist: Cory Smith

The tale of Wolverine slaying Sabretooth is one that’s been widely discussed, but what truly sent shockwaves was the explanation behind Sabretooth causing Logan endless torment. It turned out Creed did it because he yearned for his friend, a sentiment that rings true given he had lost someone dear as a companion. However, his approach to rectifying this loss was misguided.

Perhaps if they had talked about their issues, it might have prevented his demise. But, open dialogue doesn’t seem to be Sabretooth’s forte.

The Deviant

Writer: James Tynion IV
Artists: Joshua Hixson

This comic book, titled “The Deviant,” isn’t suitable for all readers due to its graphic and potentially distressing themes. However, author James Tynion IV skillfully conveys his message in a sensitive manner, ensuring that the comic doesn’t become overly disturbing.

It’s got a dark, occasionally unsettling vibe that leans towards realism rather than satire, much like a comic from the A24 studio.

Something is Killing the Children

Writer: James Tynion IV
Artist: Werther Dell’Edera

In this current year, the comic book “Something is Killing the Children” by James Tynion IV primarily focused on Erica Slaughter’s backstory. It was intriguing to observe the experiences that shaped her from a skeptic into a defiant figure, providing a refreshing change from the ongoing narrative.

Additionally, this pause gave fresh readers an opportunity to catch up, while also enabling long-time followers to observe the character’s growth and eagerly await what lies ahead for her and her future. This isn’t the first instance where such a thing has happened in the series, and it likely won’t be the last.

Over 100,000 copies of issue #1 sold… I don’t know what to say. Holy shit and THANK YOU. 🖤💀
— Stephanie Phillips (@Steph_Smash) August 29, 2022

Grim

Writer: Stephanie Phillips
Artist: Flaviano Armentaro

I’m torn between admiring Stephanie Phillips’ captivating narrative or Flaviano Armentaro’s breathtaking artwork in this series. It’s a visual and emotional masterpiece! Crafting characters like Jessica Harrow, Marcel, and Eddie that are fresh and engaging isn’t an easy feat. But what really sets it apart is the unique portrayal of abstract concepts such as Death and Life.

Boom! Studios’ “Grim” is an exceptional comic book, and it’s only a matter of time before it makes its way to our television screens as a series. Fingers crossed that, if and when this occurs, the adaptation will be in an animated format.

Fall of X

Writers: Gerry Duggan and Kieron Gillen
Artist: Pepe Larraz and R. B. Silva

On this occasion, the X-Men found themselves facing a situation where they were both outnumbered and overpowered – a rarity for them as usually it’s either one or the other. In this battle, they weren’t just up against Orchis and Nimrod; unbeknownst to them, there were traitors within their team and an adversary lurking in another timeline as well. Given these circumstances, their victory is truly astounding. It’s worth noting that overcoming the odds is something the X-Men excel at more than any other team.

Regardless, the manner in which it was accomplished, along with the costs paid, made the occurrence significant. It’s an unexpected turn of events that one might not have anticipated.

Absolute Power

Writer: Mark Waid
Artist: Dan Mora

As a die-hard fan, I can honestly say that the DC Comics crossover event, “Absolute Power,” took me by surprise. It was four thrilling issues packed with intense battles, shocking deaths, and the emergence of Nightwing as a strong leader. However, it wasn’t just the heroes who triumphed; Amanda Waller truly excelled in her role.

As a gamer, let me tell you, no one has made a bigger impact on the superpowered community in recent times than Waller, without any superpowers or an endless wallet. She was just a whisker away from victory. What she proved is that being clever, deceitful, and persuasive can be your only ‘superpowers’. The upcoming event better step up its game because Absolute Power might just set a new standard for comic book crossovers.

Wonder Woman

Writer: Tom King
Artists: Daniel Sampere

Tom King’s “Wonder Woman” has been an incredible voyage. The tale of Diana enduring both physical and mental torment to save her adversary/ally, Cheetah, along with the battles preceding that, truly makes this a contender for comic book of the year. However, it was the “Absolute Power” spin-off and Daniel Sampere’s artwork throughout that ultimately sealed the deal.

One captivating aspect of this narrative is the significant role Diana’s family plays. It’s delightful to witness Donna Troy, Yara Flor, and Cassie Sandsmark aiding Wonder Woman in her quest for vengeance and working together as a team. Moreover, it’s essential not to overlook Diana’s daughter, Trinity, who is featured in brief stories at the conclusion of each issue.

Ultimates

Writer: Deniz Camp
Artists: Juan Frigeri, Chris Allen, Phil Noto,

A great deal of expectation was on the success of The Ultimates. Although Ultimate Spider-Man is considered exceptional in the Ultimate Marvel Comics series, this title is meant to be the leading one, featuring the top superteam. Despite the fact that The Ultimates have not yet lived up to expectations, witnessing their development and growth has been truly inspiring.

Readers observe characters being thrust into extraordinary circumstances beyond their normal experiences, such as Hank Pym, Janet van Dyne (the Wasp), and Tony Stark (Iron Man) who were once exterminators, a boy genius, and a billionaire inventor respectively, but have no prior knowledge of fighting superpowered individuals. On the other hand, Captain America and Thor have been out of combat for some time, while Reed Richards is dealing with trauma. The rapid learning process and uncertainty in each issue make the narrative thrilling and captivating. It’s truly awe-inspiring!

2024-12-10 21:01

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