The writer and artist of DC Comics have produced some of the greatest graphic novels and comics in the history of the industry, from iconic game-changers like The Dark Knight returnsto Superman Or Justice League Epics that changed their shared universes for decades to come.
With almost a century of characters, stories, series and sagas to choose from, naming the best is almost impossible. But for those looking to enjoy the greatest works with Superman, Batman, the Justice League and more, These are the best DC Comics stories in history.
20
For Sector (2019)
The best parts of the Green Lantern concept, in a standalone sci-fi mystery
For anyone looking to dive into the worlds of Green LanternBut they are not ready to digest decades of ongoing drama, remote sector is the answer. From an acclaimed writer and paired with an artist whose style and energy are instantly legendary, Jo Mullein gets the introduction a superhero can only dream of.
“Far Sector represents the best of the Green Lantern concept: a standalone story that embraces decades of DC cosmic world-building without being over-reliant on dense Lantern continuity. With a dash of Afrofuturism from Hugo award-winning writer NK Jemisin and stellar artwork By Jamal. Campbell, I find myself recommending it to long-time DC readers and complete comic-book newbies alike.” – Kate O’Donoghue, Comics Editor
19
Batman: Under the Red Hood (2005)
Batman’s Rogues Gallery returns for an unforgettable new chapter in his mythology
The story that brought Jason Todd back from the grave And reinvented him for a new generation of fans. “Under the Red Hood” injects heartbreaking family drama into a story about crime, loss and revenge. A pivotal story for any comic book heavily invested in Batman’s history with his troubled sidekick.
“Judd Winick’s Batman: Under the Red Hood masterfully interweaves intense emotion with intense action, redefining the Batman mythos through the narrative resurrection of the Dark Knight’s second Robin – Jason Todd. This epic pushes the boundaries of superhero storytelling, offering a profound exploration of grief, revenge, and familial bonds, cementing its place among the most enduring comics of all time.” – Taylor Blake Forsberg, comics writer
18
flashpoint (2011)
The story that defined Barry Allen’s Flash for the modern age of DC Comics
An alternate reality/timeline to put new twists on familiar characters is nothing new, as any fan of the best DC else Comics already know. But with FlashpointThe company turned a ‘what it?’ In an unforgettable ‘What did you do?’ The larger publishing plans that followed could make Flashpoint Best known as the beginning of DC’s New 52 relaunch, but the tale would have earned its place on the list regardless of what impacts, if any, it had on the larger line.
“It’s not the story that brought Barry back to life, but it’s the one that sets his modern character, history, motivations and heart for the modern age of DC mythology. With more than one moment on the short list of the most memorable In Flash the story, Johns and Kubert delivered a work that will forever be imitated, but never recreated.” – Andrew Dyce, Comics Editor
17
Young Justice (1998)
The most underrated run on DC’s most underrated super team
Who doesn’t love sidekicks branching out on their own? Young justice is Peter David and Todd Nauck at their absolute best as they chronicle the lives of Robin, Superboy, Impulse and dozens of other fan-favorite superheroes. Filled with adventure and charm, Young justice is the perfect book for comic book fans of any age.
A testament to the importance of legacy characters in the DC Universe, Young Justice is filled with heart, humor, finding family, shenanigans, Lobo clones and unbeatable ’90s fashion. Sometimes the best comics are, in fact, the silliest. Justice was my gateway DC story when I was a teenager, and nearly 15 years later, it’s still my favorite series of all time.” – Kate O’Donoghue, Comics Editor
16
Mr. Miracle (2018)
A brilliant, modern spin on Jack Kirby’s Fourth World that became an instant classic
Tom King and Mitch Gerrads stunned the comic book world with their take on the DC Universe’s death-defying escape artist in Mr. Miracle. The names of the creative team at Scott Free dazzled readers and became an instant ‘must-read’ for comic book fans everywhere. Mr. Miracle Takes a big swing with the fourth world myth And absolutely successful.
“Through Mister Miracle, Tom King tries to achieve many things at once. Mister Miracle is a meditation on depression, recovery and a tribute to Jack Kirby. Trying to balance such complex attributes at once in any other work by any other creator risks becoming A mess, but somehow, King balances the emotional struggles of the character through Mitch Gerald’s often haunting images making for a multi-layered character study filled. – Joe Myrick, comics writer
15
Batman: Year One (1987)
The origin story that took Batman’s ‘noir’ incarnation to its heights
Long before the idea of ​​’another Batman origin story’ seemed like a regular, as opposed to risky proposition, the creative dynamic duo of Miller and Mazzuchelli blew the doors off with Year oneA definitive and refreshing look at Bruce Wayne’s early career. And just like the greatest stories in Batman’s long history, this story showed fans how both Bruce Wayne and Jim Gordon propelled each other to their modern legend status.
14
blue bug (2006)
A flawlessly-told origin story, from one of DC’s most treasured stories
The Blue Beetle’s legacy reaches its peak with Jaime Reyes’ first solo title, Blue bug. Coming out of Infinite Crisis, Rhys finds his world turned upside down as he adjusts to life as a superhero while balancing his life as a teenager. A perfect entry point For anyone a little curious about the fan-favorite Blue Beetle.
“Giffen and Hamner’s introduction of Jaime Reyes as the Blue Beetle is not only a significant turn in DC history; it’s one of the most heartfelt, entertaining superhero comics I’ve ever read. The team made me fall in love with Jaime s supporting cast. As much as Jaime himself, if you want to stay up late binge-reading a comic – as I did, back in 2010 – this story is for you. – Kate O’Donoghue, Comics Editor
13
DC: The New Frontier (2004)
The power of nostalgia and tradition to create a brand new masterpiece
A true masterpiece by comic book legend Darwyne Cooke, DC: The New Frontier Take a new look at The founding of the Justice League against the backdrop of the 1950s. Cook excels in showing the thematic growth from the war-torn Golden Age to the optimistic Silver Age in a story as timeless as it is beloved.
“In The New Frontier, Darwin Cook bridges the gap between the golden and silver ages of DC, while giving the JLA their best origin story yet. Cosmic terror, political thriller and stunning art define this truly seminal piece of comic history, set against the backdrop of a boisterous 1950s America.” – Ashley Land, comics writer
12
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2021)
The modern Supergirl epic that her fans could only have dreamed possible
With a long line of other characters already in his rearview mirror, writer Tom King set his sights on telling the definitive, timely and undeniably modern story for Supergirl Fans. The outcome may have been predicted beforehand, but there is no way to prepare for the glory of King’s collaboration with artists Bilquis Evely and Matheus Lopes. Using Kara to tell a story of trauma, tragedy, revenge and the dilemma of Kryptonian power, Woman of tomorrow Will be the book to beat for all future House-of-El epics.
11
Batman: The Long Halloween (1996)
The perfect Batman mystery that would define Gotham’s energy for decades
Batman: The Long Halloween is a haunting, gripping comic book that stands out among the hundreds of Batman stories. Over a year in Gotham, the Dark Knight investigates a mystery with twists and turns that changes the course of not only his life, But the lives of Batman’s greatest allies and adversaries.
“The Long Halloween is an emotional and pivotal Batman tale that has brought fans to Gotham for decades. Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale give readers a heartbreaking look at the way the caped crusader transforms his city even as he defends it from the evolving threats of new Wicked and old friends.” – Gabrielle Robbins, comics writer
10
Superman: Birthright (2003)
A brand new origin that makes the man of style more relevant than ever to the modern world
Given their track records in the industry, fans should have expected Mark Waid and Leinil Yu’s update to the Superman origin story to become a go-to for a new generation. The feat was attempted only a handful of times, and was acclaimed even fewer. With its influences felt in Superman’s Man of Steel adaptation, and countless stories to follow, Waid achieved his mission to make Superman matter to the modern world. And set a bold new precedent for others to do the same, as well.
“As someone who never felt connected to the ‘All-American, Boy Scout’ Superman, I was the exact person Wade and Hugh had in their crosshairs with their updated origin. From Ma Kent’s proud UFO fandom, to Clark’s quiet isolation , and the brilliant redefining of the ‘S’ insignia, every note was perfectly struck There’s no question: Birthright is the reason I became a Superman fan, proving that one incredible Comic can convert a non-believing fan. – Andrew Dyce, Chief Comics Editor
9
Crisis on Infinite Earths (1985)
A story that changed the industry and redefined what was possible with a comic event
The multiverse and decades of DC Comics history collide in this 12-part epic Crisis on Infinite Universe. Marv Wolfman and George Pérez come together to create a defining moment in the DC Universe Masterfully pays tribute to the first fifty years of DC Comics while ushering in a future full of potential.
“Crisis on Infinite Earths was released to coincide with DC Comics’ 50th anniversary, Crisis on Infinite Earths ranks as one of their best. Epic in scope, starring every DC character up to that point, Crisis set the standard for future comic book events, like As well as helped shape the modern DC Universe.” – Sean Corley, comics writer
8
The Flash: Rebirth (2010)
A return from the dead that sets new foundations for Barry Allen and his universe
Barry Allen makes his triumphant return as the fastest man alive Flash: Rebirth. Just as Geoff Johns and Ethan Van Sciver helped bring Hal Jordan back into the spotlight with Green Lantern: RebirthThe story reintroduces the Silver Age hero for a new generation while Planting the seeds for the Scarlet Speedster and the future of the DC Universe.
“It’s really impossible to understate what Geoff Johns pulled off: not only bringing Barry Allen back from the dead, but doing it with so much fear and gravitas that the celebration was drowned out by the naysayers. There were Hall of Fame epics before Rebirth (with more than one Flash), and Flashpoint came after, but that was the watershed that defined how big, how bold, and how important Flash family stories would be to the DC Universe. – Andrew Dyce, Comics Editor
7
Green Lantern: Rebirth (2004)
The story that saved Hal Jordan, and left his entire mythology for the future of DC
Hal Jordan and the entire Green Lantern Corps get a major overhaul in one of the best entry points a fan could ever read. Green Lantern: Rebirth Give a fallen hero a second chance and make him brighter than ever With some revelations that have a huge impact on the entire DC Universe.
“This was the foundation for Geoff Johns’ entire run on Green Lantern. It was more than just pressing the ‘undo’ button to absolve Hal of his actions in ‘Emerald Twilight’. It was a critical shot in the arm that The Green Lantern franchise desperately needs everything that fans loved about Green Lantern in the mid to late 00s, “Sinestro Corps War”, “Blackest Night”, it all starts here with the passionate opening chapter From Green Lantern’s bold era. – Justin Epps, comics writer
6
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns (1986)
The return of an older, rougher Dark Knight that changed his legacy forever
Whatever character explorations or analyzes of Batman were intended when Frank Miller, Klaus Johnson, and Lynn Varley made their leap into the far-off future of the DC Universe, their vision of the aging Bruce Wayne “pulled out of retirement” became an immortal Image. The moment, fans laid eyes on him. Whether his extreme mission, the shocking story that traumatized surrounding members of the DC Universe, or his iconic battle with Superman, The Dark Knight returns is on a level of ‘adult’ comic books reserved for the best of the best.
5
Watchmen (1986)
The greatest deconstruction of superheroes there has been and probably will be
Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ classic 12-issue series transports readers to a new world where superheroes are not just a part of history, but influence it. From deconstructing the superhero genre to tapping into the fears of the Cold War and nuclear proliferation, Guard is still regarded as one of the most ingenious comics ever created.
“Alan Moore once said he was changed, reading his first issue of Fantastic Four. Unlike DC’s heroes, they fought, were tiny, and were monstrous. Watchmen turned it up to 11, and transformed the comics Means. By bringing superheroes to the table, he laid the groundwork for every meta, subversive story that followed.” – Casey Connor, comics writer
4
Kingdom Come (1996)
Two comic legends, delivering an iconic saga guaranteed to stand the test of time
Justice League has never looked better or made fans think as much as in Mark Waid and Alex Ross’ Kingdom come. Whether an old fan or a brand new reader, this comic is an absolutely perfect story that Explores an ideological divide between classic DC Universe heroes and a more edgy, new-wave generation.
“Kingdom Come is inarguably one of the definitive sagas of DC Comics and my favorite comic of all time. A career-defining collaboration of legends Mark Waid and Alex Ross, this dystopian epic presents a hauntingly prescient vision of the future while serving as a perfect Refutation of the over-the-top cynicism of ’90s comics is a genuine distillation of what makes DC Comics, and Superman in particular, Iconic Plus, Magog is just sick as hell. – Tristan Benns, comics writer
3
The Sandman (1989)
A story about storytelling, and one of comics’ greatest contributions to literature
Arguably the crown jewel of DC Comics’ Vertigo line, The Sandman is an epic that follows Dream, aka Morpheus, the King of Dreams who returns after a nearly century-long imprisonment. What begins An interesting story tangentially related to the DC Universe becomes something so much more As readers follow Dream and those connected to it.
“The ultimate in storytelling, The Sandman is amazing in every sense. Neil Gaiman’s opus takes readers on a journey full of incredibly rich characters and hauntingly beautiful moments. The Sandman set the standard for DC Comics’ Vertigo imprint and few Comics have come close to matching his legendary quality. – Justin Epps, comics writer
2
Wonder Woman History: The Amazons (2023)
An achievement in art and storytelling to rival any in comic history
Kelly Sue DeConnick and Phil Jimenez set a standard in their DC Black Label book that few other creative teams have been able to compete with. Wonder Woman: History is a jaw-droppingly beautiful story that Not only explores Wonder Woman’s character, but creates a modern Greek myth in the process.
“I read the first issue of Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons on my tablet, then immediately went to the comic shop to buy a physical copy just to marvel at Phil Jimenez’s art in my own hands. After reading thousands and thousands of superhero comics. , story is easily the most beautiful DC story I’ve ever encountered – and that’s to say nothing of the powerful and empowering story.” – Kate O’Donoghue, Comics Editor
1
All-Star Superman (2005)
When Superman loses his powers, he reminds the world that he defines what a ‘superhero’ should be.
All-Star Superman has become one of the most frequently recommended Superman stories In recent years, and for good reason. Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely’s book dives deep into what it is that drives the Man of Steel in 12 issues that can have even the most hardened cynic looking on the bright side of life.
“All-Star Superman has become the definitive story with the Man of Steel because of how it explores the hero in a completely different light. It’s Supes at his most vulnerable, making his last days even more impressive. There’s a reason why it is the influence for James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film.” – Angela Davis, comics writer