In its three decades of existence, Image comics pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the art of comic books. With a wide variety of story types, Image publishes stories for all sorts of readers and they continue to exist on the cutting edge of the medium.
From classic antiheroes vi Chip To horror staples like The Walking DeadImage Comics has produced some of the greatest comic series of the past thirty years. Even in the image imprint, some series are superior to others and the most memorable.
20
The Fade Out (2016-2014)
Created by Ed Brubaker & Sean Phillips
Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips have become the gold standard in comics when it comes to crime/noir fiction, and The fade out is one of the acclaimed team’s greatest collaborations. Set in 1940s Hollywood, the story sees struggling screenwriter Charlie Parrish attempt to solve the murder of a film starlet, uncovering a conspiracy that runs deep through the fabric of Tinseltown. at twelve issues, Brubaker and Phillips tell a complete story as efficiently as any classic film noir or hard-boiled crime novel, resulting in a gripping read that stands as one of the duo’s absolute best works.
19
Beach Planet (2014-2017)
Created by Kelly Sue DeConnick & Valentine De Landro
With a feminist spin on the “women in prison” exploitation films of the sixties and seventies, Kelly Sue DeConnick and Valentine de Landro’s original ten-issue series is equal parts genre pulp thrills and thoughtful explorations of gender dynamics. Hur planet Takes place at the Auxiliary Compliance Outpost, an interstellar prison housing “non-compliant” women, with each issue focusing on a different inmate. Filled with sex and violence, the end result is a story that won’t make you feel like you have to take a shower afterwards, unlike the exploitation films that DeConnick and De Landro drew their inspiration from.
18
Ice Cream Man (2018-present)
Created by W. Maxwell Prince & Martin Morazzo
One of the latest success stories of Image Comics, Game Ice Cream Man is a difficult series to boil down to a simple logline, as no single sentence can hope to contain the sheer creativity and overall weirdness of the work. W. Maxwell Prince and Martin Morazzo’s acclaimed series is basically a horror anthology The adventures of Rick, the titular ice cream man who possesses mysterious, supernatural abilities. As the series goes on, readers learn more about the invisible Rick, creating an intriguing mystery that runs through the standalone stories of the creepy and wild world.
17
Sex Offenders (2013-2020)
Created by Matt Fraction & Chip Zdarsky
It might be the wackiest idea ever conceived for an ongoing comic book series, but the end result is easily one of the best comics of the 21st century. Sex criminals Tells the story of Suzy and Jon, who discover they both have the power to stop time when they reach orgasm after hooking up at a party. It’s a strong mix of raunchy sex comedy and zany crime caper results in a storyline that blends the two genre confections quite well, but the The true power of Fraction and Zdarsky’s series lies in the nuanced and experienced portrayal of the central characters’ developing relationships.
16
Powers (Vol.1 2000-2004)
Created by Brian Michael Bendis & Mike Avon Oeming
It was published by Marvel, DC and the current Dark Horse Comics at home, however Powers Got his start in the picture. Tells the story of a police department trying to maintain law and order in a world where superheroes and supervillains are real, Powers Ranked as one of the greatest comics to come out of Image Comics in the 2000s. Along with his rise as one of the top writers in the entire industry, Brian Michael Bendis displays all the hallmarks that would later make him famous, and Mike Oeming’s deceptively simple style keeps the superhero action and the shadow-drenched tension high on each page.
15
Chevy (2009-2016)
Created by John Layman and Rob Guillory
A must read for anyone who is a fan of unconventional detective stories and food chew. It follows Tony Chu, an FDA agent who investigates crimes and cases revolving around food by doing what he does best – eating. With every bite that the agent takes in a piece of food that is related to the case he is investigating, he receives a psychic vision that brings him closer to solving the case. Oh, and the nature of Chu’s powers means he has to work as a cannibal, eating criminals to get closer to the case.
A cannibal cop in a world where chicken is illegal might be a tough sell for anyone, but this noir-ish comedy has a well-earned reputation as one of Image Comics’ must-read books, largely due to its intricate world- Building. It’s funny for sure, but the story takes itself seriously in a way that it’s easy to get sucked into.
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14
Criminal (2006-2020)
Created by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips
I’m talking about news, Criminal In all these iterations there is a slow burn that does justice to the classic style and genre that it tries to emulate.. It’s evident that Brubaker Philipsl are avid fans of the noir genre with every smoldering panel. Thus, the creative team is fully dedicated to incorporating every cigarette burning and smoking gun the genre is notorious for into its narrative. The dedication is as admirable as it is impressive.
Criminal is an interesting entry on the list because initially, Criminal was published by Marvel on its original release. later in the line, Criminal became an Image Comics property. It may be late to the game, but it certainly made its mark in Image, even more closely associated as an Image property than a Marvel one.
13
Stray Bullets (1995-2020)
Created by David Lapham
As if it wasn’t evident enough, Image Comics is known for a wide assortment of pulp stories in its library that evoke the spirit of noir. Stray bullets is one such story, sporting a black and white style on every page. The artwork is the most distinguishable aspect of the seriesAs much as the story is why so many audiences chose to stick around for as long as they did. The art sets the tone for what proves to be a wicked tale revolving around complex characters that are much more than just black and white.
It’s hard for a reader not to find themselves invested in such a complex, twist-filled tale, but it’s also hard to talk about such a bold tale without spoiling the best parts. That’s even more reason for readers to get their hands on it Stray bullets.
12
East of West (2013-2019)
Created by Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta
There are several words that can describe East of WestBut above all, East of West is ambitious. It is certainly one of the most ambitious entries on this list It manages to blend science fiction, the western genre, and religious philosophies (among other things) all in one series. Not an easy task for any creative team, but for one of his best comics books, Jonathan Hickman and co. More than rising to the occasion.
East of West Depicts the four horsemen of the apocalypse as heroes during the western era, with a particular focus on death. This multi-genre odyssey takes readers on a journey where it feels like anything and everything can happen and in a world this vast and unique, anything and everything Will happen. It’s not just a must-read entry in the Image Comics bibliography, but a must-read in the comics community, period.
11
Do a Powerbomb (2022)
As a limited series, Make a powerbomb Is not one of the longest lasting entries on the list, but it is undeniably one of the most memorable and surprisingly gripping on the list. Readers who are not fans of professional wrestling should not be put off by the topic, as this is more than a wrestling story. if anything, It is a Greek tragedy wrapped in a dragon ball z-style tournament. Wrestling is just the backdrop, but not enough to alienate or confuse non-fans.
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The story follows Luna, who, years after watching her mother die in the ring is suddenly recruited for a supernatural wrestling tournament. From the synopsis, readers might expect a violent, brutal thrill ride (which, in many ways, it is), but unexpectedly, what unfolds is an emotion-driven tale of redemption, loss, and finding closure from grief.
10
The Department of Truth (2020-present)
Created by James Tynion & Martin Simmonds
Although a relative newcomer to the image imprint, The Department of Truth had a huge impact on the comic world and was one of the best picture comics of 2021. The book follows a government employee who is brought into a secret operation known as the Department of Truth. The purpose of the group is to suppress conspiracy theories that can come to life if enough people believe in them.
Blending in all elements of conspiracy theory, as well as the occult and true crime, The Department of Truth is one of the strangest comic series of all time. What makes this book so unique, aside from its concept, is that it uses multiple methods to tell its story including text and a variety of different art styles each month.
9
Youngblood (1992-1994)
Created by Rob Liefeld
Image Comics and creator Rob Liefeld are inseparable, even if they’ve split up and reunited several times over the years. Young blood Follows a group of superheroes who not only fight supervillains but are treated like celebrities by a world that adores them.
Although alternative versions of superheroes are common today, Young blood Was truly ahead of his time with his clever concept. Although Young blood Eventually left the image comics imprint, the historic first run was the best that the series ever achieved, and it set the young imprint on the right path to what it would become today.
8
Jupiter’s Legacy (2013-present)
Created by Mark Millar & Frank Quitely
Although you are dealing with superheroes, Jupiter’s legacy is also a whip-smart comment on the political climate of the United States. The book tells the story of the generational conflict between different ages of superheroes and the pressure on the younger generation of heroes to be as successful as their elders.
Mark Millar’s clever writing is a prime example of what sets Image apart from the other comic publishers. Although superhero stories can be complicated, Millar found a way to weave modern political problems into a timeless story of generational strife. The comic was adapted into a series for Netflix, but due to the many differences from the book, the show was not well received.
7
Witchblade (1995-2015)
Created by Marc Silvestri, David Wohl, Brian Haberlin, Christina Z and Michael Turner
In the early days of Image Comics, many of their series tackled the familiar superhero genre, but added in clever twists on the concept. Witchblade Tells the story of an NYPD detective who comes into possession of the mysterious Witchblade Gauntlet that gives her powers to fight a plethora of supernatural enemies.
With its original run spanning two decades, Witchblade Proved to be a useful property for Image as it was adapted into a TV series and an anime. By presenting a unique female hero, the book separates itself from the larger comic imprint and their more straightforward female stars. The comic was revived for a shorter-lived second volume and shows no signs of ever departing from the Image imprint.
6
Kick-Ass (2008-2014)
Created by Mark Millar & John Romita, Jr.
Although initially published by Marvel Comics under their Icon imprint, Kick-Ass Was picked up by Bild and became one of the best series. The book follows a teenage boy who becomes a vigilante hero who inspires others to take up the cause. Soon he is involved with other heroes who hope to take down a powerful mob family.
Kick-Ass Sored because of its gritty image of real heroes. While most comics depict the glamorous side of super-powered heroes, Kick-Ass Shown how it would be in a realistic situation. The book also makes subtle comments about vigilantism in general and a lot of its cleverness comes from writer Mark Millar, a picture comics notebook.
5
Saga (2012-present)
Created by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples
Away from the superhero comics they made, Bild has found success with a plethora of quirky stories in other genres as well. Saga is the story of a pair of warring alien species who attempt to raise a child together while escaping the authorities of each of their homeworlds.
with a mixture of Star Wars And epic fantasies like Lord of the Rings, Saga Managed to find a unique niche all by myself. Although the concept is simple, the comic excels because of its many great characters that inhabit the world of the story. Although the book went on a multi-year hiatus, it is still one of the most popular current series of Bild.
4
Invincible (2003-2018)
Created by Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker & Ryan Ottley
As larger imprints that have their universe, Bild also created their inclusive world and Invincible Tells a compelling story in the Image Comics universe. The story follows teenage Mark Grayson as he begins to develop superpowers like his father, Omni-Man. Following in his father’s footsteps, Invincible fights his own battles while being mentored by his dad.
With an abundance of exciting powers, Invincible Manages to be both familiar and refreshing at the same time. Robert Kirkman’s writing also helped set the series above the usual superhero fare and the comic went in unique directions over its long run. By showing the family dynamic, Invincible Added a domestic element to the usual superhero formula.
3
The Walking Dead (2003-2019)
Created by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore & Charlie Adlard
Few non-superhero comics have had as great an impact on popular culture as Image The Walking Dead. Set in a zombie-infested post-apocalypse, the story follows an ex-police officer and his family as they attempt to find safety and sanctuary in an unfriendly world. Surrounded by danger on all sides, the characters quickly learn that other people are still the most dangerous enemy of all.
The series ran for quite a while before it was picked up for its hit TV adaptation on AMC. What sets it apart from most other zombie stories is its unique setting and characters, as well as the black and white art style. With zombies as a backdrop, The Walking DeadIts real conflict plays out between its vivid characters.
2
Wild Dragon (1992 – present)
Created by Erik Larsen
Since the beginning of the press, Wild Dragon was an integral part of Bild Komik’s identity. The book follows the Dragon, a green superhero who joins the Chicago police department to fight crime and stop his super-villain enemies.
Wild Dragon is unique because it not only runs for over thirty years, but was also written and drawn by the same artist throughout its entire run. The Dragon is an archetypal hero and bears a striking resemblance to many of the most famous heroes of comic history. Despite this, the urban setting and clever writing have kept the character fresh and unique throughout its three-decade run.
1
Spawn (1992 – present)
Created by Todd McFarlane
Much in the same way that Superman is the icon of DC Comics, Chip is the heart and soul of the image. The book tells the story of a mercenary soldier who was killed and sent to hell. Once there, he is allowed to return to Earth as a Helper that gives him superpowers that he uses to fight evil.
Surely one of the most iconic comic book characters of the 1990s, Spawn has a unique image as an antihero. With a dark veneer that made even Batman seem lighthearted, Spawn’s connection to the underworld was an interesting twist. Although most comics have a hopeful view of the world, Chip is uniquely lost in his philosophy, and very much an integral part of the Image comics Universe.