Naming the best comic books of all time is no easy task, with each new decade delivering an instant classic from Marvel, DC Comics, Image, Dark Horse, and many more. But a handful of famous comic books and graphic novels stand above all the rest.
The medium has been growing exponentially since its early days in the 20th century. Gradually evolving mainstream culture and artistic approaches changed how comics and their characters were written, with each passing decade seeing more great comic stories published. DC and Marvel have unsurprisingly created some of the most famous comics ever, but the likes of Dark Horse, Bild and more have all earned their spots among The greatest comic books of all time.
20
Batman: The Long Halloween (1996)
Created by Jeph Loeb & Tim Sale (DC Comics)
Even a cursory look at the most acclaimed stories featuring Batman will reveal this Batman: The Long Halloween From Loeb and Sale is among the best. With the story taking place over an entire calendar year (to begin with), the case gives a different impression to Bruce Wayne's normal crime-by-crime rhythm, not to mention multiple twists and turns during his investigation. Rewriting several different keystone pieces of Batman lore, the book seems guaranteed to be an all-time classic.
"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 villains and old friends." - Gabrielle Robbins, comics writer
19
The Walking Dead (2003)
Created by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, Charlie Adlard (Image Comics)
The TV adaptation could have been made The Walking Dead A household name, but the comic book series was in a league of its own before the first episode was filmed. A unique exploration of the human drama (and horror) at the heart of our obsession with zombiesThe series' shocking ending only cemented its place in comic book history.
"Walking Dead understands to its core that the zombies in zombie stories are just an excuse to force desperate people into close proximity. In love with the practicalities of how people would cope or break in a world of constant danger, Walking Dead is one of the The most satisfying episodic reading you'll find in comics." - Robert Wood, Comics Editor
18
Sin City (1991)
Created by Frank Miller (Dark Horse Comics)
His work with Batman and Daredevil is typically first to come to mind as writer and artist Frank Miller's best comics, but he also wrote some classic non-superhero stories. One of the best black-and-white comics in the genre, Dark Horse Sin City is an acclaimed neo-noir story set in a bleak, authoritarian-run city in the United States. The comic was revered for his approach and heavy inspiration from pop and crime-noir television, film and magazine stories..
Likewise, it presented an engrossing trend of Miller's writing Sin City More like a serialized TV/movie crime-drama in a comic book format. Although the second film adaptation was poorly received, the original 2005 film received generally positive reviews.
17
Preacher (1995)
Created by Garth Ennis & Steve Dillon (Vertigo, DC Comics)
As one of the "big two" publishers of the comic book industry, DC Comics is primarily known for its superheroes. However, their Vertigo imprint of comics spawned some timeless non-superhero classics. Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon Preacher was such a cult hit, with the story centered around a grim supernatural/religious disaster plaguing a small Texas town.
Jesse Custer, the titular preacher, becomes possessed by A supernatural entity comprised of pure good and pure evil, possibly becoming the most powerful entity in the universe. The story takes its small scope and eventually branches across the country, meeting a strange cast of characters.
16
Kingdom Come (1996)
Created by Mark Waid & Alex Ross (DC Comics)
expanded to the larger Justice League, Kingdom come is a landmark comic in DC's pantheon of stories. The alternate-canon comic was a sort of meta-deconstruction of "superheroes" as a concept. Veteran writer Mark Waid and iconic artist Alex Ross put together a miniseries detailing the fall in prominence of the outdated "traditional" heroes and the rise of dangerous copycats.
The traditional superheroes fall out of touch with the changing times and new threats, with Batman's team trying to stop Lex Luthor and the impending conflict. It's a fascinating alternate tale that stands as one of DC's best Other worlds Comics in history.
15
V For Vendetta (1982)
Created by Alan Moore, David Lloyd & Tony Weare (Vertigo, DC Comics)
Alan Moore's most iconic comic stories may feature DC's superheroes, however V for Vendetta Was another DC Vertigo Comic that went in an exciting different direction. It is a dark political dystopia story, where a fictitious political party has successfully turned the United Kingdom into a brutal neo-fascist police state.
The main character is the titular V, sporting the classic Guy Fawkes mask, who leads an anarchistic revolution against the ruling oppressors. Because of this difficult assumption, V for Vendetta Tackles a variety of difficult political topics in a dense, elaborate story full of moral grays and extremes.
14
Batman: Year One (1987)
Created by Frank Miller & David Mazzucchelli (DC Comics)
Origin stories can sometimes feel like a dime a dozen and have understandably worn the patience of fans over the years. However, Miller and David Mazzucchelli's Year one is among the most definitive comic book origins. The late Dennis O'Neill started Batman's exceptional noir reinvention, and Year one was one of the comics that brought this evolution to a crescendo.
Down to the pulp-inspired artwork, It is a rich and atmospheric crime drama that shows fans how Bruce Wayne was the vigilant protector of Gotham City. Likewise, it served as a great parallel origin story for soon-to-be Commissioner Gordon alongside Batman, depicting the two as flawed characters who are ultimately trying to do the best they can to bring justice to Gotham's systematic corruption.
13
Green Lantern: Rebirth (2004)
Created by Geoff Johns & Ethan Van Sciver (DC Comics)
With the story settling on Hal Jordan's descent into villainy as one of the most shocking villain twists in modern comics, Geoff Johns has taken it upon himself to restore Hal's glory, and change the course of the DC Universe in the process. Impossible to overstate, the success of Green Lantern: Rebirth Made the lantern a core piece of the publisher's universe for decades to come.
"This was more than just pressing the 'undo' button to absolve Hal of his actions in 'Emerald Twilight'. This was a critical shot in the arm that the Green Lantern franchise desperately needed. Everything 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 of Green Lantern's boldest era." - Justin Epps, comics writer
12
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2021)
Created by Tom King, Bilquis Evely & Matheus Lopes (DC Comics)
It is difficult to discuss Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow Without immediately noticing the breathtaking artwork, delivering jaw-dropping visuals from literally the first cover art and preview pages. The work of artist Bilquis Evely and colorist Matheus Lopes does not disappoint in the story itself, taking its heroine across the DC Universe, through countless cosmic backdrops, fantastic worlds and stunning future-classic poster art. The term "masterpiece" is earned, which means the staggeringly beautiful script only adds to the power of the story..
Writer Tom King has earned a reputation as a storyteller who is always able to turn into an instant classic, and Woman of tomorrow is no exception. With the stated goal of distilling a "pure" Supergirl story, readers get a standalone adventure that showcases everything that makes Kara Zor-El worthy of her 'Super' moniker (and everything that makes her unique from her famous cousin, as well). It is likely to capture the trauma and burden of a lost home world, revenge, the unsolvable morality of violent heroes, and so much more. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow Will come to be known as 'The' Supergirl story, for those looking to understand the power of her character.
11
The Mighty Thor (2015)
Created by Jason Aaron & Russell Dauterman (Marvel Comics)
The case of the 'Unverti' Thor was one bomb after another, first finding the Odinson could not live Mjolnir, and soon revealing an unknown woman who was called to replace him. Eventually the truth came out, and Jane Foster claiming Mjolnir as the Mighty Thor sent shockwaves through the comic book world. But fans weren't ready for the heartbreaking story Jason Aaron and Russell Dauterman still had left to tell.
"The world of comics sends world-shattering villains come and go every year, so it's rare for a story, let alone a mystery, to stand the test of time. But even if Jane Foster's legacy as Thor hasn't Led to her final sacrifice, or seeing her take on a new role as Valkyrie, her time with Mjolnir has already been used up in Marvel history from the first panel. - Andrew Dyce, Comics Editor
10
Crisis on Infinite Earths (1985)
Created by Marv Wolfman & George Pérez (DC Comics)
The event is so big, it's almost impossible to believe it would be possible until DC Comics actually pulled it off. The crossover to end all crossovers, Wolfman and Pérez reset half a century of comic book history while still managing to honor the foundations that the DC fandom has come to adore. The industry noticed and Permanently changed the medium's standards for the size, scope and impact against which all 'crises, relaunches and reboots would be measured'.
9
All-Star Superman (2005)
Created by Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely & Jamie Grant (DC Comics)
The name sets the standard, but luckily the creative team of Morrison and Quitely lived up to it (and then some). Telling the tale of Superman's last days, and returning to the earliest days of his life to do so, All-Star Superman Marks The elite list of books that rise from 'exceptional' to an instant classic of the medium. Doing it even while it was still releasing just proved the point with authority.
"Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely's All-Star Superman is something of a miracle. Overpowered by the frequent criticism of Superman by making him even stronger, Morrison and Quitely reveal his true strength lies in the character's unblemished hope. The cover to issue #1 is the perfect encapsulation, as a relaxed Superman looks over his shoulder, beckoning us to join him in the clouds. - Nathan Cabaniss, comics writer
8
The Immortal Hulk (2018)
Created by Al Ewing, Joe Bennett, Ruy José and Paul Mounts (Marvel Comics)
The mission laid out by Al Ewing and Joe Bennett is clear from the start: with The Immortal HulkThe true power and invincibility of Bruce Banner's curse would be explored in all its true body horror glory. But even horror fans could not have predicted what the creative team had in mind, or how difficult it would be to see Hulk the same way again.
Amplifying the curse of the Hulk into a horror movie monster to torment his host and everyone he encounters, the true mythology behind Hulk is expanded in ways that redefine the Marvel Universe as a whole. An Avenger brutally disassembled, beloved Hulk characters twisted into nightmares, and gamma-powered elf horrors make Immortal Hulk A story that no Marvel fan will ever forget (even if they wanted to).
7
Wonder Woman History: The Amazons (2023)
Created by Kelly Sue DeConnick & Phil Jimenez (DC Comics)
Comic book audiences did not know what to expect when the first reports of DC Black Label Wonder Woman story Arrived. Some predicted a retrospective, others an official "Bible", or even a prestige series after the legendary inhabitants of Paradise Island. What happened was A stunning masterpiece that rises from a must-read Wonder Woman story, all the way to a critical piece of DC's most prestigious published work.
"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
6
Lock and Key (2008)
Created by Joe Hill & Gabriel Rodriguez (IDW Publishing)
Coming from the team of Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez, Lock and key Is A fantastic comic series (and eventual universe) that combines elements of magical realism, horror, and straight-up fantasy. The story is immediately gripping, with a wonderful premise and themes that explore the mental weight of grief. Funny and dark in equal parts, Lock and key is one series that every fan of comics as an art form should read.
"A true masterpiece by Hill and Rodriguez, Lock and key Is everything I look for in a good comic book." - Evan Mullicane, Anime & Manga Editor
5
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns (1986)
Created by Frank Miller, Klaus Janson & Lynn Varley (DC Comics)
Arguably the most popular Other worlds Batman story is Miller's The Dark Knight returns. Although it is an unquestionable classic for most, some of the themes are unfortunately misconstrued and then glorified in the modern day. Despite this, it remains a gripping action and politically dystopian-set Batman arc portrays a more cynical, jaded version of the hero after the fall of most of his heroes.
A 50-plus-year-old Bruce Wayne is forced back into the Cape and Cook after Gotham regresses In Senseless Crime and the US Meanwhile, the same governing body has effectively turned the once-great Superman into a political weapon and lapdog.
4
X-Men: The Dark Phoenix Saga (1979)
Created by Chris Claremont, John Byrne, Bob Sharen, Terry Austin & Glynis Wein (Marvel Comics)
Chronicling the tragic fall of a beloved hero and turning her into one of the X-Men's greatest threats, the groundbreaking character work of Chris Claremont's story and indelibly iconic art by John Byrne ensures that The Dark Phoenix saga remains a high point in Marvel's history to this day.
"The Dark Phoenix saga is where the X-Men really become the X-Men. Not only is the story epic in its own right, but it's still relevant to the franchise forty years later. It needs to be considered along the same lines as Watchmen or Dark Knight Returns is so good.” - Tristan Benns, comics writer
3
Saga (2010)
Healed like One of the best comic book entries in the science fiction genre ever madeThe beloved Saga By Brian K. Vaughn and Fiona Staples somehow managed to earn universal acclaim and success, while also building a cult following typically reserved for underdogs, or the underrated. But when a new reader meets the protagonists of this space opera, it is easy to see why.
While technically operating on a grand, cosmic scale, it's the drama and personality in star-crossed lovers Alana and Marko that set the standard for the series. From the first page, and the first glimpse of their baby daughter Hazel, comic readers were in on the whole adventure (no matter how many bounty hunters, space police or unthinkable monsters would try to cut it short). Fortunately, future readers in search of an outstanding space opera won't have to wait that long either.
2
Watchmen (1986)
Created by Alan Moore, Dave Gibbons & John Higgins (DC Comics)
Perhaps Moore's most iconic work in comics came in his Guard Series. Along with artists Dave Gibbons and John Higgins, the series functioned as a dark satirization of the superhero genre by portray a group of morally-ambiguous "heroes" who are clearly—and dangerously—unstable in their respective ways.
The comic also incorporated (for its time) more contemporary elements such as the Vietnam War and the Cold War. Doctor Manhattan, for example, can easily be seen as the physical manifestation of paranoia over nuclear war breaking out. Along with the likes of The Sandman And The Dark Knight returns, Guard was one of the first few comic books of the time to rank on the New York Times bestseller list.
1
The Sandman (1989)
Created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Keith, Dave McKean, Mike Dringenberg (Vertigo)
The most iconic Vertigo Series that DC published was its flagship The SandmanWritten by the great Neil Gaiman and illustrated by many artists. The story revolves around Dream, one of the Seven Endless, finding himself captured by cultists and forced to acknowledge that even entities stronger than DC's gods such as them need to accept inevitable changes.
The Sandman is celebrated as Gaiman's magnum opus and praised for its ethereal and surreal personifications of metaphysical concepts. The Endless are the personifications, as they embody some of the most powerful forces that make up the universe.