The Top 10 Comics to Watch in 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, discerning comic book enthusiasts face a bold question: how to keep up with an avalanche of new releases? With a deluge of fresh titles, figuring out which ones command your attention can be daunting. Fear not, as we present a carefully curated selection of the standout comics that emerged this year, showcasing everything from blockbuster superhero sagas to indie graphic gems. This ranking exclusively highlights new releases from 2024, leaving out ongoing favorites that continue to impress.
Starting with some honorable mentions: “Beneath The Trees Where Nobody Sees” by Patrick Horvath, “Chainsaw Man” by Tatsuki Fujimoto, “#DRCL midnight children” by Shin-ichi Sakamoto, “Detective Comics” by Ram V, “The Ribbon Queen” by Garth Ennis and Jacen Burrows, “The Sacrificers” by Rick Remender and Max Fiumara, “Transformers” by Daniel Warren Johnson and Jorge Corona, and “Vinland Saga” by Makoto Yukimura. If you think we’ve overlooked anything, there’s a vast sea of comics we simply didn’t get to yet.
Here’s the countdown of the top ten best comics of 2024:
10. Centuria by Tohru Kuramori
This dark fantasy shōnen manga tells the gripping tale of Julian, who escapes from slavery aboard a ship that mysteriously turns deadly. A Sea God gifted with incredible powers intervenes, granting Julian the strength of the 100 lives lost in the tragedy. With a blend of European influences and dynamic artwork, “Centuria” is a rising star in the manga world.
9. The King’s Warrior by Huahua Zhu
A standout piece from independent publishers, this beautifully illustrated graphic novel is a fairy tale about a knight named Mara on a quest to defeat an evil wizard. Drawing on a unique aesthetic reminiscent of ancient tapestries, Zhu’s storytelling and creature design shine brightly throughout this engaging tale.
8. Absolute Batman by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
In a fresh take on Gotham’s legendary hero, “Absolute Batman” reimagines Bruce Wayne as a civil engineer grappling with trauma from a mass shooting. As Batman, he takes on the city’s criminal underbelly in an exhilarating narrative filled with intensity, featuring a stylized Batman design that harkens back to iconic representations of the character.
7. The Autumn Kingdom by Cullen Bunn and Christopher Mitten
In this hauntingly enchanting story, two sisters are thrust into a perilous world when their family is attacked by fairies. Bunn cleverly intertwines images from the father’s unfinished novel with the sisters’ harrowing journey, crafting a narrative ripe with both creativity and suspense.
6. The One Hand and Six Fingers by Ram V and Dan Watters
This innovative duo has crafted a gripping crime and science fiction story that spans two narratives. The intertwined tales of a retired detective and a serial killer allow readers to experience the tension and excitement in a format that demands a unique reading approach.
5. Ain’t No Grave by Skottie Young and Jorge Corona
In this gripping tale set against the backdrop of the Wild West, a former outlaw embarks on a quest to confront Death. Balancing its dark themes with emotional depth, this miniseries resonates with those seeking a poignant and beautifully illustrated story.
4. Resurrection of Magneto by Al Ewing and Luciano Vecchio
This character-driven narrative dives deep into Magneto’s complex history. As he grapples with his legacy, Ewing masterfully combines elements of spirituality with stunning visuals, providing insight into one of Marvel’s most enigmatic characters.
3. Ultimate Spider-Man by Jonathan Hickman, Marco Checchetto, and David Messina
In a much-anticipated reinvention, “Ultimate Spider-Man” showcases a mature Peter Parker navigating life as a husband and father. This compelling narrative not only redefines Spidey’s legacy but brings fresh perspectives on beloved characters like J. Jonah Jameson.
2. Dawnrunner by Ram V and Evan Cagle
Set in a world where humanity fights interdimensional monsters using giant robots, “Dawnrunner” delivers stunning visuals and an engaging narrative. The story tantalizes with its themes of sacrifice, memory, and heroism, while Cagle’s art brings a vibrant and immersive quality to the tale.
- The Power Fantasy by Kieron Gillen and Casper Wijngaard
- Offering a provocative exploration of power dynamics in an alternate reality, “The Power Fantasy” delves into a world full of superpowered individuals and the consequences of their existence. Readers are treated to exceptional storytelling that resonates with contemporary themes, skillfully blending history, politics, and life in a thrilling revelation.
These titles deserve a spot on your reading list as we head into 2025, showcasing the vibrant creativity and storytelling prowess alive in the comic book medium today.