Ranking the best comics of 2024: Marvel, DC, and All-In-Ones

2024: A Year of Familiar Comfort and Unexpected Excellence in Comics

2024 saw readers gravitating towards familiar narratives. Surprisingly, many of these familiar stories delivered exceptional quality and pushed creative boundaries. Navigating the sheer volume of weekly comics from major publishers, alongside graphic novels from various imprints, is a daunting task. This curated list highlights some of 2024's standout titles.

A Few Preliminary Notes:

• Focus: Primarily on Marvel and DC, with a few exceptions.
• Minimum Length: Series had to span at least 10 issues. This excludes newer series like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, "From the Ashes" X-titles, and Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
• Overall Ranking: The ranking considers all issues, not just those released in 2024. This includes series with multiple titles at their inception. Exceptions: Jed McKay's Moon Knight and Joshua Williamson's Robin.
• Anthologies Excluded: Anthologies like Action Comics and Batman: The Brave and the Bold are excluded due to their diverse authorship.

Table of Contents

• Batman: Zdarsky Run
• Nightwing by Tom Taylor
• Blade + Blade: Red Band
• Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu
• Outsiders
• Poison Ivy
• Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson
• Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver
• The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier
• The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing
• Venom + Venom War
• John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America
• Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

Reviews:

Batman: Zdarsky Run

Technically impressive, but ultimately a dull and forgettable comic, except for a compelling Joker-centric arc.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

A strong start, but ultimately bogged down by filler in later issues. While containing moments of brilliance, it fell short of its potential.

Blade + Blade: Red Band

A successful adaptation of the Daywalker into a fast-paced, action-packed comic.

Vengeance of the Moon Knight + Moon Knight: Fist of Khonshu

A mixed bag, hampered by rushed plot points and underdeveloped character arcs. Hopes remain for future redemption.

Outsiders

A Planetary reimagining within the DC Universe, featuring predictable meta-commentary.

Poison Ivy

A surprisingly long-running series with a unique psychedelic charm, despite occasional pacing issues.

Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson

A solid exploration of father-son relationships and self-discovery, though not reaching the heights of Williamson's previous Robin series.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

A charming and visually appealing comic from Dark Horse, focusing on simplicity and emotional resonance.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

A complex and challenging read, rewarding those willing to engage with its intricate narrative.

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing

Despite its slow pace and reliance on established lore, the stunning artwork and intriguing long-term narrative keep it engaging.

Venom + Venom War

A chaotic and impactful series, leaving a lasting impression.

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America

A strong first part contrasted by a weaker second, showcasing both Spurrier's brilliance and tendency towards over-saturation.

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

A unique blend of manga, psychological horror, and the X-Men, elevated by Momoko's consistent artistic excellence.