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

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

In 2024, comic readers found comfort in familiar narratives. Surprisingly, many of these familiar stories transcended expectations, pushing creative boundaries. Navigating the sheer volume of weekly releases from major publishers, along with graphic novels from various imprints, is a daunting task. This 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 must have at least 10 issues. This excludes newer titles like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, recent X-titles, and Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
• Ranking: The entire run of each series is considered, not just 2024 releases. Exceptions are McKay's Moon Knight and Williamson's Robin.
• Anthologies Excluded: Due to varied authorship (Action Comics, Batman: The Brave and the Bold).

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 noteworthy Joker arc.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

A strong start that faltered towards the end, burdened by filler issues. While not reaching its initial potential, it still contained enjoyable moments.

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 improvement.

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 personal growth, though not as impactful as Williamson's previous Robin series.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

A charming and visually appealing comic that prioritizes heartwarming simplicity over experimentation.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

A complex and challenging read, rewarding persistence with a unique and unpredictable narrative.

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing

A potentially rewarding, though occasionally tedious, series with stunning artwork. Its appeal hinges on familiarity with Ewing's previous works.

Venom + Venom War

A chaotic and impactful series, deserving of multiple rereads.

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America

A masterpiece in its UK segment, while the US portion feels less compelling. Despite its flaws, Spurrier's portrayal of Constantine remains exceptional.

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

A captivating blend of manga, psychological horror, and X-Men lore, elevated by Momoko's consistent artistic talent.