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

In 2024, readers found comfort in familiar narratives, yet the year was marked by exceptional storytelling that pushed boundaries. Navigating the vast sea of comics released weekly by traditional publishers, not to mention the diverse array of graphic novels tailored for all ages, can be daunting. Here, we present a curated list of our favorite comics from 2024, focusing on the Big Two (Marvel and DC) with a few notable exceptions in the superhero genre.

Before diving into the list, a few notes:

• Only comics with at least 10 issues were considered, excluding new titles such as Ultimates, Absolute Batman, X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, and Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
• All issues of a comic were evaluated, not just those released in 2024, with the exception of Jed McKay's Moon Knight and Joshua Williamson's Robin.
• Anthologies, due to their varied authorship, were not included (e.g., 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

Batman: Zdarsky Run

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The Batman: Zdarsky Run teeters on the edge of mediocrity but manages to shine with its technically impressive storytelling. The narrative centers on the battle against a false Batman, though the neuro-arc involving the Joker is a notable misstep.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

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Nightwing by Tom Taylor would have been a top contender had it concluded 20 issues earlier. Unfortunately, the series accumulated too many filler issues towards its end. Despite this, Taylor's work will be remembered fondly, though it missed the mark to become the next Hawkeye, settling as a typical DC ongoing of average quality.

Blade + Blade: Red Band

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While the Blade movie languished in production limbo, the comic found its niche perfectly, delivering a bloody action-packed adventure that captures the essence of the Daywalker.

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

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2024 has been an odd year for Moon Knight. Revived too soon, the series failed to develop its new protagonist or delve deeply into the tragic experiences of those around him. Even the resurrection of Ms. Marvel didn't disappoint as much. However, there's still hope that Jed McKay's ongoing series will set things right.

Outsiders

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Outsiders reimagines Planetary within the DC Universe. While the comic attempts meta-commentary, it often feels predictable. Nevertheless, it pays homage to its original inspiration without detracting from it.

Poison Ivy

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Poison Ivy's ongoing monologue has now spanned over 30 issues, a remarkable feat. The series oscillates between moments of brilliance and those you wish to skim through, yet it maintains a unique psychedelic-astrosocial charm.

Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson

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Joshua Williamson returns with Damien Wayne to face new challenges, including school. While not reaching the heights of his first Robin series, it's a compelling story of growth, father-son dynamics, and self-discovery. Plus, the Robinmobile adds a fun twist.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

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An unexpected gem, Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver offers a cozy and beautifully illustrated narrative. It doesn't push boundaries but its charming simplicity and the warmth of Wanda's Emporium make it a delightful read.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

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The Flash by Simon Spurrier is a challenging read, intentionally complex. It requires patience and effort, but the journey is worth it, though what exactly you gain from it remains elusive. The unpredictable nature of the plot keeps readers engaged.

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing

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The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing might be a tough sell without his name attached. It struggles as both a modern saga and a superhero comic, with its references to older works feeling tiresome. Yet, the allure of Ewing's overarching narrative keeps readers hooked, hoping for a payoff. The artwork, however, is breathtakingly beautiful.

Venom + Venom War

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Venom + Venom War is a chaotic yet inspiring whirlwind. Its intensity is captivating, leading to multiple rereads as readers become enthralled by its depth.

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America

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The UK segment of John Constantine, Hellblazer: Dead in America is a masterpiece, featuring elements like mermaids and unicorns that outshine many other comics. The US part, however, feels overly didactic, filled with familiar themes of freedom and law. Despite this, Spurrier's portrayal of Constantine remains brilliant, though the narrative is somewhat overstuffed. Memorable moments like the vegetable joke and Clarissa's monologue will endure, overshadowing the contrived Sandman epilogue.

Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko

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Ultimate X-men by Peach Momoko blends manga, psychological Japanese horror, and the X-Men into a monthly masterpiece. It's a dream realized, with all elements seamlessly integrated into a captivating narrative.