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 tales were exceptionally well-executed and pushed creative boundaries. Navigating the sheer volume of weekly comics from major publishers, plus the diverse graphic novels available, is a daunting task. This list highlights some of 2024's standout titles.

A Few Preliminary Notes:

• Focus is primarily on Marvel and DC, with a few exceptions.
• Only series with at least 10 issues are included. This excludes newer titles like Ultimates, Absolute Batman, several X-titles from the "From the Ashes" relaunch, and Aaron's Ninja Turtles.
• The ranking considers the entire series, not just 2024 releases. Exceptions are McKay's Moon Knight and Williamson's Robin.
• Anthologies (like Action Comics and Batman: The Brave and the Bold) are excluded due to their varied creative teams.

Table of Contents:

• Batman: Zdarsky's 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's Run

A technically impressive but ultimately underwhelming and predictable comic, marred by a poorly executed Joker arc.

Nightwing by Tom Taylor

A strong start that unfortunately faltered towards the end, bogged down by filler issues. While enjoyable, it fell short of its potential.

Blade + Blade: Red Band

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

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

A mixed bag, hampered by rushed storytelling and underdeveloped character arcs. Potential remains 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, though pacing can be uneven.

Batman and Robin by Joshua Williamson

A solid exploration of father-son dynamics and personal growth, though not reaching the heights of Williamson's previous Robin series.

Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver

A surprisingly charming and visually appealing comic from Dark Horse, focusing on a simpler, more intimate narrative.

The Flash Series by Simon Spurrier

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

The Immortal Thor by Al Ewing

A potentially rewarding but initially slow-paced series, relying heavily on established lore. The artwork is a highlight.

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 overstuffed narratives.

Ultimate X-Men by Peach Momoko

A unique blend of manga, psychological horror, and the X-Men, beautifully illustrated by Peach Momoko.