As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on a remarkable chapter in DC Comics history. It seems like only yesterday that fans were immersed in the thrilling “Beast World”crossover, while the heroes faced the relentless attacks by Amanda Waller.
This year was packed with exceptional ongoing series, bold narrative arcs, and groundbreaking initiatives that pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling. DC Comics released an impressive array of tales, but only a select few encapsulated the creativity and excitement that resonated with fans. Join us as we spotlight the ten standout DC Comics series of 2024, each contributing to the publisher’s stellar year.
10 The Boy Wonder: An Exploration of Damian Wayne
By Juni Ba
Marking a series of firsts, The Boy Wonder stands as DC’s inaugural Black Label title centered on Robin and also introduces Juni Ba’s first full-length contribution. This compelling narrative revisits Damian Wayne’s early days, delving into his inner turmoil as he grapples with his heritage amid a new threat: a demon preying on Gotham’s citizens.
Juni Ba not only pens but illustrates this series, effortlessly capturing the essence of Robin while navigating the intricacies of his relationships within the Bat-Family. The artwork radiates energy and charisma, particularly during its dynamic action sequences, promising an engaging visual experience.
9 Absolute Power: The Summer Event
By Mark Waid and Dan Mora
Following the conclusion of Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths, the stage was set for DC’s summer blockbuster event, Absolute Power. This thrilling narrative unfolds as Amanda Waller takes dire measures, coercing heroes and unleashing formidable new villains. The stakes escalate when Waller effectively confiscates the powers of numerous metahumans, thrusting the heroes into an uphill battle to reclaim their abilities.
Despite numerous tie-ins, the core of Absolute Power delivers a self-contained epic in its four main issues, showcasing Waid’s masterful storytelling while Mora’s artwork amplifies the story’s intensity and suspense.
8 Poison Ivy: Redefining an Icon
By G. Willow Wilson, Marcio Takara, and Haining
Since 2022, G. Willow Wilson has intricately explored Pamela Isley’s character. In 2024, the storyline “The Secret Origin of Pamela Isley”reveals fresh insights into Poison Ivy’s origins, aligning perfectly with the newly launched DC All In initiative. Ivy embarks on a mission to rejuvenate Gotham’s wetlands, only to encounter the enigmatic Order of the Green Knight.
Wilson’s portrayal of Poison Ivy has consistently showcased her complexities, and the vibrant illustrations by Takara and Haining elevate this series to one of the most visually stunning offerings on the market.
7 Wonder Woman: Challenging Diana
By Tom King, Daniel Sampere, Guillem March, and Tony S. Daniel
Diving deeper into Wonder Woman’s legendary tale, Tom King and Daniel Sampere crafted a narrative that places Diana in unprecedented peril. The antagonist, the Sovereign, orchestrates daunting challenges using Diana’s old foes and manipulation through the Lasso of Lies. In response, Wonder Woman demonstrates her unwavering resolve, rallying allies to confront this formidable threat.
This series, while intersecting briefly with Absolute Power, shines in its exploration of Wonder Woman’s defining characteristics: her innate compassion and resolute determination. Furthermore, it introduces intriguing new lore, unveiling her and Steve Trevor’s daughter, Elizabeth Marston Prince, nicknamed Trinity.
6 Zatanna: An Enchanting Tale
By Mariko Tamaki and Javier Rodríguez
Anticipating her own series debut in 2025, Zatanna kept her magic alive with Bring Down the House. This new Black Label installment steers away from supernatural battles typical in Justice League Dark, placing Zatanna in the vibrant entertainment scene of Las Vegas. However, an incident during her performance forces her to confront her hesitation to embrace her magical capabilities.
Tamaki brilliantly presents Zatanna as a multi-dimensional character, balancing liveliness with personal insecurities. Rodríguez’s illustrations enrich this concept, crafting a vividly imaginative adventure.
5 Superman: Action-Packed Adventures
By Joshua Williamson, Bruno Redondo, Rafa Sandoval, David Baldeon, Jamal Campbell, and Dan Mora
Leading the charge for DC’s “Dawn of DC” initiative, Superman set a fast-paced tone in 2024 with stories that showcased the Man of Steel’s versatility. The year kicked off with the resolution of the Lex Luthor Revenge Squad saga, followed by the thrilling “House of Brainiac” crossover. In a unique twist, Superman assists Zatanna in their quest during the Absolute Power storyline before returning to face fresh challenges as Lois Lane assumes the mantle of Superwoman.
The series consistently delivered exhilarating narratives, combining action, wit, and humor, proving that Superman’s adventures resonate with fans, maintaining a standard of storytelling excellence.
4 Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong: An Exciting Crossover
By Brian Buccellato, Christian Duce, and Tom Derenick
The unprecedented collaboration between DC Comics and Legendary Comics brought forth Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong. This innovative crossover merged the DC Universe with the iconic MonsterVerse, introducing Titans into the mix and prompting the Justice League to combat colossal threats. The narrative embraces its whimsical nature, allowing heroes to indulge in lighthearted confrontations with legendary monsters, featuring unexpected alliances that add depth and humor to the storyline.
By taking creative risks, this ambitious venture captures the imaginations of fans from both worlds, celebrating the spirit of crossover storytelling.
3 Absolute Batman: A Fresh Take
By Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta
Under the All In initiative, DC Comics introduced the Absolute line, which plunged heroes into a world of enhanced adversity. Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta’s Absolute Batman set a new benchmark, presenting a version of the Dark Knight stripped of the Wayne family’s riches. This challenging premise elevates the stakes for our hero, offering readers an engaging and innovative narrative.
The all-consuming action paired with Snyder’s deft storytelling has created an experience that stands out in Batman’s rich legacy. It’s a powerful showcase of creativity that resonates with readers long after the last page is turned.
2 Green Lantern: War Journal – Spotlighting John Stewart
By Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Montos
Highlighting John Stewart’s significance in the Green Lantern Corps, Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Montos delve into an enthralling adventure with Green Lantern: War Journal. This series builds on John’s newfound cosmic prowess and plunges him into a conflict with a formidable enemy known as the Radiant Dead. Accompanied by newcomer Caolán Shepherd, the stakes are high, with implications stretching across the DC Universe.
Johnson and Montos deliver a captivating storyline filled with stunning visuals, ensuring that this twelve-issue mini-series is a must-read for fans eager to witness Stewart’s journey unfold.
1 Detective Comics: A Defining Era
By Ram V, Guillen March, Stefano Raffaele, Ricardo Federeci, and Javier Fernandez
Renowned writer Ram V’s tenure on Detective Comics culminated in a tour de force exploration of Batman’s legacy against the backdrop of the Orgham family’s influence on Gotham. The concluding year showcased a narrative filled with unexpected twists and nuanced reflections on Batman’s identity as a hero and symbol.
Delivering riveting storytelling alongside stellar artistic contributions from Guillen March, Raffaele, and Federeci, this run captures both thrilling action and thoughtful examination of the character. As this chapter concludes, we are left with the lasting impact of “Gotham Nocturne,”marking a remarkable period in DC Comics’ illustrious history.
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