Best Marvel Comics to Read: Our Top Picks

We’ve been huge Marvel fans for a long time. We’ve explored many comic book stories, from X-Men to Avengers. The Marvel Universe has amazed us with its deep stories and memorable characters1.

Marvel has shown incredible creativity and storytelling skills lately. They’ve introduced new series and storylines that break new ground. Whether you’re a seasoned comic book fan or new to Marvel, we’ve picked the best comics for you. You’ll find your next exciting superhero story2.

Key Takeaways:

  • Marvel’s Ultimate Universe has been a huge hit. Copies of its launch issues are almost impossible to find, showing how much fans love it1.
  • The X-Men #35 marks a big moment in Marvel’s history. It’s the 700th issue of Uncanny X-Men, showing the X-Men’s lasting appeal1.
  • Wolverine: Madripoor Knights celebrates Wolverine’s 50th year. It brings back old favorites and welcomes new readers1.
  • Marvel knows how to use popular characters in different stories. Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider is a great example of this1.
  • Marvel connects fans through various media. The new X-Men ’97 animated series ties in with the new comic series1.

Iconic Marvel Comic Events and Crossovers

Marvel has a rich history of iconic comic book events. These events have introduced new characters and set up new relationships. They have also showcased epic battles that have resonated with readers3.

Empyre (2020) is a standout event. It saw the Kree and Skrull unite as warriors under “the Alliance.”3 A war fleet aimed at Earth forced the Avengers, X-Men, and Fantastic Four into a cosmic conquest. This conquest ended the centuries-old Kree-Skrull War3.

Marvel has a tradition of scheduling crossover series once a year for the last two decades4. These events bring together multiple heroes. They are sometimes annual occurrences, with direct crossovers between ongoing titles and in special limited series formats5.

Major Marvel Events Key Impacts
House of M Traumatized Spider-Man, left only 198 mutants with powers intact, X-Men took over a decade to recover3.
Civil War Spider-Man revealed his identity, Captain America was killed, Tony Stark led S.H.I.E.L.D., Wolverine tied to Avengers3.
Avengers Vs. X-Men Introduced new Nova, sparked mutant life, death of Charles Xavier split mutants, led to Uncanny Avengers3.
Infinity Gauntlet Ranked as the best Marvel crossover event, featuring Thanos in love with Death and wiping out half of humanity with the Infinity Gems4.

These iconic Marvel events have left a lasting impact on the Marvel Universe. They have shaped the narratives and relationships between beloved characters345.

Empyre (2020)

In Empyre (2020), the Kree and Skrull have united as warriors under “the Alliance.”3 A war fleet aimed at Earth forces the Avengers, X-Men, and Fantastic Four into a cosmic conquest. This conquest will end the centuries-old Kree-Skrull War3.

“Empyre (2020) #1 is the beginning of a new era for the Marvel Universe, as the Kree and Skrull have formed an alliance and are now coming to Earth with a massive fleet, ready to wage war.”

good marvel comics to read

Marvel Comics has a rich history filled with iconic superhero stories. From the Silver Age to today, there’s a lot to explore for all ages and interests6.

For new readers, “Marvels” by Kurt Busiek is a great start. It has a 4.28 out of 5 rating from 38,440 ratings6. “The Amazing Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt” by J.M. DeMatteis is also excellent, with a 4.31 out of 5 rating from 13,246 ratings6. These stories introduce you to the Marvel Universe and its heroes.

Classic fans will love “Daredevil: Born Again” by Frank Miller. It has a 4.35 out of 5 rating from 18,054 ratings6. “The Infinity Gauntlet” by Jim Starlin is also a must-read, with a 4.12 out of 5 rating from 18,045 ratings6. These stories have made a big impact on Marvel Comics.

Looking for the latest Marvel titles? “Blood Hunt” and “X-Men #35” are getting a lot of attention. Classic runs like “The Kree/Skrull War”7 and Jim Starlin’s “Captain Marvel,”7 are also timeless and captivating.

marvel comics

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Marvel, there’s something for everyone. From must-reads to essential stories for beginners, Marvel Comics has a lot to offer8.

Comic Title Average Rating Number of Ratings
“Marvels” by Kurt Busiek 4.28 out of 5 38,440
“The Amazing Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt” by J.M. DeMatteis 4.31 out of 5 13,246
“Daredevil: Born Again” by Frank Miller 4.35 out of 5 18,054
“The Infinity Gauntlet” by Jim Starlin 4.12 out of 5 18,045
“Civil War: A Marvel Comics Event” by Mark Millar 4.10 out of 5 60,982

Essential Marvel Reading for Newcomers

For newcomers to Marvel comics, Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider is a great start9. It introduces Spider-Gwen, from her own universe, into the main Marvel Universe9. As Gwen Stacy explores this new world, readers get to see the Marvel Universe’s rich history and diverse characters.

Marvel has been making comics since 1961, with thousands of titles9. There’s a guide for the most important Marvel stories from 1961 to 20009. It also lists modern comics from 1998 on9. The “Marvel Fresh Start” in 2018 is a good starting point for 20239.

For a quick Marvel Universe overview in 2023, check out the favorite comics of 20229. There are also guides for major characters like Ant-Man, Spider-Man, Doctor Strange, and the X-Men9. These guides offer a deeper look into each hero and villain.

Essential Marvel Comics for Beginners Popular Marvel Comic Book Characters Must-Read Marvel Storylines
  • Fantastic Four #1 (1961)
  • Ultimate Spider-Man #1 (2000)
  • Hawkeye #1 (2012)
  • Ms. Marvel #1 (2014)
  • Avengers #1 (2018)
  • Spider-Man
  • Black Panther
  • Captain America
  • Hulk
  • Iron Man
  • Infinity Gauntlet (1991)
  • Uncanny X-Men #129 (1981)
  • Guardians of the Galaxy #1 (2008)
  • Venom #1 (2018)
  • Invincible Iron Man #1 (2008)

Newcomers can dive into the Marvel Universe with this range of comics, characters, and storylines10. They’ll discover the rich stories and the lasting charm of Marvel’s superheroes11.

essential marvel comics for beginners

Conclusion

Marvel’s vast library of comics has something for everyone. From the fun stories of the Silver Age12 to today’s complex tales, Marvel keeps fans hooked12.

If you love Marvel or are new to it, our list of best Marvel comic book series is perfect for you13. It’s a great way to start your superhero journey13.

Marvel has big events like Empyre (2020) and great stories for new readers like Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider. There’s something for every fan, from top graphic novels to new adventures13.

FAQ

What are some good Marvel comics to read?

Marvel has a vast library of amazing comics. They range from classic stories to modern epics. You can find great titles like Blood Hunt and X-Men #35, or start with Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider for newcomers.

What are the best Marvel comic book series?

Marvel boasts many incredible series. Classics like The Avengers and Uncanny X-Men are must-reads. Also, check out Immortal Hulk and House of X/Powers of X for modern gems.

What are the top Marvel graphic novels?

Marvel has many acclaimed graphic novels. Classics like Watchmen and The Dark Knight Returns are here. Also, don’t miss Marvel’s own stories like Civil War and The Infinity Gauntlet.

What are the must-read Marvel storylines?

Essential storylines include The Dark Phoenix Saga and The Infinity Gauntlet. Also, check out Avengers vs. X-Men and House of M. These have shaped the Marvel Universe.

What are the essential Marvel comics for beginners?

Start with Spider-Gwen: The Ghost Spider for a fresh take. Also, Marvel: The Ultimate Character Guide and Marvel: The Marvel Universe Encyclopedia are great for learning the Marvel history.

What are the classic Marvel comic book runs?

Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s work on The Fantastic Four and The Avengers is iconic. Chris Claremont’s Uncanny X-Men run is also legendary. Jonathan Hickman’s House of X/Powers of X and Al Ewing’s Immortal Hulk are modern classics.

Who are the popular Marvel comic book characters?

Marvel is known for Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor. The Hulk, X-Men, Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy are also fan favorites. These characters have been thrilling readers for decades.

What are the iconic Marvel comic book events?

Marvel has had many impactful events like The Infinity Gauntlet and Civil War. Secret Wars and House of X/Powers of X are also must-reads. These events have shaped the Marvel Universe.

Who are the influential Marvel comic writers and artists?

Marvel has been blessed with legendary creators. Stan Lee, Chris Claremont, and Brian Michael Bendis are among them. Artists like Jack Kirby and Jim Lee have also made their mark. These creators have shaped the Marvel Universe.

Source Links

  1. The Greatest Marvel Comics Of The Past And Present – https://www.cbr.com/marvel-comics-must-read-series/
  2. I read all 27,000 Marvel comics and had a great time. Here’s what I learned – https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/jan/20/douglas-wolk-27000-marvel-comics-dark-reign-trump-iron-man-unbeatable-squirrel-girl
  3. The Best Marvel Comic Events That Changed The Canon – https://www.cbr.com/marvel-comic-events-actually-changed-canon/
  4. The 10 Best Marvel Comics Crossover Events, According To Ranker – https://screenrant.com/best-marvel-comics-crossover-events-ranker/
  5. Collecting Marvel Universe Events as graphic novels – https://www.crushingkrisis.com/collecting-marvel-universe-events-as-graphic-novels/
  6. The Greatest Marvel Comics Of All-Time (153 books) – https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/92913.The_Greatest_Marvel_Comics_Of_All_Time
  7. 25 Best Marvel Comic Books to Read: Our selection of the best Marvel Comics – https://www.comicbooktreasury.com/best-marvel-comic-books/
  8. Best of Marvel Comics (689 books) – https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/16692.Best_of_Marvel_Comics
  9. What are the Best Marvel Comics To Start With In 2024? – https://www.comicbookherald.com/where-to-start-reading-marvel-comics/
  10. 30 COMICS TO START READING COMICS – https://www.marvel.com/comics/guides/2289/30-comics-to-start-reading-comics
  11. How to Start Reading Marvel Comics. What to Read First? – Basmo – https://basmo.app/how-to-start-reading-marvel-comics/
  12. I Read Every Marvel Comic Ever. I Made A Huge Mistake. – COMICSXF – https://comicsxf.com/2021/01/28/i-read-every-marvel-comic-ever-i-made-a-huge-mistake/
  13. Complete Marvel Reading Order Timeline | Comics Through 2024 – https://www.comicbookherald.com/the-complete-marvel-reading-order-guide/

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