In 2023, the world of comic books witnessed a seismic shift, propelling storytelling to new heights. From graphic novels adapted to films and TV shows, creators shattered boundaries by offering an immersive experience that redefines the art of narrative. Stories like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, and Scott Pilgrim Takes Off were hits among comic fans as they enjoy the combination of compelling storylines and impactful illustrations through animation.
Still, nothing beats the unique feeling of reading through the journey of your favorite characters page by page and panel by panel in a comic book. And with the burst of creative writing this year, it always makes for a good problem to have when it comes to coming up with a list of the best storylines to read and immerse yourself in. So, in no particular order, here’s a list of the best comics of 2023:
Transformers by Daniel Warren Johnson
The story of the Transformers by Daniel Johnson follows Optimus Prime’s adventures as he and the other Autobots fight the Decepticons as they’re stranded on Earth. It’s a reboot that’s shockingly violent yet a soulful take on the war between alien robots spilling over to our world.
In the new issues of the comics, you get to experience the depth of each character’s personality. Major characters like Optimus Prime, Spike, and Carly’s personalities are portrayed in a different light, adding a new perspective to their persona.
The pacing of the storyline is one feat you can enjoy in the new issues. The action scenes know exactly when to pull a two-page spread to emphasize a big story and make you feel the impact of each fight. And of course, in the true style of Daniel Warren Johnson, you get to see wrestling moves like Kobashi’s Burning Hammer and suplexes–––perfect for both Transformers and Wrestling fans.The Transformers reboot is a delight not just for long-time comic supporters but is an easy read for newcomers. It’s an action-packed story without losing the strong emotional connection between humans and alien robots. While it may not be the “best” comic for everyone, it’s definitely one of the top comics of 2023.
Immortal Thor by Al Ewing and Martin Coccolo
Immortal Thor’s comics begin with Thor’s comeback to Asgard. After years of dark stories, Loki back in the shadows, and the Bifrost repaired, Thor returns with his light and joyful spirit—adorned in his classic costume. However, his bright energy falters and he inevitably faces new challenges that question his identity.
In the narrative, the emphasis on the differences among Asgard, Midgard, and Utgard are highlighted. With the appearance of Toranos (Utgard’s Thor), he questions Thor’s power and ability to lead his people, emphasizing the superiority of Utgard over Asgard and Midgard. Toranos challenges Thor on whether he can be the leader Asgard needs him to be or will he perish as a “weak” God.
Ultimately, this story is about identity and discovery not just for Thor but the other characters surrounding him. Ewing and Coccolo’s take on the characters is an epic interpretation, giving fans just that on a widescreen scale (with a side order of dread).
Batman/Superman: World’s Finest by Mark Waid and Dan Mora
In the World’s Finest storyline, Superman finds himself grappling with super-charged powers after a destructive chemical assault by the villain Metallo. In this tumultuous moment, he seeks aid from Gotham’s formidable duo, Batman and Robin. However, as the danger escalates, Bruce Wayne takes drastic measures, enlisting the unconventional support of the Doom Patrol.
Created by the legendary talents of Mark Waid and Dan Mora, the comic book proves that there’s so much yet to be done with these near-century-old icons. The epic reunion of Superman and Batman promises breakneck pace stories, packed with excitement and surprise.
Daredevil by Chip Zdarsky and Marco Checchetto
The story of the new Daredevil begins with Matt Murdock recovering from a serious injury and detaching himself from his Daredevil persona with great effort. With his greatest enemy, Wilson Fisk, winning the mayoral election, he finds himself feeling the gap between their powers even more. And with the unexpected twist of having an affair with a mob wife, he gets stuck in the very situation he wanted to separate himself from.
What’s amazing about how Zdarsky told this story was how he reminded the readers of who Daredevil is as a vigilante hero and what he truly stands for. With the power imbalance between Fisk and Daredevil, it makes for interesting storylines showing how he struggles to fight Fisk. Plus, the narrative is close to what people experience in reality where society is filled with dirty enforcers and complicit governments.
Overall, this critically acclaimed run was filled with jaw-dropping twists and turns for the last five years and stuck the landing with a poignant coda.
Ultimate Invasion by Jonathan Hickman and Bryan Hitch
Hickman and Hitch’s Ultimate Invasion is about the Illuminati’s efforts to stop the Maker from his plan of destroying the universe—with Miles Morales at the center of their mission. In this story, The Maker’s goal is to rid the world of the Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to reshape it in his vision.
Aside from the return of Hickman and Hitch to Marvel’s universe, the interesting hook for the Ultimate Invasion storyline is the return of The Maker—the evil version of Fantastic Four’s Reed Richards. The tale brings him back with a certain smugness that exudes his subdued confidence in his devious intelligence, making The Maker’s character much more terrifying than before.
More than just a set-up series to revive the Ultimate comics line, this is a bombastic and cinematic multiversal adventure that rewrites what can be done with Marvel characters. Combined with the artistry of Bryan Hitch, reading the Ultimate Invasion is the epitome of the Marvel Universe’s identity.
Wonder Woman by Tom King and Daniel Sampere
The new comic released by Tom King is a conspiracy thriller revolving around Wonder Woman’s investigation of an alleged Amazonian who killed several men. In this narrative, the aftermath of the killings gave the US government justification to kick the Amazons out of the country and hunt Wonder Woman down.
The story is interesting as it gives mystery to its readers, making them ask what really happened to the murders and who is this unknown killer. The hook of the narrative, however, is how Wonder Woman is portrayed in the story. Unlike other storylines, the comic book shows her great compassion for others, highlighting her struggle to figure out the best solutions for difficult situations. Tom King lets his readers connect emotionally with Wonder Woman to really showcase her personality.
Another element that pulls you into the comic book is the incredible artwork by Daniel Sampere. In fact, this can be considered one of his best works, portraying Wonder Woman in such intricate yet soft details. With a Tom Clancy-style story and art that evokes the late great George Perez, this is the best (and funniest) Wonder Woman has been in quite some time. Truly, King’s representation of Wonder Woman is worthy of naming him as one of the best comic book writers of 2023.
Batman by Chip Zdarsky and Jorge Jimenez
The storyline of Zdarsky and Jimenez’s Batman is about the activation of “Failsafe”, the defense protocol Bruce set in place. Unfortunately, Failsafe’s activation became a physical threat that not even Batman and Robin alone can take down. To deactivate Failsafe, Bruce resorts to using an alternate personality that Batman created for himself. The question is, will he be able to do it?
What makes this Batman comic book so great is the extensive and well-written fight scenes in the story. As a reader, you may think you can guess the narrative’s direction, but Zdarsky keeps you on your toes introducing plot twists that just make the story juicier.
Paired with Jimenez’s incredible story interpretation through his artwork, you can truly immerse yourself and feel the impact of the scenes. The panels will keep you on the edge of your seat, excited to see how Batman can defeat the seemingly unstoppable Failsafe.
Avengers Inc. by Al Ewing and Leonard Kirk
The Avengers story begins mysteriously with several villains found dead inside their prison cells. And with the Wasp heading the investigation, this narrative becomes a detective story in search of the killer.
The hook of the storyline by Ewing is how he can mix the history and current Marvel stories with the Avengers Inc. narrative. Throughout the storyline, you get a compilation of side tales that are seemingly out of place but successfully come together with the main story. With how the comic book is written, old Marvel fans can geek out with the nods to previous comic book issues while new readers can still understand and appreciate the narrative.
Kirk’s artistic take on mystery will keep you guessing who the killer of the story is. He delights you by making you form your own investigative assumptions, while Ewing’s writing surprises you with twists. Both their art and writing complement each other and add to the feeling of mystery as you turn the page of the comic book.
Overall, this is a refreshing new take on the Avengers team, a superhero mystery noir that employs compelling storytelling and Marvel history deep cuts without resorting to genre cliches.
Newburn by Chip Zdarsky and Jacob Phillips
Newburn is a comic book centered on a private detective, Easton Newburn, and his assistant Emily investigating cases among crime groups. He follows corrupt government officials, arsonists, and murderers—-all the while doing jobs for them and staying out of their crosshairs.
In Newburn, Zdarsky brings a cold-hearted detective to life, partnered with the warm personality of his assistant. The story tells tales of crimes among mafias like the Russian mob and the Japanese yakuza, and how they run the city of New York. What’s great about it is how the stories of these mafia members are told, giving insight into how they became involved in the life of crime.
The story gives off a murder-of-the-week feel with a sort of Holmes and Watson-type tandem and is a must-read non-superhero crime comic. This crime noir thriller about an ex-cop-turned-mob detective is an intense anxiety-inducing page-turner.
Birds of Prey by Kelly Thompson and Leonardo Romero
The storyline of Birds of Prey has had many reboots over the decades since it first appeared in the 1990s. In this new comic, Thompson focuses on the Black Canary’s extraction mission without violence. She leads Harley Quinn, Cassandra Cain, Zealot, and Big Barda to rescue her adopted sister from the heavily fortified Paradise Island.
The relaunch of the long-running DC series makes for a very engaging and intriguing read because of the fun chemistry among the main characters and some incredibly innovative panel work. The dialogue is a mix of comedy and heart that makes all the characters likable in their own ways.
Of course, the narrative is tied together by Romero’s 70s-styled artwork filtered through modern lenses. He perfectly captures the essence of the story while invoking a little bit of nostalgia for readers.
As we end the year, 2023 leaves us with a trove of unforgettable stories and characters. From the explosive Transformers reboot to Wonder Woman’s conspiracy thriller, each comic has left us wanting more of these compelling narratives.
The excitement of what 2024 holds in the world of comics is palpable. Writers and artists are gearing up to unveil new universes and unravel mysteries that are sure to captivate readers.
So, cheers to the storytellers and artists who made the best comic books of 2023. The adventure continues, promising a year ahead filled with extraordinary tales. Get ready for a ride into unexplored realms and limitless possibilities. The best is yet to come. Happy reading!
