For a century, DC and all of the comic studios that make it up produce quality stories. But for every issue of Batman, there are series that fall off the radar. Some are lucky enough to get nominations for awards; others get good reception but fall into obscurity after a while. But now these hidden gems get dedication in this Underrated DC Comics checklist.
We will be including old classics that don’t come up until years later like Batman: Ego. A few imprint titles like Young Animal’s Shade comics decorate this page as well. Characters who make more than a few appearances and series get their own sections.
Sugar and Spike is a series that captures the innocent fun of early childhood, predating Rugrats by 40 years. Because when superheroes dominate DC’s catalog, you have to find alternatives somewhere.
Funny Stuff was National Publication’s funny animal strip anthology. Featuring many characters like The Three Mouseketeers, J. Magnus Lion, Blackie Bear, before Dunbar Dodo and Fenimore Frog become the leading stars.
Meanwhile the clever Peter Porkchops plays the cat and mouse game with Wolfie. Slapstick galore!
Metamorpho: The Element Man is a common member of the Outsiders and is notable for his more tragic renditions. But back in the Silver Age, he was just someone looking to have a little fun. His journey to body positivity has never been more important as it is today.
Even in the 90s, Mark Waid and Graham Nolan never let up with the campiness of Metamorpho. Even with a more serious story about Rex Mason entering fatherhood and the complications with his son’s mother.
30 years later, Al Ewing would celebrate every little thing about Metamorpho: The Element Man. From these past series to his more recent team books, there’s plenty to love.
Anthro is a long forgotten title by Howie Post. Besides an inside joke on Archie Comics, the stone age has wild improv fun for everybody.
Bat Lash is no Jonah Hex but he certainly has his moments. Especially when it looks like something straight out of a Western production mixed with counter culture.
It’s follow-up Guns and Roses brings this cowboy to the modern age. And for once it makes his positivity into a real strength with his origin story. Helps with the last art by George Severin.
Our Army at War is a series of war stories featuring the first appearances of Sgt. Rock. While the depictions of some characters have aged poorly, the action taking place is breathtaking.
If anyone’s looking for a simpler collection, DC Goes To War will scratch the best itches.
The Star Spangled War Stories anthology some of the more fantastic elements along with the grittier war stories. Like The War That Time Forgot, the original Suicide Squad, Enemy Ace, and Unknown Soldier.
Weird War Tales is where supernatural horror elements mingle with the already terrifying wars of history. From robots to curses, DC will throw everything at these soldiers.
From Quality Comics came G.I. Combat featuring the Blackhawks and the Haunted Tank. Despite some characterizations showing their age, their structure and payoffs stay stable.
The Ghosts anthology features novel concepts where the supernatural tones complement real world frights. As well as the introduction of Dr. 13.
Captain Comet unlike his successor Adam Strange is a throwback to classic pulp heroes… IN SPACE! Where melodrama tastes better with age.
Many years later the Captain would return in Mystery in Space. It asks where he fits in the broader DC Universe. Turns out, as a force of inspiration for new character The Weird.
Metal Men is some of the classic Silver Age quirkiness that not many people can replicate. Most of the time the more dramatic moments they try to give these characters warps them beyond recognition.
Captain Carrot and His Amazing Zoo Crew! is what happens when the Justice League become funny animals. With tongue-in-cheek humor abound, the absurdity entertains to no end.
Stalker is a series from legends Paul Levitz and Steve Ditko. Featuring an immortal warrior on a quest to regain his soul as he slowly loses his humanity.
Stanley and His Monster by Girl Genius‘ Phil Foglio challenges the trend of reviving a silver age with edgelords. This update gives the monster in a boy’s closest a darker Iron Age origin. The monster is a demon from Hell… who was exiled for being too nice. Rather than take things too seriously, this story embraces absurdities of childhood and friendship.
Another Phil Foglio redesign is the defining mini-series for Angel and the Ape. Much like his last series, these Hanna-Barbera style detectives show that quirkiness has a place in the serious modern age.
Even the Vertigo series kept the humor going in the risque demographic.
The original The Hawk and The Dove of brothers Hank and Don Hall represent the struggle between fight-or-flight. Utilizing the struggles of the Vietnam War drafts as a base, Steve Ditko isn’t subtle about his beliefs. Get this collection for other series like Creeper.
Hawk & Dove, by creative couple Karl and Barbara Kesel create the best duo. Thanks a sense of authentic family dynamics from the Kesels.
The Elongated Man often gets overshadowed in the DC Universe. Having powers and a personality like the C-Lister Plastic Man can certainly do that. But what makes Ralph Dibny so enjoyable are his endearing relationships like with his wife Sue. Before getting into the tragedy that is Identity Crisis, any fan should acquaint themselves with this character. If they aren’t watching The Flash TV show anyway.
The Secret Society of Super Villains is where a few rogues gallery villains in the DC universe show their potential. Because there was a time when Captain Cold, Gorilla Grodd, and Star Sapphire weren’t as big as they are now. Plus they get to make a forgettable hero like Captain Comet look like a total tool.
One of DC’s unsung sword-and-sorcery epics, The Warlord is the story of an air force pilot becoming a barbarian hero. With a beautiful, unpredictable world and a layered character dealing with PTSD, this is one unforgettable series.
The Warlord: The Saga is Mike Grell’s return to this series after a lackluster remake. Filled with the camp and science fantasy of a Frank Frazetta painting.
Not enough sorcery, try Arion, Lord of Atlantis. Featuring the titular sorcerer protecting an ancient Atlantis he goes through a journey where he has to evaluate his worth. Centering on his upbringing about order and chaos, he has to choose what to do as destiny unfolds.
Years later, Arion, The Immortal shows how a powerful sorcerer changes with the times. Because having greater power comes at greater risks.
Arak: Son of Thunder is a sword-and-sorcery series by Roy Thomas. Much like his other creation Red Sonja, Arak blends historical fantasy with a journey of self-discovery in an epic world. Sadly, it’s been obscured after its peak in the 80s.
Jack Kirby contributes plenty of stories and characters to DC, including a few below. But the Bronze Age Omnibus keeps a few together.
Ted Kord’s renown came from co-starring with Booster Gold in a few Justice League comics. But in the 80s this Blue Beetle was the star of his own title with notoriety.
InfinityInc. is the series where Earth 2’s youths step up to be their times’ heroes. With fans outright demanding a release, you know this is an underrated DC comics series.
Succeeding this title is Prime Earth’s Infinity Inc. where superheroes try to build their lives back up. If anything, Jerome and Erik’s development stand out the most with offbeat character dynamics.
Wasteland is a more unique anthology series where John Ostrander works with the late comedy coach Del Close. The surreal absurdity gives some genuine laughs that wrap up rather nicely.
‘Mazing Man is a superhero spoof series so fun but in the underrated DC Comics pile. I only found him through the Batman: The Brave and the Bold TV show.
Sun Devils is Gerry Conway’s story of rebels joining a star fleet to avenge their destroyed home planet. Dan Jurgens would continue the journey afterwards.
Camelot 3000 looks like one of those schlock stories where a classic is given a makeover. But this reincarnation of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table are dealing with their past lives’ baggage. All before an alien invasion can destroy their time… no pressure or anything.
Firestorm is a character and concept that is now more or less a guest character. Gerry Conway’s original series stands the test of time though. How? By balancing fun times with Ronnie Raymond with the serious nature of the nuclear arms race through Martin Stein.
Blue Devil is… how many occult characters does DC not make use of? Okay, this technically didn’t count since he was just a stuntman in a costume at the time… Permanently grated onto him. But he had his fair share of weirdness and occult enemies, and the adventure’s all the better for it.
Succeeding the JSA is the All-Star Squadron featuring heroes and villains not many people can seem to remember. Ever heard of the Superman rogue Ultra-Humanite; he’s a villain in here.
The Omega Men are much like Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, a bunch of misfits (in space!). Before Tom King’s iconic series, these character carve out a neat niche within the cosmic DC. More specifically, how the cut off Vega galaxy shapes these freedom fighters. As one of DC’s earlier tries at ripping away the Comics Code labels, this series went into some brutal truths. Guerilla warfare’s effects on freedom fighters, internal conflicts between the cast, and the consequences of interplanetary violence.
While we’re here, Tom King’s maxi reboot is probably a modern audience’s best look into this group. Mostly for capturing the intense feelings of the original with modern storytelling artwork. But also combining that with the effects of the Iraq War.
The Wanderers are a team in the shadows of The Legion-of-Superheroes. Readers can’t help but sympathize with them per their efforts to confront their destiny.
Angel Love is the Girl’s Humor sub-genre’s answer to Watchmen. This series forgoes the glamour and escape fantasies in favor of down-to-earth drama. The title character grapples with her mundane work, love, and family life. Despite her dreams, Angel captures a more authentic look at city life for a young lady. While it’s not all that, it has benefits.
Red Tornado by Kurt Busiek focuses on the development of DC’s android champion. In the classic struggle of acceptance, Red Tornado must grapple with his soul. Tragically, this little triumph was overshadowed by his fate in Crisis on Infinite Earths.
Teen Titans by Dan Jurgens and George Perez features a team unlike other incarnations. No Nightwing, Cyborg, or Raven, but just as much charm and drama.
Cinder & Ashe was a mini-series from the 80s that only got its respect decades later as an album. Focusing on two detectives dealing with the Vietnam War’s effects, their latest case forces deep introspection. A firm reminder of how the war continues to haunt people.
I didn’t even know anything about The Heckler until the searches. Another Keith Giffen original, it’s a superhero parody predating the likes of Marvel’s Nextwave. With humor at an all time low during publishing, the Heckler only appeared a few other times. Which is a shame because the entire character design is all about getting around limitations. This Bugs Bunny-esquehero literally wears laughs as a costume.
Vext is a title I didn’t even know about until I found him with Heckler. Taking place in the same city, this god of misfortune deals with every self-aware comic’s greatest fear, phasing out. With his own bad luck getting in the way, he can’t even do anything interesting at DC. But for the everyman reader, they relate to Vext because every day is a struggle
Ragman is a character with a lot of potential but not enough love. Initially a super veteran avenger in a weird costume, Keith Giffen and Robert Loren Flemming revitalize him with occult powers. Now the costume gets its powers from the souls of evil men it absorbs. How did this concept not last a year?
Dick Foreman’s Black Orchid is in the shadow of Neil Gaiman’s series. A shame because by the many artists offer gratifying experiences to be on a similar level of Dave McKean. Not to mention, the annual celebrates the Vertigo line by connecting them together.
Spinning off from another Neil Gaiman series, The Trenchcoat Brigade looks into the minds of the title group. Seeing their dynamics affect one another allows readers to connect to obscure characters like Dr. Occult and Mr. E.
Spinning off from this spin-off is Mister E, exploring the surreal and twisted mind of its title character. With visuals by John K. Snyder, no reader can look away.
El Diablo gets too many comparison to Jonah Hex to get a notice. But for a while the 16 issue series by Gerard Jones shows how your home inspires you to act.
The Vertigo series meanwhile re-imagines the original character as a force of nature. With psychological thrills worthy of noir stories, this series belongs in underrated DC comics.
Prez: Smells Like Teen President is Ed Brubaker’s tribute to Joe Kelly’s original piece. When it comes to living a legacy, there are a lot of expectations that just can’t be met. All that means is that you get to be who you want to be.
Hitman by Garth Ennis is DC’s one-hit wonder. After a good long run, you probably won’t find anything else like it. Tommy Monaghan is a pretty average guy, relatively speaking anyway. He’s Ennis’ entire attitude in regards towards DC, both good and bad. While he praises the genuine good work of heroes like Superman, he also makes the more neurotic ones look stupid. All with a decent story about a morally gray man in Gotham and beyond.
Gunfire is the second most successful Newblood series behind Hitman. Mostly for looking the part of a 90s antihero. But also for a more creative superpower. Sadly, the story peaked with the title hero’s rivalry with his father/archenemy.
Anima is the other (second) most successful Newblood with unique powers. Her story just has a more surreal/supernatural feel to it. With trauma and a parasitic angles with her powers, she has a lot of potential that not many people find.
Steel is among the characters arising in reaction to the Death of Superman event. Unfortunately he had a rocky start with Louise Simonson, it’s only when Christopher Priest became writer did things improve. Not only for John’s role as a scientist, but supporting characters like Dr. Villain and cultural upbringing.
Steelworks is where John and his niece Natasha build up their legacies in parallel to the Super family. Because for a man of tomorrow, you gotta make tomorrow aspirational.
The character Madame Xanadu debuts in DC horror anthology Doorway To Nightmare, trying to help others through her tarot cards. Disclaimer: the content is old and can conflict with modern audiences.
Which is why the Vertigo Madame Xanadu series fleshes her out. This series by Matt Wagner shows the surreal mysticism surrounding her. The fortune teller has roots that involve her development of a unique magic system of divination. With tricks and gambits that even Constantine can’t stand up to, it’s an entertaining read.
Impulse is a series from Mark Waid about a character no one knows what to do with. Because after Waid’s time, most people who take over were hits and misses.
Xero is a unique case in underrated DC comics. Written and now solely owned by Christopher Priest, this series goes into complexities around identity. There’s coming back from the dead, being indebted, reflective character dynamics, and playing the best role you have.
Superman/Wonder Woman: Whom Gods Destroy is probably the source of a lot of shipping. This Elseworld’s story features Lois Lane becoming Wonder Woman to fight alongside Superman. Now they just have to deal with the fallout.
The Power Company is a team featuring some of the Underrated DC comics characters like Paul Kirk. This team unlike a few others works like a law firm where superheroes get more involved in seeing courts through. Legal dramas collide to cover things not normally seen in most superhero stories.
But even after a 30 year comeback in two one–shots, it never seems to stick around.
L.A.W. Living Assault Weapons is the time for Charlton Action Heroes to shine. With the JLA missing, LAW has a campy take on the Watchmen inspirations.
Ever wonder what people do about the things the Justice League doesn’t handle. Human Defense Corps shows the how an army adapts to the DC Universe. With cutting edge technology at their side and human interaction, the HDC have their hands full.
The Kents by John Ostrander gives Superman’s adoptive family a tale to talk about. Anybody who fears families separating over political differences should see this from the perspective of the Civil War.
Hard Time is a piece by the late Steve Gerber and May Skrenes as the only survivor of DC Focus. When a prank turns into a school shooting, 15-year-old Ethan Harrow gets sent to a penitentiary. Prison is a hard place for a teenager, luckily Ethan develops an astral projection that wreaks vengeance on his behalf.
Chronos is the story of legacy around a supervillain. When the original Chronos is feeling his age, Walker Gabriel takes up the mantle. But nothing can prepare him for the absurdity that comes with it.
Jonny Double is a DC legacy Vertigo mini that serves as a prototype for the classic series 100 Bullets. The intense storytelling narrative and conspiracy element anyway. Plus lovable characterizations.
Chase is a cult classic series by Dan Curtis Johnson with breathtaking artwork by J.H. Williams III. Detailing DEO agent, Cameron Chase discovering her own powers, she does her part to keep metahumans under control. But that’s not the only discovery as Agent Chase uncovers some of the DEO’s own dangerous secrets. Chase proves to be so popular she reappears by fan demand in a few other series like Manhunter.
Nemesis: The Imposters continues the trends in spy fiction by taking a Jason Bourne approach. The titular character is at all of his enemies’ mercy. Problem is his mind in too many places at to handle it without baggage.
Young HeroesIn Love is where teen heroes meet prime time reality TV. ’nuff said.
Starman give the writer a headache for typecasting. But only because it’s a compelling passion project about legacy and complementary identity. Times change and you won’t always become what you want or need. But James Robinson poured so much into this it’s hard not to see this as his magnum opus.
Especially when it includes a spin-off with the anti-villain The Shade. Not to be confused with The Changing Man. This complex character shows how much he values his interactions with certain people. Or maybe that’s his charming way of speaking in contrast to everything around him.
The Atomic Knights are a concept not many people recall, probably because it dealt with Cold War themes. But it’s so campy an idea, a post-apocalypse where people go medieval. Evil barons, knights in radiation-resistant armor, and trying to rebuild it everything despite the struggles. What part of that doesn’t sound good?
Superboy and the Ravers is a very 90s kid focused series. Rather than focus on fighting villains, it’s about super youths trying to find where they fit in. The partying and lighthearted tone complement this serious theme. Featuring characters with a variety of designs and backstories like Half-Life, it has its fans.
Resurrection Man is about Mitch Shelby, a man who gets new powers every time he comes back from the dead. Dan Abnett gives this character limitless potential in storytelling. While the powers and threats are flashy, the traumas Mitch goes through affect him in the worst of ways. Losing every part of himself with each resurrection, Mitch wanders in and out of his mind.
Ram V revisits this concept with a Hindu perspective in Quantum Karma. The cosmological scale, the baggage of past lives, and the influence each leaves behind is riveting.
Doctor 13 is a parapsychologist and traditional paranormal investigation… That means rationalizing and myth-busting paranormal events. But…being in the DC Universe, that just means making sure magical forces don’t go out of control. With some characters from DC’s past, this quirky series brings surrealism to the forefront.
Grant Morrison leaves so many great works to their name it’s easy to miss some. DC One Million is a crossover event featuring the JLA of the far future. As the absurd threat of the living star Solaris draws near, the future JLA reaches out to the present JLA. Meanwhile, this series’ main strong point is how the creative alumni flex their muscles. By channeling the bizarre with the humane, Morrison gives creators endless possibilities. This includes parodying crossover events and their tie-ins like in Hitman. Because with its publishing at the turn of the millennium some things have to come up.
Zauriel does not have many things to his name. The Helmet of Fate at least gives him a look into what drives him in the first place. Interventions can seem good for the right cause, but the power dynamics always have consequences.
Hourman spins out of Grant Morrison’s future JLA story but with Tom Peyer at the pen. Detailing an android character who wants to be more human, he gives up his time powers to give himself limitations. This makes the risks he takes with his powers and superheroing more serious. Because when most people dream of being unstoppable, an act like this reminds them to be creative.
Seven Soldiers of Victory is yet another Grant Morrison underrated DC comics series. This time using underutilized characters like Zatanna and Bulleteer. With recent days, get people familiar with the original Seven Soldiers. But this series combines parody with character driven narratives as the team comes together.
Wednesday Comics is an anthology series featuring DC’s best and underrated. From Superman to Deadman there’s a little something for everyone.
PowerGirl has a lot notable guest appearances, but not many know who she is other than an alternate Supergirl. Truth is, even she’s not sure. Yet it’s the journey into living in the moment that makes Kara Zor-L such a good character.
Tom Strong is Alan Moore’s tribute to pulp magazines that inspire modern superheroes. Each issue is full of wonders that get readers feeling inspired with lovable characters that are fun to follow.
But one series just isn’t enough, hence why Terrific Tales expands this science hero’s mythos.
Arsenal features the former sidekick of Green Arrow rise as a hero for his daughter.
Detective Chimp is one of DC’s most memorable characters. But not many people actually know much about him. Like how self-aware Bobo actually is about his cases and his personal situations.
Shadowpact features DC occult characters forming a team before the advent of Justice League Dark. With some personal journeys and team battles against the supernatural, readers get a feel for these characters. Besides this is some of Ragman’s best appearances.
Breach is one underrated DC comics series that deserves some recognition. A successor of sorts to Captain Atom, Tim Zanetti grapples with an existential identity crisis.
Spinning-off the Power Girl run, Terra is a two-fold redemption story. Both with the name in association and a light-hearted story away from the angst.
VixenAgainstTheGods! is arguably the best parts of DC’s Truth & Justice anthology. It’s really a shame DC doesn’t use her more.
Superboy (Kon-El) has very few wins on his own. This Young Justice co-founder only has Geoff John’s run to his credit. This run should be essential for how it immortalizes Conner with Lex Luthor and his ultimate slugfest with Superboy-Prime.
Terror Titans is where villains get the Teen Titans treatment, with Ravager getting high time.
The Great Ten are the original heroes of China in DC Comics. With Green Lantern: New Guardians artist Tony Bedard at the helm, these heroes’ stories come together for an explosive finale.
R.E.B.E.L.S. is a team of space heroes getting a shot in while confronting the notion of destiny. Brainiac’s progeny must deal with the fact that their feats and timelines are dependent on their villainous ancestor. So what happens when needing friends means convincing people not to kill you?
DC Comics Presents Brightest Day was a good to introduce readers to characters in the event. Most of them aren’t exactly A-Listers, especially Hawkman and Deadman.
Deadshot is a regular Batman rogue known for his time with the Suicide Squad. In Deadshot: Beginnings he has his chance to shine by showing layers of character.
Deadshot: Bulletproof is where he becomes the character DC fans know and love. By introducing a daughter, he tries to give back to her before ending his life. But it goes into detail about how anyone can turn their life around with a purpose.
Superman/Batman: Torment and The Search For Kryptonite are arcs overlooked by the older arcs that got adaptations. The World’s Finest tackle the most absurd things when they’re together. A seemingly normal burglary turns into a fight for survival against Darkseid. All while Batman’s layers are peeled away in reflection of his vow. Then the World’s Finest try to gather up all the world’s Kryptonite so no one can use it against Superman. Not just the green kind, but the white variety that causes him to hallucinate. Why can’t more comics be this campy?
Checkmate is where spy politics crosses with superheroics. Because after some events that practically use Earth as a battle ground, politicians get too concerned. But not willing to just have Amanda Waller call the shots, two divisions make moves to improve their successes. But when two sides are against each other, who’s really in control of the game?
Before Watchmen gets under Alan Moore’s skin, but Darwyn Cooke, Amanda Conner, and Straczynski give moments to underutilized characters. The Minutemen in particular get a decent depiction, showing their humanity and flaws.
My Greatest Adventure is a DC Anthology series where fans demanded more of popular creator-owned characters… who have gone into obscurity for better and for worse. Except for Matt Kindt’s DC debut with Cliff Steele the Robotman.
Jimmy Olsen by Nick Spencer is the big winner of a series of back-up issues. This marks a period in Jimmy’s growth to be his own man. Tragically not many people seem to get this.
The Movement is Gail Simone’s exciting crime thriller about young superheroes trying to do justice where institutions failed. This series was ahead of its time with its depiction of needing survey the police to hold them accountable. As well as how campaigns against them can go horribly wrong when led by people with mob mentalities.
Demon Knights by Paul Cornell is a series dedicating to the supernatural side of DC in the New 52. Taking place in the middle ages, it explores the relationship between Etrigan and Madame Xanadu. This tragic story gives Etrigan a little more development.
After Peter Milligan’s departure from the older Red Lanterns‘ run, Charles Soule leads a new team of creatives. One that does Green Lantern wildcard Guy Gardner justice. He not only shows up the corps. leader Atrocitus, he gives them a better example to follow. While rage was all the Red Lanterns had, this development fleshes the corps out.
Time Warp is an anthology series in Vertigo featuring the likes Matt Kindt, Jeff Lemire, and more. Each detailing the encounters of Rip Hunter.
Constantine: The Hellblazer did stumble on its finale but Ming Doyle manages to use his own magic. By using suggestion rather than just showing, even a PG-13 Constantine can be macabre. Doyle’s cowriter James Tynion IV even uses what he’s learned here for Justice League Dark.
Nathaniel Adam is a powerful hero nobody really understands due to the nature of his powers. The broken apart Captain Atom series by Cary Bates and Greg Weisman stands as his definitive run. Only recently did it get a bigger ending with The Fall and Rise of Captain Atom.
The Brave and the Bold: Batman & Wonder Woman is a mythic detective story with lots of intrigue. Mostly because of the Celtic setting with its lore. It’s just that the pace takes Batman and Wonder Woman need to be in there out.
The original Cave Carson was a spelunking pulp hero in the Silver Age. But Jon Rivera works with Gerard Way to create an extremely surreal take with Cave Carson Has A Cybernetic Eye. This is about family and sticking together despite the bad times that come. Especially when you feel your age. It helps that the visuals call back to Silver Age art from the likes of Steve Ditko. Because while people’s glory days end, they can still make good times in the moment.
The follow up Cave Carson Has An Interstellar Eye is all about how something can lose its effect. Trying to recreate the rush can be addictive, especially when the user loses track of themselves. The whole reason for these adventures is because they’re supposed to be bonding moments. Sometimes it’s okay to be just good enough.
Sideways is a fan favorite character of the New Age of Heroes. Sharing a costume and attitude with Spider-Man, what makes this character stand out from his contemporaries is his youthfulness. With a full life ahead of him, he eventually joins Young Justice to expand his character.
The Silencer is the only character in the New Age of Heroes to be developed for the long run. Referenced before Dark Nights Metal, her full appearance pushes DC to its next event. So popular she quickly appeared on TV in Arrow (as a different character).
Electric Warriors is a concept from the 80s renewed to fit between different futuristic stories. This time, gladiators imbued with powers of different worlds must fight to save their homes. But Earth’s representatives need to convince the other Electric Warriors to rebel, lest this continue on forever.
Inferior 5 is the latest iteration of this team, serving as a metafictional post-Invasion story. Seeing the event’s effects from helpless socially awkward kids, the rise into heroism is something to behold. Plus appearances by the Peacemaker before his rise to fame in The Suicide Squad is always welcome. This series unfortunately gets cut short over some outside factors.
Batman/Superman: The Archive of Worlds features some of the most creative workarounds of continuity and setting. Here Gene Luen Yang is having fun cutting loose while celebrating the strengths of Batman and Superman.
One-Star Squadron is the tragic comedy satire of DC’s C-D Listers. It perfectly captures the absurd corporate trap they’re in.
World of Krypton features the down-to-earth struggles of Superman’s birth planet as its destruction looms on the horizon.
Task Force Z takes a while to love, but it’s a huge step in the development of the Red Hood. From Bat Family Black Sheep to saboteur extending redemption. Oh and he leads zombies.
Monkey Prince is the story of a boy’s struggles to fit in and settle into his new identity. Bearing the legacy of the legendary Monkey King, Marcus Sun must find his place within the DC Universe. Which is anything but easy when you share space with its greatest heroes.
Black Manta challenges one of Aquaman’s arch enemies by looking at the complexities of his motivations. Legacy and imprinting take the forefront, humbling a supervillain by making him aware of what he leaves behind.
WildCATs by Matthew Rosenberg is nothing short of a big splash. kicking off a secret war with the rest of the former Wildstorm Universe.
Waller vs. Wildstorm explores how far back this integration goes and how it leads to Amanda Waller’s rise to power.
Wonder Girl starring Yara Flor was hyped to be DC’s newest breakout character. But after a lot of things out of the company’s control, her arc was cut short. Along with the rest of the Wonder Girls, she slides into obscurity.
We Found A Monster is a creative bit about monster lovers in a little corner of the DC universe.
Danger Street is the epic fairy tale of DC’s 1st Issue Special. While some parts stumble, it’s about finding self-worth in a world of practical gods.
City Boy is the We Are Legends campaign’s one-hit wonder. While Spirit World and The Vigil have huge return investment potential, this mini-series confronts the baggage of superpowers. Cameron Kim is expected to be a hero or villain with different parties wanting to guide him to greatness. But are either of those paths really worth it?
Challengers of the Unknown in the DC All In Initiative was a fun and engaging story. It goes into a feeling of sharing space with the Universe’s greatest heroes. Plus them being on your team when you feel like you’re on borrowed time is a great feeling.
Cheetah & Cheshire Rob the Justice League is a surprisingly fun heist story featuring some underutilized characters who have depth. Plus the heist crew dynamics are plenty engaging.
Underrated DC Comics: Superman
Superman is tied together with DC Comics but even the die-hard fans miss some great series. Whether they ask hard questions or situations that look at surreal situations, someone will be Super fans.
The Super-Brat From Krypton is a notable Silver Age story from original co-creator Jerry Siegel. In it, Superman has an evil twin who was raised to be a villain. This is basically the proto-Ultraman of Earth 3. Not just in powers but an insatiable need to be loved.
Most people probably know For the Man Who Has Everything. But how many people know about Alan Moore’s other Superman story? Namely a crossover with Swamp Thing as Superman deals with a hallucinatory disease. One that confronts his identity as well as his vulnerability as a Kryptonian.
Superman: Last Son of Earth and Last Stand on Krypton is the Elseworlds inversion! Here Clark Kent is sent to Krypton. Under the care of the House of El, Clark struggles to fit in but in the process becomes Krypton’s defender.
Superman Unchained is a series that is “practically” an Elseworlds story, that asks important questions about Superman. The kind that most fans take for granted or just don’t care about. Better yet there comes creative uses of Superman’s existing powers like his heat vision.
Superman: American Alien is a series detailing the journey of Clark Kent as he becomes Superman. Not by hiding everything that he is from everybody, but by showing how his powers make Clark his own normal. It’s a series that gives the motto “Truth, Justice, and the American Way” depth.
Dan Jurgen’s Superman run is extremely notable, but it’s extremely weird too. Give it a few years and people will forget all about it. Hopefully not the character work though.
New Super-Man is essentially DC’s answer to Ultimate Spider-Man. As a seventeen year old Chinese boy gets Superman’s powers, Kenan Kong goes through a period of growth.
Superman Lost goes into those hard questions to ask about where Superman can go with his great power. Not only because flying at the speed of light and time dilation can cause even Superman to lose touch. But the very limits of the effects he has on people. Whether that’s people’s patience or how much good can actually be done.
Underrated DC Comics: Batman
Oh come on Batman, do you have to steal what little spotlight other characters need? (Sigh) But I guess with all of your popularity, some things will get lost.
Batman: Ten Nights of the Beast is a piece of Jim Starlin’s run that most people forget. It introduces KGBeast, a villain comparable in the all right ways to Bane and Azrael. It is an intense standoff against a deadly man conditioned to be a weapon for a hopeless cause. Sadly after this peak he just became generic hired muscle.
Batman Ego (and Other Tails) is a series by Darwyn Cooke about the effect of secret identities. For Batman, Bruce Wayne isn’t just a mask, he’s the means of keeping his id in check. The other tails meanwhile have Catwoman as Selina Kyle in her role as a thief. As well as how her mask keeps distance from her one time partner.
Batman: Blades comes from Legends of the Dark Knight by James Robinson. Here Batman has his hands full in a serious and an absurd situation. There’s a serial killer slaughtering the elderly and a swashbuckling Cavalier in love with a murderer. And that’s all in high octane detail.
Batman: Dark Victory is a sequel to The Long Halloween featuring an introspection on needing an outside perspective. A way to say how important Robin actually is.
Batman: Night Cries is where Archie Goodwin and Scott Hampton delve into the very dark topic of child abuse.
Batman: Dead Reckoning is an Ed Brubaker piece where Gotham’s underworld is under attack. So now Batman must push his detective skills to their limits to help a setup Two-Face.
Batman: Black and White features self-containing stories about Batman from notable creators like Neil Gaiman and Darwyn Cooke.
Batman by Paul Dini is a run that is surprisingly not widely available. Combining mysteries with the self-contained adventures of the animated series, fans get an enjoyable time. While Hush gets a definitive direction, here a couple of other characters stand out. Harley and the Riddler turn to good, bringing forth a hope of Batman. That even the worst parts of Gotham can reform. …Relatively speaking.
Dick Grayson
Whether as Robin, Nightwing, Batman, or a secret agent, Dick Grayson has a few adventures people miss out on.
Nightwing: A Knight in Bludhaven is where Dick starts to truly come into his own. Now independent from both Batman and the Titans, his settlement into Bludhaven cements his own story.
Devin Grayson’s run with Nightwing is surprisingly not widely available despite its acclaim. Including stories like Something About Mary.
Before the iconic Batman: Reborn work with Damian, Batman: Long Shadows has Dick Grayson take the cowl. Here readers see Dick truly put to the test to become his own Batman. All the strain and struggle and bluffs necessary to keep Gotham safe.
Underrated DC Comics: Gotham
As for the city of Gotham herself, it’s a character that interacts greatly with the residents. Because not everybody in Gotham ties themselves to the Bat family.
The Huntress by Joey Cavalieri debuts the titular anti-heroine in a quest of vengeance. But what happens when she meets Batman; self-reflection of course.
Anarky is a controversial yet notable series about an anti-villain. Most people will know him as an unfiltered voice of revolt against corruption against the systems. Part of why it’s so controversial. Not because of what he fights against, but because he outright told people how to think. Especially when the people behind him shift their world views. But different parts of the world still lean into these when their politicians over play their hands.
What happens in the parts of Gotham even Batman doesn’t know about? Simon Dark by horror writer Steve Niles features a Frankenstein-like vigilante who combats the more supernatural aspects of the city. All while some GCPD detectives try to keep the peace in Gotham Village.
Gotham by Midnight is essentially where the settings of the Gotham Central and Simon Dark clash. When even Batman finds himself outclassed, Gotham’s finest step in to help. Led by The Spectre, the midnight shift battles the supernatural parts of Gotham City.
With all the spotlights on the Joker or Catwoman, Penguin: Pain and Prejudice displays the origin of Oswald Cobblepot. Here the reader witnesses the tragic rise of one of Gotham’s more successful villains.
The Penguin by Tom King is a character-focused crime thriller where each issue is for a member Penguin’s crew. Tension is thick with how betrayal feels inevitable with Cobblepot feeling like a force of nature.
Detective Comics: Gordon at War is the unsung highlight of Jim Gordon as Batman. Not just with him as a detective but as a reflection of his character. From his past as a marine, to his relationship with Harvey Bullock. All while getting the best impression of what it means to be the Dark Knight.
Tales of the Man-Bat give this Batman inversion a humanity within the monstrous settings. Surprisingly finding common ground with other outcasts like Killer Croc.
Man-Bat features Kirk Langstrom’s difficult road to self-acceptance as he confronts what led to his life falling apart.
Sword of Azrael is Jean-Paul Valley’s journey to confront the roots of the dogmatic system that haunts him. The strengths here about reflections and finding strength in a new direction.
GCPD: The Blue Wall is a spine-tingling crime thriller of a police procedural. Renee Montoya deals with the stresses of managing an entire department as well as her traumas as the framing device. But it’s three rookie cops that go into the grounded realities of trying to protect and serve. Not just Gotham; in general.
The Outsiders
The Outsiders are a team commonly in association with Batman and Black Lightning. They compose mostly of DC’s misfits who often don’t get their own titles or work better in teams. For this list we will be focusing more on the iterations that get less adaptations.
Without Batman, the Outsiders see how big the world really is. While it starts campy with the Nuclear Family, more serious clashes in world views challenge the heroes.
Mike Barr follows this up with one final Outsiders series led by Geo-Force. As political tensions rise, this series experiences some of the worst of 90s comics while completing plots with mainstay Halo.
Judd Winick’s Outsiders have a lot of potential despite carrying the baggage of other events like Graduation Day. But it seems Metamorpho’s appearance is what brings people over.
During Peter J. Tomasi’s limited Outsiders with Batman off the face of the planet, some characters have to follow his example. This had a lot of potential, especially with how Alfred plays mission command.
Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly take Outsiders in a new direction. Instead of making this team another redundant Batman title, it’s about looking at the DC universe from an outsider’s perspective. A stealth sequel to Wildstorm’s Planetary, this series is a great remedy to DC burnout. No further tie-ins to Batman, no status quo shifts, no references for their own sake. Just readers engrossing themselves in the absurdities.
Underrated DC Comics: Aquaman
Aquaman is character whose reputation is between an optimistic joke and a warrior king. His time in and out of Atlantis demonstrates the lore of DC’s submarine settings and Arthur Curry as a hero.
Aquaman: Sub Diego shows off Aquaman’s capabilities as both a king and a superhero. When San Diego is struck by an Earthquake, Aquaman goes out to help anyone he can. Especially when a conspiracy unravels.
Aquaman: Out of Darkness isn’t just the finale of Arthur’s New 52. It was the beginning of a lot of potential. The highlight is easily when it takes a break from the action by giving some downtime for the cast. But the villain of this, the Dead Water was such a fascinating topic it inspired new ideas.
Underrated DC Comics: Green Lantern
While everybody(?) knows Hal Jordan or John Stewart, does anybody really get a good handle on the entire Corps? Because the Green Lanterns’ role in DC comics should not be overlooked.
Before the Emerald Twilight, there was one run that goes unnoticed due to editorial/publisher mandate. As the GreenLanterns‘ leaders leave everything behind, Hal, John, and Guy Gardner have to pick up the pieces. From Emerald Dawn 1 and 2 to Regeneration, this run has readers question why Emerald Twilight had to happen.
Green Lantern: Mosaic is probably the most underrated DC comics story of John Stewart. Due to editorials, John’s time here ends up being forgotten. Which sucks because John earns most of the praise he gets with great sales and fan support.
Wesley Dodds – The Sandman
The original Sandman, Wesley Dodds is the most pulp-like out of all Golden Age superheroes. But that’s also why he is an Underrated DC comics character. Compared to the flashy heroes he walks hand-and-hand with, he’s just a detective with equipment. Barely any powers other than prophetic dreams he can’t always make sense of. Plus he gets hurt and doesn’t always get back up. But at least he has a girlfriend who even back then was his equal.
Even during the Golden Age, this was the case. It’s just a flashier detective called Batman was around.
The SandmanMystery Theatre is where this setting got a more modern, more prose-like approach. The noir tone and characterizations flourish where the Golden Age comes up short.
So influential, Wesley Dodds: The Sandman continues in that setting as Wesley full integrates into a bigger, wider, world.
Justice League
With the many adventures and iterations of the Justice League, there are plenty that slip under the radar.
Justice League Europe is the forgotten piece of J.M. DeMatteis and Keith Giffen’s Justice League franchises. Probably because writing duties juggled around with the other two being so busy.
One of the more creative aspects of the Justice League is how it can touch different parts of the universe. When the main league splits up, some of them form different Justice Leagues with different creative teams.
Justice League: Generation Lost is a follow-up to the favorites of Giffen. If only to see how different Maxwell Lord has become, even after coming back from the dead.
Straight out of the team that brought Justice League International comes Justice League 3000.
Justice League Dark: The Great Wickedness is an epic story in the literal shadow of Bendis’ Justice League. …And Dark Crisis. It’s a grand story pitting the supernatural DC characters against each other that was tragically cut short.
Legion of Super-Heroes
The Legion of Super-Heroes are an admittedly underrated DC Comics team full of diverse characters like the X-Men. But with their time travel gimmicks, it’s easy to lose track of them all.
Nothing seems to compare to the classics of the Legion. But most people only think about the Great Darkness Saga. It’s follow-up, The Curse goes into just how much the Legionnaires are heroes.
LEGION is 1989’s try to bring the Legion to the now. Led by Brainiac 2, these paranormal aliens try to fill the void of the Green Lanterns. With diverse powers and personalities, this ragtag group goes through entertaining drama.
REBELS is LEGION revitalized with Vril Dox using this as a chance to learn from his mistakes.
The Five Years Later era has more than a few lows for the Legion. Some of which show how changes to continuity affect the future the most. But Batch SW6 and Valor of this same run more than make up for it.
Fourth World
The Fourth World is Jack Kirby’s epic that reaches out across time. Introducing readers to Darkseid, Orion, and Mister Miracle, it’s easy to forget the work others put into it.
The Forever People by J.M. DeMatteis is a follow up to Jack Kirby’s original series. Even after developing their characters with an origin, the Forever People are as underrated DC comics characters get.
Orion is proof that Walt Simonson really knows how to build an epic story. With Orion’s destiny to defeat his father approaching he must take every precaution necessary not to fall into temptation.
Bug! The Adventures of Forager is the titular character’s journey through time and space. In a loving tribute to Jack Kirby, Forager meets with many of Jack’s characters. He also gets some necessary character development which gets him into Tom King’s Mister Miracle.
Underrated DC Comics: Kamandi
Kamandi is what happens when the story of Planet of the Apes meets Jack Kirby. As the only human survivor of civilization, Kamandi must venture out into a hostile world. At the emotional core is a very relatable story focusing on finding a place to belong. Kamandi is the Underrated DC comics gem that stretches throughout time.
Probably why Kamandi Challenge is such a delightful tribute. On Jack Kirby’s 100th birthday, DC publishes this challenge to their creative staff.
Underrated DC Comics: OMAC
Before Brother Eye and the OMAC Project’s association with Infinite Crisis, the concepts were an original by Jack Kirby. OMAC is an agent of the Global Peace Agency, an organization in the FAR FUTURE…! that tries to solve crises without violence. Buddy Blank’s alter-ego is for when that doesn’t work out.
The original Jack Kirby story was ahead of its time. In a cyberpunk world before it was even invented there’s a lot to say. Very human robots with modular memories and identities. Entire cities rented out because they can be. So what does that mean for Buddy Blank?
The John Byrne story meanwhile deals with time travel, setting up the placement of the Time Masters.
Underrated DC Comics: Etrigan The Demon
Another Jack Kirby original, The Demon follows the dual life of Jason Blood and his demonic half Etrigan. Among DC’s earliest occult heroes, the adventures range from the horrific to the surreal. Because who doesn’t find it entertaining in regards to a character who speaks in rhymes?
In the Jack Kirby series, readers meet Etrigan’s mesmerizing power and foes like Klarion the Witch Boy. FYI, he doesn’t rhyme here.
Alan Grant in his time with TheDemon goes into the emotional toll of Jason Blood.
Garth Ennis has his views on mainstream comics, but when he commits to a story, he does it. In his turn comes how Etrigan and Blood learning to at least tolerate each other.
Blood of the Demon is where John Byrne makes Jason Blood a tragic necessity for Etrigan. The duality between the two of them is both a burden and a curse.
Sometimes Etrigan gets a new host like in The Demon Driven Out. Nothing all that serious, but it can be fun.
The first half of The Demon: Hell is Earth displays the unstable relationship of Jason and Etrigan. With some self-aware humor belying a character drama, the miniseries is bound to entertain an audience.
Zatanna
As one of DC’s other premiere magicians, Zatanna occupies a notable niche in the DC universe. But for the longest time only Paul Dini found that magic. Nowadays…Justice League Dark and a few creatives caught on.
Zatanna & The Ripper is one of the less visible Webtoon experiences. Featuring a younger rawer Zatanna as well as highlighting her relationship with magic and Constantine.
It’s Showtime meanwhile gives her an expanding rouges gallery while showing off the magic in comic art.
Martian Manhunter
Martian Manhunter is a character many DC fans recognize as a member of the Justice League. Yet most of the time, he’s just a supporting character. Which is a shame because the adventures of J’onn J’onzz is a post-immigration journey.
Martian Manhunter by J.M. DeMatteis displays J’onn’s tragic modern origin during the fall of Mars.
Martian Manhunter: American Secrets is a three issue mini-series with a Cold War background. As a conspiracy comes his way, Martian Manhunter must get to the source. Even though it looks like the invaders already control parts of the world.
Martian Manhunter‘s series in the 90s by John Ostrander shows off his many layers. From the tragic origin, J’onn’s detective skills, and his relationships across the DC universe, he is truly epic here.
Others Among Us is where J’onn J’onzz is pushed to his absolute limit in self-worth. When the idea that he‘s not be the last Martian comes up, he’s driven to protect this chance. Even if this means straining J’onn’s relationships on Earth.
Martian Manhunter: The Epiphany has J’onn express himself with different identities amid a character reboot that didn’t last. But it’s a very creative take with artsy visuals showing the changes J’onn goes through.
After years of building up this story into a single trade, Steve Orlando’s Martian Manhunter has J’onn’s backstory come up. All of his experiences and what made him into a hero are here.
Underrated DC Comics: The Atom
Whether it’s Ray Palmer or Ryan Choi, the Atom if the face of an enthusiastic side of science fiction.
The original Gardner Fox stories of Ray Palmer set the foundation for everything to follow.
Sword of the Atom in particular has Ray live out a bizarre fantasy that encompasses his character. I mean he gets romantic with an alien princess.
The All-New Atom features Ray Palmer’s student, Ryan Choi taking the mantle. Like any fan, Ryan stands out by learning as he goes about the superhero life rather than debunk anything.
Sgt. Rock
Sgt. Rock is DC’s premiere military character appearing in the war stories of WWII.
Sgt. Rock’s early days with Easy Company are full of intense missions with humor pages included for contrast.
Joe Kubert adapts Sgt. Rock and Easy Company into a real story about an escort mission in Russia called The Prophecy. What really sells this story is what little hope remains to a war’s end.
The Lost Battalion is yet another based-on-a-true-story adapting many of DC’s war heroes in a thrilling event.
Vs. The Army of the Dead is a reminder that for all of the grounded war stories, Sgt. Rock is still in the DC universe.
Underrated DC Comics: Enemy Ace
Enemy Ace is where the pulpy pilot scene comes to DC. Surprisingly, it describes a German pilot during WWI and WWII. But don’t worry Hans von Hammer is no Nazi. Possessing a code of chivalry, the Hammer tries to find whatever means to hold onto his sanity. But the horrors of war strike at every other turn.
Enemy Ace‘s debut goes across Our Army At War and Star-Spangled War Stories.
War Idyll is where Enemy Ace says the ideal soldier gets out of a battle than win it.
War in Heaven is the story Enemy Ace’s time in WWII. With the Nazi regime ready to throw him under the bus, the fight for survival never looked more raw.
Underrated DC Comics: Unknown Soldier
The Unknown Soldier is the stand-in for the nameless soldiers fighting in America’s wars. Each series would explore the military’s relationships with its corpsmen and country.
The original concept by Joe Kubert was a patriotic series focusing on fighting the Axis through disguises.
Christopher Priest’s take on the concept is more cynical if fantastic. Now a super soldier, the “Immortal GI” dips into the more political side of warfare. Tragically, this series has been obscured by the future installments it helped influence.
Unknown Soldier by Garth Ennis makes an old concept fresh by using the mantle in a spy thriller. Serving as a prototype to Fury: My War Gone By, this explores the psychological toll of serving the American Empire. As a CIA agent comes to terms with all of the atrocities, duty and ethics twist in each issue.
Unknown Soldier by Joshua Dysart meanwhile details the effects of living under constant civil strife and PTSD. A doctor is ready to snap and kill his way to get at those responsible. But soon a vigilante appears making quick work of people who use violence for violence’s sake. But is this soldier just another killer or can his presence lead to something bigger?
The Losers
No, not the Vertigo tribute team, but the original Robert Kanigher creations Jack Kirby made famous.
But good luck finding any of the original Losers by Kanigher.
Just when you thought wars couldn’t get any weirder. Or offensive(?)…Look the ghost of an American Confederate figure plays a part here. Even if it does try to subvert labels while showcasing tank combat.
The original series at least sets up that JEB Stuart’s descendants are tied to his ghost.
Hence why the Vertigo title throws in an African-American descendant. Because remember, JEB Stuart fought to uphold slavery to hold power over them. Even as times change, there’s no erasing or glorifying this man’s faults.
Deadman
Deadman is about a ghost haunted by his senseless death desperately looking for justice. Each new series becomes as surreal and mentally burdensome on Boston Brand.
Deadman is a series in dedication to a ghost haunted by his death. Being the very series and character that put Neal Adams on the map, more readers should acquaint with Boston Brand.
Deadman by Mike Baron and Kelley Jones certainly features the surreal artwork that make Deadman appealing anyway.
Dead Again is a time hopping journey that capture the weight of several major characters’ deaths. With dying in superhero comics being so performative now, this series reminds readers that it used to mean something.
The writer Steve Vance would continue with his Deadman series as Boston must show a boy how to appreciate life.
Then there’s Deadman: Dark Mansion of Forbidden Love a gothic romance murder mystery where Boston must help an occupant. With mesmerizing visuals and references to classic literature like Bluebeard, the suspenseful air is suffocating.
Amethyst: Princess Of Gemworld
Amethyst: Princess of Gemworld is one of DC’s earlier attempts at a swords and sorcery series. In comparison to Stalker or Warlord this is a coming-of-age series about a lost princess’s awakening to reclaim her home.
The twoseries by Dan Mishkin features how a 13-year old girl deals with a new identity. Now living as a princess and protector on a world unfamiliar to her, readers see Amy Winston’s growth.
The New 52’s Sword of Sorcery featuring Amethyst had much potential for DC to go into different genres. A lack of advertising and hype unfortunately put this fantasy world on the back burner.
The Question
The Question is a character who barely gets any time in the limelight, despite being the inspiration for Watchmen’s Rohrschach. Maybe that’s because it is a name shared between two characters. Vic Sage is always after the next challenge to his identity. The other Question, Renee Montoya is a Gotham detective who serves as a more hardboiled foil to characters like Batwoman.
The Question by Rick Veitch takes the concept of a city shaman to new heights. Mostly by diving into the more paranormal aspects of the character through mind-bending artwork.
The Question: The Deaths of Vic Sage is an illustrative take on the evolution of Vic Sage. Beginning by calling into question his objectivist roots, his introspection phase, and where surrealism start to take root.
The Question by Greg Rucka is where Renee Montoya takes up the mantle. Compared to the philosophizing Sage, she’s more nuanced to morality focusing more on finding her inner peace.
Dr. Fate
Doctor Fate is DC’s main face of magic. But other than as a passive force or guide through the supernatural, the character doesn’t show up often. Unless you count the times where the mantle goes through its hosts.
One that eventually leads to an equally underrated DC comics series involving sharing burdens.
Fate is an odd series from the 90s. Here artifact smuggler Jared Stevens uses the artifacts of Nabu to become a demon hunter. Unlike most 90s reinventions, this one doesn’t just rely on grim and gritty looks. Here Jared’s character development and design conjures the theme of balance between order and chaos. His actions meanwhile really sell how much the changing scales weigh on him. A classic case of vindication by history.
Dr. Fate by Christopher Golden stars Hector Hall, a character spinning-off from… a lot. All that you need to know is that Hector once again has to fill the shoes of a legacy hero.
Countdown to Mystery is one of the only good things to come out of the Countdown event. It certainly helps that Steve Gerber was behind the Dr. Fate story before his passing.
Paul Levitz’s Doctor Fate has pacing issues. But individualissues show off Khalid Kent Nassour embracing the Egyptian side that most series only touch in epic detail.
Hawkman
Hawkman is a character whose entire identity can only be complicated, hence his underrated DC comics status. Existing since the Golden Age, he has since gone through several revamps to his origin and character. Once a reincarnating Egyptian Prince, then an alien policeman, Carter Hall has since embraced the absurdity surrounding himself. Because when you can exist in one form or another, you have to question what makes you unique.
In the Golden Age, things really were cut and dry with Gardner Fox’s reincarnated Hawkman. Although to be clear, Hawkgirl is more interesting since she’s more active about her free will.
Meanwhile, the Silver Age introduces the alien couple on pulpy adventures. As well as staples like Hawkman’s friendship with the Atom.
Hawkworld is basically the modern version of Hawkman’s Silver Age origins. Here a past life is one of giving up privileges to do the most good. Because trying to change the ways of the cut-throats that make up Thanagar’s hierarchy just can’t be done. Not when you’re a part of it and the power that comes with it be taken away when you deviate.
The follow-up Hawkworld series dives into Katar’s journey to become Hawkman. Upon discovering Natural Rights, Katar and Shayera uncover much more about themselves as heroes. Including their connection with Carter Hall and Shiera Sanders.
The Hawkman of the 90s is a new status quo post-Hawkworld as the avatar of a Hawk God. But as he comes to terms with his new powers, he slowly begins to lose his humanity. Doing all that while trying to be a traditional superhero series can be too tough.
Robert Vendetti’s Hawkman is probably the most necessary piece of the character’s recent history. Because rather than try to fix the continuity, it embraces the absurdity around him. All while grounding his humanity.
Underrated DC Comics: The Spectre
DC’s embodiment of vengeance plays a mesmerizing role in the greater universe, by confronting the nature of morality.
In the Silver Age the Spectre begins the first stage in his role as God’s vengeance with unbelievable power.
His transition into the Bronze Age was an uneasy one, going into the horror territory.
The Spectre fresh off Crisis On Infinite Earths focuses on The Spectre’s relationship with his host Jim Corrigan.
The best run though comes from JohnOstrander. He gives DC’s Wrath of God personified the difficult task of redemption for Jim. Because redemption can just as well mean dooming people to a cycle that never stops. Especially when reflected and contrasted with the rest of the world.
Justice Society of America (JSA)
Before the Justice League is the Justice Society! Featuring the likes of the classic Flash and Doctor Mid-Nite, this team comes and goes throughout history.
During the 50s, the JSA have their time to shine before they embark on one last mythic adventure. That’s Demise of Justice.
Respect James Robinson! He and many passionate creators depict an epic that deserves remembrance in JSAReturns.
JSA: The Liberty Files puts two Elseworlds stories together about how superheroes fit in wars.
Underrated DC Comics Checklist: Phantom Stranger
Phantom Stranger is an odd character to be sure; definitely in underrated DC comics. Nobody knows who he is besides another esoteric like Spectre. Making sporadic appearances in other occult series like Swamp Thing, he often acts as a guide of the supernatural.
Since the 50s, the Phantom Stranger acts as a supernatural consultant for what look like occult mysteries. They feel like they empower the reader as much as the characters.
The Vertigo Visions story can really strike at the heart of some readers. Probably because it targets their sense of loneliness through empathy.
In the New 52, the Phantom Stranger is reimagined for a time trying to atone for his sins. It doesn’t last long, but it keeps the spirit in tact.
Underrated DC Comics: Human Target
The Human Target has a decent audience. That’s thanks in no small part to Peter Milligan, a few TV shows, and guest appearances. When it comes to comics though, nobody knows where to look for them. Until now.
Peter Milligan‘s twoseries lay the groundwork for many of these adaptations. Leading them is the sense of empathy shared between the reader and Christopher Chance.
Tales of the Human Target is the prequel to Tom King’s acclaimed maxi-series focusing on three perspectives of JLI alumni. This anthology set-up personalities that couldn’t fit in the main book, especially with Booster Gold.
Underrated DC Comics: Vigilante
DC’s moniker of Vigilante depicts the role of a gunslinger in the DC universe.
Spinning off of New Teen Titans, Marv Wolfman introduces Vigilante. Unlike Marvel’s Punisher, this series is more introspective on vigilantism with revolving writers. Disillusioned district attorney Adrian Chase grapples with morality several times until his tragic end.
Marv Wolfman’s followup Vigilante series with artist Rick Leonardi is potential squandered. This series has plenty of frenetic energy with Leonardi. But DC and Wolfman’s attempts to hit nostalgia buttons with the Titans and Adrian’s brother Dorian falls short. Which is tragic because the ex-con has a memorable sense of self-awareness in his war against mobs.
Underrated DC Comics: Adam Strange
If there’s an underrated DC Comics character, the poster boy of Strange Adventures, Adam Strange fits that mold. He makes very few appearances other than as a guest character. At this point, most people probably remember him as either a Booster Gold stand-in or a war criminal. But back in the fifties, the Space Race was the biggest factor for DC to try and capture. When Captain Comet doesn’t quite reach this, Adam Strange combines pulp adventurers with closer-to-reality science fiction. Later depictions show Adam’s struggles to immigrate to his adopted homeworld of Rann.
Adam Strange introduces comics to what is now retrofuturism. A theme detailing a future full of possibilities and adventure. Think of it as an early version of The Jetsons and Star Trek.
Adam Strange: Between Two Worlds collects the modern day stories including his adventures with Cosmic DC. Planet Heist is arguably his biggest in displaying Adam’s abilities as a scientist in a neo-noir space opera.
Underrated DC Comics: Booster Gold Checklist
Booster Gold is a character known for comic relief, where he tries to be taken seriously. Past the funny man antics comes a genuine sense of humanity on the burdens of time travel. It’s Booster’s struggles for acceptance and getting what few good relationships he can that make him memorable.
The original series by creator Dan Jurgens details Booster Gold’s beginnings before his iconic time with Justice League International. This series solidifies Michael Jon Carter as a lovable, upwards failing, loser.
The acclaimed 2000s series meanwhile tends to stop after Geoff Johns leaves. But when Jurgens teams up with Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis, even more possibilities open up.
Okay technically Blue & Gold is a superhero buddy series, but Dan Jurgens closes a lot of plots here.
Plastic Man Checklist
Plastic Man is one of those characters whose sense of humor belies the creative angles. With powers that allow for cartoony feats, Eel O’Brian is an artistically versatile character.
Tragically for the first Iron Age Plastic Man, comedy wasn’t appreciated as much. Phil Foglio knew what he wanted to do.
Kyle Baker meanwhile managed to combine his cartooning style with Plastic Man‘s malleability and satire.
The 80-Page Giant gives fans a less intimidating intro to Plastic Man.
Gail Simone’s reintroduction is what gets modern readers to know Eel O’Brian. If it’s not enough to propel the rest of these series into people’s sight, I dunno what is.
Swamp Thing Checklist
Swamp Thing is without a doubt a masterpiece made famous by Alan Moore and successors like Scott Snyder. Have to ask though. Which of you know about some stories that not many people take advantage of? I mean up until Ram V came in, know one remembered Tefe Holland.
Rich Veitch’s Swamp Thing succeeds the saga of Alan Moore by having the titular character question his place. As a new Swamp Thing is about to sprout, there can only be one…
Nancy Collins’ Swamp Thing is a return to form of the Green Man’s southern-gothic origins. Using Cajun folklore as a background, it shows Swamp Thing and Abby making significant developments that many people forget. Hence why it’s on this list.
Andy Diggle’s Swamp Thing meanwhile is reconciling every directionless path taken after Collins. Thus giving humanity back to a monster by giving him a center.
Shade The Changing “X” Checklist
Shade lives up to their name of “The Changing X” as they are never the same person twice. The entire characters’ arc is about introspection and debunking hoaxes. So influential that it takes a very surreal look at how people and societies work.
The original Steve Ditko story has Rac Shade trying to make a living on Earth while avoiding his home’s authorities. It’s a decent read for its time with odd powers and executions that show the flaws of the legal system.
The Vertigo Rac Shade meanwhile is a poet who is sent to Earth to combat madness manifesting in the population. Shade lives up to his name as each person he possesses shapes and distorts his personality.
Rac’s successor Loma stars in her own series inspired by Rac’s adventures. Except Shade the Changing Girl focuses on adolescence and the need to go on a journey to find themselves.
Shade the Changing Woman is the next step in Loma’s journey as she takes on the title of Shade. Because the end of one journey is a new beginning.
Underrated DC Comics: Suicide Squad
Everyone knows the Suicide Squad thanks to movies and video games. For better and for worse. But until Tom Taylor the only good depiction was John Ostrander’s original take. Afterwards just a few small issues and arcs manage to strike the right chords of absurd supervillain interactivity.
Speaking of, many people don’t know how different Ostrander’s take on the Squad is. Besides having mostly heroes, Waller actually has a heart here. Not only that, every character has layers to them.
The New 52’s Suicide Squad took a while to hit its stride. But the last half of its run with Ales Kot taking over writing duties did it.
The New Suicide Squad also had plenty of hits and misses. But the ones that hit, hit hard.
Underrated DC Comics: Ambush Bug
Ambush Bug is probably Keith Giffen’s comedic will manifest. Self-aware humor, fourth wall breaks, and more. All without being pretentious.
The original mini-series are a lot like Giffen’s other DC works. Funny, charming, and not what the publisher was looking for.
The follow-up a year later had just as much laughs. But again not too big an audience.
…
No, I’m not talking about Year None, just that Irvin did the smart thing and stuck to the sidelines.
Manhunter
The Manhunters have a very unique history in DC. The originals are agents of a secret society in dedication to bringing justice to criminals who escape the legal system. If you only know them because of Green Lantern, that’s what this list is for.
In the first Manhunter solo series, Mark Shaw serves as an antihero at odds with the Justice League.
Manhunter by Archie Goodwin and Walter Simonson provides a legacy that very few can follow. Filled with kinetic action, Paul Kirk gives Batman a run for his money.
Manhunter by Marc Andreyko stars prosecutor Kate Spencer taking up the mantle. This series isn’t only about justice, but empowerment after many of life’s disappointments.
Underrated DC Comics: Freedom Fighters
The Freedom Fighters are Earth X (10)’s superheroes because the Justice League are Nazis.
This is not the version you’re familiar with; but Christopher Priest makes The Ray good.
What has a dial and lets you turn into a hero? No, not Ben 10’s Omnitrix, I’m talking about Dial H. This magical item allows its users to become a random hero with the most bizarre powers and designs. With any luck and a little effort the user can turn their life around.
The Dial H of Mark Waid’s Silver Age event was a tribute to the Silver Age nuttiness. With how serious things were getting at the time, it was a good escape.
The New 52 Dial H captures the fun and excitement a comic fan gets from the absurd concepts. Anything to get through the day.
The modern Dial H for Hero meanwhile goes into how losing yourself in the surreal still means moderation.
Underrated DC Comics: Wildstorm
When DC acquired the company, Wildstorm and its properties often get overlooked by the main DC line. Probably because it lost whatever direction it had.
Razor’s Edge: Warblade is the first comic mini-series of I Am Batman‘s John Ridley. When a former Wildcat goes through depression, readers experience his healing journey. It’s a compelling, messy, and strongly reflective study about the nature of cycles. Where every minor character feels a little more like a real person.
The Monarchy is an Authority spin-off about the meaning our lives take as stories. If the post-Millar Authority is a great story rotting from the inside out, the Monarchy shows how that rot spreads. In retaliation, a new team rises to fight the Authority’s bad influence on other universes.
Backlash is a character who while notable was in the shadows of Wildstorm heroes like Grifter and Majestic. Which is a shame considering the crossovers and the scale his age allows for.
Including the fact he has a daughter who goes out on her own as Jet.
In Ed Brubaker’s transition from superheroes to crime drama, Sleeper has a secret agent reluctantly become a supervillain’s henchmen. With danger around every corner, ethical choices lose meaning.
When the Authority loses its focus, Stormwatch: Team Achilles comes in to set things straight. This series put more focus on military tactics against superhuman threats as well as satirizing military intervention. Hence this series cancellation at the height of the Iraq War.
Stormwatch: Post Human Division is the last stretch of the legendary franchise. By focusing on the misfits of this universe, Christos Gage refocuses the stakes by getting creative to solve plots. Who needs the flashy scale of the Authority when you can feel the weight these characters carry? Especially in Armageddon.
Within The Wild Storm: Michael Cray, comes a new take on Deathblow who takes on alternate evil DC heroes. Because when an alien force is taking over, what better way to go out than becoming a legend?
Underrated DC Comics: Vertigo/Young Animal
Barring DC’s weird relationship with its imprints, Vertigo introduces some original IP stories. But for every Fables spin-off are series that people miss. After one website’s example we will include some Young Animal series.
The Extremist is yet another example of Peter Milligan’s unrecognized talent. This mini-series goes into the ties with sexuality, kinks, and superheroics. When a costume is used by different people to express themselves, they find the sweet release of relief. Each in fashions that feel strange but human.
Skreemer is the story of a mafia hitman’s rise to power as boss and the steps necessary to keep it. Think a post-apocalyptic Scarface.
Savage Things by action enthusiast Justin Jordan shows how the psychological effects of child soldiers turn ugly.
Outlaw Nation is one of the more outlandish series to come out of Vertigo. When the stories about American exceptionalism have a feud, things get interesting.
There’s 100 Bullets and then there’s Azzarello and Risso’s Spaceman. Not appreciated at its time despite being ahead of it. It feels like it actually is a future, from lingo to dreams of space drifting away. Especially when all anyone’s got is drowning in entertainment as they await their demise.
American Virgin is the surprisingly relatable story of Adam Chamberlain. When big plans with his intended partner don’t go his way, an existential crisis follows. Sexuality, faith, and personal identity all get meaningful satire that tackle human nature. With tact.
CrossingMidnight goes into Japanese folklore where a pair of twins confront two sides of their home of Nagasaki.
Young Liars is David Lapham’s story of co-dependencies and addictions in grounded characters trying to live their best lives. With visuals that look like a drug trip and a rock-and-roll music video, it’s not hard to feel why. It really connects with people who feel lost.
High Level is a sci-fi series that was cut too short and left fans begging for more. The rich world building that combines a post-apocalypse and dystopian cyberpunk touched a button. The kind that gets people to think about their priorities in an environment like that.
Eternity Girl is a very meta series about linking serialization with depression. This second-to-last series of Young Animal is a reminder on how comics can be equally empowering and disheartening.
American Carnage is the last Vertigo original series before the imprint’s 2020 folding. A series about redemption and political tensions, a biracial former FBI agent must infiltrate a politician’s extremist group.
Underrated DC Comics: Milestone Media
The legacy of the late Dwayne McDuffie recently reopened the floodgates after years of company politics clashing. And then it happened again. Aside from the likes of Static and Icon, there are a few titles that don’t get enough attention.
Hardware has superheroism taking on big businesses. Because the only real means to fight corrupt corporations is by turning them upside down. While Hardware is one Milestone’s cornerstones, he lacks the media attention of Icon and Static. Maybe that’s because series villain, Edwin Alva steals the show. Quite literally around the last half counter to what the series was going for. Stick to the first half.
Xombi is a cult classic in Milestone Media. A lab accident makes David Kim immortal by a nanotech virus that eats and recycles matter. If losing his mortality wasn’t enough, a hidden supernatural world opens up to him. It practically felt out of place in Milestone with this set-up.
So much so that when DC makes a sequel, nobody notices that anything’s changed. It’s that much of a standalone.
Duo is a remake of the Xombi concept where David shares his body with his unintentional victim. Not only that but the supernatural battles put them at odds with one another on how to live as immortals.
Deathwish is a mini-series that does not even get a mention after an appearance in Hardware. Involving the title character’s relationship with a trans woman, comes a story about loving oneself.
Kobalt is Milestone’s Team Normal, a brutal vigilante satirizing the 90s EXTREME excess by throwing in a teen sidekick. As two different personalities clash, you can’t help but laugh over how over-the-top everything is.
Wise Son: The White Wolf is a character in the shadows of the Blood Syndicate. Hannibal must confront his limitations to be a better man for the people he loves when racial tensions rise.
My Name Is Holocaust… Every superhero universe needs a supervillain and Holocaust’s journey shows what makes one.
Long Hot Summer was a crossover event like few others. No tie-ins to interrupt anything, no dangling plot threads, just a straightforward story. Your favorite Milestone Heroes team-up, not to stop a cosmic enemy, but the very real threat of gentrification.
Underrated DC Comics: Hanna-Barbera
Owing to DC’s ownership by Warner Bros. Media, it’s not surprising that some of Hanna-Barbera’s properties show up. But when The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo take up most of the attention, who will remember the rest?
Space Ghost is a title from way before the Hanna-Barbera Beyond movement. Joe Kelly and Ariel Olivetti give this childhood classic a series worthy of a new audience. How? With an origin story.
Spinning off of Snagglepuss is Sasquatch Detective. This is a quirky tale of confronting biases, or at least the journey to find strength.
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