For over 80 years, 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 such as 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.
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Underrated DC Comics: General
- 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!
- Black Magic is a horror anthology from Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, featuring some raw 1950s Kirby artwork full of unhinged scares.
- 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.
- Anthro is a long forgotten title by Howie Post. Detailing the title character’s struggles to find a wife during the stone age, readers get a glimpse of early cultures; as well as an inside joke on Archie Comics.
- Bat Lash may not be 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 with an origin story with one of the last art by George Severin.
- Our Army at War is a series of war stories featuring the first appearances of Sgt. Rock, Enemy Ace, and the Unknown Soldier. 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.
- Many years later the Captain would return in Mystery in Space all while showing him 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.
- Metal Men: Full Metal Jacket doesn’t reinvent the wheel as much as it shows off the team’s personalities for a modern audience.
- 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.
- Another Phil Foglio redesign is the defining mini-series for Angel and the Ape. Much like Stanley and His Monster, 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 depiction by introducing the family dynamic absent in Ditko and Skeates’ take. With a sense of authenticity coming from the Kesels this series brings the blueprints for the superduo.
- The Elongated Man often gets overshadowed in the DC Universe. Having powers and a personality similar to 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 number of rogues gallery villains in the DC universe could 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.
- In yet another of DC’s attempts at swords and sorcery, The Warlord is the story of an air force pilot becoming a barbarian hero. With a beautiful unpredictable world and a complicated character dealing with PTSD, this is one series that should not be forgotten.
- 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 painiting.
- Arak: Son of Thunder is a sword and sorcery series so notable for Roy Thomas’ writing only diehard fans know about it.
- Jack Kirby contributes plenty of stories 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.
- Infinity Inc. 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. Because who can make something good out of Lex Luthor’s baggage?
- 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 might look 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 on a difficult road of redemption for their past lives’ sins. 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 stands the test of time by balancing fun times with Ronnie Raymond with the serious nature of the nuclear arms race through Martin Stein.
- Firestorm: Battle of the New Gods is where the Jason Rusch and the late Dwayne McDuffie show their strengths. Here both character and writer push Firestorm to the very limit of their capabilities in one last bit of glory.
- 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. 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.
- 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.
- Power Girl 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 the campiness that makes Kara Zor-L such a good character.
- 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.
- Teen Titans by Dan Jurgens and George Perez features a team unlike other incarnations, but just as much charm and drama.
- 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.
- El Diablo gets too many comparison to Jonah Hex to get a notice. But for a while the 16 issue series by Gerard Jones gets notoriety about how your home inspires you to act.
- The Vertigo series meanwhile reimagines the original character as a force of nature. With psychological thrills worthy of noir stories, this series belongs in underrated DC comics.
- 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.
- Jonni Thunder a.k.a. Thunderbolt is a legacy successor exceeding her predecessor in terms of character. This PI’s powers are pretty secondary in comparison to a detective trying to get a handle on mysteries.
- 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.
- Wonder Woman: The Last True Hero is a piece of Wonder Woman history obscured by the nonsense of the 90s.
- Steelworks is where John and his niece Natasha build up their legacies in relation 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 may not agree 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.
- 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.
- 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 maximum security 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 could prepare him for the absurdity that comes with it.
- Chase is cult classic series by Dan Curtis Johnson with breathtaking artwork by J.H. Williams III. Detailing a DEO agent as she does her part to keep metahuman activity under control, Cameron Chase discovers her own powers. 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 finds himself at a lot of his enemies’ mercy and with his mind in places, he doesn’t know how to handle it.
- Young Heroes In Love is where teen heroes meet prime time reality TV. ’nuff said.
- 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. But it’s his love of Opal City that makes the most impact to the point of serving as a mentor figure to Jack Knight.
- The Atomic Knights are a concept not many people recall, probably because it dealt with Cold War themes. After a hydrogen bomb apocalypse, the United States goes medieval. As an evil baron tries to take over, Sgt. Gardner Grayle mobilizes knights in radiation-proof armor to combat him. In addition they try to rebuild civilization in the fairest ways possible.
- Resurrection Man is about Mitch Shelby, a man who comes back from the dead and gets new powers every time he resurrects. 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 his memory as a result of trauma, Mitch acts as a wanderer in search of his past.
- Doctor 13 is a parapsychologist following traditional paranormal investigation. This time being rationalizing and myth-busting paranormal events. 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. This series’ main strongpoint however 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 get an address.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 in addition to 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.
- Not to be confused with the Teen Titans traitor, collaborators Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray, and Amanda Conner introduce this obscure hero. 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.
- Zatanna is a character people only find familiar through her difficult relationships. But this magician has a character independent of Batman and Constantine. Yet it seems only Paul Dini can express that.
- Superboy (Kon-El) has very few wins on his own. This Young Justice co-founder only has Geoff John’s run to his credit. Being the run that immortalizes Conner per his relationship with Lex Luthor and his ultimate slugfest with Superboy-Prime, this should be essential.
- 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?
- 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 a follow-up to this scenario by introducing his daughter. As such before ending his life, he tries to provide for her. But it goes into detail about how anyone can turn their life around, so long as they take responsibility.
- Superman/Batman: Torment and The Search For Kryptonite are arcs overlooked by the preceding arcs that receive 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 a bit too concerned. But not willing to just have Amanda Waller call the shots, there are two divisions who make moves to improve their successes. But when two sides are against each other, who’s really in control of the game?
- 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.
- 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 initial 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 might’ve stumbled on its finale but Ming Doyle manages to play with the censors for the most part. By using the magic of suggestion rather than outright display, 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. With a legacy of being the basis of Doctor Manhattan, this broken apart Captain Atom series by Cary Bates and Greg Weisman stands as his definitive run. Only recently did it receive a bigger ending with The Fall and Rise of Captain Atom.
- The original Cave Carson was a spelunking pulp hero in the Silver Age. But Jon Rivera works with Gerard Way to provide 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 begin to feel your age (at least that’s what’s implied). The visuals by Michael Avon Oeming and Nick Filardi 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 present.
- The follow up Cave Carson Has An Interstellar Eye is all about how something that once felt great can become mundane. 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 forward 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.
- Black Manta challenges one of Aquaman’s arch enemies by looking at the complexities of his motivations. When his identity is ready to be taken by someone inspired by him, a deeper legacy is uncovered tying Manta to his Atlantean enemies. 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.
- We Found A Monster is a creative middle grade graphic novel about monster lovers in a little corner of the DC universe.
- Danger Street is the epic fairy tale of DC’s 1st Issue Special heroes about finding self-worth in a world full of 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 thing really worth it?
Underrated DC Comics: Superman
Superman might be tied together with DC Comics but even the diehard fans miss some great series. Whether they ask hard questions or situations that look at surreal situations, someone will be Super fans.
- Superman: The Exile is an introspective story about Superman’s need to avoid killing by going on a space journey.
- Superman: Last Son of Earth and Last Stand on Krypton is an Elseworlds inversion where 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 a bit divisive. In a what might-as-well-be Elseworlds story, it asks important questions about Superman. 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 trying to hold himself down to Earth like in Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel, 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.
- 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. Because flying at the speed of light and time dilation can cause even Superman to lose touch with what he loves.
Underrated DC Comics: Batman
Oh come on Batman, do you have to steal what little spotlight other characters need? Whether it’s the teams you set up, where Bruce Wayne fits in, or series that get overlooked for some reason, you’re always there!
- 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. Between a serial killer ousting the elderly and a swashbuckling Cavalier in love with a murderer, Batman has his hands full. All in high octane detail.
- Batman: Night Cries is where Archie Goodwin and Scott Hampton delve into the very dark subject of child abuse.
- 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. Harley and the Riddler even turn to good, bringing forth a hope of Batman; even the worst parts of Gotham can reform.
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.
- 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 of the time in dedication to 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.
- 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 and a girl.
- GCPD: The Blue Wall is a spine-tingling crime thriller of a police procedural. With Renee Montoya dealing with the stresses of managing an entire department as well as her traumas as the framing device, three rookie cops go into the grounded realities of trying to protect and serve.
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 might start out campy with the Nuclear Family, more serious clashes to rescue loved ones shows how differently the world views 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 sequel to Wildstorm’s Planetary, this series is a great remedy to DC burnout by 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 both in and out of Atlantis demonstrates both the rich lore of the submarine settings of DC and Arthur Curry as a hero.
- Atlantis Chronicles details the history of Aquaman’s kingdom.
- Aquaman: Sub Diego demonstrates 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.
- Aquaman before his finale in the New 52 is on the verge of something big. With a new embassy, it takes a break from the action by giving some character and humor to the supporting cast.
Underrated DC Comics: Green Lantern
While everybody is likely familiar with Hal Jordan or John Stewart, does anybody really get a good glimpse at the entire Corps? Because the Green Lanterns’ role in DC comics should not be overlooked.
Disclaimer: The below series were written by Gerard Jones who was convicted and served time. All that you need to know is that he got out on good behavior and made sure his victims got restitution.
- 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
Since the Golden Age, Wesley Dodds was ahead of his time. Unlike his more colorful contemporaries and time with Jack Kirby, the original Sandman is unique. He is more of a pulp detective just as vulnerable as any other person. Not to mention his supporting cast like his girlfriend Dian Belmont who is every bit his equal.
- The Golden Age stories are a bit cookie cutter but it gives readers the foundations of everything after.
- Such as the The Sandman Mystery Theatre where Matt Wagner goes into the psychological side of Wesley and Dian.
- Night Terrors and the New Golden Age reintroduces readers to Wesley Dodds: The Sandman. While Jay Garrick and Alan Scott have their new directions, Wesley stays on course as he and his allies must recover the designs of Sandman’s tool of trade.
Underrated DC Comics: Justice League
With the many adventures and iterations of the Justice League, there are plenty that slip under the radar.
- 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 as Maxwell Lord targets the superhero community after his resurrection.
- Straight out of the team that brought Justice League International comes Justice League 3000.
- And its sequel Justice League 3001, nuff said.
- Justice League Dark: The Great Wickedness is an epic story in the literal shadow of Bendis’ Justice League and Dark Crisis. A grand story pitting the supernatural DC characters against each other was tragically cut short.
Legion of Super-Heroes
The Legion of Super-Heroes are an admittedly underrated DC Comics team full of diverse characters similar to 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 attempt to bring the Legion to the present. 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 character complete with an origin, the Forever People still remain as underrated DC comics characters.
- 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. With a very relatable story focusing on finding a place to belong; Kamandi is the Underrated DC comics gem that stretches throughout time.
- Jack Kirby’s Kamandi: The Last Boy on Earth is trippy as can be. With oddities surrounding the strange world at every turn, the art practically speaks for itself.
- Which might be 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 merely their means of countering violence.
- The original Jack Kirby story was ahead of its time. In a world of very human robots with modular memories and identities and rented out cities, Buddy Blank must question what that means for him.
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.
- Garth Ennis might not be that big 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.
- 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.
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‘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 on full display here.
- 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 makes him a hero are on full display.
Underrated DC Comics: The Atom
Whether it’s Ray Palmer or Ryan Choi, the Atom represents 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; complete with a romance towards an alien princess.
- Legends of Tomorrow: The Atom reminds readers that it’s important to enjoy yourself in the moment.
- 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.
- Between Hell & a Hard Place
- 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 truly delves into how 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 on the German side.
Underrated DC Comics: Unknown Soldier
The Unknown Soldier represents the nameless soldiers fighting in America’s wars. Each subsequent series would explore the military’s relationships with its corpsmen and country.
- The original concept by Joe Kubert was patriotic series in Our Army At War focusing on fighting the Axis through disguises.
- Priest would return to this character years later in a one-shot of Our Fighting Forces. And it’s expansion.
- 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 series explores the psychological toll of serving the American Empire. As a CIA agent comes to terms with all of the atrocities he commits, duty, responsibility, 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 perform 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 team homaging them, but the original Robert Kanigher creations Jack Kirby made famous.
Underrated DC Comics: The Haunted Tank
Just when you thought wars couldn’t get any weirder. Or possibly offensive with how the ghost of an American Confederate figure plays a part, even if it does try to subvert labels while showcasing tank combat.
- The original series at least sets up that JEB Stuart’s descendants can encounter 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 two series 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.
- We can skip everything in relation to Steve Ditko because Dennis O’Neil created DC’s definitive Question.
- The Question by Rick Veitch takes the concept of a city shaman to new heights by diving into the more paranormal aspects of the character.
- 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 by showing off her skills as a detective.
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 appear often. Unless you count the times where the mantle goes through its hosts.
- The original Doctor Fate of the Golden Age has its highs and lows, but at least the magic makes it memorable.
- Immortal Doctor Fate is a collection of backup stories introducing Kent Nelson to the modern world. It’s also the first appearance of Inza.
- Dr. Fate by J.M. DeMatteis starts off as a bizarre adventure.
- One that eventually leads to an equally underrated DC comics series involving sharing burdens.
- Fate is an odd series from the 90s where artifact smuggler Jared Stevens uses the artifacts of Nabu to become a demon hunter.
- Dr. Fate by Christopher Golden stars Hector Hall, a character spinning-off from… a lot. Taking place in Salem, Hector once again has to fill the shoes of a legacy hero as he faces an enemy of Fate’s.
- 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 individual issues 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 at the same time, 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 actively questions 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 cut-throats make up Thanagar’s hierarchy.
- 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 following up 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.
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.
- Wrath of the Spectre would revitalize these early days in terrifying ways.
- The Spectre fresh off Crisis On Infinite Earths has Doug Moench dive into The Spectre’s relationship with his host Jim Corrigan.
- The John Ostrander run 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.
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.
- Respect James Robinson! He and many passionate creators depict an epic that deserves remembrance in JSA Returns.
- 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.
- The Vertigo Visions story can really strike at the heart of some readers 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 cult following 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 two series 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.
- Vigilante: City Lights, Prairie Justice is arguably the best place to meet Greg Saunders, courtesy of James Robinson.
- 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.
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. Between the funny man antics however 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, upward 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.
- In a Future State tie-in, Booster Gold must break out of the effects of the New 52 reboot.
- 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 him to perform cartoony feats, Eel O’Brian is an artistically versatile character.
- The Plastic Man Archives are probably the best sources of the original Quality Comics. Fair warning, sensibilities have changed since the 40s.
- Since acquiring Plastic Man in the Silver Age, DC wastes no time with the wacky antics.
- 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 meanwhile is what gets modern readers to know Eel O’Brian, propelling the rest of these series into people’s sight.
Swamp Thing Checklist
Swamp Thing is without a doubt a masterpiece made famous by Alan Moore and successors like Scott Snyder. However, a small number of stories bring some developments that not many people take advantage of.
- Rich Veitch’s Swamp Thing succeeds the saga of Alan Moore by having the titular character to question his place. As a new Swamp Thing is about to appear, 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 to bring the Green Man back to a center. Thus giving humanity back to a monster.
Shade The Changing “X” Checklist
Shade lives up to their name of “The Changing X” as they never appear as 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 function.
- The original Steve Ditko story has Rac Shade trying to make a living on Earth while avoiding his home’s authorities. With odd powers and clever plans that show the flaws of the legal system, it’s a decent read for its time.
- 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. This time however, 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
Suicide Squad may be a name everyone is familiar with from live-action movies and video games; 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 even 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 is one of comics’ first characters with fourth wall awareness. Created by comedic writer Keith Giffen as an unimpressive Superman rogue, Irwin Schwab’s embrace of comics’ insanity is never a dull moment.
- Ambush Bug is the series where this Fun personification starts; his dumb luck and comic knowledge serve him well. For laughs and absurdity abound, don’t neglect this character.
- Son of Ambush Bug has Irwin deal with fatherhood amid superhero insanity. Quick note, his sidekick is just a toy!
- Ambush Bug: Year None is a parody of every gimmick DC threw out in the late 2000s, including the delays and overbearing editorials.
Underrated DC Comics: Manhunter Checklist
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. The name’s use in the Green Lantern lore however causes some confusion about the title bearer’s identities.
- 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 might not be the version you’re familiar with but Christopher Priest makes The Ray good.
- Especially since the modern Freedom Fighters don’t have a Ray.
Underrated DC Comics: Dial H
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 off the walls humor.
- The New 52 Dial H captures the fun and excitement a comic fan gets when encountering absurd characters and concepts to get through the day.
- The modern Dial H for Hero meanwhile goes into how losing yourself in the surreal still means to do it responsibly.
Underrated DC Comics: Wildstorm
Following DC acquiring the company, Wildstorm and its properties often get overlooked by the main DC line. Probably because it lost whatever direction it had.
- The next time anyone asks about The Authority remember Ellis not Millar. It’s a matter of taste.
- Razor’s Edge: Warblade is the first comic mini-series of I Am Batman‘s John Ridley. When a former Wildcat goes through depression, his journey to heal is a compelling one that looks at how people go through cycles.
- 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 his storytelling methods.
- 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 henchman to a supervillain. 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
Before Vertigo fully mixed with DC, it introduces a number of original IP stories. But for every Fables spin-off are series that people miss. Following one website’s example we will include some Young Animal series.
- Skreemer is the story of a mafia hitman’s rise to power as boss and the steps necessary to maintain 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.
- The Exterminators tells the stories about the titular workers and their battles against vermin.
- Crossing Midnight 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 codependencies 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.
- 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 series of DC’s Vertigo imprint before it’s 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. 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.
- 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.
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 preceding the Hanna-Barbera Beyond movement. Telling of Space Ghost’s origin and how he met his wards, Joe Kelly and Ariel Olivetti give this childhood classic a series worthy of a new audience.
- Spinning off of Snagglepuss is Sasquatch Detective, a quirky tale of confronting biases, or at least the journey to find strength.