Marvel’s so famous, its cinematic universe decorates the globe. But what about comic books that don’t get into the limelight as much? Sure a few major players make appearances in comics, TV, and whatever. But what about the times that people forget? And that’s what this page is for, listing all of the Underrated Marvel Comics series. And I do mean all of them, not a top 10 list. This list reaches out to ever nook and cranny over the years in Marvel’s publications.
Everybody will have a favorite that is not always everyone’s. Some comics also divide when it comes to quality, writing, or age. But Marvel doesn’t have a reputation as the House of Ideas for nothing. Some characters and stories serve as pivotal roles for both the wider Marvel Universe or the creators’ careers. The list will also include team characters who get solo runs. Sometimes there will even be teams who don’t make regular appearances. We will also be including underrepresented A-list character comics. Including those only found in places like Marvel Unlimited.
Wild Western is a relic of Marvel’s time in the Western genre. While the likes of Rawhide Kid continue to impress, Kid Colt and other gunslingers are but a memory.
The original Devil Dinosaur comics are a classic by Jack Kirby that get regular visits in modern media. But…not many fans are familiar with the original adventures of Devil and Moon Boy. With some fun adventures and creative liberties this series leaves a lasting legacy.
Chili is from the era where Marvel tries to compete with Archie Comics. This series serves as a companion to Millie The Model and much like the series, the title character gets overlooked.
Machine Man by Jack Kirby is a bizarre origin. Originally spinning out of Kirby’s adaptation of 2001: A Space Odyssey, Aaron Stack goes on a few personal journeys. Arguably the best runs come from Kirby and Tom DeFalco especially the 2020 series.
The Son Satan is the debut of on-and-off occult character Daimon Hellstrom. Creator Gary Friedrich and Steve Gerber take turns with the character in his role as an exorcist. Something that gives his struggle with his demonic heritage a sense of dichotomy.
Prince of Lies is a story explores how this duality is a curse people have to learn to live with. The sequel by Warren Ellis, Hellstorm deals with the fallout of the last series where he becomes the new Satan.
Ka-Zar is the tale of Marvel’s feral children coming into adulthood. The titular character meets Shanna the She-Devil as they close their arcs. There’s just something universal about rejecting civilization, but agreeing to meet it halfway.
It’s only when the title character is immersed amid existential and natural horror in Lord of the Savage Land that readers feel a stronger connection to him.
Tigra is one of those characters whose history is nothing if not complicated. Her early years have her in a Cat costume that Hellcat inherits. But then some mystical means turn Greer Grant Nelson into Tigra. Unfortunately nobody seems to know what to do with her without the West Coast Avengers.
Brother Voodoo is the story of Jericho Drumm on his journey to becoming Doctor Voodoo. Because if somebody will succeed Doctor Strange, let it be where psychology meets magic.
Omega The Unknown is a title for die-hard Steve Gerber fans. While incomplete, it has a charm that bring Marvel fans towards it.
This combination is part of what makes the Jonathan Lethem series feel like a genuine tribute. It combines the Marvel universe with Napoleon Dynamite.
Quasar by the late Mark Gruenwald is a character many readers took a while to love. Possessing an everyman outlook with cosmic power, the character and series remains a cult classic. But it does slow down in the 90s.
Told from the perspective of a real Devil Dog, Semper Fi depicts the grim realities of the Vietnam War.
Clandestine is about a family of superheroes and the drama surrounding them. Patriarch, Adam Destine, tasks his children with not drawing attention to themselves. Unfortunately their activities as superheroes lead to a string of murders. With his family at risk, Adam and the rest of his children take strides to protect them. With tensions from familial expectations, to how powers actually affect them, this forgotten classic deserves better.
The late Dwayne McDuffie likes to build worlds in all areas of whatever universe he’s in. Damage Control is where the clean-up crews of superhero battles live their lives. It’s a genuinely interesting and lively tale that feels cheated out of potential depictions.
Logan’s Run the Marvel Comics adaptation is what happens when a book gets the Marvel Method. An already cheesy movie feels right at home with the House of Ideas. A few creative teams even take turns at the story it gives rise to future developments. This includes a depiction of the rivalry of Drax and Thanos by Scott Edelman and Mike Zeck.
Wonder Man is one character who never seems to get much dedication. The first thirteen issues of his solo series are some great stuff that make the Hollywood setting lively. And then the Dark Age of Comics came and ruined it!
Before and after this, the Saga of Simon Williams has his highs and lows. The highs being Wonder Years and Avengers Two.
Speedball is one of those characters who often gets the short end of the stick. Which is odd because he’s one of the more optimistic creations of Steve Ditko. When life can get rough like Robbie Baldwin’s, it’s important to bounce back.
Emphasizing that point comes the original New Warriors. This team of young heroes stand in the shadows of the Avengers and X-Men. What makes them stand out is that it’s a group of friends having fun on adventures. Which considering later versions don’t do so great, this is a good reminder of old school superhero tales.
Alpha Flight is a team of Canadian heroes as they go through the X-Men style drama. From family-esque narratives to personal journeys these characters enjoy a cult status. So much, that it becomes tradition for Marvel’s Canadian creatives to take on the title.
The mini-series by Jim Zub is a nice confrontation of the X-Men influence. Does this team go back basics after so many changes or embrace a new direction?
Christopher Priest’s 4-issue Falcon series is in the shadow of his run with Captain America. Here, Sam Wilson’s time as a social worker shines as he tries to help his neighborhood deal with their problems. Being a better example is a struggle with how busy Sam gets, especially with youths affected by the Reagan administration.
As for the 2017 Falcon series… it’s a little lackluster. But the fourth issue has Sam Wilson grapple with his identity. Because where do you go after being Captain America?
Misty is the story of calling back to Marvel’s past with Millie the Model. Starring Millie’s niece, this teen humor goes into a career girl getting a handle on early fame. Amid the whimsical absurdities, it connects to teens trying to be the best version of themselves. But as Marvel’s 616 tells, nobody seemed too interested; this was the 80s where Watchmen took comics by storm. So, the public misses out on a wholesome story.
Captain Universe is a character/concept nobody can seem to keep for a long period of time. The Hero Who Could Be You has a lot of storytelling potential about being a hero in the right place and time.
Marvel Shadows & Light features two stories where Wolverine and Blade get to show their stuff. Against Dracula even. The others not so much.
Deadly Hands of Kung Fu doesn’t just feature Iron Fist and Shang-Chi. Other characters like Jack of Hearts and White Tiger also take up some space.
Captain Britain is a tale of two Alans. With Alan Davis and comics legend Alan Moore, the story of Brian Braddock becomes a surreal journey about destiny. Within the whole multiverse, does Brian really have a place in it?
Death’s Head from Marvel UK is a cult favorite character. He never seems to find a way back into modern stories though. Or at least not without quality.
Deathlok The Demolisher is a character not many will recognize courtesy of Agents of SHIELD. The Terminator-like Luther Manning struggles for his humanity in the background. The story starts as an action fest. It later goes back in time to meet Captain America. This brings resolution to the identity crisis and gives Deathlok a proper place in Marvel.
Deathlok: The Living Nightmare of Michael Collins is McDuffie’s first mini-series with the character obscured by its sequel. It’s one of the first projects by the group who would found Milestone. As for the comic, it’s a fascinating look at a man interacting with the Deathlok mantle.
Saga of Crystar meanwhile is where Marvel characters meet this strange world.
Strikeforce Morituri is a series about superheroes and their nature as disposable stories. But before their attempts at a blaze of glory, readers come to love these very human characters. Each issue is full of suspenseful stakes for readers to invest in.
Sleepwalker is a unique if overlooked concept of the Marvel universe. An astral projection from a sleeping man protects the mindscape. With how dreams get, surreal is the new normal.
Infinity Wars: Sleepwalker is the chance Marvel takes with a dormant character. This tie-in shows off the storytelling potential Marvel sits on with his powers.
Diving into the New Warriors is Ultragirl, a character with origins so absurd she epitomizes an awkward teen phase.
Mort The Dead Teenager is a horror comedy where adolescence literally confronts death. In this journey for meaning, a little empathy can go a long way.
Druid is one series that makes the titular doctor more notable, thanks to Warren Ellis. It’s just a shame considering the effort it took to depict druid magic is out of date.
Howard Mackie’s iconic Ghost Rider series is a tough act to follow showing the inner turmoil of Danny Ketch. Danny was actually the first user of the iconic Hellfire Chain. It’s just his brother Johnny Blaze and Robbie Reyes filled in his role. These days, Danny’s a redundancy.
The late Mark Gruenwald has several unknown series to his name. USAgent is the story of John Walker taking up a name after his experience as Captain America. Walker is self-confident in his new identity, almost to a fault. Readers see the American values and processes pushed to their limits. These moments reveal Walker’s layers, interrogative especially to live up to his late brother.
The only other person to make a good story with USAgent is Christopher Priest’s American Zealot. Because it’s as unorthodox as Walker is.
Korvac Quest, a sequel to the Korvac Saga is a crossover event nobody really remembers. Is it the sequelitis?
Dakota North is a title that a few people bring up for the down-to-earth nature of this stylish detective. This character is engaging enough to bounce off Spider-Man and Daredevil anyway.
Slapstick is a comedic character from the 90s full of funny moments with expressive feats. Sadly comedy was one genre that was losing audiences in that era.
Even a reappearance 25 years later while loved by audiences couldn’t keep going. That’s Not Funny.
Louise Simonson certainly has no shortage of ideas. Spellbound follows a young woman on the crux of big decisions that put strains on her and her family. When a fan follows this story up, you know this is an underrated Marvel Comics character.
Nightwatch is a product of the 90s energy with the grim-and-gritty aesthetics. With the title character’s costume holding dark secrets, seeing another like it terrifies Kevin Trench. Now he has to fight against this threat and confront his costume’s origins.
Foolkiller by his creator Steve Gerber is probably the best use of this character. Amid all of the insanity is genuinely human vulnerability going through life’s crises. When one mantle bearer finds a successor, the resulting carnage manages to grip readers. Probably because it feels a lot like an influencer worming its way into someone’s mind. And the resulting twist of the message.
J2 (Juggernaut Jr.) is one of the few series from the MC2 universe to be fondly remembered with Spider-Girl. Unlike his co-stars, Zane Yama follows the tried and true formula of coming-of-age. Even though he has great power, having the courage to overcome your shortcomings is what makes a real hero.
Flashback is an initiative that was a real breath of fresh air sometime during Marvel’s bankruptcy. This initiative uses Silver Age and Bronze Age attitudes with modern layouts. Fans get a chance to see the layers that make Marvel Heroes who they are.
Echo: The Saga of Maya Lopez says it all. Featuring an inspired idea that transformed into a fully fledged character, Echo struggles to get back into the spotlight. Probably because the art helped bring out perspectives not often seen in media.
The Spaceknights are what happens when a concept outgrows its license. With ROM out of the way, the Space Knights get Jim Starlin’s new depiction to stand out.
The Crew spins off from the worst of Christopher Priest’s iconic Black Panther run and Captain America: Truth. Featuring characters like War Machine defending a helpless neighborhood from crime lords never felt so difficult. At the very least, it makes Casper Cole easier to deal with.
Slingers is a cult classic about how Spider-Man’s example inspires people. If fans ever want a group to relate to in Marvel comics, this is the place to start.
Marvel: The Lost Generation is a unique piece of Marvel history acting in a Memento fashion. To fill in gaps with the Marvel Universe’s sliding timeline, readers see the end of The First Line. This unique series travels back in time to witness the team’s rise. It laments the tragedies but offers enjoyment through Bronze Age style adventures.
Nightside is an occult detective series about a supernatural plane where the inhabitants wage war.
D.P.7 is a series by the original Squadron Supreme’s Mark Gruenwald. Out of all of the material from the New Universe project, this series stands out. Thank to its lively cast.
Fight Man is a superhero parody comic mocking the violent and over-exaggerated superheroes of the 90s. The satire is so over-the-top that it’s hard to take seriously. His creator Evan Dorkin puts him wherever he can like in Agent X.
Marvel Boy is a piece by Grant Morrison where power fantasies are at their most absurd. Because with Nohh-Var, encounters with surreal beings like a living corporation you can punch feels great.
Sentinel changes the formula of the mutant hunting robot. A teenage engineer retools one of these machines to become a superhero. This series captures the adolescent feeling of needing to find a voice, even in the most unlikely places.
There’s even a followup where the consequences come out. Because, sometimes self-discovery can be a traumatizing experience.
Morlocks by Geoff Johns is a series about surviving against persecution. In contrast to the X-Men, this underground society thrives as an urban myth to hide their vulnerabilities. Because if you think the Sentinels were scary before, they will give you nightmares after this.
Powerless is a What If? Story that as the title suggests has three characters without their superpowers. Despite this, they still try what they can to be heroes in their own ways.
MODOK: Head Trips features the Big Head villain’s surprising versatility. His most diabolical plot being a parody of Ocean’s 11.
Secret War is the event comic that never happened. It’s practically the underrated Marvel Comics crossover event because it focuses on the effects. Readers and characters feel the aftershock of a world shattering shift. All without needing to drag on and disrupt every other comic’s pace. It practically fits the mold of superheroes in a post-9/11 world. Even the original Annihilation story pales in comparison for showing characters at their peak.
The Hood is one of Marvel’s more interesting villains. In this MAX series the reader sees a petty crook in his transition into super villainy. Parker Robbins lives the power fantasy of mob life both to escape his dourness and help his loved ones. But it’s not without downsides, reality is stranger than fiction in the Marvel Universe. But reveling in supervillain absurdity without responsibilities is too empowering.
Adam Warren of Empowered fame always likes to work the bizarre and forgettable into his work. Livewires is where the absurd side of science-fiction thrives. For one, the main character throws up ridiculously designed guns since she’s a nanite-based android. Then there’s the realization that these characters don’t have much privacy since their thoughts become text messages.
The Marvelous Adventures of Gus Beezer follows a fan’s dream of sharing space with a superhero. Any child would certainly like the idea with how absurd their own lives get.
Jessica Jones: The Pulse isn’t just a sequel to Alias, it’s the only survivor of the Pulse series. In it, rather than be stuck in investigative journalism, it follows Jessica’s life. Both her past and future make peace as she starts a new life with Luke Cage.
The Great Lakes Avengers are one of the oddest teams in Marvel history. Despite their reputations as lethal joke characters, there is a real sense of fun and camaraderie among them. With all of the drama the core Avengers get into, GLA:Misassembled is where fans go for some genuine character moments.
The only good followup to this series is how Same Old, Same Old mocks the idea of status-quo shifting gimmicks. Sometimes people would rather enjoy what they’ve got and stick with what works.
Fantastic Four/Iron Man: Big in Japan is one of those series nobody really needs to take seriously. Sometimes it’s better to just have fun with stuff.
Is this really underrated Marvel comics material if there are videos in dedication to it? Well vindicated by history means people didn’t appreciate it enough! I certainly think Nextwave: Agents of H.A.T.E. is the pinnacle of Marvel’s hidden gems.
Marvel Team-Up by Robert Kirkman has everything superhero fans love. Simple adventures full of the fantastic settings in complementary character-driven sagas. Most people will probably recall Invincible’s appearance above all else. But the last saga, Freedom Ring goes into just how serious becoming a superhero is to an outsider.
Wisdom: Rudiments of Wisdom is where some of the weirder parts of fantasy go through the ringer. Courtesy of Pete Wisdom and Paul Cornell.
Osborn: Evil Incarcerated is the series where Kelly Sue DeConnick makes her mark… with the help of Warren Ellis. This series details how a supervillain comes back stronger than ever. The on-and-off Green Goblin, Norman Osborn fresh off his defeat in Siege is in a secret prison. Osborn gains followers from most of his fellow inmates. He then hatches a plan that shows how much of a threat he is.
Gold Goblin is the chance for Norman to look back on everything. No longer a psychopath after a Spider-Man story, the chance to turn over a new leaf is a real challenge.
Daredevil: Battlin’ Jack Murdock is a mini-series about the relationship between Daredevil and his father. Frank Miller tells a good story on Jack Murdock’s end. Zeb Wells explores the motivations behind Jack’s decisions. This makes Jack’s tragic end worth remembering.
Peter David’s Captain Marvel run is a tribute to the legacy of Mar-Vell. It also explores the struggle to leave a legacy. While Genis-Vell’s journey to fill his father’s shoes is a classic, it’s his relationship with Rick Jones that’s notable. It gives meaning to the role of a sidekick who keeps the hero on the right path. Which is a difficult thing to do, because with the super power of hyper-awareness, comes with the weight of responsibilities.
Irredeemable Ant-Man shows what happens when superhero story absurdities are applied to a Daffy Duck type character. Ant-Man already has a shaky rep. But Robert Kirkman makes Eric O’Grady feel like that friend you make fun of behind his back.
The original Ultimate Universe is known for taking things in newer but familiar directions. And then there’s Ultimate Galactus, the only real look into the cosmic side. With bold new directions on several characters, the potential to go beyond in enticing. Sadly there were never any followups.
White Tiger is a character with a lot of potential but not a lot of exposure. Odd since Angela del Toro has a great personality that fits in with the Marvel Universe.
The Twelve is where characters from Marvel’s Golden Age (barring the Invaders) form their own team… after waking up in the 21st century. Like their cohorts, they now have to struggle to fit in, all while reconciling with their pasts and identities.
The Incredible Hercules is a series about Marvel’s Prince of Power and the Seventh Smartest person in the Marvel Universe. While Thor occupies most of the mythical fantasy sides of Marvel, Hercules fits the role of an epic hero. With Amadeus Cho being the straight man to Herc’s antics, readers get to see a loyal, layered frat boy.
Beyond! That is part of Dwayne McDuffie’s lasting legacy at Marvel. Characters from the A-List Spider-Man to the D-List Gravity get to have fun character dynamics in an alien world. Humor and action blend well enough to create an unforgettable plot.
No, that is not a Skrull or Drax trying too hard to imitate the Punisher. Destroyer by Robert Kirkman is almost like a parody of the Punisher Max series with its over-the-top violence and gore. One where a dying vigilante is going out on one last bit of glory.
Agents of Atlas is a series detailing the inclusion of some of Marvel’s characters from its Atlas era. Agent Jimmy Woo is back in action when an old enemy returns. So he has to get his friends to help out. Venus, Gorilla-Man, Human Robot, and many others fill out a roster of Avengers in all but name. One that brings the fun and humor that comes with such a ridiculous cast.
Atlas is a followup to the Agents’ series with another Atlas era character who adds to the dynamic.
Thunderstrike: Youth In Revolt follows the son of the temporary Thor who came into his own. Upon discovering his father’s mace, Kevin Masterson takes up his identity and has fun learning the ropes.
Shadowland: Power Man is the debut of Victor Alvarez, taking up the name and powers of the Heroes For Hire. It’s probably the only series from the event with any merit.
Tie-ins are easy to overlook. Within Fear Itself: Youth In Revolt is a team of Marvel characters needing a second chance. Here the Avengers Initiative dropouts and the Young Allies showing the world what they’ve got. Marvel should consider some new angles.
Cloak & Dagger have absolutely no luck when it comes to their own comic series. This tie-in to the Spider-Island event has the pair at each other’s throats through Mister Negative. Giving a new perspective on their lives, the pair confront their feelings and their co-dependent relationship. If this isn’t what warrants Hulu’s series that changes the formula for the better, I don’t know what is.
Figment probably isn’t the first thing you hear about when you hear Disney. But this attraction shows a lively world of colorful characters that some fans still love.
Angela: Asgards’s Assassin displays the character’s philosophy of nothing for nothing. This presents events in a Game of Thrones-like vibe worthy of Tyrion Lannister. Yet, Angela’s loyalties always go out to the people she loves, including her girlfriend.
Angela: Queen of Hel gives the action a decent bit of humor. Even the sensors become so comedically over the top, they surpass The Good Place’s.
It’s not an exaggeration to call Weirdworld a prototype of Jason Aaron’s Conan epic. This tie-in to Secret Wars uses long forgotten characters swords-and-sorcery setting characters in epic fashion. Featuring Arkon and Skull the Slayer among many others.
Marvel MAX imprint horror section Dead of Night‘s most critical success is Devil Slayer. A dead inside soldier is at his lowest point after life leaves him behind. Yet, Danny Sylvia inherits his uncle’s mantle in a war between heaven and hell.
Weapon H details a hero combining the best experiences of both the Hulk and Wolverine.
You Are Deadpool is Al Ewing pushing the Merce With a Mouth’s character to the absolute limit. By combining a comic book with a comic shop’s companion of tabletop RPGs, players/readers experience Deadpool at his most pure.
Luke Cage does not always have the best legacy when it comes to comics. He’s either real cheesy, Iron Fist’s straight man, Jessica Jones’ husband, or a reserve Avenger. But issue 170 shows Luke at his best. Telling a story to his daughter after her struggles in school, the two take turns being one another’s hero. It’s an endearing tale that expands Luke’s character beyond heroism.
Not that cheese is a bad thing, especially when it helps with character dynamics. Power Man: Timeless is the only piece from the Timeless one-shot to become a full mini-series. When a future Luke Cage ends up in the modern Marvel time to fight an enemy, the burdens show.
Always An Invader is Chip Zdarsky’s take on the Golden Age heroes of Marvel. Namor makes a revelation to his past and is no longer willing to tolerate the surface. So he decides to go all out in a battle that could rattle the Earth. His WWII buddies meanwhile have to find a way to satisfy their friend before things get too drastic. Each member of the team show their greatest strengths with Winter Soldier having the best angle.
The Daughters of the Dragon: Deep Cuts is the story worthy of Misty Knight and Colleen Wing. None of the skimpy outfits of the original and plenty of action and humor.
Annihilation Scourge much like its source material is a space opera with the less utilized cosmic Marvel. From the Cancerverse to depictions of fan favorite character The Sentry, it’s an enjoyable romp.
Timeless Tales features characters from Marvel’s earliest days other than superheroes including funny animals. From Ziggy Pig to Gunhawks, something ought to tickle readers’ fancy.
Black Panther And The Agents of Wakanda features some of Marvel’s less utilized stars. Ka-Zar, Wasp, and surprise appearances from the Livewires explore where the Avengers can’t.
2020: Force Works features some of the less utilized parts of Marvel’s military/espionage community. As the Robot Revolution starts to heat up, this team deals with a butterfly effect. At the least it shows layers to less used characters like US Agent.
Call it a shameless cash grab taking advantage of lockdowns, but The Vitals is really something. Telling the real stories of emergency workers, the grounded stakes and suspense of the Covid pandemic still resonate with audience.
King In Black: Thunderbolts is an unpredictable fun tie-in where some Marvel baddies work together or die trying. Too bad it’s potential isn’t really utilized in the best way possible in later stories.
Hence why Jim Zub’s second swing with the team goes unnoticed. Partly because rather than the usual supervillains with rehabilitation arcs, it’s about heroes trying to regain their footing. Hawkeye returns to lead this group of misfits as they deal with some insecurities. Amid the commercial spectacle, heroes and fans get a palette cleanser from the status shifts.
Winter Guard: Operation Snowblind is probably the most compelling depiction of this Russian Marvel team. Amid a spy thriller, the characters have to question what makes a hero to them or the country they serve. Plus seeing Yelena Belova and Red Guardian to their utmost potential is a plus.
Blade is the Marvel character who showed everyone the heroes’ potential for movies. But in terms of comic books, he doesn’t have many to his name. Vampire Nation is where that changes with the world building of a vampire society and Blade’s versatility. While there’s not a lot of action, the tension between him and Dracula is equally engaging.
Meanwhile Mother of Evil is where fans get the action fix amid supernatural drama.
Hellcat: Devil On My Shoulder spins-off of writer Christopher Cantwell’s Iron Man. Here the Armored Avenger’s co-star returns to her investigative take as she confronts her past. From old rivalries to ex-husbands, this is a supernatural thriller fans don’t want to miss.
J. Michael Straczynski’s Captain America is a return to form done right. Eschewing the redundant political thrillers and social commentary, JMS focuses on Steve Rogers’ humanity. This combines with high octane adventures for some great times.
Werewolf By Night: Unholy Alliance is more of a Creature Feature anthology than a serial. But for fans of the Disney+ special the main title will give them more of that magic. Especially since Jack Russell is a different character in the Moon Knight piece. Plus it adds Marvel Unlimited’s Crypt of Shadows.
Namor the Sub-Mariner
Namor the Sub-Mariner is a character who goes between being a hero and a threat. But not many people can seem to bring him out as a morally complex character without help.
Before his death, Namor’s creator Bill Everett does one last story with the Sub-Mariner in issue 50. The story introduces longtime supporting character Namorita. It ties up a few loose ends. It’s a satisfying end to the original story from the 40s.
John Byrne probably does Namor’s complexities the best. The Sub-Mariner experiences relatable interactions with the corporate world. He reconnects with old friends and goes through a redemption arc. This is probably the most human he has been.
Conquered Shores goes into what happens once the Sub-Mariner accomplishes his control of the planet. He gets lonely.
Fantastic Four
The Fantastic Four as well as their enemies have their outings. On their own they can be big things that capture people’s imaginations. But there are times you just have to look past things to see what makes them so fascinating.
The Thing under John Byrne and Mike Carlin gives Ben Grimm the solo series he deserves. From Yancy Street to his relationships like Sharon Ventura, everyone’s got a place to be.
So if you’re looking for some smashing, get ready for Clobberin’ Time!
Franklin Richards before his time as a mutant juggernaut and his hair color change has some good times. As a child he takes life in strides as the bizarre life of superheroics is his version of normal.
McDuffie’s Fantastic Four got obscure because of Civil War. But the dynamics between characters and development that help lead into Hickman’s iconic run are cohesive. Black Panther and Storm definitely had it good here.
Underrated Marvel Comics: Inhumans
The Inhumans have a bad reputation of being mutant stand-ins, despite being philosophically different. The X-Men are about fighting for rights. In contrast, the Inhumans are about standing out in a world full of amazing people. While they mainly work as a group, a few noteworthy series about individual members show up.
Karnak is one of the more interesting Inhumans. Warren Ellis makes him a little more interesting by showing how his abilities affect him spiritually.
Black Bolt is a difficult character to write for as many writers find out. Most of the time, he’s a plot element. But Saladin Ahmed’s maxi-series shows his emotional journey to self-actualization. All while walking a tightrope on how vulnerable he can be.
Lockjaw is arguably one of the more popular Inhumans. With a face like his, who can blame anyone for getting his own series. Not to mention it gives D-Lister D-Man some good times with the teleporting dog.
Hulk
Whether he’s Incredible, Savage, or Immortal, Marvel’s not-so-jolly green giant has many stories that people forget.
Rampaging Hulk is a series of artful depictions of stress and frustration. It illustrates how many ways looking at the world can make monsters out of us. Not just the Hulk but other characters
Hulk: Return of the Monster focuses on how Banner deals with the emotional burden of his alter-ego. With the Hulk wanted for the supposed death of a child Bruce is haunted by the Green Goliath’s actions.
Hulk: Joe Fixit is definitely a nostalgia grab, but one critics judge too harshly for. The clash between the Gray Hulk and Kingpin is a suspenseful ride where Spider-Man must pull out all the stops. Because Joe Fixit is a brute with a brain that puts the street smarts of Spidey and Fisk on edge.
Avengers
The Avengers have so many adventures, it’s easy to overlook some of them.
The Larry Hama run introduces the Avengers to characters and situations that inspire them to progress. Like Rage! He highlights how sticking too close to model representation can hold publishers and writers back.
Monica Rambeau: Captain Marvel sounds strange to have on here. Until you realize this focuses on her time leading the Avengers. A usually overlooked part of their history.
The Last Avengers Story is a series about legacy and the inspirations that Earth’s mightiest leave behind.
Subterranean Wars is where some of the underrated Avengers like Rage and Sandman get their time. At least enough to get weird and deal with events on the same level as the A-teams.
Avengers: The Initiative is the divisive legacy of Civil War going into Secret Invasion. This highlights some recruits who are more heroic than the militant A-Listers. But it also shows how forcing others like Cloud 9 to be superheroes can be outright immoral.
Avengers Academy is where the concept of the Initiative takes a better direction. But it still has to deal with a lot of the baggage that came before. A fine number of the cast like Hazard and Reptil have gone into little memorable roles. But not all of them were so lucky. Some of them were even on this list to continue their sagas, making it all the more tragic.
Avengers Undercover is the next generation of heroes contemplating where they go before graduation. After the traumatizing Avengers Arena, do these teens stay heroes or will they break bad?
Avengers World: Ascension is where Nick Spencer and Al Ewing detail the wild world of Earth’s Mightiest. Because it’s not a real world until there’s a Chinese knock-off of something.
If Avengers World is where the high concept adventures are, Avengers Assemble under Kelly Sue DeConnick is where the heroes shine. With everybody busy with events, people like Black Widow and Spider-Woman take time to help out a young hero in need. Because you gotta be ready for the future.
Avengers: No Road Home is an epic series where some of the B-C Listerstake center stage. With the talents of Mark Waid, Al Ewing, and Jim Zubbehind the story, the Marvel Method comes to life.
All-Out Avengers hits that sweet episodic superhero spot ala Justice League Action. No needlessly complicated plots or Easter Eggs, just your favorite characters in imaginative scenarios. If your friends ever ask where to get an idea of Marvel comics, this is the place to start.
Avengers Assemble by Jason Aaron is probably where fans should go when it comes to his run. With the main stories throwing everything and the kitchen sink, this finale makes it easier for readers to invest in. Acting as an inverted House of X/Powers of X, this event distills the background elements into an epic scale. This series truly shows off the Avengers as the timeless icon against the forces of evil.
Avengers Inc. is where the Avengers take on the spy genre. As the Wasp investigates a case of stolen identity, you can’t look away at how crazy it all gets.
Black Widow
While Natasha Romanoff has some of her highest scoring moments, there are still a few that get left behind.
Waid and Samnee’s time with Black Widow will never reach the same notoriety as their runs with Daredevil or Batman. But at least it’s the one carrying the weight of their other run with Captain America. The action packed thrill ride about a race with Natasha’s past will keep fans attention.
Kelly Thompson’s run looked like it was going to be one of the greats. One that would put Black Widow in the same space as her teammates. It featured probably one of the most disruptive and emotionally investing parts of Natasha’s life and the effects of it. Matching up with the narrative momentum, the impacts hit hard. When it ends, it feels like things were skipped over. And not for good reasons.
Guardians of the Galaxy
The Guardians of the Galaxy are MCU spotlights, but what about when they strike out on their own? For that matter does anyone who is not Rocket Raccoon or Groot get attention?
Bug is a rare character from the Micronauts license that after many adventures becomes an entertaining guest character.
Star-Lord: Annihilation Conquest is where Peter Quill takes up his iconic mask to get the Guardians going. All before getting it’s official name no less. This series is a good place to see the Guardians’ humorous beginnings. Especially since some members have made changes since this.
Warlock: Second Coming is the return of Adam Warlock in the modern day. It’s just, this version needs to create his own identity for he is not Jim Starlin’s character. This clean slate of Warlock is an exploration on the necessity of power and responsibility. Because without one, the other can’t properly exist.
Warlock: Rebirth is what the Infinity War should be! Better yet, it focuses on the emotional core on a meta-tale of legacy characters. An apparently newer, better version of Warlock invites tons of self-reflection with the Infinity Watch.
Spider-Man
Spider-Man is Marvel’s biggest cash cow. With so many stories surrounding him, it’s easy to forget some truly great moments.
Peter Parker The Spectacular Spider-Man is a series focusing on the more campy side of superheroics. Introducing the members of underrated team of Marvel’s Outlaws it’s a good way to have a little fun.
The Megalomaniacal Spider-Man one-shot details a what if story about how Uncle Ben’s last words take an objectivist route. Considering Marvel and Spider-Man license holders’ real world drama, this is a perfect parody on the situation.
Spider-Man Versus Wolverine is the clash of morals between heroes. Its real appeal is how the optimistic side of Marvel complements the dramatic.
Some of Paul Jenkins’ Spider-Man comics showcase different sides to the wall crawler. From the memories reminiscing of Uncle Ben to battling with mimes.
Spider-Man/Doctor Octopus: Negative Exposure shows how Otto Octavius earns his place as one of Spider-Man’s most dangerous villains. The tech genius displays his manipulation skills that puts a colleague of Peter’s in harm’s way.
Spider-Man/Human Torch is the dynamic friendship of two jokester characters by satirizing the commercial side of Spider-Man like the Spider-Mobile.
The Book of Ezekiel is where J. Michael Straczynski’s run before should’ve ended before the garbage fires that are Civil War and One More Day. This at least completes Peter’s arc on the mystical connections of the Spider Totem.
Dan Slott’s Spider-Man seems like another nostalgia grab, but it’s so much more. It’s a tribute to Spider-Man comics as a whole. It features the very first concept of the character. It also highlights his importance as a symbol.
Spine-Tingling Spider-Man shows the full menace of an underrated Spider-Man clone after his comeback.
Spider-Family
Along with the Wall Crawler is an entire cast of spiders. Each growing into their own directions that make them unique. But who really knows them besides Miles Morales or Spider-Gwen?
The Scarlet Spider series by Christopher Yost features Kaine, the imperfect clone of Peter. He steps up for some ice breaking developments. This series highlights the struggles of both expectations and status. Can a clone with a murderous streak become a hero or is he just an imitation?
Dan Slott’s original run is unparalleled. The Superior Spider-Man has Doc Ock retaking his mantle in a new life. After the events of The Clone Conspiracy Christos Gage has Otto Octavius embrace the absurd aspects of the moniker.
Spider-Gwen: Shadow Clones re-centers the Gwen Stacy Spider-Woman through self-reflection via clones of her as the Sinister Six. The clones channels the oversaturation, rush into the spotlight, and her lack of direction after Spider-Gwen’s debut series. But this Gwen Stacy shows her uniqueness. She confronts her worst traits. She redirects them in ways to turn her life around. Thus serving as an example to her clones.
Spider-Punk by Cody Ziglar features the colorfully chaotic world of Spider-Verse’s dark horse. The presentation is just as anarchic as the characters trying to rebuild a vulnerable world.
Spider-Man: India – Seva follows up the title character’s first solo miniseries in twenty years. The artwork and Hindu inspired story makes Pavitr a uniquely engaging experience.
X-Men Checklist
Dazzler is one of the X-Men’s oddest yet surprising characters. Her original series from the 80s has a lot of fans. Probably from being one of Marvel’s first comic store exclusive series. Plus the disco culture included make it something of a cultural artifact.
Mutant X is where Havok finds himself in another world and his abilities as a leader shine through. Not to mention it’s the debut of fan-favorite character Bloodstorm.
The X-Men of the 90s aren’t all exaggerations and Age of Apocalypse. Sometimes, you just have to find some other family drama.
District X spins out of Morrison’s New X-Men to display mutant subculture. In this police procedural, the relationships between humans and mutants are put to the test through an ensemble cast.
You better believe there are plenty of X-Men stories fans will forget. Hence why this collection has the title of “‘Nuff Said”.
The X-Club is where the X-Men’s most brilliant minds try to do some humanitarian work. What really stands out is the depiction of Dr. Nemesis whose character can ring up similarities to mad science characters. It’s essentially Rick and Morty before its time.
Before Jason Aaron leaves the X-Men for Thor, he presents a swashbuckling story in Amazing X-Men: The Quest For Nightcrawler. Because it turns out Heaven is boring for the titular bamfer.
All-New X-Men by Dennis Hopeless features a few hit or miss issues on Marvel’s team of young mutants. From romantic relationships and tensions with identity there is something to enjoy in these issues.
Cyclops: Starstruck is the mini-series where Greg Rucka gives Scott Summers the story he deserves. One unfortunately cut short with a new direction after Rucka’s departure.
X-Terminators is the Krakoa Age’s girls night out event. There is no fate of the mutants or Krakoa in the balance. It’s just four friends cutting loose. They’re taking on vampires who give ’em $#!+.
Children of the Vault is Fall of X’s take on the challenges of embracing the future. Between heightened colonization, there’s also infighting reflecting how often the future changes.Â
Wolverine
While Wolverine is known for being shilled into everything, there are some stories most fans don’t know as well.
Issue #43 offers a unique perspective into Wolverine’s noble animal side. It comes with a relief of acceptance that even beastly, Wolverine is worthy of self-love.
Bloodlust shows Wolverine at his most animalistic. Not that there’s no humanity in there. In the cold setting, they are at war when survival and dignity at each others’ throats.
Not Dead Yet is a street level story where Wolverine doesn’t have his iconic metal skeleton. This shows a level of vulnerability and Logan relying on past experience in a full-on battle against it.
The Hellverine saga is an idea that grows beyond a concept. But it’s less about Wolverine as a Ghost Rider and more about Logan’s relationship with his son Akihiro. The former Dark Wolverine must follow his father’s example while confronting his own past.
Cable
Cable remains an ever popular character who makes small but notable appearances. The problems come from separating him from his grim and gritty depictions. Because aside from his tragic past, he has several notable relationships.
Cable: The Hellfire Hunt is a forgotten piece of the 90s run. One reason is that writer James Robinson passes the torch to Joe Casey in the finale. This has Cable going through his difficult relationship with Apocalypse. Because why let someone new steal his position as nemesis when you stick to familiarity?
Cable Revolution has Nathan’s time traveling feats affect his actions for the past and future. Because who knew messing with time would cause a Greek tragedy?
Before Cable gets replaced by a younger version of himself, writers Zac Thompson and Lonnie Nadler delve into every aspect of his character. They explore every bit of Cable’s personality. Time travel can really be a pain, especially when it comes to reunions with Cable’s other selves.
Love & Chrome is a classic Cable story for modern audiences. It’s got all of the energy and momentum of the 90s as well as the structure to stay stable.
New Mutants
This second string of X-Men has plenty of adventures to their name, enough to rival the main team. With plenty of drama and team building, there’s always room to grow.
In New Mutants: Back To School a new generation of mutants come up with Dani Moonstar leading them. Because no matter your life experience, the struggle to come into your own is universal.
The followup, New X-Men: Academy X has these new New Mutants come of age. Especially when the biggest threats are trying to find comfort in flawed mentors. The controversy surrounding that eventually lead to this chapter getting overshadowed by Christopher Yost’s takeover. But it is no less full of endearing characters with a strong fanbase.
The New Mutants: Dead Souls is a return to form of the Simonson era. They navigate a journey from the comedic to the heart-wrenching.
Madrox The Multiple Man
Jamie Madrox is the cult favorite black sheep of Marvel history. First appearing as a Fantastic Four villain, comics legend Peter David gives him some necessary development into an everyman. Afterwards creatives don’t know what to do with him. So much that it’s become a running joke that his duplicates allow him to be reset whenever necessary.
Starting in 2005, Peter David goes back in on X-Factor with Madrox becoming a private eye. With all the superhero insanity counterbalanced by grounded characters, it’s something to remember.
Multiple Man brings Madrox back into the field. Just don’t think too hard about a dupe trying to kill him with time travel. Have fun and roll with it.
Milligan and Allred’s X-(X)
Peter Milligan and Mike Allred’s sub-franchise takes mutants in a new and welcome direction. Milligan and Allred embraces the absurd side of mutants in celebrity satire. Because what better way to break conventions?
The first series X-Force makes Liefeld’s teams look like losers.
The series even goes fully meta when Marvel has it’s name changed to X-Statix.
Finally, the rule of three applies with X-Cellent. Well 2.5.
Now that Moon Knight has become a regular in Marvel’s lineup, let find the comics people miss.
Marc Spector: Moon Knight by Chuck Dixon (disclaimer warning I guess) was where Moon Knight really started making waves. It is where the DID first came into real play. Nowadays more modern stories overshadow this era.
Moon Knight in the late 2000s is where the transition into the modern era thrives. Focusing more on the psychological issues that push away old comforts and into the edge of insanity.
Underrated Marvel Comics: Man-Thing
The Man-Thing is a collaborative concept that often gets lampshaded as a lesser version of DC’s Swamp Thing. Probably because of Man-Thing’s lack of agency. But a few writers like the late Steve Gerber make use of this trait to explore human nature.
Even if Steve Gerber’s creations like Howard the Duck overshadow Man-Thing. This Swamp Walker is everything fans love about 70s Marvel. The bizarre premise of Man-Thing encountering situations with no easy answers forces character and reader to question morality. So notable that artist Keven Nowlan recreates Gerber’s sequel to one of his issues.
With J.M. DeMatteis, Man-Thing’s origin gets a compelling recontextualization among other adventures.
Howard the Duck
Howard the Duck is a wisecracking funny animal going through existentialism. With a long battle of censors and his own anomaly status, the deadpan humor shows a surprisingly relatable character. Who hasn’t experienced life where the serious and dumbfounding are practically the same?
The original Gerber series is a series full of biting commentary on what everyone normalizes. Whether that’s life’s mundanity or superhero insanity.
A few other people like Bill Mantlo also manage to keep on between the times.
Gerber would later return to the title for the Max imprint. Just don’t expect too much swearing and sexuality. Howard’s changing forms tell readers to change their perspectives.
While many people after the Gerber series try to recapture the magic, Chip Zdarsky probably does it best. Rather than focus on commentary, it shows Howard fully ingrained in the Marvel Universe. Because you can’t stay an outsider forever.
Underrated Marvel Comics: Squadron Supreme
Squadron Supreme is a decent complement to Watchmen with pastiches of the Justice League. But rather than make literary theater, it’s about mixing old-school superheroism with real world issues. Would the technology of super-geniuses truly better mankind and how many times will a superhero’s ego get in the way?
The original Squadron Supreme possesses a campiness in contrast to its grimdark competitor. If only to show how the fun times can twist into something terrifying.
Twenty years later superhero politics specialist J. Michael Straczynski recontextualizes this premise. Supreme Power is about how the US government tries to make superheroes into assets. But by denying people like Hyperion basic humanity, they make things worse for themselves. The complexities of humanity’s issues are in every character throughout the original run.
Which brings us to the next chapter by Straczynski. Squadron Supreme: The Pre-War Years is the government’s try to compromise. But there’s so much plotting with all the players including new villain Emil Burbank.
The only good followup comes from Supreme Power’s Nighthawk, a ruthless racially motivated vigilante. From police brutality, illegal weapons, and a serial killer targeting the city’s racists, Nighthawk pulls no punches. Which is a real shame considering the character’s fate in Secret Empire.
Punisher
Frank Castle is a name everyone knows thanks in no small part to Garth Ennis and the Netflix series. But with the gritty realism of gun violence, how does he fit in all of the insanity? Surprisingly well as it turns out.
In Dark Crisis, the Punisher is left for dead but gets put back together as Franken-Castle!
When you think there’s no place the Punisher won’t go, think again! Space: Punisher!
Not even the insanity of crossover events can slow Castle down in Kill Krew!
The Bullet That Follows… Well written and action-packed! It’s only sin is this is Frank Castle in all but name and tech.
Defenders
The Defenders are the team that are not really a team. In just about all incarnations, this group of people always come together out of necessity. Some stay friends while others just go whatever way is necessary.
Before the original Defenders comes to an end, Peter B. Gillis and J.M. DeMatteis make the final lineup memorable. While Angel and Beast are ready for X-Factor, Moondragon, Cloud, and Gargoyle are unforgettable… to Al Ewing!
Fearless Defenders is about going out of comfort zones through Misty Knight and the Brunnhilde Valkyrie. Because there’s a whole Marvel Universe full of interesting characters to mess around with.
Underrated Marvel Comics Taskmaster
Taskmaster is one of the more versatile characters to use in Marvel comics. His ability to imitate skills makes him a great trainer, spy, and combatant. With his status as an anti-villain, he’s practically an all-rounder.
Anything You Can Do is practically Tony Master’s portfolio fighting against Avengers, evading them, and training them. It’s a classic.
If you have The Right Price, then you know something important. Taskmaster has the perfect set-up for his strengths. He has a perfect set-up for his weaknesses, too. Additionally, his backstory is perfectly aligned. Because even if you don’t like him, this album’s well worth your money.
If you think things get a little too serious, consider the absurdity in The Rubicon Trigger.
Underrated Marvel Comics Darkhawk
Darkhawk is the story of an everyman dealing with changes that shift perspectives. The original character Chris Powell didn’t see much attention. Mainly because it tries to combine the 90’s grittiness with a Peter Parker style character. But the mantle’s evolution grows with readers over the years.
Darkhawk is a character from the 90s who does not see much attention. Yet the character builds up a decent audience for a reason. A teenager trying to change everything about himself down to the base level
When he’s called into action yet again, Chris Powell has to show modern readers what he’s got. The character is a hero in his own right and it’s how Darkhawk becomes a greater character in Infinity Countdown. One that opens more appearances like with the Guardians of the Galaxy.
In Darkhawk: Airborne a seventeen-year old kid with a medical diagnosis gets the mantle. But there are no escapes from feeling helpless against a disease that takes so much away. So seeing Conner Young make the most out of life with character interactions is a sight to see.
Nova (Richard Rider)
Today when anyone thinks of Nova, it’s probably Sam Alexander thanks to his TV appearances. With Sam’s nickname NINO it’s obvious how many fans value the classic Nova, Richard Rider.
The original Nova series had a slow start with Marv Wolfman trying to set a direction. But when it does, Richard Rider rockets into the cosmic side of Marvel.
Past that awkward phase in the 90s, Richard Rider fully embraces the cosmic side of the Marvel Universe in Annihilation. Even though the indifference of it all can be off-putting, especially with the Nova Corps.
In Resurrection, after coming back from the dead Richard finds commonality with Sam. A way of making peace with things beyond anyone’s control.
Nova: Centurion is a reflection of everything Richard has been through including the means to keep doing it. It’s the stuff that pushes character and fans to their limit of wanting to keep their job going.
Power Pack
The Power Pack is where kid heroes truly shine. They show the fun sides of heroism. They also show how unnecessary it is for comics to depict tragedy as a plot device. Peter Parker why can’t you be more like these kids?
The classic Louise Simonson era is an ever engrossing experience. All of the feeling of childhood, family sticking together, and coming-of-age as superheroes.
A four-issue mini-series has the Powers come into more responsibilities, sometimes without superpowers.
When the main Marvel Universe isn’t the most approachable, the Power Pack by Marc Sumerak offers a new entry point. All of the classic childhood wonder mixed with modern storytelling thanks to Gurihiru’s art.
Finally, Alex Zalben would work with series artist Gurihiru for one last adventure in Asgard.
Powers That Be is the long-awaited return of the main Power Pack. All without sacrificing imagination in serious background threats.
Into The Storm reunites the Power Pack with Weezy Simonson in a flashback series. One that doesn’t overstay its welcome.
Elsa Bloodstone
Elsa Bloodstone is a strange if messy concept in the Marvel Universe. The resident monster hunter, she’s usually part of a team or backup for other heroes. But she’s got tons of potential in her own right. From family issues to exploring the boundaries between men and monsters.
Marvel Zombies: Battleworld is where the definitive Elsa Bloodstone forms. Anomaly status aside, this gives all of the needed context into her character. From her relationship with her father, to her sarcastic, abrasive persona.
Death of Doctor Strange: Bloodstone is a tie-in showing even more of Elsa’s potential. Introducing siblings into the mix gave readers a glimpse of a bigger story at play. Sadly this was never followed up on.
