10 Best Superman Stories in DC Comics History

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Superman is arguably the most important and influential superhero ever created, not just for DC Comics, but for the entire medium. While many heroes are beloved, Superman uniquely launched an entire genre of storytelling. He’s a foundational figure in modern mythology, like ancient heroes such as Gilgamesh or Hercules, and his story has endured for generations. Even those unfamiliar with comics know Superman and his world, proving his widespread cultural impact.

Superman’s enduring popularity stems from his appearances in some truly classic comic books. For decades, the most skilled comic creators have crafted incredible stories about the Man of Steel, captivating readers of all ages. The following ten stories represent the very best of those tales and are considered among the greatest ever told.

10) Action Comics (Vol. 2) #0-18

The New 52 was a major revamp of the DC Universe, and it started strong with Action Comics, a critically acclaimed series by Grant Morrison and Rags Morales – many consider it the best book of the entire five-year initiative. Morrison wrote the first 18 issues, with art from a team of talented artists including Andy Kubert, Gene Ha, Travel Foreman, and Ben Oliver. This 19-issue story (including a special #0 issue) focused on Superman’s early days in Metropolis, where he battled a unique enemy unaffected by time. Their conflict unfolded over years, creating a complex and fascinating rivalry. Morrison drew inspiration from classic Superman stories, reimagining the character as a hero for the everyday person and updating him for a new DC Universe. It’s widely considered the best Superman story from the New 52 era and a standout addition to his legendary adventures.

9) Superman (Vol. 1) #233

As a lifelong Superman fan, I’ve seen a lot of different takes on the character, but the Bronze Age (1970-1985) really stands out as one of the best. It moved away from the wilder, more out-there stories of the previous era and really dug into who Superman is as a person. Issue #233 of Superman (Vol. 1) is often seen as the turning point, and it’s a fantastic read. This story, crafted by Denny O’Neil, Curt Swan, E. Nelson Bridwell, and Murphy Anderson, introduced some big changes – suddenly, Kryptonite didn’t bother him anymore, and Clark Kent started working as a TV reporter! It really set the tone for everything that followed, giving us a Superman who felt a little more grounded and serious, all wrapped up in a truly stunning Neal Adams cover.

8) “Superman and the Legion of Superheroes”

Geoff Johns’s work on Action Comics in the mid-2000s successfully reintroduced elements of Superman’s earlier history, particularly his time as Superboy with the Legion of Superheroes. The story, “Superman and the Legion of Superheroes,” illustrated by Gary Frank, sent Superman to the future where he joined his grown-up friends to fight against the villainous Earth-Man and a corrupted Justice League who had fractured the galactic alliance. This story is considered a high point in Superman lore. The updated Legion characters are exceptionally well-done, and Johns masterfully portrays the relationships between Superman, the team, and the villains, hinting at their shared history. Frank’s artwork is also superb, creating a visually stunning experience. Even readers unfamiliar with the Legion will find this story engaging, which explains its enduring popularity.

7) Superman (Vol. 1) #162

Alternate universe stories, often called “imaginary stories,” let writers explore Superman tales that wouldn’t fit into the main storyline. While many are fantastic, my personal favorite—and one often considered strange—is Superman #162. Created by Leo Dorfman, Curt Swan, and Kurt Schaffenberger, this issue presents “The Amazing Story of Superman-Red and Superman-Blue!” In it, Superman literally splits into two separate beings, both versions of Kal-El, who must learn to coexist and eventually go their own ways. It’s a perfect example of what makes these alternate stories so appealing—taking the character in unexpected directions. The artwork by Curt Swan is phenomenal, and Kurt Schaffenberger’s contributions are also excellent. This story is undeniably bizarre, but that’s precisely what makes it so memorable and enjoyable.

6) Action Comics (Vol. 1) #242

Brainiac is a classic Superman villain, though he isn’t featured as often now as he used to be. He originally rose to prominence alongside Lex Luthor during the Silver Age of comics, appearing in many memorable stories. His debut in Action Comics #242, created by Otto Binder and Al Plastino (with contributions from Jim Mooney, Jack Miller, and Howard Sherman), is a prime example of the creativity of that era. Binder was a key Superman writer, Plastino was a talented artist, and this first appearance of Brainiac remains a standout comic book. It’s a story that truly captures the magic of classic Superman adventures.

5) “Last Son”

Geoff Johns launched a memorable run on Action Comics with Kurt Busiek, beginning with the “Up, Up, and Away” storyline that led into “Last Son.” Working alongside his mentor, Richard Donner—the director of Superman: The Movie—and acclaimed artist Adam Kubert, Johns crafted a fantastic story. “Last Son” introduced a young Kryptonian who crash-lands on Earth, prompting Superman and Lois Lane to offer help, while Lex Luthor and the government attempt to seize control. But this was just the beginning – the story quickly escalated with the arrival of General Zod, Ursa, and Non from the Phantom Zone. It was all a trap, and Superman now faces not only these three powerful Kryptonians but also a massive army poised to invade Earth. Featuring one of Superman’s greatest foes, this story is widely considered the best to star General Zod. Johns and Donner collaborated seamlessly, and Kubert’s artwork is consistently stunning.

4) “Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?”

As the DC Multiverse was wrapping up with Crisis on Infinite Earths, Alan Moore famously insisted on writing Superman’s final story – a request he playfully ‘made’ by jokingly choking Paul Levitz. The resulting story, “Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?,” created by Moore, Curt Swan, and George Perez, pitted Superman against his most vicious enemies yet. After his secret identity was exposed, Superman sheltered his loved ones in the Fortress of Solitude, leading to a truly unforgettable battle. The story is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending Moore’s sophisticated writing with the classic feel of the Silver Age. Curt Swan’s artwork is simply perfect, and the entire story serves as a fitting and beautiful conclusion to the adventures of Earth-One’s Superman – a true highlight in comic book history.

3) Superman for All Seasons

Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale were a fantastic creative team, especially known for their popular Batman stories in the 1990s. After their success with Batman: The Long Halloween, they were given the opportunity to create their own Superman story, resulting in Superman for All Seasons. This four-part series is structured around the four seasons, with each issue narrated by a different key character: Pa Kent, Lois Lane, Lex Luthor, and Lana Lang. Through their perspectives, the story reveals how Superman impacts their lives and the world around them. Loeb and Sale deliver a perfect story with this series, which was instantly hailed as a classic. It’s a truly remarkable tale that offers a fresh and compelling look at the Man of Steel.

2) Superman: Up in the Sky

Tom King and Andy Kubert’s Superman: Up in the Sky was surprisingly fantastic. Originally released only at Wal-Mart before becoming available in comic shops, the story follows Superman as he ventures off-world to rescue a kidnapped girl from an alien invasion, facing numerous challenges along the way. Many consider it a definitive Superman tale, perfectly capturing the essence of the hero. King demonstrated a deep understanding of the character, delivering a story that defied expectations and reminded readers why Superman is considered one of the greatest heroes of all time, all brought to life with Kubert’s beautiful artwork.

1) All-Star Superman

All-Star Superman is a truly exceptional comic book. I believe it’s not just the best Superman story ever told, but the greatest superhero comic of all time. It brilliantly weaves together elements from Superman’s entire history, creating an unforgettable narrative about his final days. Grant Morrison’s deep affection for the character shines through every panel, perfectly complemented by Frank Quitely’s stunning artwork. This story is incredibly impactful, offering a fresh perspective on Superman that remains powerful and engaging even after multiple readings.

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2026-01-01 20:18