10 Comics To Read If You Miss Those Early MCU Feelings

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The Marvel Cinematic Universe is undoubtedly the most successful series of superhero films ever made. Although Marvel has been around for over 80 years and has seen some hits, the MCU truly revolutionized how superheroes were presented to the world, surpassing even the impact of the original comics. For its first ten years, the MCU was a massive cultural force, bringing beloved Marvel stories to life on the big screen. While it’s not as dominant now, the MCU’s early years were incredibly innovative and memorable, and many fans fondly remember that initial magic.

Good news for fans: there are plenty of fantastic comics that can recreate that same excitement you felt watching the early Marvel Cinematic Universe. While some of these stories directly inspired the MCU films, not all feature the original characters. However, they all deliver incredible adventures, and these ten picks are sure to satisfy your craving for that classic MCU feel.

10) Avengers (Vol. 5) #1-3

As a huge Avengers fan, I have to say the 2010s were a golden age for the team, and Jonathan Hickman’s run is a major reason why. It all started with the first three issues of *Avengers* (Vol. 5) – a really compelling story where the Avengers face an attack from Mars, and it leads to them assembling the biggest, most powerful team they’ve ever had. Honestly, it *feels* like classic Avengers and will totally give MCU fans those same awesome vibes. Plus, it’s the start of the whole road to *Secret Wars*, which, in my opinion, is the kind of huge, epic storyline Marvel Studios should absolutely adapt next. It’s just fantastic Avengers stuff, and I think it would get even more people hooked on the comics.

9) “Enemy of the State/Agent of SHIELD”

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) portrays SHIELD differently than the original comics. In the MCU, SHIELD essentially manages all superhero-related national security, a concept borrowed from the older ‘Ultimate Universe’ comic line. However, many stories from the main ‘616’ comic universe depict SHIELD in a similar way. A prime example is the ‘Enemy of the State/Agent of SHIELD’ storyline featuring Wolverine. In this story, Wolverine travels to Japan, is seemingly killed, then resurrected and manipulated into becoming an assassin, forcing SHIELD to intervene. It’s one of Wolverine’s best adventures and strongly resembles the tone of early MCU films, even if it wasn’t a direct inspiration.

8) Civil War

The *Civil War* storyline is often debated among fans. It served as the foundation for the *Captain America: Civil War* film, and some believe it portrays characters acting inconsistently with their established personalities. However, this doesn’t detract from the story’s overall quality. The conflict between Captain America and Iron Man delivers some of the most exciting action sequences ever seen in a Marvel comic. While the comic differs from the movie adaptation, these differences are likely to captivate fans of the film.

7) The Ultimates (Vol. 1) #1-13

The first thirteen issues of *The Ultimates* are a compelling comic book series. It heavily influenced the early days of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, making it a great choice for fans who enjoy that era. This series focuses on the formation of the Avengers in an alternate universe, their struggles with the Hulk, and a battle against an alien invasion. While definitely a product of its time with a gritty style, *The Ultimates* remains an exciting read with fantastic artwork, showcasing the best of Marvel’s storytelling and action.

6) Hawkeye by Matt Fraction and David Aja

Matt Fraction and David Aja’s *Hawkeye* is a standout Marvel series from the 2000s, and a great read for anyone who loves the early Marvel Cinematic Universe. The story follows Hawkeye as he settles into a new apartment, and all the complications – from dealing with neighborhood trouble to battling supervillains – that come with it. Though some elements were incorporated into Phase Four of the MCU, what truly captures the spirit of the original films is the focus on relatable characters and their interactions. This run is full of humor and memorable moments, and it’s sure to satisfy your MCU nostalgia. Thankfully, Marvel consistently keeps it available, so it’s easy to find and well worth the read.

5) The Immortal Thor #1-25

《The Immortal Thor》is a fantastic addition to the modern Marvel universe. Early Thor movies were crucial to the MCU’s start, and this comic perfectly captures that same spirit, telling the story of Thor’s death and the events leading up to it. Like the films, it expertly blends Norse mythology with science fiction, delivering truly epic action. Plus, this series features a particularly compelling version of Loki, staying true to his portrayal in the early MCU. While not a direct adaptation, 《The Immortal Thor》 delivers everything fans could want from a Thor story.

4) “Extremis”

Iron Man is central to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but finding a comic book that truly feels like the MCU version of the character can be difficult. However, the comic that served as the basis for *Iron Man 3* comes close, capturing many of the elements fans enjoy about the movie version. The story follows Iron Man as he faces a dangerous new threat – nanotechnology in the wrong hands – and struggles to overcome a powerful enemy. While it doesn’t have quite the same lightheartedness as the films, it offers a compelling look inside Iron Man’s mind and delivers the kind of action and excitement that fans expect from the character.

3) “The Winter Soldier”

Many fans consider *Captain America: The Winter Soldier* the best movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the comic book version, simply titled “The Winter Soldier,” is a great way to experience that same brilliance. The story focuses on the return of Bucky Barnes, forcing Captain America to confront a friend he believed lost long ago. In many ways, the comic is more detailed and impactful than the film, which adds to its appeal. It’s full of exciting Captain America action and features surprising twists and turns. While different from the movie, this story expands the possibilities for future Captain America adventures. Plus, it’s readily available in collected editions through the Marvel Select line.

2) “Planet Hulk”

While the Hulk is a fan-favorite in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the movies haven’t always captured the character’s full potential. However, the “Planet Hulk” storyline offers everything many MCU fans have been hoping for. It features the Hulk being exiled to the planet Sakaar by the Illuminati, where he becomes a revolutionary fighting for freedom. “Planet Hulk” delivers non-stop Hulk action, impressive world-building, and unexpected twists. Many fans consider it the definitive Hulk story and wish it had been adapted for the screen instead of *Thor: Ragnarok*.

1) Infinity Gauntlet

The *Infinity Gauntlet* is a cornerstone of Marvel storytelling and laid the groundwork for many of the most exciting moments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The story centers on a war against Thanos and his quest for the Infinity Gauntlet, with Adam Warlock, Gamora, and Pip the Troll devising a plan that draws in Earth’s heroes and powerful cosmic entities into what often feels like a hopeless fight. It’s a truly epic cosmic Marvel adventure, packed with stunning visuals and action. While different from the films, it perfectly captures the spirit of the Infinity Saga and will evoke a strong sense of nostalgia for fans.

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2025-09-24 22:12