10 Most Underrated Avengers, Ranked

The Avengers serve as the Marvel Universe’s primary shield against the most formidable perils, a role that was initially popularized by DC Comics’ compilation of their top-tier characters in a single series. Nevertheless, the Avengers offer readers an unprecedented gathering of Marvel’s most esteemed heroes under one roof. Throughout the years, fans have enjoyed spending considerable time with these superheroes, and some have risen to prominence among them. The Avengers have played a pivotal role in elevating certain characters to stardom, transforming those who were already well-known into something even greater. One aspect I adore about the Avengers is witnessing unexpected heroes ascend to the pinnacle of the Marvel Universe’s hierarchy.

Over time, I’ve come to realize that some Avengers have been overlooked, despite their significant contributions. While characters like Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor rightfully hog the spotlight, there are other heroes who, in my opinion, belong in the same league. These Avengers may not have had as much screen time or be as well-known, but their impact is undeniable. Some were even founding members of the team! It’s high time we acknowledge these ten unsung heroes of the Marvel Universe – they truly are the cream of the crop and deserve more recognition.

10) Hank Pym

Hank Pym, originally known as Ant-Man, was one of the original Avengers, making his debut in their first confrontation with Loki. Over the years, he has assumed various superhero personas such as Giant-Man, Goliath, Yellowjacket, and the Wasp. In the team’s early days, Pym was a significant member, contributing significantly to many of their early victories.

However, when people remember Hank Pym, it’s often his actions like striking the Wasp or creating Ultron that come to mind. Yet, Pym is more than just these incidents. He has been instrumental in numerous team triumphs. At one point, before Iron Man transformed into the multi-talented Avengers scientist (in earlier times, he was more of an engineer), Hank Pym served as the team’s leading scientist.

Hank Pym is also a complex character, grappling with mental health issues that set him apart within the team. Unfortunately, he has often been stereotyped based on these events, which isn’t fair to his rich character portrayal.

9) The Wasp

The Wasp, a founding member of the Avengers team, often goes unrecognized for her leadership skills despite her contributions. While she may appear lighthearted or fashion-focused due to her ability to shrink, there’s always been a strong, resilient side to Janet Van Dyne.

The Wasp is more than just a designer who can shrink; she’s one of the most versatile Avengers, using her powers and weapons creatively in battles. Unfortunately, many readers may not be familiar with her impressive feats because she wasn’t featured prominently until ‘Mighty Avengers’, which was less popular during that time period.

Despite being a classic member of the team, there are still many fans unaware of the Wasp’s cool achievements. This superhero is truly exceptional among the Avengers and deserves to be back on the team so fans can appreciate her greatness.

8) Wonder Man

Initially, the Avengers boasted some formidable powerhouses among their ranks, with the Hulk, Thor, and Hercules being the most recognized. However, one more super-strong hero deserves mention in this esteemed group – Wonder Man. Originally a villain, compelled by his brother Eric Williams (who would later become the Grim Reaper), Wonder Man made his debut as a villain but was resurrected to join the team due to his ionic energy powers. Now entirely composed of ionic energy, he possesses an almost immortal existence. In the late ’70s and early ’80s, Wonder Man was one of the Avengers’ coolest members, but his tenure with the team dwindled after the ’90s. Similar to the Wasp, Wonder Man has been less active as an Avenger since the 2000s resurgence, resulting in less recognition among contemporary readers. Yet, he remains a remarkable hero whose powers make him nearly invincible on the team.

7) Sunspot

I’ve always been captivated by Jonathan Hickman’s tenure with the Avengers, as it assembled what I believe to be the greatest ensemble of heroes ever. Hickman masterfully blended iconic Avengers with fresh, exciting newcomers, and one standout among them was none other than Sunspot. Although he may not have been a heavy hitter in combat alongside the Avengers, his true strength lies elsewhere – an almost superhuman wealth in the form of billions of dollars.

Sunspot’s fortune proved instrumental when he acquired AIM (Advanced Idea Mechanics), which significantly contributed to the Avengers’ triumphs and played a pivotal role during the Incursions, ultimately leading to the formation of a brand-new Avengers squad in their wake. To add to his charm, Hickman penned an endearing friendship between Sunspot and Cannonball that transcended typical comic book camaraderie – they were essentially a married couple, albeit platonic partners.

Sunspot was an extraordinary addition to the team, and I can’t help but hope for his return to the Avengers roster. His unique blend of resources, intellect, and heart made him an unforgettable hero in my eyes.

6) Rogue

In simpler terms, Rogue ranks among the top both in X-Men and Avengers teams. After the events of “Avengers Vs. X-Men,” she joined the Avengers Unity Squad, where she had a significant conflict with Scarlet Witch. This rivalry was a key aspect of their shared storyline. Post the “Secret Wars,” Rogue returned to the Unity Squad and even took on the role of team leader.

Rogue’s strength, skill, and intelligence are notable traits that she brought over from her X-Men days. She excels wherever she is, with her time as an Avenger being particularly noteworthy in her career. Initially defeating the Avengers during her debut, Rogue later led them and helped save the world on numerous occasions.

5) Luke Cage

Discussing characters who surprised many by becoming Avengers leaders, let’s delve into Luke Cage. Initially joining the Avengers during Brian Michael Bendis’ iconic run, Luke Cage played a significant role in the New Avengers comic series until Bendis departed from the Avengers comics.

Originally categorized as a low-tier street-level superhero, his tenure with the Avengers showcased his true potential. His superhuman strength and indestructible skin made him formidable in combat, but what truly set him apart was when he took leadership of the New Avengers post-Civil War.

During this period, his team served as an underground resistance group, operating illegally from Civil War to Siege. This stint elevated Cage’s status to that of a top-tier Avenger. It was unfortunate that he wasn’t included in the subsequent comic runs following Bendis; however, Luke Cage embodies the essence of an Avenger and deserves a place in the team’s hall of fame on par with Captain America or Iron Man.

4) Quicksilver

Initially, Quicksilver became part of a sub-team of the Avengers called “Cap’s Kooky Quartet,” where he had the opportunity to transition from his villainous past. Throughout the 60s, 70s, and 80s, Quicksilver was essentially guaranteed a spot on the Avengers team. However, in the 90s, he switched teams and joined X-Factor, and since then, his membership with the Avengers has been inconsistent.

Quicksilver’s main challenge lies in his connection to Scarlet Witch, one of the most adored Avengers and a character with a strong following in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Unlike Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver hasn’t garnered the same level of affection from fans due to his frequently unpleasant demeanor. Yet, I personally find Quicksilver more intriguing than his sister. While Scarlet Witch is usually shielded from criticism when she lashes out at the Avengers, Quicksilver often faces backlash because his powers cause time to move too slowly for him.

In my opinion, Quicksilver deserves better treatment than he’s received over the years.

3) Wolverine

Wolverine is one of Marvel’s most cherished characters, and his enduring popularity has significantly contributed to the longevity of the X-Men. Over time, Wolverine has collaborated with almost every major hero in the Marvel Universe. Initially, it was thought that Wolverine would never become an Avenger; Captain America explicitly stated he wouldn’t let the mutant join the team. However, things changed when “New Avengers” debuted, as Marvel revisited the Justice League idea by gathering their most popular heroes on a single team, and thus, Wolverine became an Avenger. Interestingly, Wolverine found his place within the Avengers more comfortably than he did with the X-Men in earlier years. In the comics, he received appropriate focus and was less troublesome than before. Wolverine’s tenure with the Avengers showcased his evolution into a top-tier hero, ultimately earning him a trusted position within the team. Notably, during his final years on the team, Wolverine served on two separate Avengers squads, demonstrating his growing importance to the group.

Wolverine is a highly esteemed character within Marvel comics, and his sustained popularity has been instrumental in maintaining the X-Men’s success. Over time, Wolverine has partnered with nearly every prominent hero in the Marvel Universe. Initially, it was assumed that Wolverine wouldn’t join the Avengers; Captain America explicitly forbade him from doing so. However, this changed with “New Avengers,” when Marvel reintroduced the Justice League concept by assembling their most popular heroes on a single team, leading to Wolverine becoming an Avenger. Intriguingly, Wolverine adapted better within the Avengers than he did in the X-Men during his early years. In the comics, he was given suitable attention and proved less problematic than previously. Wolverine’s time with the Avengers showcased his transformation into a leading hero, ultimately securing him a trusted role within the team. During his final years on the team, Wolverine served on two distinct Avengers squads, underscoring his growing significance to the group.

2) Hawkeye

Marvel boasts an impressive roster of heroes without superpowers, and among them, Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye, stands out. While some might argue that Hawkeye is overrated given his status as an Avenger, the truth is he often doesn’t receive the recognition he deserves.

Hawkeye is essentially a highly skilled human armed with one of humanity’s oldest weapons, fighting side by side with gods, super soldiers, and some of the strongest superheroes in existence. He consistently takes on formidable threats that have the potential to destabilize the universe. Unlike many other Avengers, Hawkeye often puts himself directly in harm’s way, given his lack of powers.

Regardless, he deserves immense respect for his unwavering commitment and bravery, and his place among the Avengers is undeniably significant. In my opinion, he ranks just below Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor in terms of importance to the team.

1) Hyperion

As a die-hard comic book fan, let me share my fondness for Hyperion – a character first unveiled in the Avengers comics during the Silver Age. He was Marvel’s early take on Superman, and his introduction along with the Squadron Supreme primarily served to demonstrate the Avengers triumphing over a Justice League analog (a feat that, let’s face it, even the mighty Avengers would struggle against when facing powerful Justice League teams like the original or International versions).

Hyperion later joined the Avengers during Hickman’s run and proved himself to be one of the team’s most formidable members. However, what truly set Hyperion apart was his actions. He took under his wing a group of beings born from the evolutionary missiles that targeted Earth in Hickman’s initial story arc, forming an unbreakable bond with Thor and even risking his life in combat against the Beyonders.

My time with Hyperion on the Avengers was nothing short of incredible – it deepened my understanding of the character and showcased him as the force of nature he truly is. Although the Hyperion that graced the team no longer exists, if there’s one hero who deserves to make a comeback, it’s him. Forever an Avenger, Hyperion should remain a staple in the Marvel Universe.

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2025-09-07 20:13