7 Best ‘90s Marvel Comics That Get Better With Age

While Marvel Comics has a strong history, the 1990s weren’t a particularly well-regarded period for the company. It’s unfortunate, because the decade actually started very successfully. Titles like Spider-Man #1, X-Force #1, and X-Men (Vol. 2) #1 were huge hits, selling millions of copies and topping the sales charts. The ’90s also saw the rise of some incredibly talented artists. However, many fans don’t look back fondly on the decade’s storylines, feeling that Marvel prioritized chasing trends over crafting compelling narratives and was at a creative low point.

While the 1990s had its share of forgettable Marvel comics, the decade also produced some truly outstanding stories. The best of these haven’t just lasted – they’ve actually improved over time, becoming even more enjoyable with each passing year, much like a fine wine.

7) The Incredible Hulk (Vol. 1) #367-467

As a comic book critic, I can confidently say Peter David’s decade-long run on The Incredible Hulk – especially from 1990 to 1998 – is truly iconic. It’s not hyperbole to suggest he fundamentally reshaped the character for everyone who followed. What makes his work so special is how deeply he explored Bruce Banner’s psychology, really getting to the heart of what the Hulk is. He wasn’t afraid to experiment; sometimes the Hulk was a nearly silent brute, other times a surprisingly articulate and heroic figure. But the constant? Every single issue was captivating, leaving you desperate for the next installment. For me, it stands out as one of the absolute best Marvel comics of the nineties, without question.

6) Thunderbolts (Vol. 1) #1-33

Kurt Busiek was a standout writer for Marvel in the 1990s. Projects with his name on them were consistently excellent. One of his most acclaimed works was Thunderbolts, which he wrote for 33 issues alongside artist Mark Bagley. Initially presented as a new team of straightforward heroes, the first issue of Thunderbolts revealed a shocking twist: the team was actually the villainous Baron Zemo and the Masters of Evil, capitalizing on the absence of the Avengers and the Fantastic Four. Throughout Busiek’s run, the series explored the complexities of heroism, with some members genuinely striving for redemption, Zemo’s elaborate plan unfolding, and the eventual return of Earth’s mightiest heroes. This run was incredibly impactful, quickly establishing the Thunderbolts as iconic characters.

5) Wolverine (Vol. 2) #76-81

Wolverine was the most popular Marvel character going solo in the 1990s, and that era represents the high point of his comics. Writer Larry Hama joined the title with issue #31 and guided the character exceptionally well. In 1993, Wolverine lost his adamantium skeleton, and Hama took the story in exciting new directions. Issues #76-81 of Wolverine (Vol. 2), featuring art by Adam Kubert, Tomm Coker, and Ian Churchill, showed Logan struggling with the loss of his indestructible skeleton, the emergence of bone claws, and a weakened healing ability. While at his most vulnerable, Wolverine faced some of his deadliest foes – Lady Deathstrike, Cyber, Bloodscream, and Cylla – resulting in truly unique and compelling stories. This period is considered the definitive Wolverine, and it holds up incredibly well even today.

4) “Ultron Unlimited”

Many fans consider “Ultron Unlimited” the best Avengers story ever told, as it features the team facing off against one of their most dangerous foes. This story arc, found in Avengers (Vol. 3) issues #19-22, was created by Kurt Busiek and George Perez and delivers everything an Avengers fan could hope for. While the action, beautifully illustrated by Perez, is fantastic, it’s the story itself that truly shines. Busiek crafted a narrative that goes beyond a simple fight, demonstrating what makes the Avengers such a great team. It’s a memorable take on Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, and a type of story that’s rare to find in modern comics, which makes it even more special.

3) The Inhumans (Vol. 2) #1-12

Many Marvel fans have a negative view of the Inhumans, largely due to how the characters were handled in the mid-2010s. This is especially frustrating after reading The Inhumans (Vol. 2) #1-12 by Paul Jenkins and Jae Lee, which showcases their incredible potential. The series depicts the kingdom of Attilan facing both internal and external dangers, as Black Bolt and the Royal Family desperately try to protect their people, only to find themselves constantly outmaneuvered by a secret foe. It’s essentially a superhero version of Game of Thrones, elevated by Jae Lee’s distinctive artwork. This series truly captures what the Inhumans could be.

2) Earth X

Earth X is a truly remarkable comic book with a fascinating history. After the success of Kingdom Come, Wizard magazine approached Alex Ross to create a similar project for Marvel, reimagining its universe like he had done for DC. Marvel eventually agreed, and the resulting 14-issue series – created by Ross, Jim Krueger, and John Paul Leon – is set in a future where everyone possesses superpowers, and most traditional heroes have become commonplace. The story follows the return of the Inhumans from space, who bring with them a frightening discovery, alongside the rise of a powerful boy named the Skull, who is building an army of mind-controlled followers. Earth X is a heartfelt tribute to classic Silver Age Marvel, using a dystopian setting to explore the legacies of its greatest characters. It’s a hidden gem and considered one of the best alternate universe comics ever written.

1) Marvels

Kurt Busiek and Alex Ross’s Marvels is widely considered one of the best Marvel comics of all time. The story centers on photographer Phil Seldon, who started his career at The Daily Bugle during the early days of superheroes. He documents their rise and adventures, offering a unique perspective on a world becoming extraordinary. The comic perfectly captures the excitement and optimism of Marvel’s Golden and Silver Ages, enhanced by Alex Ross’s stunning, realistic artwork. Highly acclaimed upon its release, Marvels continues to resonate with readers today. It’s a special, beautifully crafted book that explores the impact of superheroes on everyday life, focusing on one man’s journey through a changing world – a type of story Marvel rarely tells.

2026-05-10 20:15