10 Most Important DC Comics You Need to Read Right Now

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DC Comics pioneered the modern superhero, blending the excitement of old adventure stories with science fiction and detective tales to create a uniquely American mythology. Over the 20th and 21st centuries, DC has given us some of the most famous fictional characters ever created – Superman and Batman are known worldwide. The company has built an expansive universe of characters and storylines to captivate readers. While often fantastical, DC Comics has consistently innovated, attracting talented creators who have redefined what superhero comics can achieve.

As a comic book fan, I have to say DC really set the standard for sophisticated storytelling. They didn’t just give us great comics, they gave us genuinely great fiction. Honestly, the range of amazing stories they’ve published is incredible – there’s something for everyone in their vast multiverse. I’ve put together a list of ten DC stories I think are the absolute best, and if you haven’t experienced them yet, consider this your official recommendation! (Just a heads-up, I didn’t include classics like *The Dark Knight Returns* and *Watchmen* – but trust me, you should absolutely read those too.)

10) JSA: The Golden Age

The Justice Society of America is a legendary superteam with a rich history spanning over 80 years. But if you want a perfect example of what makes the JSA and Golden Age DC heroes so special, look no further than *JSA: The Golden Age* #1-4, written by James Robinson and illustrated by Paul Smith (originally published without the *JSA* title). Set just after World War II, the story follows the original superheroes as they try to adjust to peacetime. However, a sinister plot is underway to transform history’s most evil person into the planet’s most powerful being. This comic beautifully explores the legacy of these classic heroes, capturing their spirit and grandeur. It’s a truly exceptional read that will inspire you to delve deeper into the world of the Golden Age.

9) “Year One”

Batman is DC’s most iconic character, and there’s a wealth of fantastic stories featuring him. Many talented creators have worked on the character, consistently delivering high-quality work. However, in my opinion, none surpass “Year One.” This four-issue story arc, written by Frank Miller and illustrated by David Mazzucchelli (found in *Batman* #404-407), represents both artists at their absolute best. It’s a fresh take on Batman’s origins, showing Bruce Wayne’s return to Gotham after years of training, determined to save his city. It’s a brilliantly executed noir story that has become the definitive version of Batman’s beginning, influencing adaptations in other media.

8) “The Return of Barry Allen”

Many fans now consider Wally West to be the definitive Flash, stepping into the role after Barry Allen’s death during *Crisis on Infinite Earths*. However, Wally initially struggled to gain the same level of popularity as his predecessor. Everything changed with the storyline “The Return of Barry Allen” (in *The Flash* Vol. 2 #75-79, by Mark Waid and Greg LaRocque). Barry’s unexpected return initially overshadowed Wally, but soon took a dark turn when Barry became a villain. Wally was forced to confront his mentor, a more powerful and experienced speedster, in a story with a truly shocking twist. This arc is widely considered the high point for *The Flash* series, and it often convinces readers that Wally is the superior Flash.

7) “The Sinestro Corps War”

While some think *Green Lantern: Rebirth* is a better starting point for new Green Lantern fans, I believe the real highlight is “The Sinestro Corps War.” This epic storyline, spanning *Green Lantern: Sinestro Corps Special* #1, *Green Lantern* (Vol. 4) #21-25, and *Green Lantern Corps* (Vol. 2) #14-19 (created by Geoff Johns, Pete Tomasi, Dave Gibbons, Ethan Van Sciver, Ivan Reis, and Patrick Gleason), introduced the Sinestro Corps – a powerful enemy that truly challenged the Green Lantern Corps. It’s a fantastic sci-fi battle that demonstrates the often-underappreciated depth of the Green Lantern universe and adds a fresh layer to its mythology. This story fundamentally changed Green Lantern and is still a compelling read today. (Optional: There were also some fun *Tales of the Sinestro Corps* one-shots, but they aren’t essential to the main story.)

6) Crisis on Infinite Earths

The twelve-issue series *Crisis on Infinite Earths*, created by Marv Wolfman, George Perez, and Jerry Ordway, is a truly remarkable comic book event that redefined the genre. It tells the story of the DC Multiverse uniting to fight for its existence against the powerful Anti-Monitor, who threatens to destroy everything. The series is legendary for its scope and dramatic impact, and perfectly embodies the idea of an epic tale. Its famous tagline – “Worlds lived, worlds died, and nothing was ever the same” – perfectly sums up its lasting influence. *Crisis* fundamentally changed DC Comics, and it did so while remaining incredibly entertaining.

5) Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons

I was hoping to feature a Wonder Woman story, but I couldn’t decide which one to choose. I considered *Wonder Woman: Hiketeia* (and highly recommend it!), but ultimately went with *Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons* #1-3, created by Kelly Sue DeConnick, Phil Jimenez, Gene Ha, and Nicola Scott. This book explores the origins of the Amazons in ancient Greece. Though Wonder Woman doesn’t appear until the very end, it delivers everything you’d expect from a great Wonder Woman story. It’s a beautifully illustrated, captivating, and empowering story that exceeds expectations.

4) “The Judas Contract”

During the 1980s, the New Teen Titans were DC’s most popular team, thanks to the incredible storytelling of Marv Wolfman and George Perez. Their most celebrated story is undoubtedly “The Judas Contract,” originally published in *Tales of the New Teen Titans* issues #42-44 and *Tales of the New Teen Titans Annual* #3. This thrilling story centers around Deathstroke revealing his spy within the team, Terra, and launching a deadly attack on the Titans. It’s a real page-turner! Wolfman and Perez were a fantastic creative duo, and this series consistently delivers. I highly recommend picking up the collected edition, which also includes the first Brother Blood storyline, providing helpful context for everything. It’s a truly sensational story, and if you haven’t experienced it yet, now is the time!

3) “New World Order”

As a huge DC fan, there are tons of Justice League stories I love, but if I had to pick just *one* everyone should experience, it’s “New World Order” from the first volume of *JLA* issues #1-4, written by Grant Morrison and illustrated by Howard Porter. It throws you right into the action with this new, super-efficient team called the Hyperclan who basically show up and make the League seem outdated by comparison. But, as you quickly learn, they’re hiding something really dangerous, and it’s up to the Justice League to figure it out and stop them. It’s just a fantastic story – big, sweeping action that really captures the essence of what the Justice League *is*. The writing is brilliant, the art is incredible, and honestly, it’s a joy to reread every time.

2. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1-6

DC’s Absolute series has been incredibly popular, and the standout title is definitely *Absolute Martian Manhunter* issues #1-6, created by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez. The story centers around FBI agent John Jones forming a connection with the Martian Manhunter after an injury. Together, they fight against the White Martian, a powerful alien threat determined to wipe out humankind. This book is a masterclass in comic book storytelling, overflowing with emotion and featuring compelling characters and subplots. Its stunning visuals and powerful narrative make a strong case for superhero comics as a true art form, and it succeeds brilliantly across all six issues.

1. All-Star Superman

Superman is incredibly popular right now, and there are many great stories featuring the iconic hero for fans of the new *Superman* movie to enjoy. But the best modern Superman story is definitely *All-Star Superman*, created by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. When Lex Luthor discovers a way to kill Superman, the hero focuses on making the world a better place and tying up loose ends, leading to an unforgettable adventure. This story expertly blends elements from Superman’s entire history to create what many consider the ultimate Superman tale. Morrison and Quitely are a phenomenal creative team, and their comic is, in my opinion, the greatest superhero comic ever made.

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2025-09-28 01:13