5 Overlooked DC Storylines That Deserve a Comeback

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For decades, DC Comics has functioned much like a rich, complex mythology. However, while some stories become legendary, many fantastic storylines have been largely forgotten. These lesser-known tales often took risks that mainstream comics didn’t, exploring difficult questions about right and wrong, the nature of heroism, and the flaws of even the most powerful characters. Many of these overlooked stories are worth revisiting today because their themes feel especially relevant now.

Today’s focus on sprawling universes and big, dramatic events in storytelling often prioritizes spectacle over genuine emotional connection. Looking back at lesser-known stories might help recapture that human element. What readers really want isn’t just another world-ending crisis; they want stories that feel consistent and relatable, exploring what it truly means to be a hero when the idea of heroism itself is being challenged.

5. The Judas Contract (1984)

Marv Wolfman and George Pérez’s The Judas Contract is widely considered a landmark story for the Teen Titans, famous for its shocking betrayal. The story introduces Terra, who appears to be a new ally but is secretly working for Deathstroke. This twist is one of the most memorable in DC Comics history. Beyond the action, the storyline deeply explores the themes of trust and loyalty, and it personalizes the betrayal by focusing on the Titans’ individual lives, making it especially heartbreaking. It’s also where Dick Grayson officially becomes Nightwing, a major turning point for his character. Though adapted for animation and referenced elsewhere, a fresh, modern take on this story in the comics would be very compelling.

4. War of the Gods (1991)

George Pérez’s War of the Gods is a sweeping Wonder Woman story that often gets lost in the shuffle of bigger DC events like Crisis on Infinite Earths and Infinite Crisis. The story involves a war between the Greek and Roman gods, with humans caught in the middle. It’s a thoughtful exploration of what people believe, how different cultures collide, and the enduring power of myths. Wonder Woman finds herself at the heart of this godly battle, tasked with trying to make peace while also safeguarding the human world. It’s a grand, myth-focused adventure that perfectly showcases her character.

The first release of War of the Gods suffered from editing problems and a disorganized schedule, which hurt its success. However, with Wonder Woman now a major cultural figure thanks to her popular movies, this story has potential for a fresh start. A revised and updated version could delve into the clash between ancient myths and the modern world, as Wonder Woman deals with a world where faith in the gods is disappearing.

3. Superman: For All Seasons (1998)

Jeph Loeb wrote and Tim Sale illustrated Superman: For All Seasons, a beautifully told story about Clark Kent’s life as he becomes Superman. The story is divided into four parts, each representing a different season, and focuses on his connections with the people around him in both Smallville and Metropolis.

Though highly regarded by dedicated Superman fans, this particular story is often overshadowed by more dramatic storylines like The Death of Superman or All-Star Superman. Bringing it back into focus today could reinforce Superman’s image as a beacon of hope and compassion in a world that often feels cynical. This type of thoughtful storytelling could remind readers what makes Superman enduringly popular, even when darker, more complex heroes are favored.

2. Emerald Twilight (1994)

The Emerald Twilight storyline is famously controversial within the Green Lantern comics, and understandably so. Penned by Ron Marz, it shows Hal Jordan losing his mind after his home, Coast City, is destroyed. Consumed by grief, Hal tries to rebuild the city with his power ring, but when the Guardians of the Universe stop him, he rebels, killing other Green Lanterns and transforming into the villain known as Parallax. Though it sparked debate when it was first released, the story ultimately allowed Kyle Rayner to become the new Green Lantern and introduced a complex and compelling villain to the DC Universe.

Although it received a negative reaction when it first came out, Emerald Twilight is worth looking at again today, especially considering its exploration of the emotional consequences of loss and failure. Given how openly we now talk about mental health, Hal Jordan’s struggles could be understood with more depth. Plus, with the current focus on the multiverse and legacy characters in DC stories, a new take on Emerald Twilight could show how Hal’s downfall affects multiple universes, not just his own.

1. The Great Darkness Saga (1982)

Considered by many to be the best Legion of Super-Heroes story ever, The Great Darkness Saga – created by Paul Levitz and Keith Giffen – features a battle between the Legion and Darkseid, a powerful god of evil. This story, set in the 30th century, starts with strange attacks planned by a secret enemy who turns out to be Darkseid. What follows is a huge, universe-spanning adventure where the Legion joins forces with other future heroes to fight a threat that could destroy everything. It’s a fantastic example of how to build a compelling world, develop interesting characters, and create a truly exciting story.

Although The Great Darkness Saga remains a fan favorite, the Legion of Super-Heroes hasn’t been very popular lately. Updating this classic story could bring the team back into the spotlight and reimagine Darkseid as a powerful villain across multiple universes.

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2026-01-04 02:41