Wolverine excels in his roles as a top-tier comic book character, and throughout various decades, he’s had some remarkable storylines. In the 90s, like many Marvel characters, Wolverine faced numerous challenges, but the new millennium served as a period of renewal. With Hugh Jackman portraying him, Wolverine became a well-known figure in households everywhere. Marvel took great efforts to cater to the rising fanbase of Wolverine by producing high-quality Wolverine comics over the following decade. The 00s had a tendency towards edginess at times, and this was reflected in several Wolverine comic series throughout the decade. However, this edgy approach often added depth to his character’s stories. Wolverine stands out among Marvel heroes for his distinctiveness, and the 00s offered numerous opportunities to highlight that uniqueness.
In the 2000s, there were numerous Wolverine series, including “Wolverine (Vol. 2)”, “Wolverine (Vol. 3)”, “Origin”, and “Wolverine Origins”, as well as several miniseries. Many renowned Marvel creators contributed to these Wolverine comics in the 2000s, resulting in stories that have remained compelling since then. This list highlights the ten top Wolverine stories from the 2000s, each offering a satisfying read for fans of Wolverine.
10) “Evolution”
As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, I have to admit that “Evolution” isn’t my favorite Wolverine tale, but it’s certainly unique. Penned by Jeph Loeb with stunning artwork by Simone Bianchi, this story gave birth to the Lupine, humans who evolved from canines, a concept that, unfortunately, earned it a less-than-welcome reception in the 2000s Wolverine comic book scene. However, the focus of the narrative is far from these canine evolutionaries. Instead, we find a gripping Wolverine story unfolding.
In this tale, Wolverine embarks on a mission to eliminate Sabretooth, who was an X-Man at that time. This journey leads him into investigating an intriguing mystery: why are there so many mutants similar to him? Along the way, we’re introduced to Romulus and are treated to some exhilarating action sequences. Bianchi’s artwork is breathtakingly beautiful, making it one of the standout features that landed this story on my list.
While the story isn’t flawless, its artistry is undeniably impressive, earning it a place among the finest Wolverine stories of the 2000s.
9) Origin
In “Origin,” penned by Paul Jenkins and Andy Kubert, the tale was monumental. The enigma surrounding Wolverine’s past held significant weight in the Marvel Universe, leading to the creation of Weapon X memory implants to prolong the secret and allow for any retconning when needed. However, a shift in editorial leadership brought changes, and editor-in-chief Joe Quesada prioritized this story, ultimately providing Wolverine with an authentic backstory that couldn’t be dismissed.
“Origin” delves into the life of James Howlett and his caregiver Rose. It offers a glimpse into Wolverine’s 19th-century Canadian upbringing, revealing the hardships that forced him and Rose to abandon the Howlett estate for the wilderness. While it leans slightly on foreshadowing future events, it effectively establishes the foundations of Wolverine. The artwork is exceptional.
Although “Origin” isn’t flawless by any stretch, its influence on the Marvel Universe cannot be understated. It offered long-time Wolverine fans an origin they had never expected to receive.
8) “Coyote Crossing”
In the early 2000s, the second volume of Wolverine came to a close as his standalone comic was transferred to the Marvel Knights imprint, which brought on writer Greg Rucka, known for series like “Queen & Country” and “Whiteout”, as well as realistic work in big-name comics such as “Gotham Central”. This shift gave readers a fresh take on Wolverine, different from what they had been accustomed to. During Rucka’s tenure, the character was rarely seen in his costume, and most of the 19 issues were grounded stories featuring Wolverine. “Coyote Crossing”, illustrated by Leandro Fernandez, was one such story and marked the second installment of this run. In it, Wolverine pursues a gang of smugglers who assist immigrants in entering the US illegally after discovering a truck filled with dead immigrants. This tale combines elements of detection and revenge, with stunning artwork from Fernandez throughout. Overall, “Coyote Crossing” offers an outstanding and intense Wolverine adventure from start to finish.
7) “Chasing Ghosts”
For a moment, let’s speak candidly – despite its flaws, the “House of M” series wasn’t exactly stellar; however, it did offer some compelling spin-offs, and “Chasing Ghosts” is one such example. This three-part story brings back Mark Texeira to Wolverine’s art team for the first time since the ’90s, collaborating with Javier Saltares. The artwork in this series is nothing short of breathtaking, characterized by intricate details and dynamic energy, making the duo of Saltares and Texiera one of the finest penciler-inker pairs in any Wolverine comic.
The narrative unfolds within the timeline of the “House of M” universe, where S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Wolverine is summoned to aid in the suppression of the human resistance movement. This sets up a confrontation between Wolverine, Mystique, and the Red Guard against the tactical mastermind Nick Fury, as they struggle to devise a plan to neutralize his threat to mutantkind worldwide. This gripping Wolverine tale was penned by Daniel Way, who would later become instrumental in shaping Wolverine’s ongoing storyline. “Chasing Ghosts” is more than just an engaging tie-in to a subpar Marvel event; it’s a stellar addition to the annals of Wolverine comics.
6) “Origins and Endings”
As a die-hard Wolverine fan, I must admit that “Wolverine Origins” isn’t included in this list. But let me clarify, Daniel Way’s series isn’t subpar; it’s just one of those books where each issue is crucial to understanding the storyline. A significant chunk of the foundation for “Wolverine Origins” can be traced back to “Origins and Endings,” a collaboration between Way, Saltares, and Texeira.
In this tale, Way masterfully tapped into the spirit of Claremont and Hama, introducing fresh perspectives to Wolverine’s past while delivering pulse-pounding Wolverine action. The face-off between Wolverine and the Winter Soldier is a spectacle that justifies the ticket price on its own. “Origins and Endings” serves as a setup for many themes that Way would further develop in “Wolverine Origins,” including the introduction of Daken. The artwork by Saltares and Texeira is truly stunning, with each page exuding visual appeal.
In essence, “Origins and Endings” is a forgotten jewel in the canon of Wolverine stories, often overlooked but deserving of recognition for its compelling narrative and captivating artistry.
5) “Blood Debt”
In 1999, author Erik Larsen reinstated Wolverine’s indestructible adamantium state, revitalizing the character. Later in early 2000, Larsen departed the series, and Steve Skroce took over writing and illustrating for “Wolverine” (Vol. 2). Skroce, fresh from his work on “The Matrix,” imbued the comic with the intense action energy of that film. The storyline titled “Blood Debt” found Wolverine in Japan, confronting a new enemy named Lord Haan who threatened his friends Yukio and Amiko. With a scorched-earth approach, Wolverine launched an all-out assault against the enemies. The ensuing issues showcased some of the greatest portrayals of Wolverine ever created. Skroce’s work on “Wolverine” was exceptional, but it’s unfortunate that “Blood Debt” spanned only four issues. Nevertheless, we were gifted with one of the best Wolverine stories to date.
4) “Return of the Native”
In the final Wolverine tale penned by writer Rick Remender alongside Darick Robertson, the creators deliver what might be the most quintessential Wolverine story of their tenure. Here, Wolverine encounters a mutant named the Native, who shares his claws, healing factor, and wild mentality. Yet, Sabretooth is relentlessly pursuing the Native, intending to transform him into a deadly weapon. The narrative that unfolds is filled with exhilarating action sequences, as Wolverine and Sabretooth clash violently, as if they’re fighting for their very survival. This tale stands out as one of the best Wolverine/Sabretooth stories from the 2000s, effectively portraying their intense animosity while providing readers with thrilling action scenes. Remender and Robertson concluded their run on the book powerfully, leaving behind a timeless Wolverine adventure.
3) “Enemy of the State”
In “Enemy of the State,” Mark Millar collaborated with artists John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson to create an exhilarating Wolverine saga. Spanning twelve issues, this tale is divided into two six-issue arcs that are now compiled as one continuous narrative. The story unfolds when Wolverine is summoned to Japan by a Yashida Clan member, only to be ambushed by the Hand. He’s slain by Gorgon, a new leader of the Hand, but is later reborn as an assassin for the ninja clan. In a twisted turn of events, both the Hand and Hydra ally with Wolverine, using him as their tool to wreak havoc across the Marvel Universe. Once freed from their control, Wolverine seeks vengeance against the Hand, Hydra, and Gorgon. This Wolverine adventure is among his most iconic, with Romita Jr. and Janson’s artwork significantly contributing to its appeal. The climactic fight between Wolverine and Gorgon stands as one of Wolverine’s most impressive battles, a gritty narrative that concludes in a remarkably intelligent manner, showcasing why Wolverine is such an exceptional fighter. “Enemy of the State” has held a special place among Wolverine enthusiasts for many years, and it’s easy to see why.
2) “Old Man Logan”
The tale of “Old Man Logan,” a unique take on Wolverine, has earned legendary status through films like Logan and Deadpool/Wolverine. This portrayal of the character has also been integrated into the contemporary Marvel Universe 616, demonstrating its widespread appeal. The origin of this character can be traced back to “Old Man Logan,” a collaboration between writer Mark Millar and artist Steve McNiven. By now, we’re all familiar with the details of this story. It’s essentially a fusion of Unforgiven and Wolverine, set in a post-apocalyptic Western world where a worn-out Logan escorts Hawkeye across a villain-controlled United States to gather funds from the Hulk Gang. The story’s success hinges on its meticulous world-building, offering a vivid portrayal of the desolate landscapes. McNiven’s artwork is exceptional and arguably his best work, effectively bringing the post-apocalyptic wasteland to life and leaving readers with indelible images and action sequences. While Millar’s writing has its flaws — some argue that Wolverine wouldn’t have been able to kill all X-Men if under mind control, a significant plot point — these issues serve the story well. After all, this is an edgy narrative, and it executes this concept flawlessly. In essence, “Old Man Logan” is a timeless tale.
1) “Brotherhood”
As a movie reviewer, I’d say: “I dived headfirst into Greg Rucka and Darick Robertson’s iconic ‘Wolverine’ series with the gripping opus, ‘Brotherhood’. Stepping away from the X-Mansion and seeking a foothold in reality, our titular hero finds himself returning home at ungodly hours, his body streaked with blood. Neighbors are left scratching their heads about this mysterious figure. But when one of them vanishes, Wolverine springs into action, tracking both the missing neighbor and the sinister forces behind her abduction.
Rucka and Robertson breathed new life into the character in ‘Brotherhood’, establishing a compelling new status quo for everyone’s favorite Canucklehead. This tale stands tall as one of the most grounded Wolverine stories ever told, earning its place among Marvel’s finest stories from the 21st century. Regrettably, Marvel didn’t sustain this momentum following Rucka and Robertson’s departure, but that doesn’t diminish the sheer brilliance of their collaboration on ‘Brotherhood’. This comic series is the pinnacle of their collaborative work, offering a gripping, humanizing take on the Wolverine saga.
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2025-06-14 16:40