Top 10 Comic Books Releases Of 2021
- Eve Andrews
- Dec 20, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 21, 2021
What a rollercoaster year it’s been for the comic book community! With the industry undergoing a flurry of changes, the comic book world has seen an influx of new, competitive content throughout the course of 2021. Because there have been so many fantastic additions to the overall comic book catalogue this year, we couldn’t possibly list them all - but we’ve managed to fish out a small handful that we want to recommend to you! So here, in no particular order, are 10 of the best comics 2021 has had to offer.
Myth becomes a reality when a group of nationalists harness the power of an ancient artefact, giving rise to one of the most villainous figures from Arthurian legend. Written by Kieron Gillen and illustrated by Dan Mora, BOOM!Studios brings us this captivating tale, with its striking panels and masterful blend of mysticism and modern commentary. Read before bed to induce vivid dreams!
A title to turn the head of any Marvel fan, this first instalment in The Death Of Doctor Strange boldly puts forth the precarious position the world would find itself in if the legendary sorcerer was no more. With this first issue pitched as “the beginning of the final chapter in the life of Doctor Strange”, this definitely has us on the edge of our seats!
In this touching tale, a lonely teen girl named Morgan can’t wait to escape her tiny fishing town in which she feels painfully isolated. That is until she is saved from drowning by a mysterious, sea-dwelling girl with whom Morgan is quick to form a bond. Written and illustrated by Molly Knox Ostertag, this beautifully crafted coming of age story delves deep into themes of identity, self-discovery and explorations of love.
An epic reframing of the vast lore that is the beloved DC Universe, renowned screenwriter John Ridley, delves into previously unexplored DC threads while casting a new light on a variety of the renowned studio’s favourites. Paired with the strikingly detailed illustrations of Giuseppe Camuncoli and Alex Dos Diaz, it’s safe to say that this graphic novel has successfully lived up to its hype!
A story of punishment, moral crime and missing persons, Vault Comics brings us this chilling tale of a boy who has bonded with a beastly shapeshifter following the loss of his brother. From the mind of Paul Cornell, I Walk With Monsters follows themes of bereavement, revenge, the animalistic side of human nature and the exploration of moral grey areas. If this one doesn’t have you chewing at your nails, I don’t know what will!
Set in the bustling scape of Mumbai, The Many Deaths Of Laila Starr offers a distinct and creative take on the grim reaper concept. With the human race teetering on the edge of unlocking the secrets to immortality, a reaper loses their job and is sent to earth to live out their now limited lifespan in the body of a young girl. Another incredible contribution from BOOM!Studios this year, written by V. Ram and illustrated by Felipe Amdrade, the story follows humanity’s universal struggle with mortality. This is a visually stunning first instalment of a story we can’t wait to see more of!
Another blood-curdling missing person story, Dead Dog’s Bite follows the case of Cormac Guffin, a girl who mysteriously dropped off the radar, leaving little to no traces behind her. In light of strange behaviour from the townsfolk, Guffin’s best friend, Joe, seems to be the only one actively trying to locate her whereabouts. Written and illustrated by Tyler Boss, this Dark Horse comic is witty, satirical, beautifully self-aware and crammed to the brim with compelling visuals.
A graphic novel by Kat Leyh, Thirsty Mermaids, tells the story of three mermaids who, curious about human culture, venture to the shores for a boozy night on the razz! At first, it’s a whirlwind of fun and games, although things soon take an unexpected turn. After her 2020 smash hit, Snapdragon, Leyh claps back with a hilariously heartwarming tale of friendship and growth, complete with unique and diverse visuals.
Serialised initially on her Instagram, Aminder Dhaliwal’s Cyclopedia Exotica is a refreshing take on socio-cultural commentary, exploring elitism, racism and xenophobia through the fantastical lens of the cyclops community. Set in a parallel universe, Cyclopedia Exotica is packed with quick-witted commentary on beauty, belonging and modern millennial culture.
In this stunning graphic history, illustrated by Hugo Martinez and written by historian, Rebecca Hall, Wake chronicles the untold story of the woman warriors that led revolts both on slave ships bound to America, and within the walls of colonial New York. The descendent of those forced into slavery, Hall returns the voice to the long-since hushed heroes that fought tooth and nail for their right to freedom.
What was your favourite comic book of 2021? Any you’d like to share that wasn’t on the list? Let us know down in the comments!
Editor's Picks:
Comments