The world of comics is vast and diverse, and Polygon aims to highlight the best of the best in their compilation of the top comics of the year. Whether it’s self-published gems, foreign imports, or popular series from Marvel and DC, it’s clear that comics culture has a profound impact on all forms of media. While these comics may eventually make their way into movies, TV shows, and games, their brilliance shines through in their original comic book form in 2023. In order to be eligible for inclusion on this list, the comics had to be graphic novels published for the first time in 2023 or series that were collected or published their final collection in 2023. The selected comics are all readily available in paperback or collected form, so eager fans can get their hands on them without having to wait. Read on to discover some of the standout comics of the year.
Olivia Stephens’s self-published werewolf-Western-horror-romance comic, Darlin’ and Her Other Names (Part 1: Marta), captivates readers with its striking visuals and compelling story. Stephens creates a haunting yet hopeful tale of two strangers brought together by violence, united in their quest for vengeance. The black and white artwork adds to the atmospheric tone of the comic, which is soulful, moving, and beautifully rendered. While Stephens has already showcased her talent with the charming graphic novel Artie and the Wolf Moon, Darlin’ is a mature work that explores deep themes and emotions, leaving a lasting impact on readers.
Deena Mohamed’s Shubeik Lubeik offers a fresh perspective on Egyptian culture, challenging the Western gaze that often flattens and caricatures it. Originally serialized for an Egyptian audience in Arabic, this brilliant comic has now been translated into English, allowing a wider audience to experience its storytelling. Set in modern-day Cairo, the comic explores an alternate history where dreams can come true at a price. Mohamed skillfully weaves together multiple characters from different class backgrounds, highlighting the impact of Western colonialism and capitalism on Egyptian society. With its unique blend of science fiction and fantasy elements, Shubeik Lubeik stands out as a captivating and thought-provoking work.
Do a Powerbomb! by Daniel Warren Johnson is a love letter to professional wrestling. Johnson’s story follows a young wrestler who is offered a chance to participate in a supernatural wrestling tournament, where winning could bring her deceased mother back to life. The twist? She has to team up with the masked wrestler who accidentally killed her in a previous match, and together they must face off against God. Johnson’s comic is a celebration of the wrestling form, embracing its sincerity, campiness, heart, and spectacle. The artwork captures the action with Renaissance-like precision, creating stunning visuals that depict the tension and beauty of the wrestling world.
Sammy Harkham’s Blood of the Virgin takes readers on a journey through 1970s Los Angeles, following the life of protagonist Seymour. A film editor by day and a dreamer longing to become a screenwriter by night, Seymour’s life takes a seedy turn when he becomes involved in the production of a grindhouse film called “Blood of the Virgin.” Harkham’s comic delves into more than just Seymour’s personal struggles, shedding light on his identity as an Iraqi Jewish immigrant and the child of Holocaust victims. Blood of the Virgin explores themes of survivor’s guilt, Hollywood exploitation, and the yearning for a sense of belonging, making it a truly remarkable masterpiece.
Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons, written by Kelly Sue DeConnick and illustrated by Phil Jimenez, Gene Ha, and Nicola Scott, is a visual marvel. Published under DC’s Black Label imprint, this comic offers a canon-optional story that showcases the talents of some of the industry’s biggest names. The illustrations are meticulously detailed, featuring the Greek pantheon and original characters in stunning fashion. DeConnick’s prose adds depth and emotion to the story, which revolves around Queen Hippolyta of the Amazons. Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons is a breathtaking work of art that shines brightly in the world of comics.