10 of the Best Horror Comics to Read for Halloween

From supernatural terrors to psychological nightmares, horror comics offer a uniquely chilling blend of visual and narrative storytelling. The medium's ability to shock, unsettle, and captivate readers has produced some truly unforgettable works over the years. In this list, we'll explore 10 of the most compelling and terrifying horror comics from different eras and subgenres, showcasing how sequential art can evoke fear in countless ways. Whether you're a longtime horror fan or a newcomer to the genre, these bone-chilling tales are sure to leave you sleeping with the lights on.

Immortal Hulk by Al Ewing & Joe Bennett

Image: Marvel Comics

Al Ewing and Joe Bennett’s Immortal Hulk redefines the iconic Marvel character as a symbol of cosmic and body horror. This series delves into existential dread and supernatural themes, transforming Bruce Banner's alter ego into a terrifying force that transcends traditional superhero narratives.

Ewing’s writing taps into deep philosophical questions about life, death, and the human condition, while Bennett’s artwork captures the grotesque transformations and terrifying imagery that elevate Immortal Hulk as one of the best horror comics of recent years. Inspired by cosmic horror, the series successfully blends superhero action with chilling existential horror, making it a must-read.

The Nice House on the Lake by James Tynion IV & Álvaro Martínez Bueno

Image: DC Comics

The Nice House on the Lake is a masterclass in modern psychological horror. The series follows a group of people invited to a seemingly idyllic lakehouse by their mysterious friend Walter, only to discover they're trapped in a paradise while the world outside faces an apocalyptic event.

Tynion’s writing creates a slow-building sense of dread, with the horror stemming not just from the external apocalypse but from the characters' unraveling trust and psychological isolation. This series stands as a modern horror masterpiece, making it stand out among the best horror comics in recent memory.

Stray Dogs by Tony Fleecs & Trish Forstner

Image: Image Comics

Don't let the cute, Disney-inspired art style fool you. Stray Dogs by Tony Fleecs and Trish Forstner is a chilling horror comic that will leave you deeply unsettled. This unique series tells the tale of a group of dogs trying to uncover the dark secret of their new owner, who may be a serial killer.

The contrast between Forstner's adorable art style and the dark narrative creates a sense of cognitive dissonance that amplifies the horror. As the dogs piece together their fragmented memories, readers are taken on a journey that's both heartwarming and terrifying. This juxtaposition is key to the series' effectiveness, lulling readers into a false sense of security before delivering its brutal twists. Stray Dogs proves that horror can lurk even in the most unlikely places, making it a unique entry among horror comics.

Saga of the Swamp Thing by Alan Moore & Various Artists

Image: DC Comics

Alan Moore's legendary run on Swamp Thing is often credited with redefining what was possible in mainstream comics. This series transforms Swamp Thing from a simple monster into a complex, philosophical being, exploring themes of ecology, humanity, and the nature of consciousness. Moore's writing delves into various horror subgenres, from body horror to cosmic terror, all while maintaining a deeply introspective and often poetic narrative. 

The intricate artwork, particularly from Stephen Bissette and John Totleben, adds depth to Moore’s nightmarish visions, making Saga of the Swamp Thing a classic that still resonates as one of the best horror comics of all time.

Locke & Key by Joe Hill & Gabriel Rodríguez

Image: IDW Publishing

Locke & Key is a masterful blend of dark fantasy and horror that has captivated readers for years. The series follows the Locke family as they uncover the secrets of their ancestral home, Keyhouse, and the magical keys that grant incredible and terrifying powers.

Joe Hill's storytelling weaves a complex narrative of family trauma, supernatural threats, and coming-of-age drama. The horror in Locke & Key stems from multiple sources: the legacy of violence that haunts the Locke family, the dangerous powers of the magical keys, and the malevolent entities seeking to exploit them. Hill excels at creating moments of dread and shock, but also infuses the story with a deep emotional core centered on the Locke siblings' struggles with grief and identity.

Gabriel Rodríguez’s intricate art brings to life the magical yet terrifying world of Keyhouse, where every key unlocks new horrors. With its imaginative storytelling, Locke & Key is an essential read for fans of horror comics.

Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth by Grant Morrison & Dave McKean

Image: DC Comics

Grant Morrison and Dave McKean's Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth is a haunting journey into madness that pushes the boundaries of what a Batman story can be. This graphic novel blurs the line between sanity and insanity as Batman ventures into Arkham Asylum to confront his greatest foes.

McKean's artwork is nothing short of revolutionary in this comic, using mixed media and surreal techniques to create a visual experience that's as unsettling as it is beautiful. His painted pages blur the line between reality and hallucination, perfectly capturing the disorienting experience of losing one's grip on sanity. McKean's unconventional layouts and use of collage techniques further enhance the sense of fragmented reality within the asylum.

Arkham Asylum is an unflinching exploration of mental illness and the nature of evil. It challenges readers to question their perceptions of sanity and morality, all while delivering a truly terrifying Batman story. The graphic novel's influence can be seen in countless Batman stories since, cementing its place as a landmark work in both superhero and horror comics.

Wytches by Scott Snyder & Jock

Image: Image Comics

Wytches is a bold reimagining of witches as ancient, feral beings that lurk in the depths of the forest, offering terrible bargains to those willing to "pledge" others to them. This series follows the Rook family as they confront these terrifying creatures and the dark secrets of their past.

Snyder's writing taps into primal fears, using the horror of family secrets and the unknown to create a tense, dread-filled atmosphere. The concept of "pledging" – sacrificing someone else to the wytches in exchange for a boon – adds a morally complex layer to the horror. This exploration of what people are willing to do to protect themselves and their loved ones drives much of the series' psychological tension.

Jock’s eerie, atmospheric art elevates the story, making Wytches a chilling tale of family, secrets, and ancient evils. It's one of the most inventive horror comics of the past decade.

The Drifting Classroom by Kazuo Umezu

Image: Comics

Kazuo Umezu's The Drifting Classroom is a classic horror manga that has stood the test of time. The series follows a group of schoolchildren who, along with their school building, are suddenly transported to a barren wasteland. As they struggle to survive in this hostile environment, they face both external threats and the breakdown of their own society.

Umezu's storytelling is relentless, piling horror upon horror as the children's situation becomes increasingly desperate. A key aspect of the manga's effectiveness is its unflinching portrayal of children in peril. Umezu doesn't shy away from showing the brutal realities of survival, including violence committed both by and against the young protagonists. This willingness to push boundaries creates a sense of genuine danger and unpredictability throughout the series.

With its unique blend of survival horror, psychological tension, and sci-fi elements, The Drifting Classroom is a standout among horror manga and a pioneering work that has inspired countless creators.

Harrow County by Cullen Bunn & Tyler Crook

Image: Dark Horse Comics

Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook's Harrow County is a Southern Gothic horror story that drips with atmosphere. Set in a rural community steeped in dark magic, the series follows Emmy, a young girl who discovers she has a deep connection to the supernatural creatures that inhabit the woods around her home.

Bunn's writing draws heavily on folklore and rural superstitions, creating a rich mythology for Harrow County. The series excels at building a sense of place, with the titular county feeling like a character in its own right. The horror in Harrow County often stems from the tension between Emmy's growing supernatural abilities and the fear and suspicion of her neighbors.

What makes Harrow County special is its ability to balance horror with a sense of wonder. While there are plenty of terrifying moments, the series also captures the allure of the supernatural, making readers as fascinated by the world of Harrow County as they are frightened by it. 

Once & Future by Kieron Gillen & Dan Mora

Image: BOOM! Studios

Kieron Gillen and Dan Mora's Once & Future offers a unique blend of Arthurian legend and modern horror. The series follows retired monster hunter Bridgette McGuire and her grandson Duncan as they battle to prevent the rise of a twisted version of King Arthur intent on conquering Britain. Gillen's writing strikes a perfect balance between action, humor, and genuine terror. The horror comic plays with familiar mythological elements but twists them into something new and frightening. 

Dan Mora's artwork is a standout element of Once & Future. His dynamic action scenes and inventive monster designs bring the horrors of legend to vivid life. This series' unique blend of mythology and horror makes it one of the most thrilling horror comics in recent years.

Horror comics possess a unique power, combining visual artistry with narrative depth to immerse readers in terrifying worlds. Whether through grotesque body horror, psychological tension, or supernatural dread, the best horror comics leave a lasting impact. These ten titles showcase the genre's incredible range and innovation, offering something for every type of horror fan. If you’re looking to explore horror manga or delve deeper into Western horror comics, this list offers the perfect starting point. Just remember—once you open these pages, there's no turning back.