15 of the Best Image Comics of All Time
From Saga to Spawn, check out our rundown of the best creator-owned comics from Image’s critically-claimed titles.
Since its founding in 1992, Image Comics has been a trailblazer in the world of creator-owned comics, offering groundbreaking stories that push the boundaries of the medium. Launched by superstar artists including Todd McFarlane and Jim Lee, Image revolutionized the industry by giving creators full ownership and creative control of their work. This model attracted top talent and fostered an environment of innovation, resulting in some of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful comics of the past three decades.
In this article, we'll explore 15 of the best Image Comics that have captivated readers with their unique narratives, stunning artwork, and fearless exploration of diverse genres. Whether you're a seasoned comic fan or a newcomer to Image's vast catalog, these titles represent the pinnacle of independent comic book storytelling. Let's dive into the exciting worlds of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and more that Image offers.
Saga by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples
Image: Image ComicsA space opera like no other, Saga combines high fantasy and science fiction in an epic tale of love, family, and survival. Vaughan's imaginative worldbuilding and Staples' breathtaking art create an unforgettable reading experience that has captivated fans for over a decade. But what sets Saga apart is its fearless exploration of complex themes like war, prejudice, and parenthood, all wrapped in a wildly inventive and often shocking narrative. The series' diverse cast of characters, alien races, and unpredictable plot twists keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it one of Image Comics’ most acclaimed and beloved titles.
Descender by Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen
Image: Image ComicsThis beautifully illustrated sci-fi epic tells the story of a young robot named Tim-21 as he navigates a galaxy in turmoil. With its watercolor art and emotionally resonant storytelling, Descender explores themes of humanity, memory, and survival. Lemire's heartfelt writing and Nguyen's ethereal artwork combine to create a unique sci-fi experience. The series stands out for its poignant examination of what it means to be human in a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, offering a fresh perspective on classic sci-fi tropes.
East of West by Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta
Image: Image ComicsThis dystopian, alternate-history Western is a bold mix of political intrigue, sci-fi, and mythology. East of West delivers an apocalyptic narrative filled with vivid world-building and larger-than-life characters. Hickman's complex plotting and Dragotta's striking visuals create an unforgettable vision of a fractured America on the brink of annihilation. The series is notable for its intricate world-building and exploration of themes like destiny, power, and the cyclical nature of history, making it a standout in Image Comics’ sci-fi offerings.
Invincible by Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker
Image: Image ComicsAs one of Image Comics’ flagship titles, Invincible is a superhero story that mixes heartfelt coming-of-age themes with brutal action to take readers through the complexities of heroism, family, and betrayal. Its colorful, expressive art contrasts with its often shocking plot twists. Kirkman subverts superhero tropes while delivering an emotionally resonant story about growing up with superpowers. What sets Invincible apart is its willingness to explore the darker consequences of superhuman abilities and the toll they take on both heroes and their loved ones, offering a fresh take on the genre.
Spawn by Todd McFarlane
Image: Image ComicsOne of Image Comics’ most iconic titles in history, Spawn follows the dark, supernatural adventures of a former assassin turned Hellspawn. With its gothic art style and antihero protagonist, it remains a defining comic in the superhero genre. McFarlane's detailed artwork and complex mythology have made Spawn an enduring icon for nearly 30 years. The series pioneered a grittier, more mature approach to superhero storytelling, influencing countless comics that followed and helping to establish Image's reputation for boundary-pushing content. The fact that many old-school readers still associate Spawn when they hear Image Comics shows just how iconic the comic series is.
The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard
Image: Image ComicsThis one needs no introduction. Robert Kirkman’s post-apocalyptic series redefined the zombie genre, focusing not just on horror but on the emotional and psychological struggles of survival. Its legacy in both comics and television cements its place among Image Comics’ best. Kirkman's character-driven storytelling and Adlard's gritty black-and-white art perfectly capture the bleak world of the undead apocalypse. The Walking Dead’s unflinching exploration of human nature in extreme circumstances often poses difficult moral questions that resonate long after reading.
Ice Cream Man by W. Maxwell Prince and Martín Morazzo
Image: Image ComicsA twisted anthology series, Ice Cream Man presents standalone tales of horror, tragedy, and existential dread, all loosely tied together by the enigmatic and eerie Ice Cream Man. Its surreal storytelling and chilling atmosphere make it a standout in the horror genre. Prince's inventive scripts and Morazzo's clean, unsettling art style will linger in your mind long after reading. The series is notable for its ability to find horror in everyday situations, often subverting readers' expectations with shocking twists and philosophical musings.
Kill or Be Killed by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips
Image: Image ComicsThis psychological thriller explores the descent of a young man who becomes a vigilante after being forced into a deal with a demonic entity. Kill or Be Killed weaves tension, paranoia, and moral ambiguity into a gripping crime story. Brubaker and Phillips are a dream team in comics who always deliver in creating intense, thought-provoking series. The comic stands out for its nuanced exploration of mental health issues and the blurry line between justice and revenge, challenging readers' perceptions of right and wrong.
Monstress by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda
Image: Image ComicsA visually stunning fantasy series, Monstress blends elements of Asian mythology, steampunk, and political intrigue. Its rich world-building, combined with Liu's intricate storytelling, makes it an essential read for fantasy lovers. Takeda's lush, dream-like artwork brings the complex world and characters to vivid life on every page. The series is notable for its strong female protagonists and exploration of themes like war, racism, and the cyclical nature of violence, all set against a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop.
Die by Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans
Image: Image ComicsThis dark fantasy series follows a group of adults who are pulled back into a deadly role-playing game they began as teenagers. Mixing high fantasy with personal drama, Die delves into the power of escapism and the consequences of unfinished stories. Gillen's clever writing and Hans' painterly art create a hauntingly beautiful world. The comic stands out for its meta-commentary on fantasy tropes and the nature of storytelling itself, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and horror.
Chew by John Layman and Rob Guillory
Image: Image ComicsChew is an offbeat detective story with a dark comedic twist: its protagonist gets psychic impressions from whatever he eats—including murder victims. This quirky premise, paired with Guillory's cartoony art, creates a hilarious and thrilling ride. Layman's clever writing and Guillory's expressive character designs make this series a true Image Comics original. Chew stands out for its ability to balance humor and horror, creating a wholly unique world that keeps readers guessing (and often laughing) from page to page.
I Kill Giants by Joe Kelly and J.M. Ken Niimura
Image: Image ComicsThis emotionally powerful comic follows Barbara, a young girl struggling with real-life trauma while escaping into a world of fantasy where she fights giants. Its touching narrative and unique art style explore themes of grief, resilience, and imagination. Kelly's poignant writing and Niimura's expressive illustrations create a deeply moving story. The series is notable for its sensitive portrayal of childhood trauma and the power of imagination as a coping mechanism, offering a poignant blend of fantasy and reality.
Do a Powerbomb by Daniel Warren Johnson
Image: Image ComicsA thrilling blend of pro wrestling and the supernatural, Do a Powerbomb is a heartfelt story about family, loss, and redemption. With intense ball-to-the-wall action and emotionally charged moments, it offers an experience unlike any other. Johnson's dynamic art style perfectly captures the energy and drama of the squared circle. The comic stands out for its unique fusion of sports drama and fantasy, delivering both pulse-pounding action and genuine emotional depth.
Deadly Class by Rick Remender and Wes Craig
Image: Image ComicsSet in the 1980s, Deadly Class follows a group of misfit teenagers enrolled in a school for assassins. This coming-of-age story blends brutal violence with deep emotional beats, exploring themes of identity, trauma, and revenge. Remender's raw, honest writing and Craig's kinetic art style perfectly capture the intensity of adolescence and the dangers of the assassin's world. The series is notable for its unflinching portrayal of teenage angst and rebellion set against a backdrop of extreme violence, creating a unique and often unsettling reading experience.
Sex Criminals by Chip Zdarsky and Matt Fraction
Image: Image ComicsThis unconventional series follows a couple who discover they can stop time when they orgasm and use this ability to rob banks. Sex Criminals blends humor, romance, and social commentary into a unique and entertaining package. It pushed boundaries in its frank and humorous depiction of sex and relationships. Fraction's witty writing and Zdarsky's playful artwork tackle mature themes with both humor and heart, earning it multiple Eisner Award nominations.
These titles represent just a fraction of the incredible stories Image Comics has brought to life over the past three decades. From reinventing superhero narratives to pushing the boundaries of horror, science fiction, and fantasy, Image has consistently delivered comics that challenge conventions and explore new frontiers in the medium.
As we look to the future, Image Comics continues to be at the forefront of innovation in the industry. With new series launching regularly and established titles pushing into exciting new territory, there's never been a better time to dive into the world of Image Comics. Whether you're a longtime fan or just beginning your comic book journey, these must-read titles offer the perfect starting point to explore Image's innovative and unforgettable catalog.