Top 10 Comic Books 2023

1. Saga Volume 11

Saga Volume 11 ranks first because it delivers the long-awaited return of Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples' masterpiece after a three-year hiatus, instantly topping sales charts with over 200,000 copies sold. The hardcover edition collects issues 55-60, continuing the Hazel family saga with the same visceral art and sharp dialogue that defined the series. Its release was a major 2023 comics event, with multiple printings sold out within weeks of publication.

This is for readers who want a mature, character-driven space opera that balances tragedy with humor, and it trades away accessibility for its deep continuity, requiring knowledge of the prior ten volumes. Compared to the next pick, it offers a more intimate family story rather than a universe-wide crossover, but its sheer narrative weight and cultural impact make it the definitive comic book of 2023.

2. Batman: The Brave and the Bold 1

Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1 ranks second for its bold relaunch of an iconic anthology title, featuring a stunning main story by Mark Waid and Simone Di Meo that pairs Batman with the Joker in a tense, psychological adventure. The issue sold over 150,000 copies, making it one of the highest-selling single issues of 2023, and its 48-page format justified the $4.99 cover price. The backup story by Gabriel Hardman added value, showcasing lesser-known heroes.

This is for fans who enjoy done-in-one superhero stories with high-quality art and a classic-action vibe, but it trades away the deep continuity of the main Batman title for standalone fun. Compared to Saga Volume 11, it is more accessible to new readers but lacks the emotional weight and long-form narrative payoff, appealing instead to those seeking immediate, self-contained thrills.

3. Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor

Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor ranks third because it presents a prestige-format miniseries with a gripping premise—Lex Luthor dying and seeking Superman's help—written by Mark Waid and drawn by Bryan Hitch, with the first issue selling over 100,000 copies. The 64-page oversized issue, priced at $8.99, features cinematic art and a mature exploration of the Superman-Lex dynamic, earning critical acclaim for its character depth.

This is for readers who appreciate a thoughtful, introspective take on iconic characters, but it trades away fast-paced action for philosophical dialogue and character study. Compared to Batman: The Brave and the Bold #1, it offers a more serious and somber tone, yet it lacks the variety of an anthology, focusing instead on one deep narrative thread that rewards patient readers.

4. Wonder Woman 800

Wonder Woman #800 ranks fourth for its landmark 800th issue, a double-sized celebration featuring multiple creative teams, including Tom King, Daniel Sampere, and Becky Cloonan, which sold over 90,000 copies. The issue, priced at $9.99, provided a comprehensive look at Diana's history and future, with a main story that set up Tom King's new ongoing run. Its release was a major event, with variant covers from top artists like Jim Lee and Nicola Scott driving collector interest.

This is for long-time Wonder Woman fans and collectors who want a milestone issue with high re-sale value, but it trades away a focused narrative for a multi-part anthology that can feel disjointed. Compared to Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor, it offers more variety in storytelling but less emotional cohesion, appealing to those who prefer a celebration of a character's legacy over a singular, tight plot.

5. Daredevil 1 (2023)

Daredevil #1 (2023) ranks fifth because it relaunches the Man Without Fear with a fresh creative team—Saladin Ahmed and Aaron Kuder—and a gripping debut that sold over 80,000 copies. The issue, priced at $4.99, introduces a new status quo for Matt Murdock, blending street-level crime with supernatural elements, and its first-print run was completely sold out within a week.

This is for readers who want a modern, accessible entry point into Daredevil's world, but it trades away the gritty realism of past runs for a more fantastical tone. Compared to Wonder Woman #800, it offers a more focused and consistent story from issue one, yet it lacks the milestone significance and multi-creator variety, making it a better choice for those who prefer a single, coherent vision.

6. Secret Invasion (2023) 1

Secret Invasion (2023) #1 ranks sixth because it revives the iconic Skrull infiltration storyline with a new series by Ryan North and Francesco Mobili, selling over 70,000 copies in its debut month. The issue, priced at $3.99, directly ties into the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Disney+ adaptation, boosting its mainstream appeal and driving sales among both comic and TV fans.

This is for readers who enjoyed the MCU show and want a comic counterpart, but it trades away deep continuity for a streamlined, accessible story that can feel derivative of the original 2008 event. Compared to Daredevil #1, it offers a broader, event-driven scope but less character depth, appealing to those who prefer a fast-paced thriller over a character study.

7. The Amazing Spider-Man 31

The Amazing Spider-Man #31 ranks seventh because it concludes the controversial 'Gang War' storyline, with Zeb Wells and John Romita Jr. delivering a high-stakes finale that sold over 60,000 copies. The issue, priced at $3.99, features a massive battle across New York City, with Spider-Man leading a coalition of street-level heroes against the Rose and his criminal empire.

This is for dedicated Spider-Man fans who follow the current ongoing run, but it trades away accessibility for a deep continuity that requires reading the prior 30 issues. Compared to Secret Invasion (2023) #1, it offers a more grounded, street-level story with higher emotional stakes for long-time readers, yet it lacks the event-driven novelty and broader appeal of a fresh miniseries.

8. X-Men: Before the Fall - Sinister Four 1

X-Men: Before the Fall - Sinister Four #1 ranks eighth because it serves as a crucial prelude to the 'Fall of X' event, featuring a one-shot by Kieron Gillen and Paco Medina that sold over 50,000 copies. The issue, priced at $4.99, explores the machinations of Mister Sinister and his clones, setting the stage for the mutant nation's collapse.

This is for hardcore X-Men readers who are invested in the Krakoa era's long-form storytelling, but it trades away standalone readability for a dense, continuity-heavy narrative. Compared to The Amazing Spider-Man #31, it offers a more complex, villain-focused plot but less visceral action, appealing to those who prefer strategic intrigue over street-level brawls.

9. Star Wars: The High Republic - The Blade 1

Star Wars: The High Republic - The Blade #1 ranks ninth because it expands the popular High Republic era with a character-focused story about Jedi Master Porter Engle, written by Charles Soule and drawn by Marco Castiello, selling over 45,000 copies. The issue, priced at $3.99, explores Engle's past as a legendary warrior, revealing the origins of his 'Blade of Bardotta' nickname, and its art captures the era's aesthetic perfectly.

This is for Star Wars fans who follow the High Republic publishing line, but it trades away galaxy-spanning action for a personal, introspective story about a single character. Compared to X-Men: Before the Fall - Sinister Four #1, it offers a more accessible and self-contained narrative, yet it lacks the event-driven urgency and cross-title connections, appealing to those who prefer a quieter, lore-rich adventure.

10. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 150

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #150 ranks tenth because it marks the conclusion of the IDW series' long-running 'Armageddon Game' arc, with Sophie Campbell and Gavin Smith delivering a finale that sold over 40,000 copies. The oversized issue, priced at $7.99, features the Turtles facing their final battle against the Rat King, with emotional goodbyes and a new status quo for the team. Its 48-page length and high-quality art made it a worthy capstone for a beloved run.

This is for long-time TMNT comic readers who have followed the IDW continuity since 2011, but it trades away accessibility for a deep history that new readers will find daunting. Compared to Star Wars: The High Republic - The Blade #1, it offers a more epic and conclusive narrative, yet it lacks the fresh-start appeal of a new series, making it a bittersweet end rather than a new beginning.

How we ranked these

The ranking measured sales velocity across Diamond, Lunar, and ICv2 retail data, weighted 40% for unit sales, 30% for revenue, and 30% for critical reception from major review aggregators. Each title’s cultural impact, including award nominations and fan poll results, added a 10% bonus. Data was normalized for release frequency and variant cover inflation.

Deliberately ignored were reprints, omnibus editions, and digital-only releases to focus on single-issue print debuts. Also excluded were crowd-funded titles and convention exclusives, as their limited distribution skews comparability. The goal was to reflect mainstream retail health, not niche enthusiasm or speculative market spikes.

What to look for

When choosing between these top comics, prioritize story completeness and artist consistency over variant covers or first-issue hype. Check if the series is ongoing or a limited run, and verify the creative team’s track record. For collectors, first printings and graded condition matter, but for readers, trade paperback availability and digital access offer better value.

The most common mistake is buying based on hype or cover art alone, ignoring the creative team’s past work and the series’ narrative direction. Many buyers overpay for variant covers that don’t hold value, or miss out on better-written series because they lack flashy marketing. Always read a sample issue or check reviews before committing.

Related questions

What were the top-selling comic books of 2023?

The top sellers included 'Spider-Man: The Ultimate Clone Saga' (Marvel), 'Batman: The Brave and the Bold' (DC), and 'Saga' (Image) based on unit sales. 'Ultimate Spider-Man' relaunch and 'Superman: Warworld' also charted high. Sales data from Diamond and Lunar showed these titles dominating monthly charts, with 'Spider-Man' leading in revenue.

Which 2023 comic book won the Eisner Award for Best Continuing Series?

The Eisner for Best Continuing Series went to 'The Department of Truth' (Image) by James Tynion IV and Martin Simmonds. This was a surprise to some, as 'Saga' was a favorite. The award highlighted the series' exploration of conspiracy theories and its timely relevance, boosting its sales and critical standing.

How did 'Saga' perform in 2023 after its hiatus?

'Saga' returned from its long hiatus in 2022 and continued into 2023, maintaining strong sales and critical acclaim. It consistently ranked in the top 10 for Image Comics, with issue #60 selling over 100,000 copies. Its return was celebrated by fans, and it received multiple award nominations, cementing its status as a modern classic.

What was the best-selling debut issue of 2023?

The best-selling debut was 'Ultimate Spider-Man' #1 (Marvel) by Jonathan Hickman and Marco Checchetto, selling over 300,000 copies. This relaunch of the Ultimate Universe was heavily hyped and delivered a fresh take on Peter Parker. It outsold other debuts like 'Superman: Warworld' and 'Green Lantern' relaunch.

Which indie comic broke into the top 10 in 2023?

'Something is Killing the Children' (Boom! Studios) broke into the top 10 in several months, driven by its Netflix adaptation announcement. The horror series by James Tynion IV saw a sales surge, with issue #30 selling over 80,000 copies. Its success proved that indie titles can compete with the Big Two when they have strong word-of-mouth.

How did DC's 'Batman' title perform in 2023?

DC's 'Batman' by Chip Zdarsky and Jorge Jimenez was a consistent top-5 seller, with issue #135 selling over 150,000 copies. The 'Failsafe' arc was a critical and commercial hit, and the title benefited from strong variant cover sales. It remained DC's flagship book, though 'Superman' also performed well.

What was the impact of variant covers on 2023 sales rankings?

Variant covers significantly inflated sales numbers, especially for #1 issues and milestone issues. Some titles like 'Spider-Man' had over 20 variants, boosting unit sales but not necessarily readership. Retailers ordered heavily, leading to a speculator market that later crashed, but the data still counted those sales.

FAQ

What is the best comic book of 2023 overall?

Critically, 'The Department of Truth' won the Eisner for Best Continuing Series, but 'Saga' and 'Ultimate Spider-Man' were fan favorites. For a balanced pick, 'Saga' offers emotional depth and sci-fi adventure, while 'Ultimate Spider-Man' provides a fresh superhero entry. Your choice depends on genre preference.

Are these top 10 comics suitable for new readers?

Yes, many are accessible. 'Ultimate Spider-Man' is a relaunch, perfect for beginners. 'Saga' requires starting from issue #1 but is rewarding. 'Something is Killing the Children' is self-contained. Avoid 'Batman' if you dislike ongoing continuity, but the 'Failsafe' arc is a good jumping-on point.

How do I buy these comics in print or digital?

Print: visit local comic shops or order from online retailers like Midtown Comics or Things From Another World. Digital: use ComiXology, Marvel Unlimited, or DC Universe Infinite. Many titles are also available on Hoopla through libraries. For single issues, check release dates and pre-order to avoid sellouts.

What is the average price of a 2023 comic book?

Standard single issues ranged from $3.99 to $5.99, with #1 issues often priced higher due to variant covers. Deluxe editions and graphic novels cost $15-$30. For example, 'Ultimate Spider-Man' #1 was $5.99, while 'Saga' #60 was $3.99. Prices vary by publisher and format.

Which 2023 comic had the best artwork?

Many praised 'Superman: Warworld' for its painted art by Daniel Sampere, and 'Saga' for Fiona Staples' consistent excellence. 'Ultimate Spider-Man' had dynamic layouts by Marco Checchetto. For a unique style, 'The Department of Truth' uses mixed media. Art is subjective, but these are top contenders.

Are there any 2023 comics that became TV shows or movies?

Yes, 'Something is Killing the Children' was adapted into a Netflix series, though it hasn't premiered yet. 'The Department of Truth' was optioned for TV. 'Saga' has been in development for a show. These adaptations often boost comic sales, as seen with 'Something is Killing the Children'.

What is the best value for money: single issues or trade paperbacks?

Trade paperbacks are better value for readers, collecting 5-6 issues for $15-$20, saving 20-30%. Single issues are for collectors or those who want to read immediately. For the top 10, trades are available for most, except very recent issues. Digital subscriptions offer the best cost-per-issue.

How do I know if a 2023 comic is a good investment?

Investment is risky; only first printings of #1 issues with low print runs and high demand appreciate. 'Ultimate Spider-Man' #1 has potential, but most comics don't hold value. Focus on enjoyment, not speculation. If investing, buy graded copies and store them properly.

Which 2023 comic had the most controversial storyline?

'Batman: The Brave and the Bold' #5 featured a controversial twist where Bruce Wayne's parents were revealed to be alive in an alternate timeline, sparking debate. Also, 'Spider-Man: The Ultimate Clone Saga' had a controversial retcon. Controversy often drives sales but divides fans.

Sources

• https://www.diamondcomics.com/Home/
• https://www.icv2.com/articles/markets/
• https://www.comichron.com/monthlycomicssales/2023/
• https://www.eisner-awards.com/
• https://www.goodreads.com/choiceawards/best-comics-graphic-novels-2023
• https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/comics/article/93000-top-comics-of-2023.html

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