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Top 10 Comic Books 2004

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

📖 2,461 words🗓️ Published Aug 30, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best comic books 2004 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns

Frank Miller's four-issue prestige series redefined Batman for a new generation, presenting a 55-year-old Bruce Wayne coming out of retirement in a dystopian near-future Gotham. Its 1986 release, collected as a trade paperback in 1987, sold over 900,000 copies and remains the best-selling graphic novel in DC history. The story's gritty, noir-infused art and deconstructive take on superhero tropes made it a landmark of the modern comics era.

This is for readers who want a mature, literary take on the superhero mythos, not a traditional action romp. It trades away the fast-paced, continuity-heavy storytelling of monthly issues for a dense, self-contained narrative. Compared to Watchmen, which also deconstructs the genre, this book is more focused on a single character's psychological journey and less on a sprawling ensemble cast. It is the definitive starting point for anyone exploring the darker side of comics.

2. Watchmen

Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' 12-issue limited series, published in 1986-87, is a masterclass in comic book storytelling, using a tight grid of nine panels per page and intricate mirroring of art and text. It won the Hugo Award in 1988, the only graphic novel to do so, and has sold over one million copies. The story reimagines superheroes as flawed, psychologically damaged individuals in an alternate Cold War America.

This book is for readers who appreciate complex narratives and moral ambiguity, not for those seeking straightforward good-versus-evil tales. It trades away the action-packed pacing of typical superhero comics for a dense, intellectually demanding plot with multiple timelines and perspectives. Compared to The Dark Knight Returns, which is a character study, Watchmen is a broader societal critique with a larger cast. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the literary potential of comics.

3. The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes

Neil Gaiman's debut arc of The Sandman, collecting issues #1-8 from 1989, introduced Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams, and established the series as a cornerstone of the Vertigo imprint. The collected edition has remained in print for over three decades, selling over 500,000 copies. Its blend of horror, fantasy, and mythology, along with Sam Kieth and Mike Dringenberg's art, created a uniquely atmospheric and literate work.

This is for readers who enjoy dark fantasy and literary fiction, not for those expecting traditional superhero action. It trades away the straightforward narrative of mainstream comics for a slow-burning, mythic tale that draws on everything from Shakespeare to ancient folklore. Compared to Watchmen, which is grounded in a realistic world, this book is unabashedly fantastical and dreamlike. It is a perfect entry point into Gaiman's broader Sandman universe.

4. Maus: A Survivor's Tale

Art Spiegelman's Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel, serialized from 1980 to 1991, tells the story of his father's experiences as a Polish Jew during the Holocaust, depicting Jews as mice and Nazis as cats. The complete two-volume edition has sold over 2 million copies worldwide and has been translated into over 30 languages. Its stark black-and-white art and innovative use of animal allegory created a powerful and unflinching account of trauma and memory.

This is for readers seeking a profound and historically significant work, not for those looking for light entertainment. It trades away the escapism of genre fiction for a harrowing, deeply personal family history. Compared to The Sandman, which is purely fictional, this book is a non-fiction memoir with immense documentary value. It is a crucial work for understanding both the Holocaust and the artistic potential of the comics medium.

5. The Killing Joke

Alan Moore and Brian Bolland's 1988 one-shot graphic novel is a definitive Joker origin story, presenting a dark and disturbing narrative that explores the thin line between sanity and madness. The 48-page story has sold over 500,000 copies and is considered one of the most influential Batman stories ever written. Bolland's detailed, painted art and Moore's chilling script created an atmosphere of psychological terror.

This book is for Batman fans who want a dark, psychological thriller, not for those seeking a light-hearted adventure. It trades away the broader Bat-family dynamics for a focused, brutal confrontation between Batman and his greatest foe. Compared to The Dark Knight Returns, which is a large-scale epic, this is a intimate, character-driven horror story. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the Joker's character, but its mature themes are not for younger readers.

6. Y: The Last Man

Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra's 60-issue series, running from 2002 to 2008, follows Yorick Brown, the last man on Earth after a mysterious plague kills every male mammal. The first trade paperback, collecting issues #1-5, was published in 2003 and the series won three Eisner Awards. Its premise of a world without men allowed for a rich exploration of gender, politics, and survival.

This is for readers who enjoy speculative fiction with strong character development, not for those expecting a straightforward superhero narrative. It trades away the caped crusaders for a grounded, post-apocalyptic road trip with a diverse female cast. Compared to The Sandman, which is steeped in mythology, this is a more contemporary and politically charged story. It is an excellent choice for readers looking for a long-form, character-driven epic.

7. Astonishing X-Men: Gifted

Joss Whedon and John Cassaday's 2004 relaunch of the X-Men, collecting issues #1-6, brought the team back to its core themes of mutant rights and personal drama. The arc, featuring a new threat in the form of a mutant cure, was a critical and commercial hit, with the trade paperback becoming a bestseller. Whedon's sharp dialogue and Cassaday's cinematic art created a modern classic.

This is for X-Men fans who want a return to classic team dynamics, not for those who prefer the edgier, more violent takes of the 90s. It trades away the convoluted continuity of the era for a clean, accessible story that respects the characters' history. Compared to Y: The Last Man, which is a standalone saga, this is a superhero book that relies on existing mythology.

8. Identity Crisis

Brad Meltzer's 2004-2005 seven-issue miniseries, with art by Rags Morales, was a massive bestseller that redefined the DC Universe by centering on the murder of Sue Dibny, wife of the Elongated Man. The story revealed a dark secret about the Justice League's past, involving the mind-wiping of villains, and sparked intense debate among fans. It sold over 200,000 copies of the first issue and became one of the top-selling comics of the year.

This is for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries with a dark edge, not for those seeking light-hearted superheroics. It trades away the epic scale of a Justice League story for a deeply personal, emotional murder investigation. Compared to Astonishing X-Men, which is more optimistic, this book is grim and morally ambiguous. It is a controversial but influential work that changed the tone of DC's line for years.

9. Batman: Hush

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee's 12-issue storyline from 2002-2003, collected in 2004, is a sprawling Batman epic featuring nearly every major villain and ally in his rogues' gallery. The story introduces a new villain, Hush, who manipulates Batman's life from the shadows. Jim Lee's detailed, dynamic art made the book a visual spectacle, and the trade paperback became a permanent bestseller.

This is for fans who want a visually stunning, action-packed Batman story with a wide cast, not for those seeking a deep psychological study. It trades away the focused, intimate feel of The Killing Joke for a blockbuster, cinematic experience. Compared to Identity Crisis, which is a deconstruction, this is a more traditional superhero adventure with a twist. It is an ideal entry point for new readers due to its accessibility and high-quality art.

10. The Walking Dead: Days Gone Bye

Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore's first trade paperback, collecting issues #1-6 from 2003-2004, launched the seminal zombie survival horror series. The story follows Rick Grimes as he wakes from a coma to find the world overrun by the undead. The black-and-white art and focus on human drama over gore set it apart from other zombie fiction.

This is for readers who enjoy survival horror and long-form serialized storytelling, not for those who prefer colorful superhero adventures. It trades away the fantastical elements of comics for a grounded, brutal look at human nature in a crisis. Compared to Batman: Hush, which is a polished, big-budget story, this is a raw, indie-style book with a slower burn. It is a compelling start to a series that would become a cultural phenomenon.

How we ranked these

The ranking weighted critical reception from major comic review aggregators, sales figures from Diamond Comic Distributors' monthly charts, and industry awards like the Eisner and Harvey Awards. Each title's cultural impact and lasting influence on subsequent storylines were also factored in, with points assigned for innovation in art or narrative structure.

Deliberately ignored were variant cover speculation values, short-term market hype, and personal fan preferences. The goal was to assess objective quality and historical significance, not investment potential. Crossover event fatigue and tie-in issues were excluded unless they stood alone as compelling reads. This approach prioritizes the work's intrinsic merit over transient collector behavior.

FAQ

What is the best comic book of 2004?

There is no single best, but 'Identity Crisis' and 'Blankets' are often cited. 'Identity Crisis' was a major event with strong sales, while 'Blankets' won critical acclaim. Your preference depends on whether you value mainstream superhero drama or indie autobiographical art.

What was the biggest comic book event of 2004?

The biggest event was 'Identity Crisis' from DC, which centered on the murder of Sue Dibny and reshaped the DC Universe. It was a crossover that affected many titles and had a lasting impact on continuity, despite mixed fan reactions.

What were the best comic book artists of 2004?

Notable artists included Jim Lee for 'Batman: Hush' (though it continued into 2003), and John Cassaday for 'Astonishing X-Men'. Craig Thompson's art in 'Blankets' was also highly praised. These artists were recognized for their distinct styles and storytelling abilities.

What were the best comic book writers of 2004?

Top writers included Brian Michael Bendis for 'New Avengers' and 'Daredevil', Joss Whedon for 'Astonishing X-Men', and Brad Meltzer for 'Identity Crisis'. Their scripts were praised for character depth and dialogue, earning them industry recognition.

What were the most underrated comics of 2004?

Underrated gems include 'The Losers' by Andy Diggle, 'Y: The Last Man' (though ongoing), and 'Ex Machina' by Brian K. Vaughan. These titles received critical praise but didn't achieve mainstream sales, making them hidden treasures for readers.

What were the best comic book covers of 2004?

Notable covers include 'New Avengers' #1 by David Finch, 'Identity Crisis' #1 by Michael Turner, and 'Astonishing X-Men' #1 by John Cassaday. These covers were iconic and helped drive sales, often becoming collectible.

What were the best comic book series that started in 2004?

New series like 'New Avengers', 'Astonishing X-Men', and 'Ex Machina' debuted in 2004. Each brought fresh creative directions and strong sales. 'Ex Machina' combined politics with superheroics, while 'Astonishing X-Men' revived the team under Whedon's writing.

What were the best comic book miniseries of 2004?

Miniseries like 'Identity Crisis' (7 issues) and 'Superman: For Tomorrow' (12 issues) were prominent. 'Identity Crisis' was a major event, while 'For Tomorrow' offered a standalone story. Both were well-received and collected in trade paperbacks.

What were the best comic book one-shots of 2004?

One-shots like 'Batman: The 12-Cent Adventure' and 'The Walking Dead' #24 (though not a one-shot) were notable. However, true one-shots were rare. 'Batman: The 12-Cent Adventure' was a promotional issue that gained attention.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best comic books 2004"] S --> R0["1. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns"] S --> R1["2. Watchmen"] S --> R2["3. The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes"] S --> R3["4. Maus: A Survivor's Tale"] S --> R4["5. The Killing Joke"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing comic books 2004"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["Batman: The Dark Knight Returns"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["Maus: A Survivor's Tale"] D -->|"No"| F["The Walking Dead: Days Gone Bye"]

Related on PULSE

[More comic books 2004 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best comic books 2004 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns

Frank Miller's four-issue prestige series redefined Batman for a new generation, presenting a 55-year-old Bruce Wayne coming out of retirement in a dystopian near-future Gotham. Its 1986 release, collected as a trade paperback in 1987, sold over 900,000 copies and remains the best-selling graphic novel in DC history. The story's gritty, noir-infused art and deconstructive take on superhero tropes made it a landmark of the modern comics era.

This is for readers who want a mature, literary take on the superhero mythos, not a traditional action romp. It trades away the fast-paced, continuity-heavy storytelling of monthly issues for a dense, self-contained narrative. Compared to Watchmen, which also deconstructs the genre, this book is more focused on a single character's psychological journey and less on a sprawling ensemble cast. It is the definitive starting point for anyone exploring the darker side of comics.

## 2. Watchmen

Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' 12-issue limited series, published in 1986-87, is a masterclass in comic book storytelling, using a tight grid of nine panels per page and intricate mirroring of art and text. It won the Hugo Award in 1988, the only graphic novel to do so, and has sold over one million copies. The story reimagines superheroes as flawed, psychologically damaged individuals in an alternate Cold War America.

This book is for readers who appreciate complex narratives and moral ambiguity, not for those seeking straightforward good-versus-evil tales. It trades away the action-packed pacing of typical superhero comics for a dense, intellectually demanding plot with multiple timelines and perspectives. Compared to The Dark Knight Returns, which is a character study, Watchmen is a broader societal critique with a larger cast. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the literary potential of comics.

## 3. The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes

Neil Gaiman's debut arc of The Sandman, collecting issues #1-8 from 1989, introduced Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams, and established the series as a cornerstone of the Vertigo imprint. The collected edition has remained in print for over three decades, selling over 500,000 copies. Its blend of horror, fantasy, and mythology, along with Sam Kieth and Mike Dringenberg's art, created a uniquely atmospheric and literate work.

This is for readers who enjoy dark fantasy and literary fiction, not for those expecting traditional superhero action. It trades away the straightforward narrative of mainstream comics for a slow-burning, mythic tale that draws on everything from Shakespeare to ancient folklore. Compared to Watchmen, which is grounded in a realistic world, this book is unabashedly fantastical and dreamlike. It is a perfect entry point into Gaiman's broader Sandman universe.

## 4. Maus: A Survivor's Tale

Art Spiegelman's Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel, serialized from 1980 to 1991, tells the story of his father's experiences as a Polish Jew during the Holocaust, depicting Jews as mice and Nazis as cats. The complete two-volume edition has sold over 2 million copies worldwide and has been translated into over 30 languages. Its stark black-and-white art and innovative use of animal allegory created a powerful and unflinching account of trauma and memory.

This is for readers seeking a profound and historically significant work, not for those looking for light entertainment. It trades away the escapism of genre fiction for a harrowing, deeply personal family history. Compared to The Sandman, which is purely fictional, this book is a non-fiction memoir with immense documentary value. It is a crucial work for understanding both the Holocaust and the artistic potential of the comics medium.

## 5. The Killing Joke

Alan Moore and Brian Bolland's 1988 one-shot graphic novel is a definitive Joker origin story, presenting a dark and disturbing narrative that explores the thin line between sanity and madness. The 48-page story has sold over 500,000 copies and is considered one of the most influential Batman stories ever written. Bolland's detailed, painted art and Moore's chilling script created an atmosphere of psychological terror.

This book is for Batman fans who want a dark, psychological thriller, not for those seeking a light-hearted adventure. It trades away the broader Bat-family dynamics for a focused, brutal confrontation between Batman and his greatest foe. Compared to The Dark Knight Returns, which is a large-scale epic, this is a intimate, character-driven horror story. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the Joker's character, but its mature themes are not for younger readers.

## 6. Y: The Last Man

Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra's 60-issue series, running from 2002 to 2008, follows Yorick Brown, the last man on Earth after a mysterious plague kills every male mammal. The first trade paperback, collecting issues #1-5, was published in 2003 and the series won three Eisner Awards. Its premise of a world without men allowed for a rich exploration of gender, politics, and survival.

This is for readers who enjoy speculative fiction with strong character development, not for those expecting a straightforward superhero narrative. It trades away the caped crusaders for a grounded, post-apocalyptic road trip with a diverse female cast. Compared to The Sandman, which is steeped in mythology, this is a more contemporary and politically charged story. It is an excellent choice for readers looking for a long-form, character-driven epic.

## 7. Astonishing X-Men: Gifted

Joss Whedon and John Cassaday's 2004 relaunch of the X-Men, collecting issues #1-6, brought the team back to its core themes of mutant rights and personal drama. The arc, featuring a new threat in the form of a mutant cure, was a critical and commercial hit, with the trade paperback becoming a bestseller. Whedon's sharp dialogue and Cassaday's cinematic art created a modern classic.

This is for X-Men fans who want a return to classic team dynamics, not for those who prefer the edgier, more violent takes of the 90s. It trades away the convoluted continuity of the era for a clean, accessible story that respects the characters' history. Compared to Y: The Last Man, which is a standalone saga, this is a superhero book that relies on existing mythology.

## 8. Identity Crisis

Brad Meltzer's 2004-2005 seven-issue miniseries, with art by Rags Morales, was a massive bestseller that redefined the DC Universe by centering on the murder of Sue Dibny, wife of the Elongated Man. The story revealed a dark secret about the Justice League's past, involving the mind-wiping of villains, and sparked intense debate among fans. It sold over 200,000 copies of the first issue and became one of the top-selling comics of the year.

This is for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries with a dark edge, not for those seeking light-hearted superheroics. It trades away the epic scale of a Justice League story for a deeply personal, emotional murder investigation. Compared to Astonishing X-Men, which is more optimistic, this book is grim and morally ambiguous. It is a controversial but influential work that changed the tone of DC's line for years.

## 9. Batman: Hush

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee's 12-issue storyline from 2002-2003, collected in 2004, is a sprawling Batman epic featuring nearly every major villain and ally in his rogues' gallery. The story introduces a new villain, Hush, who manipulates Batman's life from the shadows. Jim Lee's detailed, dynamic art made the book a visual spectacle, and the trade paperback became a permanent bestseller.

This is for fans who want a visually stunning, action-packed Batman story with a wide cast, not for those seeking a deep psychological study. It trades away the focused, intimate feel of The Killing Joke for a blockbuster, cinematic experience. Compared to Identity Crisis, which is a deconstruction, this is a more traditional superhero adventure with a twist. It is an ideal entry point for new readers due to its accessibility and high-quality art.

## 10. The Walking Dead: Days Gone Bye

Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore's first trade paperback, collecting issues #1-6 from 2003-2004, launched the seminal zombie survival horror series. The story follows Rick Grimes as he wakes from a coma to find the world overrun by the undead. The black-and-white art and focus on human drama over gore set it apart from other zombie fiction.

This is for readers who enjoy survival horror and long-form serialized storytelling, not for those who prefer colorful superhero adventures. It trades away the fantastical elements of comics for a grounded, brutal look at human nature in a crisis. Compared to Batman: Hush, which is a polished, big-budget story, this is a raw, indie-style book with a slower burn. It is a compelling start to a series that would become a cultural phenomenon.

## How we ranked these

The ranking weighted critical reception from major comic review aggregators, sales figures from Diamond Comic Distributors' monthly charts, and industry awards like the Eisner and Harvey Awards. Each title's cultural impact and lasting influence on subsequent storylines were also factored in, with points assigned for innovation in art or narrative structure.

Deliberately ignored were variant cover speculation values, short-term market hype, and personal fan preferences. The goal was to assess objective quality and historical significance, not investment potential. Crossover event fatigue and tie-in issues were excluded unless they stood alone as compelling reads. This approach prioritizes the work's intrinsic merit over transient collector behavior.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best comic books 2004"]
  S --> R0["1. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns"]
  S --> R1["2. Watchmen"]
  S --> R2["3. The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes"]
  S --> R3["4. Maus: A Survivor's Tale"]
  S --> R4["5. The Killing Joke"]
```

## Related questions

### What were the best-selling comic books of 2004?

According to Diamond Comic Distributors, the top-selling comics of 2004 included 'Identity Crisis' #1-7, 'Batman: War Games' #1, and 'New Avengers' #1. These titles benefited from major event status and high-profile creative teams, driving significant sales. However, sales figures don't always reflect critical acclaim, as some smaller titles received better reviews.

### Which comic books won major awards in 2004?

The 2004 Eisner Awards honored 'Blankets' by Craig Thompson for Best Graphic Album, while 'Fables' won Best Serialized Story. The Harvey Awards recognized 'Batman: The Dark Knight Strikes Again' and 'The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen'. These awards highlight both indie and mainstream achievements, showcasing the diversity of quality comics that year.

### What were the most influential comic book storylines of 2004?

Key influential storylines included 'Identity Crisis' which reshaped DC Universe continuity, 'Planetary' #24 concluding Warren Ellis's epic, and 'The Walking Dead' #24-30 expanding the zombie saga. These stories had lasting impacts on their respective universes, influencing future writers and event structures.

### What were the best indie comics of 2004?

Notable indie comics included 'Blankets' by Craig Thompson, 'Asterios Polyp' (though released later), and 'The Escapists' by Brian K. Vaughan. 'Blankets' won multiple awards for its autobiographical storytelling. 'The Walking Dead' also gained critical acclaim as an indie title before becoming a mainstream phenomenon.

### What were the top Marvel comics of 2004?

Marvel's top comics included 'New Avengers' #1, which launched a new team, 'Astonishing X-Men' by Joss Whedon, and 'Captain America' by Ed Brubaker. These titles received strong reviews and sales, setting the stage for major events like 'House of M' in 2005.

### What were the top DC comics of 2004?

DC's top comics included 'Identity Crisis' by Brad Meltzer, 'Batman: War Games', and 'Superman: For Tomorrow' by Brian Azzarello. 'Identity Crisis' was a major event that redefined the DC Universe's tone, while 'For Tomorrow' offered a philosophical take on Superman.

### What were the best-selling graphic novels of 2004?

Graphic novels like 'Blankets' and 'The Walking Dead: Book One' topped sales charts. 'Blankets' won several awards and became a bestseller, while 'The Walking Dead' collected editions gained popularity. These successes demonstrated the growing market for long-form storytelling.

## FAQ

**What is the best comic book of 2004?**

There is no single best, but 'Identity Crisis' and 'Blankets' are often cited. 'Identity Crisis' was a major event with strong sales, while 'Blankets' won critical acclaim. Your preference depends on whether you value mainstream superhero drama or indie autobiographical art.

**What was the biggest comic book event of 2004?**

The biggest event was 'Identity Crisis' from DC, which centered on the murder of Sue Dibny and reshaped the DC Universe. It was a crossover that affected many titles and had a lasting impact on continuity, despite mixed fan reactions.

**What were the best comic book artists of 2004?**

Notable artists included Jim Lee for 'Batman: Hush' (though it continued into 2003), and John Cassaday for 'Astonishing X-Men'. Craig Thompson's art in 'Blankets' was also highly praised. These artists were recognized for their distinct styles and storytelling abilities.

**What were the best comic book writers of 2004?**

Top writers included Brian Michael Bendis for 'New Avengers' and 'Daredevil', Joss Whedon for 'Astonishing X-Men', and Brad Meltzer for 'Identity Crisis'. Their scripts were praised for character depth and dialogue, earning them industry recognition.

**What were the most underrated comics of 2004?**

Underrated gems include 'The Losers' by Andy Diggle, 'Y: The Last Man' (though ongoing), and 'Ex Machina' by Brian K. Vaughan. These titles received critical praise but didn't achieve mainstream sales, making them hidden treasures for readers.

**What were the best comic book covers of 2004?**

Notable covers include 'New Avengers' #1 by David Finch, 'Identity Crisis' #1 by Michael Turner, and 'Astonishing X-Men' #1 by John Cassaday. These covers were iconic and helped drive sales, often becoming collectible.

**What were the best comic book series that started in 2004?**

New series like 'New Avengers', 'Astonishing X-Men', and 'Ex Machina' debuted in 2004. Each brought fresh creative directions and strong sales. 'Ex Machina' combined politics with superheroics, while 'Astonishing X-Men' revived the team under Whedon's writing.

**What were the best comic book miniseries of 2004?**

Miniseries like 'Identity Crisis' (7 issues) and 'Superman: For Tomorrow' (12 issues) were prominent. 'Identity Crisis' was a major event, while 'For Tomorrow' offered a standalone story. Both were well-received and collected in trade paperbacks.

**What were the best comic book one-shots of 2004?**

One-shots like 'Batman: The 12-Cent Adventure' and 'The Walking Dead' #24 (though not a one-shot) were notable. However, true one-shots were rare. 'Batman: The 12-Cent Adventure' was a promotional issue that gained attention.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing comic books 2004"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["Batman: The Dark Knight Returns"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["Maus: A Survivor's Tale"]
  D -->|"No"| F["The Walking Dead: Days Gone Bye"]
```

## Sources

- https://www.diamondcomics.com/Home/
- https://www.comic-con.org/awards/eisner-awards
- https://www.harveyawards.org/
- https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/1230.Best_Comics_of_2004
- https://www.cbr.com/tag/2004-comics/

## Related on PULSE

- [More comic books 2004 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Kory White

Top 10 Comic Books 2004

1. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns

2. Watchmen

3. The Sandman: Preludes & Nocturnes

4. Maus: A Survivor's Tale

5. The Killing Joke

6. Y: The Last Man

7. Astonishing X-Men: Gifted

8. Identity Crisis

9. Batman: Hush

10. The Walking Dead: Days Gone Bye

How we ranked these

Related questions

What were the best-selling comic books of 2004?

Which comic books won major awards in 2004?

What were the most influential comic book storylines of 2004?

What were the best indie comics of 2004?

What were the top Marvel comics of 2004?

What were the top DC comics of 2004?

What were the best-selling graphic novels of 2004?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

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