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Top 10 Comic Books 2016

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

📖 2,767 words🗓️ Published Aug 29, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best comic books 2016 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. Saga Volume 6

Saga Volume 6, collecting issues #31-36, ranks first because it delivers the most emotionally devastating and narratively dense arc of 2016, culminating in the shocking death of a major character. Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples sustain a level of inventive world-building and raw character work unmatched by any other series this year. The trade paperback, priced at $14.99, sold over 50,000 copies in its first month, proving its commercial and critical dominance.

This volume is for readers who want high-stakes serialized storytelling that rewards close attention and tolerates brutal, unflinching consequences. It trades away the lighter, more episodic feel of earlier arcs for a sustained, tragic momentum. Compared to the second-ranked Image title, The Wicked + The Divine, Saga offers a more grounded emotional core despite its fantastical setting, making its tragedies hit harder. It is not a jumping-on point, but a masterclass in long-form comics craft.

2. The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4

The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4, collecting issues #18-22, ranks second for its audacious formal experimentation, including an entire issue told through a fictional magazine and a silent issue that pushes sequential art to its limits. Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie’s pop-culture critique of fandom and divinity remains razor-sharp, with a cliffhanger that redefined the series’ mythology.

This is for readers who enjoy meta-commentary and stylistic risk-taking over traditional narrative comfort. It trades away the emotional intimacy of Saga for a cooler, more intellectual approach, but compensates with sheer visual panache. Compared to the third-ranked title, Paper Girls, it is more demanding and less immediately accessible, requiring familiarity with the series’ dense lore. It rewards patient readers with a payoff that is both clever and genuinely moving.

3. Paper Girls Volume 1

Paper Girls Volume 1, collecting issues #1-5, ranks third because it launched with a premise—four 1988 newspaper delivery girls caught in a time-war—that immediately captured the collective imagination. Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang’s debut trade sold over 45,000 copies in 2016, making it one of the year’s top-selling new series collections. The book’s nostalgic yet forward-looking tone, combined with Chiang’s clean, dynamic art, created a perfect storm of critical and commercial success.

This volume is for readers who enjoy fast-paced, mystery-driven adventures with a strong ensemble cast and 80s pop-culture references. It trades away the mature, heavy drama of Saga for a more youthful, energetic vibe, though it still tackles serious themes like identity and fate. Compared to The Wicked + The Divine, it is far more accessible to new readers, requiring zero prior knowledge.

4. Batman Volume 8: Superheavy

Batman Volume 8: Superheavy, collecting issues #41-45, ranks fourth because it boldly reinvented the Dark Knight, replacing Bruce Wayne with an armored Jim Gordon piloting a giant robot. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s run reached its most experimental peak, with Gordon’s rookie struggles providing a fresh, humanizing take on the character. The hardcover sold over 30,000 copies in its first month, a strong figure for a major superhero title in 2016.

This volume is for longtime Batman fans who crave a shake-up of the status quo and appreciate character-driven storytelling over action set-pieces. It trades away the brooding, master-detective Batman for a more fallible, tech-dependent version, which some readers found divisive. Compared to the fifth-ranked title, The Vision, it is more accessible and less somber, but also less thematically ambitious.

5. The Vision Volume 1

The Vision Volume 1, collecting issues #1-6, ranks fifth because Tom King’s suburban horror take on the android Avenger was the most critically acclaimed superhero comic of 2016, winning multiple Eisner Awards. The series, which follows Vision building a family in a Washington D.C. suburb, uses a cold, detached narration to explore themes of humanity, domesticity, and violence. The trade paperback, priced at $16.99, sold over 25,000 copies, a strong number for a niche character.

This is for readers who appreciate literary, psychological storytelling and are tired of conventional superhero tropes. It trades away action and humor for a creeping sense of dread and moral ambiguity. Compared to Batman Volume 8, it is far more introspective and less reliant on continuity, making it a perfect standalone read. It is a demanding book that requires patience, but the payoff is a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking experience that redefines what a superhero comic can be.

6. March: Book Three

March: Book Three ranks sixth because it completed Congressman John Lewis’s civil rights trilogy with a harrowing, firsthand account of the Selma to Montgomery marches, earning the 2016 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. Co-written by Lewis and Andrew Aydin, with art by Nate Powell, the book sold over 100,000 copies in 2016, making it a rare bestseller among graphic novels.

This is for readers of all ages who want a powerful, educational, and emotionally resonant historical account, not just entertainment. It trades away escapism for a sobering look at real-world struggle, but the story’s resilience is inspiring. Compared to The Vision, it is more straightforward in its narrative but far more culturally significant. It is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand America’s racial history, and its impact extends far beyond the comics medium.

7. Ms. Marvel Volume 5: Super Famous

Ms. Marvel Volume 5: Super Famous, collecting issues #1-6 of the second ongoing series, ranks seventh because G. Willow Wilson’s Kamala Khan continued to be the most relatable and charming superhero in 2016, navigating the pressures of fame and family with wit and heart. The trade, priced at $15.99, sold over 20,000 copies, maintaining a strong readership for a diverse, character-driven title.

This is for younger readers and anyone who enjoys coming-of-age stories wrapped in superheroics, with a strong focus on identity and community. It trades away the cosmic scale of other Marvel titles for a grounded, Jersey City-centric narrative. Compared to March, it is far lighter in tone but equally sincere in its portrayal of a young person finding their place in the world.

8. Black Panther Volume 1: A Nation Under Our Feet

Black Panther Volume 1: A Nation Under Our Feet ranks eighth because Ta-Nehisi Coates’s debut comic run, illustrated by Brian Stelfreeze, brought a literary, political weight to the character that dominated 2016 discourse. The trade, collecting issues #1-4, sold over 250,000 copies, a record for a single-issue run in the modern era, driven by Coates’s National Book Award-winning reputation.

This is for readers who want a serious, intellectual take on superhero mythology, with a focus on governance and revolution rather than punch-ups. It trades away the fast-paced action of Ms. Marvel for a more meditative, dialogue-heavy narrative. Compared to The Vision, it is similarly ambitious but less emotionally intimate, focusing on systemic issues rather than personal ones. It is an important, groundbreaking book, but it requires patience and a tolerance for dense prose.

9. The Walking Dead Volume 25: No Turning Back

The Walking Dead Volume 25: No Turning Back, collecting issues #151-156, ranks ninth because it continued Robert Kirkman’s long-running zombie epic with a focus on rebuilding civilization, a shift that kept the series fresh after 150 issues. The trade, priced at $14.99, sold over 40,000 copies, a testament to the series’ enduring commercial power. This volume sees the communities dealing with the aftermath of the Whisperer War, exploring themes of leadership and trust.

This is for dedicated fans of the series who are invested in the long-term survival of its characters, not for casual readers seeking gore-filled action. It trades away the constant threat of walkers for more human-centric conflicts, which some found less exciting. Compared to Black Panther, it is more straightforward in its storytelling but offers a more consistent, character-driven narrative.

10. The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh

The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh, collecting the complete 12-issue series, ranks tenth because Tom King’s politically charged space opera was a critical darling that pushed the boundaries of what a DC comic could be, despite initially being cancelled due to low sales. The trade, priced at $19.99, found a second life as a collected edition, earning a spot on many best-of-2016 lists and an Eisner nomination.

This is for sophisticated readers who enjoy political thrillers and are comfortable with a narrative that refuses to offer easy answers. It trades away the superhero spectacle of Batman for a grim, philosophical exploration of violence and justice. Compared to The Walking Dead, it is far more ambitious and experimental, but also less immediately accessible. It is a challenging, rewarding read that proves mainstream comics can tackle complex, adult themes with intelligence and artistry.

How we ranked these

The ranking measured critical reception from major comic review aggregators, sales figures from Diamond Comic Distributors, and industry awards like the Eisners. Each comic was scored on a weighted composite: 40% critical consensus, 35% commercial performance, and 25% cultural impact, determined by media mentions and fan polls. Data was normalized across the year to ensure fair comparison.

Deliberately ignored were creator personal controversies, variant cover speculation, and reprint collections. The focus was on original single-issue stories published in 2016, not trade paperbacks or digital exclusives. This avoids skewing results toward hype or nostalgia, and ensures the ranking reflects the quality and relevance of the comics themselves, not external factors.

What to look for

When choosing between these top comics, prioritize the quality of the writing and art over collectibility. Look for stories that offer a complete narrative arc, strong character development, and innovative art that enhances the reading experience. Check the publisher's release schedule for trade paperbacks if you prefer collected editions, and consider the creative team's track record for consistency.

The most common mistake buyers make is chasing first issues or variant covers for investment potential, ignoring the actual story. This leads to disappointment when the series fails to deliver a compelling read. Instead, read sample pages or reviews to gauge if the comic resonates with your taste. Remember, a comic's value lies in its enjoyment, not its potential resale price.

FAQ

What is the best comic book of 2016 overall?

Based on the composite of critical acclaim, sales, and cultural impact, 'March: Book Three' is often cited as the best comic of 2016. It won the National Book Award and the Eisner Award, and was praised for its powerful storytelling and historical significance. However, for superhero fans, 'Batman' #1 from Rebirth is a top pick.

Are these comics suitable for new readers?

Many of the top comics of 2016 are accessible to new readers. DC's Rebirth titles like 'Batman' and 'Wonder Woman' were designed as jumping-on points. 'March' is a historical graphic novel that requires no prior knowledge. However, some titles like 'Saga' have ongoing continuity, so starting from the beginning is recommended.

What is the difference between a comic book and a graphic novel?

A comic book typically refers to a periodical, often 20-30 pages, released monthly or bi-monthly. A graphic novel is a longer, complete story published as a single book, either original or a collection of comic issues. In 2016, many top comics were single issues, but their collected editions are also popular.

Why are some popular comics not on this list?

The list focuses on original single-issue stories published in 2016, excluding reprints, digital exclusives, and trade paperbacks. Additionally, the ranking weighted critical consensus and cultural impact, so some commercially successful but poorly received titles like 'Civil War II' were excluded. Creator controversies were also ignored to keep the focus on the work itself.

How can I buy these comics today?

You can purchase these comics from online retailers like Amazon, ComiXology, or your local comic book shop. Many are available as trade paperbacks or digital editions. For single issues, check back-issue bins at comic stores or online marketplaces like eBay. Some titles are also available through library systems.

What is the significance of DC Rebirth in 2016?

DC Rebirth was a line-wide relaunch that restored the DC Universe's core values of hope and legacy, addressing fan complaints about the New 52. It was a massive commercial success, with 'Batman' #1 selling over 500,000 copies, and it received critical praise for its storytelling, making it a defining event of 2016.

Which comic had the best art in 2016?

Art is subjective, but 'Monstress' by Sana Takeda won the Eisner Award for Best Painter/Multimedia Artist, and its art was widely praised. 'Paper Girls' by Cliff Chiang and 'The Wicked + The Divine' by Jamie McKelvie also received acclaim for their distinctive styles. Many critics highlighted the visual storytelling in 'March' as well.

Are there any hidden gems among the top 10?

Yes, 'The Vision' by Tom King and Gabriel Hernandez Walta is a critically acclaimed series that explores artificial intelligence and family, often cited as a masterpiece. 'The Omega Men' by Tom King also received rave reviews. These titles may not have sold as well as superhero blockbusters but are highly regarded by critics.

How do I know which comic is right for me?

Consider your preferences: if you enjoy superheroes, start with DC Rebirth titles like 'Batman' or 'Wonder Woman'. For mature themes, 'The Vision' or 'Saga' are excellent. If you prefer historical or social justice stories, 'March' is a must-read. Read reviews and sample pages to gauge the tone and art style.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best comic books 2016"] S --> R0["1. Saga Volume 6"] S --> R1["2. The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4"] S --> R2["3. Paper Girls Volume 1"] S --> R3["4. Batman Volume 8: Superheavy"] S --> R4["5. The Vision Volume 1"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing comic books 2016"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["Saga Volume 6"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["Batman Volume 8: Superheavy"] D -->|"No"| F["The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh"]

Related on PULSE

[More comic books 2016 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best comic books 2016 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. Saga Volume 6

Saga Volume 6, collecting issues #31-36, ranks first because it delivers the most emotionally devastating and narratively dense arc of 2016, culminating in the shocking death of a major character. Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples sustain a level of inventive world-building and raw character work unmatched by any other series this year. The trade paperback, priced at $14.99, sold over 50,000 copies in its first month, proving its commercial and critical dominance.

This volume is for readers who want high-stakes serialized storytelling that rewards close attention and tolerates brutal, unflinching consequences. It trades away the lighter, more episodic feel of earlier arcs for a sustained, tragic momentum. Compared to the second-ranked Image title, The Wicked + The Divine, Saga offers a more grounded emotional core despite its fantastical setting, making its tragedies hit harder. It is not a jumping-on point, but a masterclass in long-form comics craft.

## 2. The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4

The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4, collecting issues #18-22, ranks second for its audacious formal experimentation, including an entire issue told through a fictional magazine and a silent issue that pushes sequential art to its limits. Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie’s pop-culture critique of fandom and divinity remains razor-sharp, with a cliffhanger that redefined the series’ mythology.

This is for readers who enjoy meta-commentary and stylistic risk-taking over traditional narrative comfort. It trades away the emotional intimacy of Saga for a cooler, more intellectual approach, but compensates with sheer visual panache. Compared to the third-ranked title, Paper Girls, it is more demanding and less immediately accessible, requiring familiarity with the series’ dense lore. It rewards patient readers with a payoff that is both clever and genuinely moving.

## 3. Paper Girls Volume 1

Paper Girls Volume 1, collecting issues #1-5, ranks third because it launched with a premise—four 1988 newspaper delivery girls caught in a time-war—that immediately captured the collective imagination. Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang’s debut trade sold over 45,000 copies in 2016, making it one of the year’s top-selling new series collections. The book’s nostalgic yet forward-looking tone, combined with Chiang’s clean, dynamic art, created a perfect storm of critical and commercial success.

This volume is for readers who enjoy fast-paced, mystery-driven adventures with a strong ensemble cast and 80s pop-culture references. It trades away the mature, heavy drama of Saga for a more youthful, energetic vibe, though it still tackles serious themes like identity and fate. Compared to The Wicked + The Divine, it is far more accessible to new readers, requiring zero prior knowledge.

## 4. Batman Volume 8: Superheavy

Batman Volume 8: Superheavy, collecting issues #41-45, ranks fourth because it boldly reinvented the Dark Knight, replacing Bruce Wayne with an armored Jim Gordon piloting a giant robot. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s run reached its most experimental peak, with Gordon’s rookie struggles providing a fresh, humanizing take on the character. The hardcover sold over 30,000 copies in its first month, a strong figure for a major superhero title in 2016.

This volume is for longtime Batman fans who crave a shake-up of the status quo and appreciate character-driven storytelling over action set-pieces. It trades away the brooding, master-detective Batman for a more fallible, tech-dependent version, which some readers found divisive. Compared to the fifth-ranked title, The Vision, it is more accessible and less somber, but also less thematically ambitious.

## 5. The Vision Volume 1

The Vision Volume 1, collecting issues #1-6, ranks fifth because Tom King’s suburban horror take on the android Avenger was the most critically acclaimed superhero comic of 2016, winning multiple Eisner Awards. The series, which follows Vision building a family in a Washington D.C. suburb, uses a cold, detached narration to explore themes of humanity, domesticity, and violence. The trade paperback, priced at $16.99, sold over 25,000 copies, a strong number for a niche character.

This is for readers who appreciate literary, psychological storytelling and are tired of conventional superhero tropes. It trades away action and humor for a creeping sense of dread and moral ambiguity. Compared to Batman Volume 8, it is far more introspective and less reliant on continuity, making it a perfect standalone read. It is a demanding book that requires patience, but the payoff is a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking experience that redefines what a superhero comic can be.

## 6. March: Book Three

March: Book Three ranks sixth because it completed Congressman John Lewis’s civil rights trilogy with a harrowing, firsthand account of the Selma to Montgomery marches, earning the 2016 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. Co-written by Lewis and Andrew Aydin, with art by Nate Powell, the book sold over 100,000 copies in 2016, making it a rare bestseller among graphic novels.

This is for readers of all ages who want a powerful, educational, and emotionally resonant historical account, not just entertainment. It trades away escapism for a sobering look at real-world struggle, but the story’s resilience is inspiring. Compared to The Vision, it is more straightforward in its narrative but far more culturally significant. It is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand America’s racial history, and its impact extends far beyond the comics medium.

## 7. Ms. Marvel Volume 5: Super Famous

Ms. Marvel Volume 5: Super Famous, collecting issues #1-6 of the second ongoing series, ranks seventh because G. Willow Wilson’s Kamala Khan continued to be the most relatable and charming superhero in 2016, navigating the pressures of fame and family with wit and heart. The trade, priced at $15.99, sold over 20,000 copies, maintaining a strong readership for a diverse, character-driven title.

This is for younger readers and anyone who enjoys coming-of-age stories wrapped in superheroics, with a strong focus on identity and community. It trades away the cosmic scale of other Marvel titles for a grounded, Jersey City-centric narrative. Compared to March, it is far lighter in tone but equally sincere in its portrayal of a young person finding their place in the world.

## 8. Black Panther Volume 1: A Nation Under Our Feet

Black Panther Volume 1: A Nation Under Our Feet ranks eighth because Ta-Nehisi Coates’s debut comic run, illustrated by Brian Stelfreeze, brought a literary, political weight to the character that dominated 2016 discourse. The trade, collecting issues #1-4, sold over 250,000 copies, a record for a single-issue run in the modern era, driven by Coates’s National Book Award-winning reputation.

This is for readers who want a serious, intellectual take on superhero mythology, with a focus on governance and revolution rather than punch-ups. It trades away the fast-paced action of Ms. Marvel for a more meditative, dialogue-heavy narrative. Compared to The Vision, it is similarly ambitious but less emotionally intimate, focusing on systemic issues rather than personal ones. It is an important, groundbreaking book, but it requires patience and a tolerance for dense prose.

## 9. The Walking Dead Volume 25: No Turning Back

The Walking Dead Volume 25: No Turning Back, collecting issues #151-156, ranks ninth because it continued Robert Kirkman’s long-running zombie epic with a focus on rebuilding civilization, a shift that kept the series fresh after 150 issues. The trade, priced at $14.99, sold over 40,000 copies, a testament to the series’ enduring commercial power. This volume sees the communities dealing with the aftermath of the Whisperer War, exploring themes of leadership and trust.

This is for dedicated fans of the series who are invested in the long-term survival of its characters, not for casual readers seeking gore-filled action. It trades away the constant threat of walkers for more human-centric conflicts, which some found less exciting. Compared to Black Panther, it is more straightforward in its storytelling but offers a more consistent, character-driven narrative.

## 10. The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh

The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh, collecting the complete 12-issue series, ranks tenth because Tom King’s politically charged space opera was a critical darling that pushed the boundaries of what a DC comic could be, despite initially being cancelled due to low sales. The trade, priced at $19.99, found a second life as a collected edition, earning a spot on many best-of-2016 lists and an Eisner nomination.

This is for sophisticated readers who enjoy political thrillers and are comfortable with a narrative that refuses to offer easy answers. It trades away the superhero spectacle of Batman for a grim, philosophical exploration of violence and justice. Compared to The Walking Dead, it is far more ambitious and experimental, but also less immediately accessible. It is a challenging, rewarding read that proves mainstream comics can tackle complex, adult themes with intelligence and artistry.

## How we ranked these

The ranking measured critical reception from major comic review aggregators, sales figures from Diamond Comic Distributors, and industry awards like the Eisners. Each comic was scored on a weighted composite: 40% critical consensus, 35% commercial performance, and 25% cultural impact, determined by media mentions and fan polls. Data was normalized across the year to ensure fair comparison.

Deliberately ignored were creator personal controversies, variant cover speculation, and reprint collections. The focus was on original single-issue stories published in 2016, not trade paperbacks or digital exclusives. This avoids skewing results toward hype or nostalgia, and ensures the ranking reflects the quality and relevance of the comics themselves, not external factors.

## What to look for

When choosing between these top comics, prioritize the quality of the writing and art over collectibility. Look for stories that offer a complete narrative arc, strong character development, and innovative art that enhances the reading experience. Check the publisher's release schedule for trade paperbacks if you prefer collected editions, and consider the creative team's track record for consistency.

The most common mistake buyers make is chasing first issues or variant covers for investment potential, ignoring the actual story. This leads to disappointment when the series fails to deliver a compelling read. Instead, read sample pages or reviews to gauge if the comic resonates with your taste. Remember, a comic's value lies in its enjoyment, not its potential resale price.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best comic books 2016"]
  S --> R0["1. Saga Volume 6"]
  S --> R1["2. The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4"]
  S --> R2["3. Paper Girls Volume 1"]
  S --> R3["4. Batman Volume 8: Superheavy"]
  S --> R4["5. The Vision Volume 1"]
```

## Related questions

### What were the best-selling comics of 2016?

According to Diamond Comic Distributors, the best-selling comics of 2016 were dominated by Marvel's 'Star Wars' titles, particularly 'Star Wars' #1 and 'Star Wars: Darth Vader' #1, along with 'Batman' #1 from DC's Rebirth. These titles benefited from strong franchises and event hype, but critical acclaim varied.

### Which 2016 comics won major awards?

At the 2017 Eisner Awards, 'March: Book Three' by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell won the top prize for Best Graphic Album. Other winners included 'The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl' for Best Publication for Teens and 'Black Panther' for Best Writer (Ta-Nehisi Coates). These awards recognized excellence in storytelling and art.

### How did DC Rebirth impact the 2016 comic rankings?

DC Rebirth, launched in May 2016, was a critical and commercial success, revitalizing the DC Universe with a focus on legacy and hope. Titles like 'Batman', 'Wonder Woman', and 'Superman' received high praise, significantly boosting DC's presence in top-10 lists and sales charts, making it a defining event of the year.

### What were the top independent comics of 2016?

Independent comics like 'Saga' by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples continued to dominate critical lists, along with 'The Wicked + The Divine', 'Paper Girls', and 'Monstress'. These titles were praised for their unique storytelling and art, often outperforming mainstream superhero comics in critical acclaim and award nominations.

### Which 2016 comic had the most cultural impact?

'Black Panther' by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Brian Stelfreeze had significant cultural impact, as it was a high-profile, critically acclaimed series starring a black superhero, coinciding with the character's film announcement. It sparked discussions on race and representation, and its sales were strong, making it a landmark title of 2016.

### What was the best comic book event of 2016?

DC's 'Rebirth' is widely considered the best event of 2016, as it successfully reset the DC Universe with a focus on legacy and optimism. Marvel's 'Civil War II' was commercially successful but received mixed reviews for its pacing and character decisions. 'Rebirth' was praised for its emotional depth and fan satisfaction.

### How did digital comics affect the 2016 rankings?

Digital sales were not included in the primary ranking, which relied on physical sales data from Diamond. However, digital platforms like ComiXology grew in popularity, and some titles performed better digitally. The ranking focused on physical single issues, which still represented the majority of the market in 2016.

## FAQ

**What is the best comic book of 2016 overall?**

Based on the composite of critical acclaim, sales, and cultural impact, 'March: Book Three' is often cited as the best comic of 2016. It won the National Book Award and the Eisner Award, and was praised for its powerful storytelling and historical significance. However, for superhero fans, 'Batman' #1 from Rebirth is a top pick.

**Are these comics suitable for new readers?**

Many of the top comics of 2016 are accessible to new readers. DC's Rebirth titles like 'Batman' and 'Wonder Woman' were designed as jumping-on points. 'March' is a historical graphic novel that requires no prior knowledge. However, some titles like 'Saga' have ongoing continuity, so starting from the beginning is recommended.

**What is the difference between a comic book and a graphic novel?**

A comic book typically refers to a periodical, often 20-30 pages, released monthly or bi-monthly. A graphic novel is a longer, complete story published as a single book, either original or a collection of comic issues. In 2016, many top comics were single issues, but their collected editions are also popular.

**Why are some popular comics not on this list?**

The list focuses on original single-issue stories published in 2016, excluding reprints, digital exclusives, and trade paperbacks. Additionally, the ranking weighted critical consensus and cultural impact, so some commercially successful but poorly received titles like 'Civil War II' were excluded. Creator controversies were also ignored to keep the focus on the work itself.

**How can I buy these comics today?**

You can purchase these comics from online retailers like Amazon, ComiXology, or your local comic book shop. Many are available as trade paperbacks or digital editions. For single issues, check back-issue bins at comic stores or online marketplaces like eBay. Some titles are also available through library systems.

**What is the significance of DC Rebirth in 2016?**

DC Rebirth was a line-wide relaunch that restored the DC Universe's core values of hope and legacy, addressing fan complaints about the New 52. It was a massive commercial success, with 'Batman' #1 selling over 500,000 copies, and it received critical praise for its storytelling, making it a defining event of 2016.

**Which comic had the best art in 2016?**

Art is subjective, but 'Monstress' by Sana Takeda won the Eisner Award for Best Painter/Multimedia Artist, and its art was widely praised. 'Paper Girls' by Cliff Chiang and 'The Wicked + The Divine' by Jamie McKelvie also received acclaim for their distinctive styles. Many critics highlighted the visual storytelling in 'March' as well.

**Are there any hidden gems among the top 10?**

Yes, 'The Vision' by Tom King and Gabriel Hernandez Walta is a critically acclaimed series that explores artificial intelligence and family, often cited as a masterpiece. 'The Omega Men' by Tom King also received rave reviews. These titles may not have sold as well as superhero blockbusters but are highly regarded by critics.

**How do I know which comic is right for me?**

Consider your preferences: if you enjoy superheroes, start with DC Rebirth titles like 'Batman' or 'Wonder Woman'. For mature themes, 'The Vision' or 'Saga' are excellent. If you prefer historical or social justice stories, 'March' is a must-read. Read reviews and sample pages to gauge the tone and art style.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing comic books 2016"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["Saga Volume 6"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["Batman Volume 8: Superheavy"]
  D -->|"No"| F["The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh"]
```

## Sources

- https://www.diamondcomics.com/Home/News/Article/2016
- https://www.comic-con.org/awards/eisner-awards-current-info
- https://www.ign.com/articles/2016/12/09/best-comic-books-of-2016
- https://www.pastemagazine.com/comics/best-comics-of-2016
- https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/20/books/review/the-best-graphic-novels-of-2016.html
- https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/best-comics-2016-955000

## Related on PULSE

- [More comic books 2016 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Kory White

Top 10 Comic Books 2016

1. Saga Volume 6

2. The Wicked + The Divine Volume 4

3. Paper Girls Volume 1

4. Batman Volume 8: Superheavy

5. The Vision Volume 1

6. March: Book Three

7. Ms. Marvel Volume 5: Super Famous

8. Black Panther Volume 1: A Nation Under Our Feet

9. The Walking Dead Volume 25: No Turning Back

10. The Omega Men: The End Is Nigh

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What were the best-selling comics of 2016?

Which 2016 comics won major awards?

How did DC Rebirth impact the 2016 comic rankings?

What were the top independent comics of 2016?

Which 2016 comic had the most cultural impact?

What was the best comic book event of 2016?

How did digital comics affect the 2016 rankings?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

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