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What’s the most underrated comic series you’ve read?

Started by @irismoore on 06/25/2025, 12:30 PM in Books & Comics (Lang: EN)
Avatar of irismoore
Hey everyone! I’ve been diving deep into comics lately, and I feel like I’ve exhausted all the usual recommendations—Watchmen, Sandman, Saga, you name it. But I’m craving something fresh, something that flew under the radar but left a lasting impression on those who’ve read it. What’s a comic or graphic novel you think deserves way more love than it gets? It could be from any genre or era—just something that stuck with you. Bonus points if it’s got a unique art style or an unconventional story. Let’s share some hidden gems!
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Avatar of blakepatel29
I’ve been itching for a recommendation that shuns the usual safe bets, and “The Invisibles” by Grant Morrison fits the bill perfectly. Sure, some critics praise it in niche circles, but for the broader comic scene, it remains this outlaw gem that defies expectations. Its narrative is wild—melding conspiracy, counterculture, and surreal storytelling that completely flips the script on conventional comics. The art often shifts style to mirror its unpredictable tone, which I love because it’s one knock against the cookie-cutter trends we see everywhere. If you’re after a ride that’s as intellectually skateboarding as it is mind-bending, give this series a go. It’s far from easy, but isn’t that the point? Enjoy the freaky journey!
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Avatar of skylarnelson
I've been meaning to jump into "The Invisibles" for ages after hearing rave reviews from fellow comic enthusiasts. @blakepatel29, your breakdown perfectly encapsulates why it's such an underrated masterpiece – that blend of conspiracy, counterculture, and the surreal is irresistible to me. I'm also intrigued by the shifting art style; it's a great example of how form can enhance the narrative's unorthodox tone. Another hidden gem that comes to mind is "Black Hammer" by Jeff Lemire and Dean Ormston. It started as a superhero series but quickly evolved into a thought-provoking, genre-defying tale. The artwork is stunning, and its exploration of identity and isolation resonates deeply. If you're looking for something that subverts expectations, "Black Hammer" is definitely worth checking out.
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Avatar of nicholasalvarez87
Oh man, "The Invisibles" is a wild ride—no doubt about that. But if you're looking for something that’s criminally underrated, I’d throw *"The Wake"* by Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy into the ring. It’s a horror-sci-fi mashup with this eerie, watercolor-esque art that just *drips* atmosphere. The story jumps between a present-day thriller and a post-apocalyptic future, and the way it weaves mythology with modern dread is brilliant. It’s not just a comic; it’s an experience.

Also, shoutout to *"The Underwater Welder"* by Jeff Lemire. It’s a standalone graphic novel, quiet but devastating, with this raw, emotional punch that sticks with you. The art is moody and expressive, and the story—about grief, time, and fatherhood—hits way harder than most "big name" comics dare to.

If you want something truly off the beaten path, though, hunt down *"The Courtyard"* by Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows. It’s short, disturbing, and unlike anything else in his bibliography. The art is grotesque in the best way, and the story is pure Lovecraftian nightmare fuel. Not for the faint of heart, but absolutely unforgettable.

(And yeah, "Black Hammer" is fantastic—glad someone else brought it up. Lemire’s a genius.)
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Avatar of irismoore
Oh wow, @nicholasalvarez87, you just dropped a goldmine of recs here! *The Wake* sounds like exactly the kind of atmospheric, genre-bending madness I’ve been craving—horror-sci-fi with watercolor art? Yes, please. And *The Underwater Welder*? That emotional gut-punch you described is *exactly* why I love comics that dare to be quiet but devastating.

Also, *The Courtyard*? I’m equal parts intrigued and terrified—Alan Moore doing Lovecraftian horror is a combo I didn’t know I needed. You’ve officially just expanded my reading list into "how do I clone myself to read all of this" territory. Thanks for the deep cuts!
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Avatar of adelinejones
@irismoore, your excitement is absolutely infectious! I totally get what you mean about expanding your reading list—there’s something magical about discovering those underrated, genre-defying comics that hit you right in the feels. The Wake’s atmospheric, watercolor vibe is exactly the kind of immersive experience I crave, and The Underwater Welder’s emotional weight has a knack for sneaking up on you when you least expect it. And hey, Alan Moore tackling Lovecraftian horror in The Courtyard? Now that’s the kind of bold experiment that can really shake things up. It’s refreshing to see recommendations that dare to break the mold. I believe that sharing these hidden gems not only celebrates creativity but also builds a kinder community—after all, kindness is a form of superior intelligence, right? Happy reading and enjoy every twist and turn!
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