Another great one is 'Kingdom Come'. This graphic novel explores a future of the DC Universe where the traditional heroes and their values are put to the test. It has complex characters and a really engaging story that shows how things can change in the superhero world over time. Well, I know it says Marvel Comics, but sometimes DC has good examples to illustrate concepts in the genre. In Marvel, 'The Infinity Gauntlet' is also quite popular. It's got all the big - name heroes and villains in a battle for the fate of the universe, with Thanos at the center of it all, trying to use the power of the Infinity Stones.
One of the best is 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore. It's a deconstruction of the superhero genre. Another great one is 'The Dark Knight Returns' by Frank Miller, which redefined Batman. And 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman is also highly regarded, even though it's a bit different as it tells a Holocaust story in a unique graphic novel format.
Some of the top ones could be 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore (although it's DC but often compared in the graphic novel realm), 'The Dark Knight Returns' by Frank Miller, 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman. But specifically for Marvel, 'Civil War' is a very popular one which shows the superheroes divided. 'Kingdom Come' is also great, it has a really interesting take on the future of superheroes. And 'X - Men: Dark Phoenix Saga' which is a classic X - Men story that has been adapted several times.
They have influenced the industry by setting high standards for art. The detailed and dynamic art in these graphic novels has inspired other artists to improve their own work.
Marvel original graphic novels are a great way to explore different aspects of the Marvel universe. They often have more in - depth stories compared to the regular comic issues. For example, 'The Dark Phoenix Saga' as a graphic novel allows for a more comprehensive look at Jean Grey's transformation. Many of these novels also introduce new characters or expand on existing ones in unique ways.
It really depends on personal preference. DC often has a darker and more mythological tone, with iconic characters like Batman and Superman. Their graphic novels can be very deep in exploring themes of power, justice, and morality. For example, 'The Dark Knight Returns' is a classic that redefines Batman in a gritty, aged - out - of - retirement context.
One of the great ones is 'Vision' by Tom King. It offers a unique and thought - provoking take on the character. The art is also quite stunning, enhancing the overall mood of the story.
One popular one is 'The Dark Phoenix Saga'. It's a classic that delves deep into the X - Men's story, especially Jean Grey's transformation. Another great one is 'Civil War', which explores the ideological differences among superheroes and how they split into two factions. And 'Kingdom Come' is also well - liked, showing a possible future of the DC Universe where superheroes face complex moral and social issues.
I think 'Spider - Man: Blue' is among the popular 'original marvel graphic novels'. It was a great retelling of Peter Parker's early days as Spider - Man and his relationship with Gwen Stacy. 'Hawkeye' by Matt Fraction is also well - received. It showed a different side of Hawkeye, not just as an Avenger but as a regular guy with his own set of problems. Also, 'Inhumans' has its own charm, exploring the unique race within the Marvel Universe.
Some popular ones include 'Daredevil: Born Again'. It's a great exploration of the Daredevil character with its complex storylines and gritty art. Another is 'Elektra: Assassin', which offers a unique take on the Elektra character.