Best Dark Horse Comics as of 2025

Dark Horse Comics has carved out a distinct place in the comic book industry by publishing some of the most innovative, thought-provoking, and visually stunning titles. While Marvel and DC dominate the mainstream, Dark Horse has given creators the freedom to craft unique stories that have captivated readers for decades.

Here’s a look at some of the best Dark Horse comics of all time. This list is not ranked in anyway (even though I love Hellboy so it’s number 1 for a reason) nor is it final. I hope to update this list if anything that I love comes to mind or anything new gets published that makes the ranks.

1. Hellboy (1993 – Present)

Why It’s Great: Hellboy is arguably Dark Horse’s flagship title. The series follows a demon raised by humans who works as a paranormal investigator battling supernatural threats. Mike Mignola’s art and storytelling blend folklore, mythology, and pulp horror, making Hellboy one of the most iconic indie comics ever.

2. Sin City (1991 – 2000)

Why It’s Great: Frank Miller’s Sin City is a noir masterpiece. The black-and-white art, punctuated by stark contrasts and brutal storytelling, created a visually striking experience that redefined crime comics. The series’ tales of corruption, revenge, and moral ambiguity have left an indelible mark on pop culture, inspiring a successful film adaptation.

3. The Umbrella Academy (2007 – Present)

Why It’s Great: A dysfunctional family of super-powered individuals raised by an eccentric billionaire? The Umbrella Academy is like a twisted, punk-rock take on the X-Men. Gerard Way’s storytelling and Gabriel Bá’s distinctive art create a unique mix of superhero action and deep emotional storytelling. The Netflix adaptation introduced the series to a broader audience.

4. 300 (1998)

Why It’s Great: 300 is a visually stunning retelling of the Battle of Thermopylae, where 300 Spartans faced off against the massive Persian army. Frank Miller’s art, with its dramatic compositions and stylized violence, made this graphic novel an instant classic, inspiring the blockbuster film of the same name.

5. The Mask (1989 – 1996)

Why It’s Great: Before Jim Carrey brought The Mask to life in the 1994 movie, the comic was a much darker, more violent tale. The series follows a mysterious mask that grants its wearer immense power at the cost of their sanity. The blend of cartoonish humor and brutal action makes The Mask one of Dark Horse’s most memorable franchises.

6. Black Hammer (2016 – Present)

Why It’s Great: A love letter to classic superhero comics, Black Hammer explores the lives of retired heroes trapped in a strange, rural town. Jeff Lemire’s storytelling mixes nostalgia with deep character exploration, creating one of the most compelling superhero deconstructions in recent years.

7. Concrete (1986 – 2004)

Why It’s Great: Unlike most superhero stories, Concrete focuses on the emotional and philosophical aspects of a man transformed into a rock-like being. Rather than fighting crime, he deals with the challenges of his new existence, making for an introspective and beautifully written series.

8. Star Wars: Dark Empire (1991 – 1992)

Why It’s Great: Before Disney took over, Dark Horse was the go-to publisher for Star Wars comics. Dark Empire was one of the most beloved Star Wars stories, exploring the aftermath of Return of the Jedi and featuring Luke Skywalker’s brief turn to the dark side.

9. Grendel (1982 – Present)

Why It’s Great: Grendel is a long-running series that explores crime, politics, and power through different characters taking on the mantle of the assassin Grendel. The series is known for its ambitious storytelling, shifting protagonists, and evolving narrative style.

10. Berserk (U.S. Dark Horse Edition)

Why It’s Great: Though originally a Japanese manga, Dark Horse’s publication of Berserk in English helped introduce it to a wider audience. The series’ dark fantasy, brutal action, and deep character development make it one of the most celebrated comics ever.

Final Thoughts

Dark Horse Comics has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling, offering readers something fresh, unique, and often darker than the mainstream superhero fare. Whether you’re into horror, noir, superhero deconstruction, or deep philosophical narratives, Dark Horse has a comic for you.