The Best Indie Comics of the 90s

Born in the '80s, I can confidently say I was raised in the '90s. I can’t quite remember how old I was when I first picked up a comic, but I know it wasn’t one of the mainstream Marvel or DC series.

Where I grew up, the options were limited to Tin Tin, Blek, Asterix and Obelix, Lanfeust of Troy, Blueberry, and the whole gamut of European—mainly French—comics. While these titles definitely deserve their own special article (which I’ll eventually put together), just thinking about them brings a tear to my eye. So, I decided to write one focusing on the '90s comics I read later in life.

These were indie comics at heart (Marvel and DC will have to wait), but they were truly at the top of their game.

I built this list by considering several factors:

Historical Impact: I looked at comics that defined the '90s by breaking new ground in art and storytelling, and influencing the industry as a whole.

Cultural Significance: These titles are often cited as some of the era’s best work. Their lasting legacy is evident in how frequently they’re referenced in popular culture and later comics.

Diverse Genres: I made sure to include a mix of genres—from dark fantasy and horror to noir and adventure—to showcase the broad range of what the '90s had to offer.

Critical and Fan Reception: Many of these comics received critical acclaim and built dedicated fan bases, which further validates their importance.

Creator Impact: The creators behind these comics were influential figures in the industry, celebrated for their distinctive storytelling and artistic styles.

This list is a tribute to the innovative spirit of '90s comics, highlighting the titles that truly reshaped the medium.

Below is a simplified list with key details for each comic:

Spawn

A dark, gritty antihero comic that redefined the superhero genre. Spawn, created by Todd McFarlane for Image Comics in 1992, captivates readers with its visually striking art and mature themes, challenging traditional heroic archetypes.

Preacher

A provocative blend of supernatural horror, dark humor, and irreverent satire. Created by Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon for Vertigo in 1995, Preacher follows a disillusioned preacher on a surreal, boundary-pushing journey that questions religious and moral conventions.

Sandman

A genre-defying masterpiece that weaves mythology, horror, fantasy, and literary elements into a rich narrative tapestry. Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman, which concluded in 1996 under Vertigo, follows Dream, one of the Endless, as he navigates both the realm of dreams and the waking world.

Bone

A whimsical yet epic fantasy adventure that combines humor, heart, and intricate world-building. Self-published by Jeff Smith starting in 1991, Bone follows the adventures of the Bone cousins in a fantastical world that appeals to readers of all ages.

Hellboy

A dark, atmospheric tale of a paranormal investigator battling supernatural forces. Debuting in 1993 under Dark Horse Comics, Hellboy, created by Mike Mignola, features a demon summoned from Hell who confronts dark creatures while exploring themes of destiny and mythology.

Sin City

An iconic neo-noir series known for its stark black-and-white art and gritty, morally ambiguous storytelling. Frank Miller’s Sin City, first published in 1991 by Dark Horse Comics, immerses readers in a corrupt urban landscape where crime and redemption play out in raw, minimalist style.

The Invisibles

A mind-bending series that dives deep into conspiracy theories, counterculture, and metaphysical exploration. Launched in 1994 by Grant Morrison for Vertigo, The Invisibles challenges conventional storytelling with its complex narrative and experimental approach, urging readers to question reality itself.

Conclusion

The '90s were an unforgettable era for comic creators—full of bold experimentation, daring storytelling, and a spirit that still resonates with anyone who grew up reading them. These comics not only reshaped the medium but also hold a special place in my heart, each one a reminder of a time when indie titles ruled and pushed every boundary. Whether you're diving in for the first time or rediscovering these gems, they offer a unique glimpse into a transformative period in comic history. Enjoy the ride, and happy reading!