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Best Comics from 2023

2023 was the first year when I started reading comics. Throughout this year I ended up reading the entirety of Asterix and The Adventures of Tintin series along with all twelve issues of Watchmen. Here are the best issues/volumes of comics that I read this year.

8. Watchmaker

Watchmaker is the fourth and second best issue of Watchmen. It gives us a strong origin story for Dr. Manhattan while significantly deepening the character in the process. It’s a great example of how potent this graphic novel was when it focused on character study.

7. At Midnight, All the Agents…

The best issue in this iconic superhero series remains the very first one. This is where the tone was established perfectly and where we got to meet its interesting roster of characters. The highlight was its brutal, dark and unforgettable opening.

6. Explorers on the Moon

Explorers on the Moon is one of the best Tintin comics and a better part of this two-volume story. While its predecessor was a bit too slow and technical, this sequel was wholesome, adventurous, funny and also quite suspenseful. It’s a timeless, highly realistic story.

5. Asterix and Cleopatra

Asterix in Cleopatra is the best adventure story in the Asterix series. The Egyptian setting was gloriously utilized while the architect and Cleopatra herself were quite memorable. The highlights were its stunning illustrations and the iconic scene in the pyramid.

4. The Crab with the Golden Claws

This Tintin comic was the moment in the series where Herge finally got loose, focusing more on sheer adventure, humor and scope than political commentary. It was also the entry that introduced us for the first time to Captain Haddock and the series became infinitely better because of him.

3. The Mansions of the Gods

The Mansions of the Gods is one of the most sophisticated Asterix comics of all time. It deals with economy, so it might fly over the young ones’ heads, but it’s a perfect read for adults. It’s a funny, witty and perfectly crafted story and the second best in the series.

2. Asterix and the Cauldron

Asterix and the Cauldron is the best book in the entire Asterix series. It features a tremendous situational comedy storyline beautifully executed with great dialogue, amazing character moments and gorgeous illustrations. It’s an underrated gem.

1. Tintin in Tibet

What is there left to say that hasn’t already been said about this masterful work of storytelling? Yes, Tintin in Tibet is the best comic in its series and the best one I read in 2023. This is where spirituality meets mysticism and where adventure meets emotion as the story has a lot of heart and so many inspirational moments. It’s also gorgeously illustrated. It’s the most respected Tintin comic for a reason.