Best Marvel Isekai Comic Stories, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Fan-favorite Isekai Marvel Comics include Exiles, Old Man Logan, and Planet Hulk.
Exiles 2001 features X-Men from alternate realities hopping universes to solve problems.
Marvel Isekai gems like Days of Future Past and Doctor Strange & Doctor Doom provide thrilling, world-blending experiences.

As a long-time Marvel enthusiast and avid comic book reader, I must say that these three stories are truly exceptional for those who love the Isekai genre.

One common type of anime these days that’s gaining a lot of attention is known as Isekai. This genre revolves around characters who unexpectedly end up in different realms or dimensions and need to adapt and thrive in these unfamiliar places. With the surge of popularity for light novels and online comics, creators have been given an opportunity to share their imaginative storylines with a wider audience. Even before the term “Isekai” became well-known, Marvel Comics has already produced some remarkable stories within this genre.

In the rich tapestry of Marvel Comics history, it’s safe to say that alternate realities, different dimensions, and multiple universes play a significant role. Consequently, it wouldn’t be surprising if they harbored some captivating isekai tales within their collection.

8 Exiles (2001)

Mutants That Hop Universes To Solve Problems

Writer: Judd Winick
Artist: Mike McKone
Publication Date: August 2001

The “Exiles” 2001 comic book saga spans over 100 issues, chronicling a diverse set of characters hailing from distinct realities as they leap between universes to rectify anomalies. During their journey, they encounter various alternate worlds that ardent Marvel Comics enthusiasts will likely recognize.

Written by Judd Winick and beautifully illustrated by Mike McKone, the graphic novel titled “Exiles” also includes a chapter penned by renowned X-Men author Chris Claremont. What sets this series apart is that it does not adhere to plot armor conventions – characters who seem central can be unexpectedly killed off early in the storyline. This unpredictability keeps readers guessing and anticipating the next twist.

7 Old Man Logan (2008)

Featuring An Old Wolverine In An Alternate Timeline

Writer: Mark Millar
Artist: Steve McNiven
Publication Date: August 2008

In “Old Man Logan,” a weathered version of the character Wolverine/Logan embarks on a journey in an altered reality. This unique portrayal of one of Marvel’s iconic characters, Wolverine, who is renowned for his remarkable feats, was a breath of fresh air. The 2008 collaboration between writers Mark Millar and artist Steve McNiven offered readers some of the most gritty departures from the standard Marvel storyline ever published.

In this alternate reality, the supervillains have seized control over the Marvel world, leading to the tragic demise of the X-Men. Subsequently, Wolverine, now a pacifist, renounces his fighting ways and sheaths his claws. Struggling to make ends meet, he is compelled to take on a questionable task offered by Hawkeye, requiring him to transport an illicit package. This leads our protagonist on a gripping adventure across the desolate Marvel landscape, where we encounter bizarre versions of familiar characters such as the Hulk’s descendants, known as the Hulk Gang, and Spider-Man’s offspring, including his daughter and grandchild.

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but reminisce about how the Old Man Logan character has left such an indelible mark on the Wolverine persona. His portrayal paved the way for the 2017 cinematic masterpiece, Logan, that left a lasting impression on all of us fans.

6 Planet Hulk (2006)

Hulk Overthrows An Emperor After Being Sent To A New World

Writer: Greg Pak
Artist(s): Carlo Pagulayan, Jeffrey Huet, Chris Sotomayor
Publication Date: April 2006
Comic Issues: Incredible Hulk #92–105 Giant-Size Hulk #1

Composed by Greg Pak, Planet Hulk is a well-liked Hulk comic book series that depicts an instance where Marvel’s other superheroes exiled the Hulk to a distant planet. Upon arrival, the Hulk discovers himself on Sakaar, and the narrative unfolds as the Hulk embarks on a journey to dethrone the planet’s emperor and ultimately claim the throne for himself.

The series is beloved by fans since it allows readers to witness Hulk exhibiting his finest abilities. Essentially, Planet Hulk transports him to a setting where he can engage in epic battles against monstrous adversaries, providing the ideal platform for him to demonstrate his destructive prowess. Subsequently, Planet Hulk paves the way for another highly acclaimed series known as World War Hulk.

5 The Unbelievable Gwenpool (2016)

A Marvel Fan From The Real World Is Sent Into The Marvel Universe

Writer: Christopher Hastings
Artist(s): Gurihiru, Irene Strychalski, Alti Firmansyah, Danilo Beyruth, Myisha Haynes
Publication Date: June 2016

First published in 2016, author Christopher Hastings and artists Gurihiru began crafting an amusing comic series with a distinct anime flavor, titled The Unbelievable Gwenpool. This narrative follows the character Gwen Poole who is unexpectedly moved from our reality into the Marvel Universe. The unique premise results in numerous exciting moments as Gwenpool interacts with various Marvel characters like Miles Morales, Blade, Deadpool, and Ghost Rider.

The series, titled “Unbelievable Gwenpool,” combines the witty humor of Deadpool and the enchanting appeal of Spider-Gwen. Readers might anticipate light-hearted, uncomplicated fun, but they’re taken aback by the depth and character development it offers. For instance, when Gwen grapples with the idea of hurting Marvel characters she admires, she optes for an unusual solution – erasing herself from existence. This unexpected twist in the storyline draws readers in, making them reconsider their initial expectations.

4 Days of Future Past (1981)

Katy Pryde Must Travel To The Past To Prevent An Anti-Mutant Revolution

Writer: Chris Claremont
Artist: John Byrne Inker: Terry Austin
Publication Date: January 1981
Comic Issues: The Uncanny X-Men Issues #141–142

As a hardcore gamer, I’ve got to shout out the legendary “Days of Future Past” X-Men tale crafted by the writing trio of Chris Claremont, John Byrne, and Terry Austin. It’s one heck of a comic book adventure!

The story depicts a dystopian future where mutants are incarcerated by an anti-mutant regime. Mutant-hating robots called Sentinels rule the United States, forcing mutants into internment camps. During this era, we’re introduced to a reformed version of Magneto who is restricted to a wheelchair, ironic considering he once opposed Professor Xavier.

Assisted by Rachel Summers, Kitty Pryde travels back in time 30 years to alert everyone about a future catastrophe they can avoid. Once there, Kitty works with the X-Men of yesteryears to thwart the assassination of Professor Xavier and Senator Robert Kelly. This act is crucial because it triggers anti-mutant sentiments that shape their future.

As a die-hard gamer of all things Marvel, let me tell you that among the epic tales, “Days of Future Past” stands out as one of my favorites from the comic books. It even inspired the 2014 film with the same title. However, what left me a bit disappointed was the absence of the Katy Pryde storyline in the movie adaptation.

3 Secret Wars (2015)

Marvel Heroes From Different Realms Battle Each Other To Save Their Own Universe

Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist(s): Esad Ribić, Ive Svorcina
Publication Date: May 2015

The extensive Marvel event known as “Secret Wars” pits your beloved Marvel characters against each other in a struggle to preserve their own world. A collision between Earth-616 and the Ultimate Universe Earth is imminent due to an incursion, and when this happens, the universe will cease to exist.

In a frantic bid to rescue whoever possible, Mister Fantastic (Reed Richards) endeavors to guide everyone onto a lifeboat, yet he battles tirelessly to ward off the impending doom and devastation. Known as one of Marvel Comics’ finest events, Secret Wars (2015), is frequently praised for its unique blend of worlds, making it an ideal choice for fans yearning for Marvel-inspired Isekai adventures. It’s no wonder that enthusiasts have eagerly anticipated the adaptation of Secret Wars within the MCU.

2 Only Myself Left To Conquer (2022)

Marvel’s Most Infamous Time Traveler Gets His Definitive Solo Story

Writer(s): Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing
Artist: Carlos Magno
Publication Date: February 2022

A well-known Marvel character who travels between worlds is known as Kang the Conqueror. Those who are acquainted with this figure understand that his background would fit perfectly in an Isekai genre, yet prior to the comic book series titled “Only Myself Left to Conquer“, he seldom had a story solely dedicated to him.

2022 marked the debut of “Only Myself Left To Conquer“, a groundbreaking series that delves into the unmissable saga of Kang. The narrative unfolds as Kang gets trapped in a recurring cycle of devastation, a loop he himself initiated. This intricate plot twist is triggered by an elder Kang leading his younger counterpart astray. In this captivating series, we explore Kang’s character in unprecedented depth. Kang’s life revolves around the conquest of time and existence, and this tale delves into the driving forces behind his ambitions.

1 Doctor Strange and Doctor Doom: Triumph and Torment (1989)

Doctor Doom Sets Out To Save His Mother From The Demon Realm

Writer: Roger Stern
Artist(s): Mike Mignola, Mark Badger, Mark Badger, Jim Novak
Publication Date: June 1987

Beyond being one of Marvel’s formidable villains, Doctor Doom is also a frequent traveler across worlds and dimensions. In the comic book “Triumph and Torment“, he engages in a struggle with Mephisto in an effort to liberate his mother’s spirit. However, this task proves too challenging for him alone, necessitating the assistance of Doctor Strange, the Master of the Mystic Arts.

The narrative unfolds with them venturing into a wicked demon domain, testing their resilience to the utmost. Readers find themselves drawn to Doom due to his internal struggles, even though he harbors an evil aspect that deceives Strange. However, circumstances compel Doom to rely on Strange more than he’s willing to acknowledge, as this tale pushes him to broaden his understanding of mystical arts under Strange’s tutelage.

The “Triumph and Torment” storyline is commonly recognized as the top Doctor Doom series, particularly suitable for readers just starting out.

2024-11-04 16:34