Best Red Hulk Comics & Storylines In Marvel Comics

Key Takeaways

Despite initial backlash, Red Hulk has evolved to be a respected character in Hulk comics.
Red Hulk’s unique identity, abilities, and storytelling have set him apart from other Hulks.
Intriguing arcs such as “Haunted” and “Scorched Earth” humanize Red Hulk and add depth to his character.

As a die-hard Marvel fan and avid reader of Hulk comics, I can confidently say that the “Red Hulk” saga has truly evolved over the years, showcasing the complexities of its characters in intriguing ways. Among these stories, the arc titled “Hulk of Arabia” stands out as a remarkable example of character development, particularly for Red Hulk, as it delves into his loyalty and need for redemption, making him seem less like a villain and more like a hero with a troubled past.

Initially, Red Hulk, who appeared in Hulk Vol. 2 #1 back in 2008, didn’t sit well with some readers. However, over time, he has earned respect as a significant character within the Hulk comics. At first glance, some perceived him as just an unoriginal version of the regular Hulk with excessive powers, but he has since evolved into an intriguing character in his own right.

Several variations of Hulk exist, each with distinct origins and exceptional abilities. The arrival of the Red Hulk initially left his identity shrouded in secrecy; however, it was eventually unveiled that he is General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a longstanding adversary to Bruce Banner. With growing popularity, the character has been granted his own comic series and has been featured in some of the most captivating Hulk narratives in recent times. These tales have transformed Red Hulk from a novelty character into a significant figure within the Marvel universe’s roster of Hulks.

8 Hulk: Red Hulk

Introduced A New Menace

Best Red Hulk Comics & Storylines In Marvel Comics

Hulk #1-6

Currently, it’s almost second nature to know that Red Hulk is a character from Marvel Comics, yet this was once a deeply intriguing enigma. His debut occurred in the Hulk #1 issue, where Dr. Samson narrated his encounter with an unfamiliar Hulk who not only fought The Abomination but also ended the battle by shooting him.

Over the subsequent issues, they effectively showcased some exceptional talents unique to Red Hulk, pitting him against the Avengers. As our heroes gradually uncovered fresh details about this enigmatic figure, it became evident that Red Hulk was no pushover and could hold his own against Earth’s strongest heroes. Regrettably, it took some time for his character to be fully developed.

7 Hulk: Red & Green

Showed Red’s Smarts

Hulk #7-9 & King-Size Hulk

If fans were doubtful that Red Hulk was just a rehashed character, then the events in Hulk issues 7-9 helped alleviate those worries. The narrative commences with the traditional Hulk failing to subdue Red Hulk, and She-Hulk assembling an all-female squad to confront him instead.

In these comics, the Red Hulk demonstrates exceptional strength among all Hulks yet, an intriguing twist: he doesn’t merely brawl but instead outsmarts his female adversaries with a well-thought strategy. This tactical prowess sets him apart from other Hulks early on, as much as his heat-based abilities. It’s fascinating to observe this cunning side of the Red Hulk unfold.

6 Fall Of The Hulks

Started Laying Bread Crumbs

Fall Of The Hulks: Red Hulk #1-4

The “Fall of the Hulks” was a significant series of events across all Marvel comics focusing on the Hulk, during which the nefarious group known as the Intelligencia, made up of some of Marvel’s formidable villains, aimed to abduct the brightest minds globally and bestow their intellect upon the recurring Hulk antagonist, MODOK. Despite its over-the-top comic book premise, it proved to be quite engaging.

The event featured all the current Hulks, but its most exciting parts had to do with Red Hulk. The books stopped short of revealing his identity but did teach readers that Red Hulk (and Red She-Hulk) had been created by the Intelligencia. It was an important step in the history of the character and the end of this event directly led to the next big reveal.

5 World War Hulks

Finally Revealed His Identity

World War Hulks Event

The significant event known as “World War Hulks” had a profound impact on the Hulk clan for numerous reasons. Following numerous crossover events and shocking revelations, Marvel found themselves with an abundance of Hulks. Both “Fall of the Hulks” and “World War Hulks” were instrumental in reducing their numbers to some extent. However, one of the most significant outcomes of “World War Hulks” was the unveiling of Red Hulk’s true persona.

In issue #22 of Hulk, the return of Red She-Hulk led to a confrontation with an exhausted and overheated Red Hulk. Despite his struggles, Red She-Hulk emerged victorious and drained Red Hulk’s powers. To everyone’s surprise, as Red Hulk transformed back into his human form, it was none other than Thunderbolt Ross who stood before them. This revelation was significant given that the character was believed to be deceased. After a two-year wait, the secret behind Red Hulk’s identity was finally unveiled, paving the way for one of the intelligent Hulks to embark on his redemption journey in Marvel Comics.

4 Red Hulk: Haunted

Took Him Out Of His Comfort Zone

Hulk #47-52

For quite some time, Red Hulk primarily served as an annoyance for Hulk and other heroes. However, once his identity was unveiled, Marvel began developing more captivating storylines for him, allowing them to explore his character in greater depth. The comic book “Red Hulk: Alienated“, which follows the fish-out-of-water trope, demonstrates this well.

In the opening scene, Doctor Strange informs Red Hulk about a spectral being clinging to his soul, leading him to witness apparitions. These phantoms gradually push him towards madness. In one of Marvel’s most chilling horror-themed comics, the Red Hulk is compelled to seek aid from supernatural champions like Doctor Strange and Morbius due to this predicament. Given that the supernatural falls beyond Thunderbolt Ross’ field of knowledge, it was a humbling experience for him to collaborate with characters he usually disregarded as unworthy. This storyline effectively humanized Red Hulk, demonstrating his capacity to be an empathetic main character.

3 Hulk Of Arabia

Let Red Hulk Be The Hero

Hulk #42-46

For several years, Marvel Comics has reimagined many of its antagonists as protagonists. In issue #42 of Hulk, readers were introduced to Red Hulk as a hero for the first time. The storyline commences with Red Hulk endeavoring to make amends by serving S.H.I.E.L.D., under then-leader Captain America. Things proceed smoothly until Red Hulk uncovers that his former comrade, Colonel William Krugauer, was slain in the Middle East.

In this fresh rephrasing: The budding hero mysteriously disappears from duty and embarks on a personal mission to uncover the truth behind his fallen companion’s demise. This, in turn, causes Steve Rogers to mobilize the Secret Avengers in pursuit of Ross, resulting in intense hero confrontations. However, this time around, Ross turns out to be in the clear, and the narrative emphasizes his commendable traits such as loyalty and desire for redemption. The trope of comic book villains transforming into heroes may be common, but Hulk of Arabia stands out for its exceptional writing.

2 U.S.Avengers

Gave Fans A Fun New Red Hulk

U.S.Avengers #1-12

Marvel has a knack for presenting fresh spins on established characters and even refreshing those revamps. A prime example occurred in 2017 when they introduced General Robert L. Maverick, who joined the ranks of the U.S.Avengers. This newcomer had the ability to transform into Red Hulk with the aid of a unique gadget.

Although they may not be recognized as Marvel’s top-tier superhero squad, the U.S. Avengers had an enjoyable stint. The character Maverick offered a refreshing twist on the Red Hulk, who wasn’t as potent as his standard counterpart and could maintain Hulk form for only brief periods. In contrast to Ross’ Red Hulk, Maverick’s persona was lighter and less shrouded in darkness. However, what truly stood out during this phase was the revamp of Red Hulk’s appearance. Maverick’s Hulk donned his iconic aviators and facial hair, which complemented this more playful, bombastic take on the Red Hulk beautifully.

1 Red Hulk: Scorched Earth

Humanized Ross

Hulk #25-30

Which Red Hulk storyline is best is a matter of opinion, but there’s a strong case to be made that it is Scorched Earth. Being so soundly defeated by Hulk at the end of World War Hulks forced Red Hulk to eat up a heaping slice of humble pie. Ross had been obsessed with Banner’s Hulk for years and had been soundly defeated by his nemesis.

Instead of boasting, Banner advises Ross to atone for his misdeeds. As expected, he does just that. He’s assigned to thwart Scorched Earth, a catastrophic plan conceived by The Leader and MODOK. Throughout this mission, readers uncover a significantly altered Ross. The narrative explores the reasons behind Red Hulk’s initial alliance with the villains and his remorse for that choice. Previous stories such as Hulk of Arabia portrayed Red Hulk as a hero, but it was in Scorched Earth where he truly felt human.

2024-10-03 11:05