Countless years ago, the Celestials manipulated the Skrull gene pool and, among other things, created an offshoot of Deviant Skrulls called Dire Wraiths. These warped and murderous magic-users were chased from their birth world and found a new home in the Dark Nebula, naming their planet Wraithworld. Two hundred years ago, the Dire Wraiths invaded... Continue Reading →
The United (2014-2015) Reading Order
The world now knows the super-team Unity exist following their actions against the Armour Hunters (during ARMOR HUNTERS). But they’ll have to do some serious PR work before the public will fully accept X-O Manowar as a member due to his attempt to take over Romania (during AT WAR WITH UNITY). What they need is... Continue Reading →
Batman Reading Order, Origins II: Batman & Robin
Before LEGENDS begins, the origins of the Batman continue! The ‘Bat-Family’ expands as the Dark Knight gains a sidekick in Robin, inspires Batgirl to take up the cowl and meets the deadly Huntress. And the Batman spreads his wings as he meets Superman, becomes a recurring member of the Justice League and first encounters Jason... Continue Reading →
Green Hulk/Red Hulk (2008) Reading Order
WORLD WAR HULK is over and Bruce Banner has been detained. But there's a new Hulk in town (or 'Rulk' as he was often referred to at the time). So who the hell is he? And what happens when the real Hulk comes back, dumber than ever? Let the murder, mystery and tongue-in-cheek silliness begin...!... Continue Reading →
Batman Reading Order: Origins – Year One to The Long Halloween
The Batman begins! Bruce Wayne returns from his training, ready to take on crime on the dangerous streets of Gotham City. Bruce initially finds himself facing everything from street thugs to organized crime. But it’s not long before he’s up against a whole new breed of criminal in the form of Catwoman, Hugo Strange, the... Continue Reading →
World War Hulk: Aftersmash! (2008) Reading Order
WORLD WAR HULK is over, but New York still lies in ruins and there are people (some of them aliens) who still have a lot to answer for. WWH doesn't have an aftermath, it has an aftersmash... SCROLL DOWN to the bottom for the KEY COLLECTED EDITIONS for this event! Minor Crossover: The one-shot introduces... Continue Reading →
The Sinestro Corps War (2007-2008) Reading Order
Following the return of Hal Jordan as the Green Lantern (during GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH), and the rebirth of the multiverse itself (during INFINITE CRISIS), the Green Lantern Corps have also been reformed and the Guardians of the Universe - given life, once more – are running the show. Hal has already seen the emergence of... Continue Reading →
Reverse (2013) Reading Order
Having recently been suspended from the Central City Police Department, Barry Allen has been working at the Keystone Saloon. Iris West, Floyd Gomez, Marissa Rennie & Albert Lim were all trapped in the Speed Force for several months. Since their return (during GORILLA WARFARE), there are hints that they may not be able to tap... Continue Reading →
Collector’s Item Special: Des Taylor
One of our favourite creators working in comics today… Des Taylor enters the Omniverse! This time, he’s here to talk about some of the comics that influenced him in one of our COLLECTOR’S ITEM SPECIAL episodes. The writer & artist of Scarlett Couture, The Vesha Valentine Story and The Trouble With Katie Rogers is... Continue Reading →
World War Hulk (2007-2008) Reading Order
Tony Stark and his Illuminati tricked the Hulk and blasted him off into space (during PLANET HULK). And although the Green Goliath fought for his freedom when he crashed on Sakaar, he almost died in the process. But that which didn’t kill him made him stronger… and angrier! He became the King of Sakaar until... Continue Reading →
Secret Wars (1984-1985) Reading Order
The first major Marvel crossover. When Mattel decided to create a toy line based on Marvel characters, they found the two most popular words with boys at the time were 'secret' and 'war'. So, we got Secret Wars. Marvel released a twelve-issue limited series to tie-in with the launch of the figures. What they ended... Continue Reading →
Villains Month (2013) Reading Order
To mark the launch of their villain-centric event FOREVER EVIL, DC Comics put their ongoing New 52 titles on hold for a month and ran 52 one-shots starring their biggest bad guys. To encourage readers to pick these issues up, they were numbered as decimal versions of the ongoing titles with each villains’ name adorning... Continue Reading →
Hellboy Universe Reading Order 1339BC-1948: The Secret Histories
The infant demon with the giangantic stone hand made his debut as a character in Dime Press #3 (1993) before appearing again in John Byrne’s Next Men #21 later that year. But the official continuity for Hellboy and his supporting cast of agents from the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (BPRD) begins in Hellboy:... Continue Reading →
Quick Catch-Up: Pepe Larraz
Acclaimed comic book artist Pepe Lazzaz took a break from drawing commissions at this year’s Portsmouth Comic Con to chat about his Big Game series with Mark Millar, his love of fantasy and sci-fi and designing the X-Men! Listen to the podcast below or on your preferred podcast player, such as Apple or Spotify through... Continue Reading →
Spider-Man Reading Order 1984-1986: Saga of the Alien Costume
1984 was the year Spider-Man received his first ever costume shake-up! The drastic change in his look was designed to coincide with the original SECRET WARS event, as well as the toy line of the same name. And while Spidey fans though they were just seeing a new look, there was more to his black... Continue Reading →
Trinity War (2013) Reading Order
The burgeoning relationship between Superman and Wonder Woman is making the US Government nervous. Amanda Waller and Steve Trevor formed their own Justice League of America (during WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS) to counter the true Justice League shold they ever cross the line. And that time is about to arrive. And with Zatanna now assisting the... Continue Reading →
World’s Most Dangerous (2013) Reading Order
The Advanced Research Group Uniting Super-Humans (ARGUS) wasn’t created just to liase with the Justice League. It was created to monitor them. But now that Superman and Wonder Woman are an item, the US Government are concerned that there may be a more sinister agenda at work. Amanda Waller is about to create a new... Continue Reading →
Hulk Reading Order: Future Imperfect (1993-1998)
Presenting the final five years of Peter David’s original run on the Hulk. There are big changes in Rick Jones' life, secrets of the Pantheon are revealed, the Hulk goes through another change and meets a future version of himself. And a climactic battle with Onslaught literally sends the Green Goliath in more than one... Continue Reading →
Armor Hunters (2014) Reading Order
Aric of Dacia has been through more than any man on Earth. The sole surviving man of his time and place, Aric has bonded with the alien X-O Manowar armor and settled with the descendents of his people in Nebraska under the protection of MERO (Military Extraterrestrial Recon Outpost). Aric carries out missions for MERO... Continue Reading →
Hulk Reading Order: Mister Fixit/The Professor (1987-1992)
Get ready! This reading order covers the first five years of Hulk history by the absolute master of the Green/Grey Goliath’s saga! Time and time again, I've sung the praises of Peter David's epic run on Incredible Hulk. Peter took over the title when sales were at an all-time low and literally no one else... Continue Reading →
Collector’s Item Special: Daniel Freedman
Our favourite writer of 2022, Daniel Freedman, returns to the Omniverse! This time, he’s here to talk about some of the comics that influenced him in one of our COLLECTOR’S ITEM SPECIAL episodes. The writer of Birdking & Raiders made a name for himself in 2022 and took the number one spot in our TOP... Continue Reading →
Hunt And Be Hunted (2013) Reading Order
Robin and Supergirl of Earth 2 were catapulted from their reality (during THE GATHERING) and became stranded on Prime Earth. Supergirl (Kara Zor-El) took on the identity of ‘Karen Starr’ and spent the last five years amassing a fortune to pay for the research that might enable their return home. Robin (Helena Wayne) focused on... Continue Reading →
Planet Hulk (2006-2007) Reading Order
When the Hulk has one rampage too many, the Illuminati decide it's time to put a stop to his devastating tantrums once and for all. The plan might be logical and humane, but things never go smoothly for the Green Goliath and he soon finds himself fighting for his life! And when all's said and... Continue Reading →
Unicron (2018) Reading Order
Optimus Prime was recently cast into Infraspace during a confrontation with Shockwave. There, he was reunited with Bumblebee. Returning to the land of the living using the Matrix - with Pyra Magna acting as a host body - another face-off with Shockwave ended with the revelation that the Primes were never ‘gods’. Now Rom returns... Continue Reading →
2099 Reading Order: The Original World of Tomorrow (1992-1997)
Originally intended to launch as a one-shot graphic novel 'Marvel World of Tomorrow' under Stan Lee and John Byrne, Marvel's 'futureverse' project instead became a line of 2099 titles set in a dystopian future of Earth-928. A new 'Age of Heroes' would dawn in this corporately-controlled America as future versions of pre-existing characters would begin... Continue Reading →
The Gathering (2012 – 2013) Reading Order
As part of the second wave of DC Comics’ New 52 relaunch of the entire DC Universe, two new series – Earth 2 and Worlds’ Finest – would hark back to the pre-Crisis version of the Justice Society of America characters. Utilising the concept of Earth 2 but with a modern spin, these stories featured... Continue Reading →
Marvel Cosmic Reading Order: Guarding the Galaxy (2008-2011)
The galaxy has been taking a pounding (see our previous Marvel Cosmic Reading Order). First, the Annihilation Wave tore through, wiping out whole worlds and killing the entire Nova Corps. Then the attempt by the Phalanx to take control of the Kree Empire caused further harm. Now the Earth is about to be invaded by... Continue Reading →
Collectors Item Special: Nick Ricci from Geekable Podcast
Nick Ricci from the most upbeat comics podcast on the planet – Geekable Podcast – shares five of the most treasured runs in his comic collection. But don’t be fooled by his age, Nick’s all set to hit us up with examples of comics from throughout the decades! Nick’s an old friend of the Omniverse... Continue Reading →
Secret Invasion (2008-2009) Reading Order
The shape-shifting alien Skrulls have infiltrated every government-sponsored super-team in America (see SECRET INVASION: THE INFILTRATION (2007-2008)). But it's not just the 50-State Initiative who are effected. The Skrulls have placed themselves among the outlaw heroes, the villains, the trusted members of society and even politicians. Is it possible to stop an invasion that's already... Continue Reading →
Secret Invasion: The Infiltration (2007-2008) Reading Order
The CIVIL WAR has spilt the costumed heroes of America into two factions: those who'll sign the Superhuman Registration Act and those who won't. Even the Avengers are split in two with the SHRA-approved Mighty Avengers led by Ms Marvel & Iron Man hunting Luke Cage's outlaw New Avengers. But, on a mission in Japan,... Continue Reading →
Sins Of Youth (2000) Reading Order
The formation of Young Justice – initially made up of Robin, Superboy and Impulse – caused a bit of a stir among the Justice League of America. Since then, their numbers have grown, along with the concerns of the JLA. Arrowette, the Secret and the new Wonder Girl have joined their ranks. Even under the... Continue Reading →
Marvel Cosmic Reading Order: Annihilated (2003-2008)
The cosmic side of the Marvel Universe had taken a back seat for a few years, but we’d really see Marvel start dipping our toes back into those space-centric tales in the early 2000s with Captain Marvel (Genis-Vell) returning to space, Thanos gaining his own series and Beta Ray Bill returning to the spotlight. But,... Continue Reading →
Kal-El Returns (2022-2023) Reading Order
Despite the injuries he suffered defending Earth from the Breach (during THE GOLDEN AGE), Clark Kent passed the mantle of Superman to his son, Jon Kent, and left Earth with the Authority to liberate Warworld from the tyrannical Mongul. Meanwhile, the freshed-faced young Superman would free the island nation Gamorra from its own cruel master... Continue Reading →
Collectors Item Special: Ian Richardson – Penciller, Inker, Covers
Penciller, inker, cover artist… is there anything Ian Richardson can’t do? The creative powerhouse very kindly stepped away from his desk to chat to us about some of his most-prized items in the comic collection he’s amassed over the years as a fan. In this Creator’s Item Special episode, Ian shares a complete 355-issue Marvel... Continue Reading →
The Spot Reading Order: Jonathon Ohnn (1984-present)
When the Kingpin tasks scientist Dr Johnathon Ohnn with emulating Cloak's powers, he gains the ability to tap into the Spotted Dimension and use wormholes as weapons. As the Spot, Ohnn's criminal career is sporadic, with the character veering from laughing stock to homicidal nightmare. Must Reads: Story arcs marked with a ✔ are must-read stories... Continue Reading →
Collector’s Item Special – Adam Grabarnick, Running Out of Space
Director and podcaster Adam Grabarnick hosts the Running Out Of Space podcast (available on all the best podcast players and on YouTube) regularly invites guests onto the show to talk about their collections – anything from action figures, to pryex… sneakers to wind-up toys. He even’s had a guest or two talk up their comic... Continue Reading →
The Golden Age (2021) Reading Order
Still impacted by his Anti-Life Equation infection (during DARK NIGHTS: DEATH METAL), Superman’s life is about to be placed in further jeopardy. Is it time for Jon Kent to accept that the Golden Age of childhood is over and he may need to become the next Superman? This event is also part of INFINITE FRONTIER... Continue Reading →
Final Orbit (1998) Reading Order
When writer Warren Ellis took over WildStorm’s StormWatch series after the FIRE FROM HEAVEN crossover event, he reduced the team’s roster and added a few new characters (including the obligatory hard-drinking, constantly smoking English character with an attitude towards authority) and new concepts. Then, out of the blue… it all ends. And I’m not sure... Continue Reading →
Day of Judgment (1999) Reading Order
When Etrigan the Demon manipulates the fallen angel Asmodel into becoming the Spectre’s newest host, all Hell literally freezes over. As the dead begin to rise and chaos takes hold of the world of the living, it’s up some the Justice League and the magic-using heroes of the DC Universe to gather together and find... Continue Reading →
The Thanos Imperative (2010-2011) Reading Order
They fought off the Annihilation Wave. They freed Hala from Ultron and the Phalanx. But then, the war between the Shi’ar Empire and the Kree/Inhuman alliance tore a hole in the fabric of space and time – the Fault – which threatens to spew forth the undying invaders from the Cancerverse. Can the Guardians of... Continue Reading →
Collected Editions Spotlight: Adam Strange Between Two Worlds – The Deluxe Edition
Dave from the Omniverse Comics Guide presents a super quick overview of the upcoming Adam Strange: Between Two Worlds - The Deluxe Edition oversized hardcover. Once the greatest hero of the distant planet Rann, he's now a wanted man on Earth. Pursued by the police and hunted by aliens, Strange has learned that his adopted planet... Continue Reading →
Authority Reading Order: The WildStorm Years (1999-2011)
Warren Ellis took the reins of WildStorm Universe’s StormWatch series from Image Comics in 1996, and dragged it to new heights - mixing more mature storytelling with a semi-political edge. Following a relaunch that added Bryan Hitch as the title’s semi-regular new artist, Ellis wiped out almost the entire line-up with the FINAL ORBIT crossover... Continue Reading →
Realm of Kings (2009-2010) Reading Order
The WAR OF KINGS is over, but the universe itself is literally scarred. Black Bolt’s plan to weaponise the Terrigen Mists against Vulcan and the Shi’ar failed, but the detonation of the Terrigen Bomb has torn a colossal rift in the fabric in time and space. Both the Shi’ar and the Kree-ruled Inhumans have chosen... Continue Reading →
Invincible Universe Reading Order: Guarding the Globe & Beyond (2002-2018)
If you think Invincible is just another superhero comic, then give it a shot and stick with it. This series regularly breaks the rules in terms of what’s ‘supposed’ to happen in superhero titles. The mistakes Mark Grayson makes far outweigh any errors in judgement that Peter Parker’s ever made. Characters die and don’t come... Continue Reading →
Heck’s Angels (1999) Reading Order
While Young Justice put an end to the Acolyte’s attempt to throw the Presence from his thrown in Heaven and replace him with Kali, the effects of the Acolyte’s plan hit Red Tornado right where he lives. Kali’s spell took hold Red Tornado’s adopted daughter Traya Sutton, prompting her to attack her mother. Kathy Sutton... Continue Reading →
Justice League Dark Reading Order (2011-2015): The New 52 Era
As part of DC Comics' New 52 initiative that saw the birth of a modernised DC Universe, the Justice League Dark are a team made up of key magic users who gather to combat mystical and supernatural threats. Even though the line-up make it clear they don't want to be a team, fate will keep bringing them together until they... Continue Reading →
Doom Patrol Reading Order: The New Earth/Vertigo Era (1987-2011)
Known for some of the most bizarre stories in the DC Universe, the Doom Patrol are about to get stranger! Following the death of the original line-up at the hands of Madame Rouge and General Zahl, Robotman became part of a new Doom Patrol when he met Celsius, Negative Woman and Tempest. The team remained... Continue Reading →
Annihilation (2006-2007) Reading Order
Some of the major cosmic powers in the Marvel Universe are about to butt heads in a big way. A rift has opened form the Negative Zone into the positive matter universe and Annihilus plans to take full advantage. With the heroes busy fighting amongst themselves (during CIVIL WAR, 2006-2007), the fate of everything is in the hands of some unlikely heroes. ... Continue Reading →
Legends (1986-1987) Reading Order
Following the CRISIS OF INFINITE EARTHS (1985-1986), the DC Universe has started afresh! At least, for the most part. It's been about five years since the introduction of Superman and, in that time, other heroes have risen with some even forming the Justice League of America. But the League is about to face a crisis of its own when Professor Ivo's bizarre... Continue Reading →
Ultimate Spider-Man: Peter Parker (2000-2018) Reading Order
Sure there are some truly amazing Spider-Man stories out there, but Marvel realised there's an intimidating amount of history for potential new readers to take on, so they launched a fresher take on the Marvel Universe in 2000. The Ultimate Universe began with Ultimate Spider-Man as its flagship series and what a fantastic series it was! Taking Spider-Man back to his roots, this teenage Peter Parker was... Continue Reading →
Kang Reading Order: Nathaniel Richards (1963-Present)
Kang the Conqueror has been one of the Avengers’ most intriguing enemies. His main goal has been to dominate not just the world, but every world in every era. He's the master of time and that means there are numerous versions of him, often leading Kang to try and outdo his past and future selves,... Continue Reading →
Annihilation: Conquest (2007-2008) Reading Order
The Annihilation Wave led to the Annihilation War (which, of course, all happened during ANNIHILATION). Once it was all over, the universe learned it needed to be prepared in the highly unlikely event that it could all happen again someday. But no one was banking on the Phalanx... 'Annihilation: Conquest' steps things up a notch... Continue Reading →