Guardians of the Galaxy is a relatively new addition to the Marvel Universe, but it has quickly become a fan favourite. The team of misfits has captured the hearts of readers with their hilarious banter, exciting adventures, and compelling character arcs. In this article, we will explore the best Guardians of the Galaxy comics of all time, from the team’s first appearance to the most recent series.
- “Annihilation: Conquest” (2007)
Before the Guardians of the Galaxy were a team, they were a group of characters thrown together during the “Annihilation: Conquest” storyline. The event saw the Phalanx, a race of technologically advanced beings, take over the Kree Empire. Star-Lord, Drax the Destroyer, Gamora, Rocket Raccoon, and Groot all played a role in the conflict, and it was during this storyline that they first came together as a team. The “Annihilation: Conquest” storyline is a must-read for fans of the Guardians of the Galaxy, as it establishes the team’s origins and sets the stage for their future adventures.
- “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2008)
Following their initial appearance in “Annihilation: Conquest,” the Guardians of the Galaxy were given their own ongoing series in 2008. Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, the series saw the team come together to protect the galaxy from a variety of threats, including the Badoon, the Phalanx, and the Universal Church of Truth. The series is notable for its focus on character development, particularly for characters like Rocket Raccoon and Groot, who had previously been more minor players in the Marvel Universe. The series ran for 25 issues and is considered one of the best Guardians of the Galaxy stories ever told.
- “Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Avengers” (2013)
In 2013, Brian Michael Bendis and Steve McNiven relaunched the Guardians of the Galaxy series with a new #1 issue. The series saw the team come together once again to protect the galaxy, this time from the cosmic threat of Thanos. The series is notable for its excellent characterization and for introducing new team members like Angela, a character originally created by Neil Gaiman for Spawn. The series ran for 27 issues and was the basis for the first Guardians of the Galaxy film.
- “Rocket Raccoon” (2014)
In 2014, Marvel launched a new ongoing series focused on Rocket Raccoon. Written and illustrated by Skottie Young, the series saw Rocket go on a series of wacky adventures across the galaxy. The series was notable for its humour and its beautiful artwork, and it helped to solidify Rocket’s place as one of the most beloved characters in the Marvel Universe. The series ran for 11 issues and is a must-read for fans of the character.
- “Guardians of the Galaxy: Legacy” (2018)
In 2018, Gerry Duggan and Aaron Kuder launched a new Guardians of the Galaxy series that focused on the team’s legacy. The series saw the team dealing with the aftermath of Thanos’ death and trying to establish themselves as the new protectors of the galaxy. The series is notable for its exploration of the team’s history and for introducing new characters like Cosmic Ghost Rider. The series ran for 12 issues and is a great read for fans of the team.
The Guardians of the Galaxy have had a relatively short but incredibly impactful history in the Marvel Universe. From their origins in “Annihilation: Conquest” to their recent adventures in “Guardians of the Galaxy: Legacy,” the team has provided readers with some of the most entertaining and compelling stories.