Things have changed in the comic book industry. Companies like Image Comics, Dark Horse, and BOOM! Studios are publishing some of the best comics in a long time. For example, Jason Aaron’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Stephanie Phillips’ Grim were two top ten comic books of 2025.
In 2026, the trend of amazing series coming from companies that aren’t Marvel and DC Comics will continue. So, if you’re searching for something to check out in 2026, that isn't from the big two, these ten series won’t let you down. Let’s begin with something that’s been reliable for the last couple of years.
The Energon Universe
A lot is coming in the Energon Universe. Recently, Skybound/Image Comics announced an unlikely team-up with Duke and Cobra Commander titled The Dreadnok War. If that isn’t enough, we should finally get the meeting of the Autobots and Decepticons with Cobra and G.I. Joe.
It should be acknowledged that there’s an Energon Universe animated project coming. With that in mind, Skybound Entertainment should be putting its best foot forward with the upcoming stories. Considering everything they’ve published has been great (including Void Rivals and their miniseries in 2024), fans shouldn’t worry about the comics getting bad.
Ghost Pepper
This wasn’t a comic book I expected to like, but now I get excited whenever it’s released. Writer and artist of this series, Ludo Lullabi, has created a very anime-like story with similar fights. And the lead character (Ash) is more than what we see. Meanwhile, issue No. 4 showed a mysterious character waiting on the moon. Could this be the person who almost destroyed the world?
Invincible Universe: Battle Beast
As you can see from the Instagram image above, Ryan Ottley and Robert Kirkman aren’t done yet. In 2026, it looks like the fight of the year will happen in Invincible Universe: Battle Beast, and it’ll be Battle Beast vs Conquest. You won’t want to miss that.
FML
Thank the gods that one of my favorite comic books of 2025 will continue into next year. Writer Kelly Sue DeConnick and artist David López combined for a deep and entertaining comic book. And despite how depressing things seemed (due to some realistic content), the creative team still managed to make readers laugh and smile. If you haven't started this series, get on it before it returns in 2026.
Speed Racer
Speed Racer is a high-octane, fast-paced, and emotional story, and it continues into 2026. Speed's mission to get money to save his father will get more intense now that the Car Acrobatic Team is gunning for him. Hopefully, Racer X will be there when he needs it.
Readers should expect writer David Pepose and artist Davide Tinto to continue the creative car chases and action until the series ends. Also, look for some moves and gadgets not seen in any Speed Racer project.
Kill All Immortals
If I’m being honest, I’m here for the weapons, fights, and the angry gods. Issue No. 1 was full of that, so there’s no reason to think it won’t continue. However, I am expecting some surprises from various gods and objects known worldwide.
Captain Planet and the Planeteers
There’s no way this wasn’t the surprise comic book of the year. Captain Planet and the Planeteers wasn’t just a good comic book. The characters and their powers were upgraded for a new world. However, their core personalities remained (a crucial part of any reboot). Plus, Captain Planet has a beard. What more do you need?
Truth Man
Truth Man just started issue No. 1 after an amazing issue No. 0 (the sort of origin). It’s easy to guess that writer Nicole Maines and artist Chris Ables will continue making a story worth following on their Patreon. And, during my interview with the creators, it looks like there are more mysteries and action in store for the reluctant hero.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
The first issue hasn’t been released, but I’m willing to bet Buffy the Vampire Slayer will be one of the best of the year, and it’s all because Kelly Thompson is writing it. As this article is being written, the artist hasn’t been revealed (although David Nakayama is doing the covers). Nevertheless, the Eisner Award-winning writer proved that anything she writes will be worth reading.
Assorted Crisis Events
If you’ve been following my writing, you know I speak highly of Deniz Camp and his series, Assorted Crisis Events. After the stories he told this year, I can’t wait to see what he does in 2026. With the world at war with itself, the tales he tells will be deeper than ever. Let’s see if he can top issue No. 2.
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