10 Greatest Marvel Comics Of The 21st Century

Despite comic book movies basically owning Hollywood, the comics industry is struggling to find new readers. After a massive collapse in the comics market in the 90s, things have never been the same. Diminished readership has forced creators to tell the best stories they can, and the modern Marvel age of comics has resulted in some of the greatest comics the medium has ever had to offer.

For years, comics were all about maintaining the status quo. Marvel comics especially had the mantra of making it appear as if things were changing, while never actually moving a character forward. However, the comics that have come out in recent years have been more about stripping a character down to their core and trying to redefine them.

With thousands of comics being published since the turn of the century, it's not always easy to find the best the industry has to offer. But even as the industry draws more criticism and less sales, there are still some stunning releases you must own as a discerning fan...

One of biggest shockers in the Civil War miniseries was when Spider-Man revealed his identity to the world. The coveted secret was told at a press conference, and Spider-Man's life would never be the same for it. Once his identity is public, Aunt May is shot by a sniper and rushed to the hospital.

Peter dons his black suit to reflect his rage and own darkness following this attack. He eventually discovers the Kingpin was responsible for hiring the sniper from prison and the two of them have a vicious fight, and of course, Peter wins and lets the criminal underworld know that his family and friends are off limits.

Spider-Man is a character with a some of the best villains and supporting characters, and is responsible for changing the entire comics industry more than once. But when looking at the modern era, it's often easier to point out successful creative teams instead of discrete story arcs such as this one. Back in Black's six issue run returns Spider-Man to a fan-favorite look and shows what is most important to his character, even at his darkest moments.

Sure, the follow up - One More Day - was a terrible misstep, but that doesn't detract from this brilliance.