The recent ending to the Disney+ series Ms. Marvel hinted that one of Marvel’s flagship teams, the X-Men, might soon be debuting in the MCU, reminding audiences that there’s more to Marvel than just the Avengers. Similarly, the “Dark Crisis” event in DC Comics puts the Justice League and its complicated legacy front and center.
Indeed, Marvel and DC Comics are famous for their iconic teams, but they don’t fully own the superhero genre. Many memorable groups have come together in comic books, movies, and television. Fans on Ranker voted for their favorite ones, and while there are many of the usual suspects, there are also a couple of welcome surprises.
10 The Autobots
The good guys of the Transformers franchise, the Autobots fight to protect humans and themselves from their eternal enemies, the Decepticons. Founded by Prima and led by Optimus Prime, the Autobots come from the planet Cybertron and can transform into various machines, most prominently automobiles.
It might be a stretch to call the Autobots superheroes, but they are certainly heroes. Their capacity to adopt numerous mechanical forms is as impressive as any superhuman ability, but it’s their commitment to protecting Earth that earns them a place among the best heroic teams ever.
9 The Watchmen
Alan Moore’s Watchmen was a milestone in comic book history. The graphic novel followed the retired members of the titular team as they investigated the death of one of their own, a sadistic and ruthless vigilante turned government-sponsored superhero.
Watchmen is full of thought-provoking quotes and ideas, exploring power, nostalgia, control, and manipulation themes. The graphic novel is the ultimate deconstruction of the myth of the superhero, the all-knowing, all-powerful and kind “superman.” The titular group isn’t heroic per se, but they are the closest thing to what a real-life superhero would be.
8 The Incredibles
Arguably the best superhero family in movies, the Incredibles are the protagonists of the Pixar film of the same name. The story focuses on Bob and Helen Parr, a pair of retired superheroes who start a family after the government outlawed their heroics. However, a villain’s plot drags them back into action.
The Incredibles is a celebration of family and teamwork. The film is vibrant, featuring beautiful animation and thrilling action sequences that rival any modern-day scenes in the superhero genre. The family is all about the hero’s life, and their commitment to saving others becomes apparent by the film’s ending.
7 The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Not many people might remember that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise began as a comic book series. The plot centers on the titular characters, a quartet of mutated turtles who wield various weapons and protect New York City from various threats.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are a typical chaotic family. They fight, argue and make up, often in the same scene. Their commitment to defending New York City is admirable, and they never run away from a fight. They might not look like the prototype of a hero, but they certainly have the heart of one.
6 Young Justice
Although the team known as Young Justice was already part of the DC Comics lore, it didn’t become a household name until the television show of the same name premiered in 2010. Young Justice follows a group of former protegés who form a new team to stand out from their mentor’s shadows.
Young Justice is one of the best and most complex animated shows on television. It juggles a massive cast of characters, but the team’s core members are usually front and center. Growing up under the protection of some of DC’s best heroes means these former sidekicks are as heroic as their former mentors, cementing their team as one of the best and most capable in their universe.
5 The Teen Titans
Like the Young Justice, the Teen Titans were already prominent members of the DC canon, thanks to their memorable ’80s run under Marv Wolfman and George Pérez. However, they gained new popularity in the noughties thanks to the animated show that premiered in 2003. The Titans are a group of teenage superheroes that fight crime while dealing with growing pains.
The Teen Titans have many relatable members and storylines that helped turn them into one of DC’s best teams. Characters like Raven and Starfire also showcase the complications of being an alien superhero, while the group’s de-facto leader, Dick Grayson, served as the perfect stand-in for fans.
4 The Justice League
The Justice League is DC’s most famous and important organization. Comprised of iconic characters like Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Flash, Aquaman, and Martian Manhunter, the League serves as the main team and protectors of the entire DC Universe.
Aside from their more prominent heroes, the Justice League has a slew of equally impressive yet underrated members. The team is crucial to DC Comics, serving as its flagship institution. The League is so fascinating because each of its members is unique and different from each other, yet puts their differences aside to work for a greater goal. None of the members lose their individuality, creating a layered and intriguing dynamic that fans love.
3 The Guardians Of The Galaxy
The Guardians of the Galaxy were pretty important for Marvel Comics, but the MCU elevated them to the big leagues. The team went through several iterations, although the 2008 line-up is the most famous and would later serve as the basis for the MCU adaptation.
It seems strange, unfair even, to see the Guardians outrank the Justice League, but their popularity is undeniable. The MCU turned took them from B-level heroes into bonafide Marvel superstars, and that’s an impressive achievement in and of itself. However, the MCU also gave them more depth and substance, deepening their family bond while showcasing their commitment to being heroes without sacrificing their trademark cynicism.
2 The X-Men
The X-Men are an institution in Marvel comics. The team of Westchester-based mutants has some of the most powerful Marvel characters in their ranks, including Professor X, Jean Grey, Storm, and Wolverine.
For years before the MCU’s arrival, the X-Men were the most popular team in Marvel Comics. The mutant group deals with persecution and intolerance, going out of their way to defend and protect the same people that fear and hate them. The comics explore issues of tolerance and discrimination, making them one of the most complicated and thematically-weighty pieces of Marvel content.
1 The Avengers
Marvel’s flagship team became the most dominant force in comic books after the MCU turned them into cinematic icons. Earth’s Mightiest Heroes were already crucial to Marvel Comics, but the MCU helped them become the most influential and relevant superhero team in history.
The Avengers have many difficulties but always manage to work around them. Their interactions are complex, and they often clash because of their opposing points of view. Still, the team understands the need for an organization that protects Earth, and they always put their duty first.
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