List of Dark Horse Comics publications
Overview
Dark Horse Comics is a prominent American comic book and manga publisher known for its diverse range of publications. Since its inception in 1986, Dark Horse has been a significant player in the comic book industry, offering a wide array of titles that span various genres, including science fiction, fantasy, horror, and superhero narratives. This article provides a comprehensive list of notable publications by Dark Horse Comics, detailing the breadth and depth of their offerings.
Notable Series and Titles
Hellboy
One of Dark Horse Comics' flagship titles, Hellboy, created by Mike Mignola, is a supernatural series that follows the adventures of a demon raised by humans. Hellboy works for the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (B.P.R.D.), battling occult threats and uncovering his mysterious origins. The series is renowned for its unique art style and mythological storytelling.
Sin City
Sin City, created by Frank Miller, is a neo-noir comic series set in the fictional Basin City. Known for its stark black-and-white artwork and gritty narratives, Sin City explores themes of crime, corruption, and redemption. The series has been adapted into successful films, further cementing its place in popular culture.
The Umbrella Academy
Created by Gerard Way and illustrated by Gabriel Bá, The Umbrella Academy is a superhero series that follows a dysfunctional family of adopted siblings with extraordinary abilities. The series combines elements of science fiction and fantasy, exploring complex family dynamics and apocalyptic scenarios. It has gained widespread acclaim and has been adapted into a popular television series.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Dark Horse Comics continued the story of Buffy the Vampire Slayer through a series of comic books that serve as canonical continuations of the television series. These comics explore new adventures and challenges faced by Buffy and her allies, expanding the lore of the Buffyverse.
Star Wars
Dark Horse held the license for Star Wars comics from 1991 to 2014, producing numerous series and one-shots that expanded the Star Wars universe. Notable titles include "Dark Empire," "Tales of the Jedi," and "Knights of the Old Republic." These comics explored various timelines and characters, enriching the Star Wars mythos.
Aliens and Predator
Dark Horse Comics has published several series based on the Aliens and Predator franchises, often crossing over the two universes. These comics delve into the lore of the extraterrestrial creatures, offering thrilling narratives that expand upon the original films.
300
300, created by Frank Miller and colored by Lynn Varley, is a historical graphic novel depicting the Battle of Thermopylae. The series is known for its stylized artwork and dramatic storytelling, which was later adapted into a successful film.
The Mask
The Mask series, created by Doug Mahnke and John Arcudi, follows the story of a magical mask that grants its wearer superhuman abilities and a chaotic personality. The series combines elements of comedy and action, gaining popularity through its film adaptation starring Jim Carrey.
Concrete
Created by Paul Chadwick, Concrete is a series that follows a man whose brain is transplanted into a rock-like body. The series explores themes of humanity, isolation, and environmentalism, offering a unique take on the superhero genre.
Usagi Yojimbo
Usagi Yojimbo, created by Stan Sakai, is a long-running series that follows the adventures of a rabbit ronin in a feudal Japan populated by anthropomorphic animals. The series is praised for its historical accuracy and intricate storytelling.
Manga Publications
Dark Horse Comics is also known for its extensive catalog of manga publications, bringing popular Japanese titles to Western audiences.
Berserk
Berserk, created by Kentaro Miura, is a dark fantasy manga series that follows the story of Guts, a lone mercenary in a medieval world. The series is renowned for its intricate artwork and complex narrative, exploring themes of fate, sacrifice, and the human condition.
Lone Wolf and Cub
Lone Wolf and Cub, created by Kazuo Koike and illustrated by Goseki Kojima, is a classic samurai manga series. It follows the journey of Ogami Ittō, a disgraced executioner, and his young son as they seek revenge against those who wronged them.
Ghost in the Shell
Ghost in the Shell, created by Masamune Shirow, is a cyberpunk manga series that explores themes of artificial intelligence, identity, and technology. The series has been influential in both manga and science fiction, inspiring several adaptations and spin-offs.
Trigun
Trigun, created by Yasuhiro Nightow, is a space Western manga series that follows the adventures of Vash the Stampede, a gunslinger with a mysterious past. The series combines action, comedy, and philosophical themes, gaining a cult following.
Graphic Novels and Anthologies
Dark Horse Comics has published numerous graphic novels and anthologies, showcasing a wide range of storytelling styles and artistic talents.
The Goon
The Goon, created by Eric Powell, is a series that blends horror, humor, and action. It follows the titular character, a tough-as-nails enforcer, as he battles supernatural threats in a darkly comedic world.
Blacksad
Blacksad, created by Juan Díaz Canales and illustrated by Juanjo Guarnido, is a noir series featuring anthropomorphic characters. Set in a 1950s America, the series follows private investigator John Blacksad as he navigates a world of crime and intrigue.
Lady Killer
Lady Killer, created by Joëlle Jones and Jamie S. Rich, is a series that follows a 1950s housewife who leads a double life as a contract killer. The series is known for its stylish artwork and dark humor.
Harrow County
Harrow County, created by Cullen Bunn and illustrated by Tyler Crook, is a horror series set in a rural southern town. The series explores themes of folklore, family, and the supernatural, receiving critical acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling.