When people talk about comic book universes, Marvel and DC tend to dominate the conversation. But there’s another universe out there that’s been quietly building a loyal fanbase, one issue at a time. Valiant Comics might not have the same name recognition, but its lineup is packed with compelling characters, tight storytelling, and rich world-building.
Valiant’s charm lies in its balance. It offers superheroes with heart, action with purpose, and crossovers that actually make sense. For fans tired of endless reboots and multiverse confusion, Valiant offers something more grounded—while still giving you plenty of sci-fi, magic, and explosions.
What This Article Covers
- Standout Valiant series you shouldn’t miss
- Why these stories connect with longtime fans and new readers
- What makes Valiant’s universe feel fresh and different
Bloodshot: Grit, Guns, and Nano-Tech
Bloodshot is one of Valiant’s most iconic characters. Think Wolverine mixed with Robocop. Ray Garrison, a former soldier, is resurrected by a shady military group using nanites—tiny machines in his blood that give him healing powers, super strength, and the ability to interface with tech.
But his memories? Those have been tampered with. As Bloodshot starts to unravel the truth behind his past, the story gets more intense, blending action with big questions about identity and control.
If you’re new to Valiant, the 2012 Bloodshot series by Duane Swierczynski is a great place to start. The later Bloodshot Reborn by Jeff Lemire adds depth and emotion, making it a fan favorite.
Harbinger: Teen Powers, Real Consequences
Harbinger follows a group of young psiots—superpowered individuals—who break away from a powerful corporation led by Toyo Harada, a psychic with a god complex. The story focuses on Peter Stanchek, a troubled teen with strong abilities who’s trying to figure out whom he can trust.
This series has a strong emotional core. It’s about power, manipulation, and rebellion. Think of it as Valiant’s answer to the X-Men, but grittier and more grounded.
The original 2012 run by Joshua Dysart remains one of the best entries in the Valiant catalog. It also leads into the Harbinger Wars crossover, which pulls in other key characters from the universe.
X-O Manowar: Alien Armor Meets Epic Storytelling
Aric of Dacia was a warrior from ancient Rome who got abducted by aliens and escaped with their most powerful weapon: the X-O Manowar armor. When he returns to Earth, centuries have passed—and now he’s stuck between worlds.
This series delivers big sci-fi action but stays rooted in character. Aric is a warrior first, struggling with modern life and the responsibilities of power.
The 2012 series by Robert Venditti kicks off with serious momentum and never really slows down. The 2017 reboot by Matt Kindt takes it further, placing Aric in a galaxy-spanning war that feels both epic and personal.
Ninjak: Spy Thrills with a Sharp Edge
Colin King is Ninjak—a British spy with high-tech gadgets, martial arts skills, and a deep backstory full of secrets. He’s part James Bond, part ninja, and one of the coolest characters in the Valiant universe.
The Ninjak series blends espionage with action and keeps the tension high. The 2015 run by Matt Kindt stands out, especially with the art by Clay Mann and later Doug Braithwaite. It’s stylish, slick, and full of surprises.
For fans who like their superheroes mixed with spy fiction, Ninjak is a solid pick.
Rai: Dystopian Japan, Cybernetics, and Rebellion
Set in the year 4001, Rai tells the story of a guardian in a futuristic, floating Japan ruled by an artificial intelligence called Father. Rai is part protector, part enforcer, and all conflicted. When he starts to question his role, the story becomes one of rebellion and purpose.
The 2014 series by Matt Kindt and Clayton Crain is a visual standout. The art feels painted, with every page looking like a poster. The storytelling is tight, blending world-building with big emotional beats.
Rai’s arc later ties into the 4001 A.D. event, which brings other Valiant characters into the future timeline.
Faith: Heart, Humor, and Heroism
Faith Herbert, aka Zephyr, started in Harbinger but quickly won fans over enough to get her own series. She’s a psiot who can fly and create force fields, but more importantly, she’s relatable. She’s a pop culture geek, a journalist, and someone who just wants to do good.
Faith is light in tone compared to most of Valiant’s catalog, but it’s no less meaningful. It brings humor and optimism to a universe that often leans gritty.
The 2016 solo run by Jody Houser was a standout moment—not just for Valiant but for superhero comics in general. Faith became one of the few plus-size heroines to headline her own title, and the series handled it with honesty and care.
Shadowman: Dark Magic and Voodoo Horror
Jack Boniface becomes Shadowman, a hero tied to voodoo traditions and the dark dimension known as the Deadside. This series blends horror, magic, and action, giving Valiant a supernatural edge.
The 2012 version introduced readers to the lore, while later versions, including the 2018 reboot by Andy Diggle, expanded the mythology and gave Shadowman a sharper focus.
This is a great pick for readers who enjoy darker stories with rich world-building and mystical threats.
The Valiant: A Solid Jumping-On Point
If you’re curious about Valiant’s shared universe but don’t know where to start, The Valiant is a good entry point. Written by Jeff Lemire and Matt Kindt, and drawn by Paolo Rivera, it brings together characters like Bloodshot, Eternal Warrior, and Gilad in a fast-moving, accessible story.
It’s self-contained, so you don’t need to read a dozen back issues, but it also gives you a feel for how Valiant’s world fits together.
Valiant Comics has something for every type of reader—sci-fi fans, mystery lovers, action junkies, and those looking for more character-driven storytelling. Its shared universe feels tight and thoughtful, and many of the stories keep their focus on real stakes and emotional growth.
Whether you’re looking for brutal antiheroes, heartfelt journeys, or futuristic wars, Valiant delivers with consistency and care. These top series are just the beginning, and once you’re in, you might find yourself staying a while.