Comic books are rich with a range of shared universes. While the likes of Marvel and DC are often front and centre, there are many other excellent worlds to explore. One of these is the Valiant Universe, a diverse universe which is the focus of a brand-new column on called A Valiant Read.
Who is Valiant?
Before I get into what A Valiant Read is, I should give a quick rundown of Valiant Comics and the wider Valiant Universe.
Formed in 1989, Valiant Comics hit the scene as an alternative publisher of superhero comics to Marvel and DC. Throughout the 1990s, Valiant introduced readers to a diverse range of superhero comics that incorporate a variety of genres and tones. Along the way, characters such as Bloodshot, X-O Manowar, Quantum & Woody, and Harbinger became fan favourites for comic book readers with action-packed stories.
In 1994, Valiant Comics was purchased by video game publisher Acclaim. Unfortunately, the bankruptcy of Acclaim saw the Valiant properties disappear around the turn of the century. But this would not be the last we would see of them.
2012 saw the triumphant return of Valiant and a rebooted universe. Since then they’ve been creating quality comics that continue the spirit of diverse storytelling, winning awards and selling millions of comics in the process.
Valiant was purchased by DMG Entertainment in 2018.
Introducing A Valiant Read
A Valiant Read is a regular column that introduces readers to the modern Valiant Universe. Each edition highlights great jumping-on points for the Valiant Universe, whether it be a debut trade paperback volume or miniseries.
Don’t stress if you don’t know anything about the comics that are being featured. By the end of each column, you’ll be introduced to the main characters and know how to read the series. We’ll also have a bit of fun with a music and awards section too.
So I hope you can join me as we take a trip through the Valiant Universe!
Take a look at the editions that have been publish so far:
A Valiant Read #1: X-O Manowar: By The Sword
A Valiant Read #2: Bloodshot: Setting The World On Fire
A Valiant Read #3: Harbinger: Omega Rising
A Valiant Read #4: Archer & Armstrong: The Michelangelo Code
A Valiant Read #5: Shadowman: Birth Rites
A Valiant Read #6: Harbinger Wars
A Valiant Read #7: X-O Manowar: Homecoming
A Valiant Read #8: Unity: To Kill A King
A Valiant Read #9: Quantum And Woody: The World’s Worst Superhero Team
A Valiant Read #10: The Death-Defying Doctor Mirage
A Valiant Read #11: Eternal Warrior: Sword of the Wild
Have Your Say!
Which Valiant comics would you like to see covered? Sound off in the comments below or via Facebook or Twitter.
This sounds like fun! I just found this website, and it’s great! I can’t wait to read your reviews. Valiant does indeed make quality comics. I’m a huge fan, and have been since 2014. I’d love to help out with any questions about release dates, reading orders, and stuff like that.
Also, are you aware that Valiant was purchased by DMG in 2018? They’re still making comics, but it’s not the same people (Dinesh Shamdasani, specifically) that brought Valiant back in 2012.
Hey Chris, I am glad you’re coming on this ride with me. I was aware of the purchase and I had forgotten to put it in.
I have read (and loved) Ivar Timewalker and Imperium. I’m quite keen to see how they fit into your posts!
Hey Peter, both of these are on the road map. Although, it might take a while before I get to them. Hopefully, there are some other Valiant series you dig in the meantime.