Here’s an age-old question in the comic industry that’s created a lot of discussion throughout the years: are you a Marvel fan or a DC fan?
While there are other comic brands out there, these two take up the lion’s share of the industry. The most popular superheroes on screen today, and the ones that we looked up to as kids, were most likely from one or the other brand.
We can’t tell you which brand is the best for sure. After all, they both have tons of strong contenders and stories to offer. But what we can do here at Comic Fan Club is highlight the biggest differences between the two.
Character Origins
This is the clearest difference between the lead heroes of Marvel and DC Comics. In Marvel, most of the characters are made superhuman due to the X-gene, radiation, wealth, or blessings from a higher power.
For example, Steve Rogers was just a regular guy before he was enhanced by the super-soldier serum. Many X-Men characters lived as normal humans before their X-genes manifested. Spiderman and Bruce Banner were both ordinary human beings before they were exposed to radiation in different ways.
In the DC Universe, most of the figureheads are alien creatures. Superman, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman are all descendants of mythical figures. And even superheroes who were given abilities by accident, like the Green Lantern or the Flash, are treated as gods in the narrative.
Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. Iron Man and Batman are both incredibly smart and wealthy playboys who use their status to become superheroes. Thor and Loki make an appearance in the Marvel comics as well.
Relatability
One artistic decision that’s different between the two comics is the amount of time the heroes spend in their superhero outfits. It’s a subtle detail, but interesting nevertheless.
If you flip through DC comic books, you’ll notice that the heroes spend plenty of time fully geared, even when they aren’t on the battlefield. Sometimes, they have practical reasons. Maybe they’ve just returned from a mission, or they are about to begin one. But between Marvel and DC, Marvel heroes definitely spend more time in civilian attire.
This aesthetic suggests that Marvel characters were written so we could identify with them easier. There is plenty of emphasis on the human side and the struggles associated with living this double life. As a result, fans agree that Marvel characters are usually more grounded and more relatable.
Conversely, superpowers are at the core of the lives of DC heroes. We are entertained by their otherworldliness and their occasional attempts to fit in. They are icons that we look up to, not identify with. The fact that they are not like us leaves plenty of room for the imagination.
Source of Power
How do you view power? This is a major plot element in any superhero story. When you look at the Marvel Comics, most backstories often associate the hero’s awakening to a tragic event, or the result of a lifetime of trauma. Spiderman grew into his role as a superhero after his Uncle Ben’s passing. Most of the X-Men lived difficult lives, and continued to be shunned by society even after their powers manifested. The Hulk reluctantly fulfills his duty as a superhero after he became irradiated.
In contrast, the DC universe often highlights the benefits of having superpowers. Their abilities are seen as a blessing, and the characters often have an inherently strong sense of justice. To be fair, this does go back to how most DC characters are mythological creatures.
Locations
This one’s a small detail that a lot of fans overlook. Most stories in the DC comics happen in made-up places like Smallville or Gotham. Marvel, on the other hand, uses real-life cities. Most of them are located around the United States.
Once again, exceptions to the rule do exist. For example, Marvel Comics also have Asgard and Wakanda. However, most of the action does happen in real-life locations.
In that sense, fans may feel a stronger affinity for what is happening in the Marvel comics because they’re seeing actual places destroyed or rebuilt throughout the narrative. Conversely, DC allows the location to shape itself around the narrative of the character. This often makes these locations synonymous to their defenders.
Conclusion
Between Marvel and DC, you’ve got tons of superheroes and stories to satisfy any craving for fantasy. Both brands offer unique and exciting stories for all audiences. With more movie adaptations ahead, we’re looking forward to seeing our beloved heroes come to life on the big screen.