Nick Fury, the legendary superspy and master strategist, has been a pivotal figure in Marvel Comics for decades. Known for his commanding presence and one good eye, Fury’s exploits have thrilled readers in various storylines, often involving espionage, secret organisations, and super-powered individuals. If you’re looking to dive into the thrilling world of this iconic character, here’s a list of the best Nick Fury comics to read.
But before you do, there is one important thing you need to know – there are effectively two Nick Fury characters to know.
The first is spy master Colonel Nicholas Joseph “Nick” Fury Sr., created by writer and artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee. This cigar-chomping war veteran first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 (May 1963), and subsequently as a spy modelled after James Bond, working for intelligence agency S.H.I.E.L.D., and he has since appeared across decades of Marvel Comics as an ally, and at times master manipulator of superheroes. How? He consumes the Infinity Formula that grants him immortality.
A version of the character subsequently appeared in Marvel Comics’ Ultimate Marvel imprint, and this time, he was modelled, in both looks and personality, after actor Samuel L. Jackson and when the character was introduced in the end credits of Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) Iron Man (2008), Jackson was cast in the role. The popularity of Jackson’s portrayal across multiple films made Marvel Comics retire the original character, and replace him with Fury’s son, Nick Fury Jr., who is patterned after Jackson and the Ultimate version of the character.
1) Fury (2023) #1
Fury (2023) #1 is an oversized one-shot from writer Al Ewing and a number of talented artists that celebrates the 60th anniversary of Nick Fury. The story shines a spotlight on Nick Fury’s son, Nick Fury Jr., who is modelled after Samuel L. Jackson’s take on the character in the MCU. Ewing expertly weaves a narrative that seamlessly shifts between flashbacks and present-day action featuring the elder Nick Fury on a lunar mission and his son embarking on a daring assignment.
If you have a penchant for espionage, high-tech spy gadgets, and tales that offer a comprehensive look at a hero’s life, Fury (2023) #1 should be on your reading list. It not only pays tribute to the iconic hero, but also lays the foundation for new adversaries and exciting adventures in the uncharted territory of young Nick Fury.
2) Fury MAX: My War Gone By
Marvel’s Max imprint specialises in comics that feature explicit content aimed at adult-only readers. With this in mind, Fury MAX: My War Gone By amps up the violence and grit, incorporating elements of real-world history along with a treatise on war and modern capitalism.
Fury MAX: My War Gone By delivers a captivating blend of intense combat sequences and poignant reflections on the dark realities of military action. The comic delves into the sacrifices made by formidable men like Fury, who relinquish their humanity to safeguard our blissful ignorance, whilst adding depth to the character. What’s truly remarkable is how the narrative gracefully navigates through decades, effectively conveying the passage of time while fully engaging readers.
3) Marvel Spotlight #31
How does Nick Fury survive near-fatal injuries, and stay young even after serving in World War II? There’s actually a reason behind all of that! Marvel Spotlight #31 delves into the key behind Fury’s resilience — the Infinity Formula.
The Infinity Formula, a double-edged sword, dramatically decelerated his aging, granting Fury a prolonged life but he needs to keep taking does. Yet, its effects are also not without burdens as over the years, he witnessed friends passing away, all while enduring constant threats from villains determined to seize this powerful secret.
4) Nick Fury vs. S.H.I.E.L.D.
If you’re a fan of the film Captain America: The Winter Soldier, you’ll likely also enjoy Nick Fury vs. S.H.I.E.L.D.. Going by the plot, the movie might even be partially inspired by this comic.
In the comic, Nick Fury grapples with the classic conundrum of being a “good soldier”. The pressing question arises: should he obediently follow superiors turned evil, or is he bound by a higher moral duty to do what’s right? Of course, he opts for the latter path, determined to uphold his principles even in the face of authority gone astray. For his unwavering stance, he faces consequences — a removal from his esteemed position and relentless pursuit by the tenacious Agents of SHIELD. However, he still finds solace in the company of his most trusted allies.
5) Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. brought Fury into the modern age as the head of the covert espionage agency, S.H.I.E.L.D. Working alongside a strong supporting cast, Fury takes on superpowered threats and global conspiracies. This series features appearances from notable Nick Fury enemies, including the villainous Scorpio.
This comic also contains magnificent surrealist art by trailblazing talent Jim Steranko, best known for his distinctive pop art style. In his plotlines, Steranko fearlessly delved into themes of adult intrigue, while weaving in the hip, sci-fi sensibilities that defined the psychedelic era of the 1960s.
6) Secret Invasion (2008)
Although the original Secret Invasion comic features the vast roster of Marvel’s superheroes, Nick Fury played a critical role throughout this saga in defeating the Skrulls. This story, alongside its companion Mighty Avengers: Secret Invasion, shows off how Fury excels as a super spy via delivering cryptic messages and taking quick and decisive action to avoid being compromised by the Skrulls.
The comics’ Secret Invasion may not be as gripping as its adaptation in The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, but it does offer more examples of Nick Fury being a badass, and at least it’s heaps better than the Disney+ show.
7) Secret War
Not to be confused with Secret Wars, Secret War sees Nick Fury putting together a team of superheroes — including Captain America, Daredevil, Spider-Man, the Black Widow, Wolverine, and Daisy Johnson, a.k.a. Quake — to go on a secret mission that could disrupt diplomatic relations.
This series highlights Fury’s covert and manipulative side, even placing him at odds with the superheroes and S.H.I.E.L.D. agents he works with. Furthermore, the impact of Secret War would go on to influence other events in Marvel’s history, such as the aforementioned Secret Invasion and even the first Civil War.
8) Secret Warriors (2009)
Instead of an action-packed saga, Secret Warriors dives into the shadowy realm of international espionage, enhanced with a superpowered twist. Here, Nick Fury takes on a paternal role, guiding a group of young heroes toward their destinies. While Fury may often appear selfish and unfeeling, this comic shows that beneath that rough exterior lies a man with a caring and affectionate side, even if it’s not immediately apparent.
The heart of the story delves into how Fury has become desensitised to the horrors of war. He struggles to trust others or reveal his true self. Despite being a perpetual warrior, the comic suggests that Fury’s world has evolved dramatically around him.
9) Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos
Before he was a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, Nick Fury was a soldier in World War II. Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos follows his wartime efforts and introduces the Howling Commandos, including Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones, and more. This comic features Fury’s first clash with his arch-enemy, Baron von Strucker, and even sees the Howling Commandos fight side-by-side with Captain America and Bucky. Sgt. Fury boasts well-defined characters and great visual storytelling that play to the strengths of its iconic creative team, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.
10) Wolverine/Nick Fury: The Scorpio Connection
The plot of Wolverine/Nick Fury: The Scorpio Connection is centred on the emergence of a new Scorpio, one of Nick Fury’s biggest foes. This fresh villain is on a mission to eliminate Fury, while Wolverine becomes entangled in the conflict when he delves into the murder of a dear friend, someone who had once saved his life from the clutches of the new Scorpio.
This dynamic team-up between Fury and Wolverine delivers a remarkably mature narrative about two men grappling with their haunting pasts. The tale unfolds at an engaging pace, punctuated by intense, unbridled action.
Edwin is a seasoned raconteur with a lifelong passion for video games, comic books, movies, and more. He thrives on captivating stories and immersive world-building, with a soft spot for adorable monsters.
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