Essential DC Comics to Dive Into If You Love Creature Commandos

The Creature Commandos have made their entrance into the animated scene, captivating audiences with their thrilling escapades. However, for fans eager to explore more of DC’s monstrous military team, the world of comics offers a plethora of options. In this guide, we highlight five must-read series that will quench your thirst for supernatural heroics and eerie action.

Originating from the pages of Weird War Tales, a hallmark anthology from DC that married horror with science fiction, the Creature Commandos were introduced to the public through the creative vision of J.M. DeMatteis and Pat Broderick. Initially assembled as a group of monstrous soldiers for the U.S. military during World War II, they have gained a fresh wave of recognition with their recent adaptation on Max. This newfound spotlight brings an opportunity for new fans to delve deeper into the horror-infused elements of the DC Universe, starting with these five comic series that align beautifully with the tone of the animated show.

5 G.I. Zombie: A Star-Spangled War Story

Collecting Star-Spangled War Stories #1-8 by Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray, and Scott Hampton

G.I. Zombie TPB Cover - G.I. Zombie stands over a mound of bodies

A standout addition during DC’s New 52 era, Star-Spangled War Stories introduces Jared Kabe, the titular G.I. Zombie. This unique character is the ultimate military asset who can die repeatedly for the sake of his country. In his inaugural mission, Kabe traverses the southern United States to thwart a group of anti-government radicals intent on unleashing a biological agent that transforms citizens into ravenous zombies.

This gripping narrative is crafted by the talented duo of Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray, known for their exceptional work on Jonah Hex. Their storytelling is balanced perfectly with Scott Hampton’s striking visuals, bringing the chilling action scenes vividly to life. While Kabe hasn’t made numerous appearances in the DC Universe since his debut, his membership in the Creature Commandos was confirmed in Justice League United #14, sparking hope that he could be featured in future adaptations, particularly if another season of Creature Commandos unfolds.

4 Tales of the Multiverse: Batman – Vampire

Collecting Batman: Red Rain, Batman: Bloodstorm & Batman: Crimson Mist by Doug Moench & Kelley Jones

Tales of the Multiverse: Batman - Vampire cover

This trilogy of original graphic novels presents an alternative vision of the Dark Knight facing off against Dracula, ultimately leading to his transformation into a vampire. Amidst investigating a series of gruesome murders targeting Gotham’s marginalized, Batman uncovers Dracula’s insidious feeding habits. To stand against this supernatural menace, he embraces the very darkness he fights against.

While this shift grants Batman enhanced powers, it also unleashes a voracious hunger that leads him to fatally confront the Joker. The duality of Batman’s struggle, as seen through the lens of his faithful ally Alfred, poses unsettling questions about morality. Doug Moench and Kelley Jones masterfully intertwine horror and tragedy in this compelling saga that sees Gotham’s protector adopt dark and twisted methods in his fight against evil.

3 Sgt. Rock vs. the Army of the Dead

DC Horror Presents: Sgt. Rock vs. the Army of the Dead #1-6 by Bruce Campbell & Eduardo Risso

This exhilarating saga, crafted by horror legend Bruce Campbell, pits the iconic Sgt. Rock against Hitler’s last-gasp endeavor to resurrect soldiers as zombies. The narrative offers a thrilling roller coaster ride as readers follow Sgt. Rock and Easy Company battling hordes of Nazi zombies to thwart a dire plot as World War II draws to a close.

Campbell excels at encapsulating the old-school heroism synonymous with Sgt. Rock, while Eduardo Risso’s lush artwork amplifies the intensity of the narrative. The story is packed with enough action and unexpected plot twists to keep readers riveted, ultimately delivering the sheer joy of watching heroes triumph over an army of the undead.

2 Frankenstein

Seven Soldiers of Victory: Frankenstein #1-4 by Grant Morrison & Doug Mahnke

Grant Morrison’s fresh take on the Frankenstein lore within his Seven Soldiers of Victory metaseries revitalizes the classic monster into a muscular, quotes-Milton warrior enlisted by SHADE, a clandestine government body that tackles paranormal phenomena. Each of the four compelling issues incorporates self-contained tales that intertwine to culminate in a colossal showdown against an interdimensional threat.

This creator-driven series showcases Morrison at his innovative best, with Doug Mahnke’s energetic illustrations enhancing the visceral thrill of Frankenstein’s journey. Fans of the animated Creature Commandos will appreciate the visual influences taken from this portrayal of Frankenstein, making it a pivotal read for those looking to explore the character’s rich history.

1 The Creature Commandos

Collecting Weird War Tales #93, 97, 100, 102, 105, 108-112, 114-119, 121 and 124 by J.M. DeMatteis, Robert Kaniger, Mike W. Barr, Pat Broderick, John Celardo & Fred Carrillo

Creature Commandos TPB Cover - The Creature Commandos attack Nazis

Perhaps the most essential read for fans captivated by the animated series, this collection revisits the original Creature Commandos. Initiated by Project M, a covert government effort to explore supernatural events, the Commandos are led by Matthew Shrieve and consist of captivating characters like vampire Vincent Velcro, werewolf Warren Griffith, the Frankenstein-esque Elliot “Lucky”Taylor, and gorgon Dr. Myrna Rhodes.

As some of the final tales published under Weird War Tales, these stories combine thrilling action narratives with a darker undertone. J.M. DeMatteis skillfully tackles the complex subjects of WWII, imbuing the tales with sincere depth, showing that even the most unusual heroes grapple with formidable themes. Their resurgence in modern media, notably with the new Creature Commandos animated series, underscores the timeless appeal and relevance of these superheroes.

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