By now excitement for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is through the roof. Thanks to the incredible trailers, even the most casual fans are pretty jazzed for the film.
In honor of the film’s upcoming release, I’m going back and reading some of my favorite story arcs. I’ve compiled a list of my top 5 Guardians stories to give myself a little fix, and hopefully help tide you over, too. These are more or less in chronological order and completely spoiler free. Here it goes:
1) Annihilation: Although this is not technically a Guardians story, I highly recommend reading it. It is a huge crossover epic featuring a large cast of Marvel’s cosmic or “outer space” characters. If you’re just trying to fast track it to get caught up you might be able to get by just reading the main event, but if you’ve got the time it is so very much worth it to read the whole thing. (Annihilation #1-6)
2) Legacy: This is the first arc in Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning’s legendary run on I and it is an absolute must read. This is the origin of the team which the movie is based on and sets the tone for every Guardians book published since. The whole run consists of 25 issues if you want to continue it, which you should since it’s worth the ride. (Guardians of the Galaxy (2008) #1-6)
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3) Cosmic Avengers: I can’t just list Annihilation and Abnett and Lannings’ 4 volumes of Guardians stories in a top 5 list (although I really want to, seriously read it) so I’m going to throw in some of my favorite stories from Brian Michael Bendis. The first volume is a fast-paced action tale with great characterization and special guest star Iron Man. (Guardians of the Galaxy (2013) #0.1-3)
4) The Trial of Jean Grey: This is a 6-issue crossover with the Guardians and All New X-Men, and is simply a delight. Jean Grey is put on trial by Shi’ar for crimes she hasn’t really committed yet (because time travel). All in all, it’s a fun arc with great sci fi action and sweet teen drama. (Guardians of the Galaxy (2013) #11.NOW-13 and All-New X-Men (2012) #22.NOW-24)
5) Planet of the Symbiotes: I’m ending this list with a cool 3-issue arc that reveals the origins of the alien symbiotes like Venom. After accepting Flash Thompson (Agent Venom) among their ranks, the Venom symbiote goes bananas on the Guardians ship (which is named after Alyssa Milano). The symbiote takes control of some of the Guardians like Rocket, Groot (I am Venom!) and finally Drax the Destroyer. So, it’s a short and sweet story arc, that lends an origin to one of Marvel’s most popular characters. (Guardians of the Galaxy (2013) #21-23)
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