The Darkness: Anniversary Collection Comic (2017)

The Darkness: Anniversary Collection is a special 2017 trade paperback published by Image Comics and Top Cow, created to celebrate both the 25th anniversary of Image Comics and the 20th anniversary of The Darkness. This collectible volume brings together major stories from one of Top Cow’s most iconic supernatural antiheroes, including The Darkness Origins #1–6 and Preview, The Darkness/Batman, and The Darkness/Superman. Image Comics lists the release date as July 5, 2017, and describes it as a one-time printing made in honor of the anniversaries. Written by Garth Ennis, Scott Lobdell, Jeph Loeb, and Ron Marz, with artwork by David Finch, Tyler Kirkham, Clarence Lansang, and Marc Silvestri, this collection offers a strong mix of crime, horror, supernatural action, and superhero crossover storytelling. It is a must-have for readers who enjoy dark comic book worlds, 1990s Image Comics energy, and high-impact artwork from some of the most recognizable creators connected to The Darkness. At the center of the collection is Jackie Estacado, the dangerous and charismatic bearer of The Darkness. Jackie is not a traditional hero. He is a criminal, a killer, and a man tied to an ancient supernatural force that gives him terrifying power. That power allows him to summon demonic creatures, control shadows, and overwhelm his enemies, but it also comes with a curse that shapes his life in brutal ways. The inclusion of The Darkness Origins makes this anniversary edition especially useful for new readers. It gives background on Jackie Estacado and explains the world of The Darkness in a way that helps readers understand why the character became such an important part of the Top Cow universe. The collection also stands out because it includes crossover stories with Batman and Superman, adding extra appeal for DC Comics fans and collectors of rare inter-company comic events. The Darkness/Batman delivers a gritty meeting between Jackie Estacado and Gotham City’s Dark Knight. This crossover blends Batman’s crime-noir atmosphere with the violent supernatural world of The Darkness. Meanwhile, The Darkness/Superman creates a very different contrast, placing Jackie’s shadow-based powers against the bright, heroic symbol of Superman. Together, these stories show how flexible and striking The Darkness can be when placed beside some of the most famous superheroes in comics. Collectors should pay close attention to this edition because it was promoted as a one-time printing. That makes The Darkness: Anniversary Collection 2017 more than just a reading copy; it is also a notable anniversary item for fans of Image Comics, Top Cow, Marc Silvestri, and supernatural superhero comics. Listings and reviews identify the book as a full-color TPB, with around 250 pages depending on the listing.