The Apocalypse War to Tour of Duty: The Essential Judge Dredd Storylines

Judge Dredd is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the world of comic books, and for good reason. With over four decades of history, the character has been through some of the most intense and thrilling storylines in the medium. 

Here are some of the best Judge Dredd storylines that are a must-read for fans of the character and the series.

1. "The Apocalypse War" Written by John Wagner and Alan Grant, with art by Carlos Ezquerra and inks by Steve Dillon, "The Apocalypse War" is one of the most famous and highly regarded storylines in the Judge Dredd canon. It features a massive conflict between Mega-City One and the Sov Block, featuring the use of weapons of mass destruction. The story highlights the brutality of war and the impact it has on the people caught in the middle of it. The use of nuclear weapons and the destruction of Mega-City One as a political allegory for the Cold War makes this one of the most memorable Judge Dredd storylines of all time.
2. "The Cursed Earth" Written by Pat Mills, with art by Mick McMahon and inks by Brian Bolland, "The Cursed Earth" is a post-apocalyptic tale that sees Judge Dredd journey through a wasteland filled with mutants, monsters, and other dangers. The story is a thrilling adventure that showcases the diversity of the world of Judge Dredd, and it is filled with action, suspense, and plenty of surprises along the way. Our favourite tale of this arc is 'Burger Barons'.
3. "The Day the Law Died" Written by John Wagner, with art by Brian Bolland and inks by Ron Smith, "The Day the Law Died" sees Judge Caligula, a tyrant who has taken over Mega-City One, forcing Dredd to go underground to take him down. This storyline is a commentary on the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of maintaining a balance of power. It also explores the themes of betrayal, loyalty, and justice.
4. "Block Mania" Written by John Wagner and Alan Grant, with art by Brian Bolland and inks by Mick McMahon, "Block Mania" is a storyline that sees the citizens of Mega-City One turning on each other in a wave of violence and destruction. The story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of mob mentality and the impact it can have on society. It also explores the themes of power, corruption, and the dangers of unchecked aggression.
5. "The Judge Child Quest" Written by John Wagner and Alan Grant, with art by Brian Bolland and inks by Mick McMahon, "The Judge Child Quest" sees Dredd searching for a young boy who is said to possess incredible psychic powers. The storyline is an epic quest that showcases the diversity of the world of Judge Dredd and explores the themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the impact that one person can have on the world.
6. "America" Written by John Wagner, with art by Colin MacNeil and inks by John Burns, "America" is a standalone story that explores the darker side of Mega-City One and its justice system through the eyes of a young woman named America Jara. The story is a commentary on the nature of power and the impact it has on society. It explores the themes of identity, loyalty, and the importance of fighting for what is right.
7. "The Dark Judges" Written by John Wagner and Alan Grant, with art by Brian Bolland and inks by Brett Ewins and Cliff Robinson, "The Dark Judges" sees a group of supernatural beings from another dimension come to Mega-City One to dispense their own brand of twisted justice. The storyline is a horror tale that explores the themes of death, justice, and the nature of evil.
8. "Origins" Written by John Wagner and with art by Carlos Ezquerra and inks by Colin MacNeil and Kev Walker, "Origins" is a retelling of Judge Dredd's origin story, which also explores the history of Mega-City One and the Justice Department. The story is a masterful examination of the character and his world, diving deep into the motivations and beliefs that drive Judge Dredd and the people around him. It also explores the themes of identity, family, and the cost of upholding the law.
9. "Necropolis" Written by John Wagner, with art by Carlos Ezquerra and inks by Mark Farmer and Richard Elson, "Necropolis" is a massive storyline that sees Mega-City One overrun by the undead, forcing Dredd and his fellow Judges to fight for survival. The story is a gripping horror tale that explores the themes of death, loss, and the fragility of life. It also examines the impact that power and corruption can have on society.
10. "Tour of Duty" Written by John Wagner and Alan Grant, with art by Carlos Ezquerra and inks by Steve Dillon and Robin Smith, "Tour of Duty" is a series of interconnected storylines that explore the various departments and divisions of the Justice Department, giving readers a glimpse into the inner workings of Mega-City One's justice system. The story is a fascinating examination of the complexities of law enforcement and the different challenges that the Judges face every day. It also explores the themes of justice, morality, and the role of the state in society.

In conclusion, Judge Dredd has been through some of the most intense and thrilling storylines in the history of comic books. The ten storylines mentioned above showcase the diversity and depth of the character and his world, exploring themes such as justice, power, corruption, loyalty, and sacrifice.

The writers, inkers, and colorists behind these stories are some of the most talented creators in the industry, and their contributions have helped to make Judge Dredd one of the most beloved and iconic characters in the world of comics.

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