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The Incredible Hercules (Collected Editions)
The Incredible Hercules, Vol. 4: Dark Reign
Collects Incredible Hercules #126-131.
Hercules heads into the heart of darkness! Are you ready for more Marvel action and adventure with the sometimes ill-tempered, often addle-brained, but always lovable Prince of Power, Hercules? First up is a head-on battle with Norman Osborn and his evil Dark Avengers. Next on tap is a trip through the Stygian depths to Tartarus on a bold mission to help Herc’s sister, Athena, restore Olympus. And to top it all off, a Marvel milestone for the ages! Forget Wolverine! A classic origin tale is spun as Hercules’ ascent from mere mortal to the Olympian heights of godhood is finally revealed! It doesn’t matter whether he’s in ancient Thebes or living under Norman Osborn’s Dark Reign — Hercules is ready to rumble!
Hercules heads into the heart of darkness! Are you ready for more Marvel action and adventure with the sometimes ill-tempered, often addle-brained, but always lovable Prince of Power, Hercules? First up is a head-on battle with Norman Osborn and his evil Dark Avengers. Next on tap is a trip through the Stygian depths to Tartarus on a bold mission to help Herc’s sister, Athena, restore Olympus. And to top it all off, a Marvel milestone for the ages! Forget Wolverine! A classic origin tale is spun as Hercules’ ascent from mere mortal to the Olympian heights of godhood is finally revealed! It doesn’t matter whether he’s in ancient Thebes or living under Norman Osborn’s Dark Reign — Hercules is ready to rumble!
165 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2009
About the author
Greg Pak
1,691 books604 followersGreg Pak is an award-winning Korean American comic book writer and filmmaker currently writing "Lawful" for BOOM and "Sam Wilson: Captain America" (with Evan Narcisse) for Marvel. Pak wrote the "Princess Who Saved Herself" children's book and the “Code Monkey Save World” graphic novel based on the songs of Jonathan Coulton and co-wrote (with Fred Van Lente) the acclaimed “Make Comics Like the Pros” how-to book. Pak's other work includes "Planet Hulk," "Darth Vader," "Mech Cadet Yu," "Ronin Island," "Action Comics," and "Magneto Testament."
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 3, 2014
Three and a half stars.
There’s nothing better than a good public domain character from which you can make a quick hundred million dollars without ponying up a fortune in publishing rights. Hey, let’s take a bite out of Dracula! Look, its Frankenstein! Shut your ambrosia hole, Hercules!
Hercules is a tricky one to pull off. You have scores of movies (“Joey, do you like Steve Reeves Hercules movies?”), cartoons and TV shows based on the character. Stan Lee probably thought he caught lightening in bottle again a la Thor when he introduced Hercules into the Marvel universe. Sadly, Hercules has never been more than a second tier supporting character.
Here, he’s teamed with his sister Athena and teenage orphan Amadeus Cho, theeighth, ninth, tenth smartest character in the Marvel universe. There are several stories contained in this volume including: the origin of Hercules; Cho’s search for his coyote pup, Kirby; a smack down with Hera’s minions and the Dark Avengers (after all, this is a tie-in to the Dark Reign crossover) and Hercules attempt to rescue his father, Zeus, from the Hades.
Pak does a decent job of engaging the reader and trying to tie these storylines together, although once the story goes to Hell, all bets are off.
Just how many Hells are there in the Marvel Universe? There’s Mephisto’s, Hela’s, Pluto’s…
What’s to like
Nice camaraderie between Hercules and Cho, reminiscent of (or cribbed from) Armstrong and Archer.
The humor – Jabs at comic character’s Shakespeare speak, heroes that wear capes, etc.
Dark Avengers vs. Hera’s crew vs. Hercules/Athena/Amadeus is a Shallow Reader highlight.
Norman Osborn, you golden-tongued, carpet-headed bastard!!
Hulk saves a puppy
What’s not to like
Fields of Elysium - Hey, they worked Spider-man’s Uncle Ben Parker into this comic! *crickets*
There’s nothing better than a good public domain character from which you can make a quick hundred million dollars without ponying up a fortune in publishing rights. Hey, let’s take a bite out of Dracula! Look, its Frankenstein! Shut your ambrosia hole, Hercules!
Hercules is a tricky one to pull off. You have scores of movies (“Joey, do you like Steve Reeves Hercules movies?”), cartoons and TV shows based on the character. Stan Lee probably thought he caught lightening in bottle again a la Thor when he introduced Hercules into the Marvel universe. Sadly, Hercules has never been more than a second tier supporting character.
Here, he’s teamed with his sister Athena and teenage orphan Amadeus Cho, the
Pak does a decent job of engaging the reader and trying to tie these storylines together, although once the story goes to Hell, all bets are off.
Just how many Hells are there in the Marvel Universe? There’s Mephisto’s, Hela’s, Pluto’s…
What’s to like
Nice camaraderie between Hercules and Cho, reminiscent of (or cribbed from) Armstrong and Archer.
The humor – Jabs at comic character’s Shakespeare speak, heroes that wear capes, etc.
Dark Avengers vs. Hera’s crew vs. Hercules/Athena/Amadeus is a Shallow Reader highlight.
Norman Osborn, you golden-tongued, carpet-headed bastard!!
Hulk saves a puppy
What’s not to like
Fields of Elysium - Hey, they worked Spider-man’s Uncle Ben Parker into this comic! *crickets*
February 8, 2025
“when you finally run the numbers…when you trace back every variable, every link, every trajectory…you realize it’s all…YOUR FAULT” oh ok just shatter my heart why don’t ya.
November 2, 2026
The Incredible Hercules, Vol. 4: Dark Reign brings together an exciting chapter in Marvel's interpretation of one of mythology's most recognizable heroes. Written by Fred Van Lente and Greg Pak, with Rodney Buchemi contributing, this collection offers something especially significant for Hercules fans: an exploration of his origin within Marvel continuity and the experiences that shaped the young man who would become the Lion of Olympus and the Prince of Power.
One of the most appealing aspects of this volume is its attention to Hercules' beginnings. Rather than simply presenting him as an established divine hero, the story looks back at how he discovered his heritage and earned the identity associated with his legendary reputation. The question of how he became the Prince of Power gives the collection an important character-development dimension, while connecting the superhero narrative to the ancient myths that inspired it.
The conflict involving Hera adds another compelling layer. Her hatred of Hercules becomes particularly significant as her Dark Reign begins to spread across New Olympus. This creates a dramatic tension between personal history, divine power, and the larger struggle unfolding around the characters. Hercules' origins are therefore not treated as an isolated piece of background information; they become closely connected to the challenges he faces in the present.
The combination of Greek mythology and Marvel storytelling is a major attraction of this collection. Familiar mythological ideas gain a different dimension through the superhero format, giving readers an opportunity to experience Hercules' legendary identity through a distinctly comic-book perspective. The result is a story that can appeal both to established Marvel readers and to those who enjoy imaginative reinterpretations of classical mythology.
Another strength is the focused six-issue collection, which brings together The Incredible Hercules #126–131 in one volume. This makes it an appealing addition for readers following the series and for collectors interested in this particular stage of Hercules' story.
Overall, The Incredible Hercules, Vol. 4: Dark Reign offers an engaging combination of character origins, mythological inspiration, divine rivalry, and superhero action. Fred Van Lente and Greg Pak bring fresh attention to the history behind the Prince of Power while placing his personal story within the larger conflict surrounding New Olympus. For fans of Marvel, Greek mythology, and superhero interpretations of legendary figures, this collection is a worthwhile addition to the Incredible Hercules series.
One of the most appealing aspects of this volume is its attention to Hercules' beginnings. Rather than simply presenting him as an established divine hero, the story looks back at how he discovered his heritage and earned the identity associated with his legendary reputation. The question of how he became the Prince of Power gives the collection an important character-development dimension, while connecting the superhero narrative to the ancient myths that inspired it.
The conflict involving Hera adds another compelling layer. Her hatred of Hercules becomes particularly significant as her Dark Reign begins to spread across New Olympus. This creates a dramatic tension between personal history, divine power, and the larger struggle unfolding around the characters. Hercules' origins are therefore not treated as an isolated piece of background information; they become closely connected to the challenges he faces in the present.
The combination of Greek mythology and Marvel storytelling is a major attraction of this collection. Familiar mythological ideas gain a different dimension through the superhero format, giving readers an opportunity to experience Hercules' legendary identity through a distinctly comic-book perspective. The result is a story that can appeal both to established Marvel readers and to those who enjoy imaginative reinterpretations of classical mythology.
Another strength is the focused six-issue collection, which brings together The Incredible Hercules #126–131 in one volume. This makes it an appealing addition for readers following the series and for collectors interested in this particular stage of Hercules' story.
Overall, The Incredible Hercules, Vol. 4: Dark Reign offers an engaging combination of character origins, mythological inspiration, divine rivalry, and superhero action. Fred Van Lente and Greg Pak bring fresh attention to the history behind the Prince of Power while placing his personal story within the larger conflict surrounding New Olympus. For fans of Marvel, Greek mythology, and superhero interpretations of legendary figures, this collection is a worthwhile addition to the Incredible Hercules series.
January 30, 2018
Sometimes I'm amazed that Marvel managed to publish some kind of Hercules comic for the past ten years or so. You wouldn't know it - they barely promoted it. Somehow Greg Pak (et al) convinced them to offer up the space to flesh out and redeem the character. I won't pretend that all of those books were good ('Herc' is not so good) but at this point Hercules is absolutely one of my favorite Marvel characters and I hope that he sticks around, whether with the Avengers or in his own book.
October 20, 2017
Greg Pak always does an amazing job of packing in the funny and thrills into one book. Here, he does again but at times there was too much exposition. The continuing machinations of Olympian characters is still fantastic. The art, mostly by Ryan Stegman, was very good and a great fit for the book. The end of the book leads into two great new directions. Very good read!
February 13, 2018
This was really cool. Hercules' origin, as told through the Marvel lenses. And then, we get Herc in Hades, full of Marvel villains, to save his Zeus, all while dealing with Hera and the Dark Avengers led by Norman Osborn. With fun, colorful art, a constant sense of fun and humor, this is a charmer of a comic.
May 1, 2021
Hera is on her own side, and is trying to get Hercules again. Only problem is Norman Osborne also doesn't like gods interfering too much. Oh, and Zeus is being held by Pluto in the Underworld.
This is very much a character run plot, with the gods dragging Hercules and Cho into their plans. There are some truly great moments amid some very predictable ones. A good read.
This is very much a character run plot, with the gods dragging Hercules and Cho into their plans. There are some truly great moments amid some very predictable ones. A good read.
November 4, 2023
Not much to go ahead and recommend in this one.
It's not abysmal, but it is a slog. And Van Lente and Pak love to add "sassy" rejoinders that carbon date everything that they write.
I'm not sure whether this is meant to be read as epic, but it comes across more like "epic, bro XD". It's tired and trite and not quite worth the time put into it.
It's not abysmal, but it is a slog. And Van Lente and Pak love to add "sassy" rejoinders that carbon date everything that they write.
I'm not sure whether this is meant to be read as epic, but it comes across more like "epic, bro XD". It's tired and trite and not quite worth the time put into it.
February 25, 2022
Wow Pak and Van Lente are a Really Fun Team
OVERALL RATING: 4.5 stars
Art: 4.75 stars
Prose: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4.25 stars
Pacing: 4.5 stars
Character Development: 4 stars
World Building: 4.75 stars
Impeccable art from both Stegman and Buchemi.
OVERALL RATING: 4.5 stars
Art: 4.75 stars
Prose: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4.25 stars
Pacing: 4.5 stars
Character Development: 4 stars
World Building: 4.75 stars
Impeccable art from both Stegman and Buchemi.
December 13, 2025
Herc's incredible series continues as he and Amadeus Cho end up punching the Dark Avengers (They deserve it) and make a journey to Hades to save Zues from Pluto's shackles. Pak is a master of family drama and mythical storytelling, resulting in meaningful confrontations and cherishable lessons.
March 9, 2026
Hercules attempts to rescue Zeus from Hades. In the process he faces off against many of the enemies he sent to Hades, then literally faces himself.
Cho speaks with his deceased parents and learns that his sister is not with them in the afterlife.
Things do not end happily for our heroes.
Cho speaks with his deceased parents and learns that his sister is not with them in the afterlife.
Things do not end happily for our heroes.
June 24, 2019
Good art and good storytelling
August 26, 2022
My favourite so far of this series. I always liked the Greek gods and I thought these stories used them in an interesting way.
September 26, 2012
Still good.
Although as I run into more Dark Reign comics, I wonder how Norman Osborn can be everywhere. He's not the entire Skrull race. He's Onslaught. He's a really strong guy with crazy here.
Was thinking about how interesting it was that they could get so much mileage out of Greek myths. Then I realized that it was the basis for all of the stories in Western Civilization. One day someone will use all the fictitious characters of the 20th Century and have to spend a lot of time wondering how they can give readers enough of a toehold to be able to understand what's going on. The writers do a good job foreshadowing and hinting at the characters and themes.
Although as I run into more Dark Reign comics, I wonder how Norman Osborn can be everywhere. He's not the entire Skrull race. He's Onslaught. He's a really strong guy with crazy here.
Was thinking about how interesting it was that they could get so much mileage out of Greek myths. Then I realized that it was the basis for all of the stories in Western Civilization. One day someone will use all the fictitious characters of the 20th Century and have to spend a lot of time wondering how they can give readers enough of a toehold to be able to understand what's going on. The writers do a good job foreshadowing and hinting at the characters and themes.
July 26, 2011
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this collection. The story managed to skilfully combine traditional Greek myth and legend with the current Marvel universe. The story was engaging with interesting characters and there was complexity to the plots that bares seeing where it has come from and where it will continue to.
August 31, 2013
Greg Pak once again delivers great heartache via Kirby the "in-tow" pup.
In Olympian news, not even Norman Osbourn and his Avengers can keep Herc down. Hell, not even Herc can keep Herc down.
Best onomatopoeia: tied between "N-YU-DASUNNNN" and "PAPAKRAK", the latter's status being diminished through sheer repetition.
In Olympian news, not even Norman Osbourn and his Avengers can keep Herc down. Hell, not even Herc can keep Herc down.
Best onomatopoeia: tied between "N-YU-DASUNNNN" and "PAPAKRAK", the latter's status being diminished through sheer repetition.
September 11, 2011
It's not my favorite of the current Herc run, but it's a decent read.
August 25, 2012
Have at thee!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews