Copycat Crusaders (Part 2): 10 Times DC Comics 'Borrowed' Characters from Marvel

In the world of comic books, imitation can often be the sincerest form of flattery. As DC Comics and Marvel have been titans of the industry for decades, it's no surprise that they've borrowed ideas from each other from time to time. While we previously covered instances where Marvel took inspiration from DC, this time we're turning the tables to explore 10 instances where DC appeared to have copied characters from Marvel. From aquatic superheroes to electrifying personalities, let's dive into this captivating list of creative coincidences.

01
Atomic Skull (DC, 1976) vs. Ghost Rider (Marvel, 1972)

via Dr. Manhattan

Talk about a burning desire for justice. Atomic Skull and Ghost Rider both sport flaming skulls as heads, but while Ghost Rider is a leather-clad, motorcycle-riding spirit of vengeance, Atomic Skull is a radioactive villain turned anti-hero with a tragic backstory. Still, you can barely tell them apart!
Advertisement
02
Bumblebee (DC, 1977) vs. The Wasp (Marvel, 1963)

via Comic book and beyond

Oh look, a shrinking woman with an insect theme! Bumblebee and The Wasp buzz into action with their size-changing powers and flight. While Bumblebee is a tech genius with a super suit, The Wasp's abilities come from genetic alterations. One thing's for sure – they both pack a serious sting!
03
Red Hood (DC, 2005) vs. Winter Soldier (Marvel, 2005)

via Topless Robot

Back from the dead and out for blood, Red Hood and Winter Soldier are resurrected sidekicks turned lethal assassins. While Red Hood is Batman's former partner with a chip on his shoulder, Winter Soldier is Captain America's long-lost friend brainwashed by the enemy. Grab the popcorn, 'cause this is one intense showdown!
04
Swamp Thing (DC, 1971) vs. Man-Thing (Marvel, 1971)

via Screen Rant

It's a muck-encrusted smackdown! Swamp Thing and Man-Thing are both plant-based, swamp-dwelling creatures with a deep connection to nature. Swamp Thing is a sentient being protecting the Green, while Man-Thing is a mindless guardian of the Nexus of All Realities. Swampy showdowns never looked so good!
Advertisement
05
Aquaman (DC, 1941) vs. Namor the Sub-Mariner (Marvel, 1939)

via Dr. Manhattan

Waterlogged royalty with a fishy sense of style, Aquaman and Namor rule the seas with their aquatic abilities. While Aquaman is the diplomatic king of Atlantis, Namor is an impulsive and often aggressive prince. It's a battle of the tridents in this underwater face-off!
06
Black Lightning (DC, 1977) vs. Electro (Marvel, 1964)

via INeededANewName

Zap! Black Lightning and Electro are electrically charged characters with a shocking resemblance. Black Lightning is a noble hero and high school principal, while Electro is a villainous former electrician. One's got the power to inspire, and the other's out to cause a blackout!
07
Commander Steel (DC, 1978) vs. Captain America (Marvel, 1941)

via Soy Cineman

Patriotic super-soldiers, Commander Steel and Captain America both fight for truth, justice, and their respective flags. Commander Steel boasts enhanced strength and speed, while Captain America wields a nearly indestructible shield. Salute these star-spangled heroes as they battle for freedom!
Advertisement
08
Black Spider (DC, 1976) vs. Spider-Man (Marvel, 1962)

via Geekyapar

Crawling through the urban jungle, Black Spider and Spider-Man swing into action with their wall-crawling abilities. While Spider-Man is your friendly neighborhood hero, Black Spider is a deadly assassin with a toxic bite. Come on DC, there is only one Spider-Man!
09
Kobra (DC, 1976) vs. Hydra (Marvel, 1965)

via Looper

Hissing and scheming, Kobra and Hydra are snake-themed terrorist organizations with global domination in their sights. Kobra slithers under the command of a single leader, while Hydra spreads its venomous reach through a vast network of operatives. Both groups have tangled with their respective universe's heroes, but one thing is certain: cutting off one head only makes these snakes more determined to strike back.
10
New Teen Titans (DC, 1980) vs. Uncanny X-Men (Marvel, 1963)

via Major Spoilers

Superpowered teams with teenage angst, the New Teen Titans and Uncanny X-Men both fight for justice while dealing with the complexities of growing up. The New Teen Titans are a group of young heroes mentored by Robin, while the X-Men are mutants trained by Professor X. Both teams tackle social issues and personal struggles, making for some of the most relatable superhero stories out there.