The Ultimate Guide to Marvel Gifts

Marvel superheroes have some truly incredible abilities. Whether they are super strong or super fast, have telekinesis or a hammer, they have all made the world a better place with their special abilities. However, we consider one power to be vastly underrated, and you don't even have to live in the Marvel Universe to see it. We're talking about the power of super gift giving! Moms and dads, cool aunts and uncles, and best friends everywhere have been using their gift-giving powers to make their loved ones incredibly happy. Gift giving is a power that does not come to all naturally, but with the help of our ultimate guide to Marvel gifts, we are confident that you can become a super gift-giver, too.

Do you happen to know much about the Marvel universe? There are so many characters and superhero teams that it can be hard to keep them all straight, and they often change from the comics to their live-action versions! We'll help to break it all down for you, should you be shopping for a Marvel fan. (Even if that's for you!) Keep reading for information about Marvel superhero teams, or jump to the Marvel gift guide.

Marvel Superhero Teams

The Marvel universe is vast, with multiple Earths and every corner of the globe and galaxy to defend. The Avengers have been in the spotlight thanks to the MCU, but so have the Guardians of the Galaxy and the Eternals. Marvel has a large number of superhero teams who help to defend their worlds from the forces of evil. While we won't necessarily touch on every Marvel superhero group, we will share several of their most famous superhero teams who have been adapted for live-action movies and TV series.

Avengers

Original Avengers Comics Team:

• Ant-Man
• Iron-Man
• Hulk
• Thor
• Wasp

Original Avengers MCU Team:

• Black Widow
• Captain America
• Hawkeye
• Hulk
• Iron-Man
• Thor

The Avengers are probably the most universally well-known Marvel superhero group, thanks to the MCU. Initially, the team was introduced in a series of comics that began in 1963. As one of Marvel's first teams of superheroes, it's no wonder they leaped to live-action as a significant player in the MCU. No matter which team you prefer, they both come together with the rallying cry of, "Avengers, assemble!"

Defenders

Original Defenders Comics Team:

• Doctor Strange
• Hulk
• Namor
• Silver Surfer

Defenders Marvel TV Series:

• Daredevil
• Iron Fist
• Jessica Jones
• Luke Cage

Yet another Marvel superhero group who gained a live-action TV series after the success of the Avengers, the Defenders first appeared in comics in 1971. The group leader in the Defenders comics was originally Doctor Strange, and they had many characters who came and went throughout the comic's run. However, the 2017 mini-series Defenders team differed greatly from the original comic books. It starred Luke Cage, Daredevil, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist, combining some of Marvel's solo character TV series.

Eternals

Original Eternals Comics Lineup:

• Ajak
• Ikaris
• Makkari
• Sersi
• Thena
• Zuras

Eternals MCU Team:

• Ajak
• Druig
• Gilgamesh
• Ikaris
• Kingo
• Makkari
• Phastos
• Sersi
• Sprite
• Thena

Unlike many other superhero teams, the Eternals were a race of humans created to defend the Earth with their god-like powers. They were introduced in Marvel comics in 1976 and entered the MCU in 2021. (Albeit, with less enthusiasm than previous Marvel movies.) The characters were primarily based on gods from ancient myths and legends, including Greek and Roman mythology, Mesopotamian, Norse, and possibly others

Fantastic Four

Original Fantastic Four Comics Team:

• Human Torch
• Invisible Woman
• Mr. Fantastic
• The Thing

Fantastic Four 2005 Film Team:

• Human Torch
• Invisible Woman
• Mr. Fantastic
• The Thing

The Fantastic Four was the first team of superheroes on Marvel Comics' roster, created in 1961. They ushered in a new age of collaboration among otherwise solo heroes. Unlike some groups with a rotating roster of heroes, the Fantastic Four wouldn't be themselves without the Human Torch, Invisible Woman, Mr. Fantastic, and The Thing! They're frequently portrayed as unapologetically human, with their fair share of squabbles and disagreements. Uniquely, they choose not to hide behind their hero aliases but are well-known superhero celebrities instead.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Original Guardians of the Galaxy Comics Team:

• Captain Charlie-27
• Martinex T'Naga
• Vance Astro
• Yondu Udonta

Guardians of the Galaxy MCU Team:

• Drax the Destroyer
• Gamora
• Groot
• Rocket Raccoon
• Star-Lord

The Marvel writers decided to try a new spin on superhero comics with the Guardians of the Galaxy, turning them into space fighters rather than strictly Earth-bound defenders. They first appeared in existing comics series in 1969 and 1975, but it wasn't until 1976 that they earned their own series. (However, the Guardians were still only present in Marvel Presents comics.) It wasn't until 1990 that Guardians of the Galaxy #1 was published. The Guardians of the Galaxy film was a gamble as the team was relatively unknown outside the Marvel fandom. But we're glad they did!

Inhumans

Original Inhumans Royal Family in the Comics:

• Black Bolt
• Crystal
• Gorgon
• Karnak the Shatterer
• Lockjaw
• Maximus the Mad
• Medusa
• Triton

Inhumans Royal Family in the TV series:

• Black Bolt
• Crystal
• Gorgon Petragon
• Karnak Mander-Azur
• Maximus the Mad
• Medusa
• Triton Mandur-Azur

Another unique race of superhumans-turned-superheroes, the Inhumans have strong ties with the Inhuman Royal Family. (That is to say that every Inhuman Royal Family member is an Inhuman, but not every Inhuman is part of the Royal Family.) The Inhumans first started appearing in comics in 1965, although, like the Guardians of the Galaxy, it took a few years for them to have a dedicated series. The first Inhumans comic series only lasted from 1975-1977. Since then, they have had several other appearances and a short resurgence. In a way, their TV and movie appearances have reflected that of their comics. They had appearances in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and their solo TV series Inhumans only lasted for one season. Perhaps we'll see them appear again?

Nova Corps

Notable Nova Corps Members in Comics:

• Air-Walker
• Firelord
• Garthan Saal
• Irani Rael
• Powerhouse
• Quasar
• Richard Rider
• Sam Alexander
• Tanak Valt

Notable Nova Corps Members in the MCU:

• Garthan Saal
• Irani Rael
• Nova Prime's Assistant
• Rhomann Dey
• Titus

More of a police force or an organization than just a team of superheroes, the Nova Corp boasts hundreds of members! While we don't necessarily get to meet many of them individually, there are stand-out characters in both the Marvel comics and the MCU. With so many superhero teams stationed on Earth, the Nova Corp generally deals with crime fighting in space. Their home base is on the planet Xandar, and the corps members draw their power from the Nova Force.

New Mutants

Original New Mutants Comics Team:

• Cannonball
• Karma
• Mirage
• Sunspot
• Wolfsbane

New Mutants Movie Team:

• Cannonball
• Magik
• Mirage
• Sunspot
• Wolfsbane

Mutants are generally part of the X-Men universe, so it makes sense that the New Mutants are also associated with the X-Men. Early comics depicted the New Mutants as students at the Xavier Institute, who sometimes grew up throughout the comic's run. Some newer storylines have introduced other student characters, occasionally interspersed with the original characters as adults. There was a rather disastrous movie adaptation of the comic series, and we hope we might see them try again sometime in the future!

Runaways

Original Runaways Comics Team:

• Alex Wilder
• Arsenic
• Bruiser (later Blue-J)
• Lucy in the Sky (later Princess Justice)
• Sister Grimm (later The Gloom)
• Talkback (later Gun Arm)

Runaways TV Series Team:

• Alex Wilder
• Chase Stein
• Gertrude Yorkes
• Karolina Dean
• Molly Hayes Hernandez
• Nico Minoru

In a unique twist on the superhero genre, the Runaways are a group of teens who discover that their parents are all supervillains. Rather than continue in their parents' footsteps, the Runaways take it upon themselves to defeat their parents. The comic originally ran from 2003-2009, with a short revival in 2017. Perhaps because the series was much newer than many other comics to live-action adaptations, the live-action TV series remained very faithful to the comics. The Runaways characters have appeared in several Avengers-related comic book spinoffs, so maybe we'll get some MCU cameos someday?

S.H.I.E.L.D.

Notable S.H.I.E.L.D. Comics Members:

• Abigail Brand
• Clay Quartermain
• Crimson
• Daisy Johnson
• G.W. Bridge
• Jessica Drew
• Monica Chang
• Natasha Romanova
• Nick Fury
• Phil Coulson
• Rick Stoner
• Sharon Carter
• Steve Rogers
• Timothy "Dum Dum" Dugan
• Tony Masters

Notable S.H.I.E.L.D. MCU Team Members:

• Alphonso Mackenzie
• Bobbi Morse
• Daisy Johnson
• Deke Shaw
• Grant Ward (undercover)
• Holden Radcliffe
• Jemma Simmons
• Lance Hunter
• Leo Fitz
• Lincoln Campbell
• Melinda May
• Nick Fury
• Phil Coulson
• Yo-Yo Rodriguez

Just like the Nova Corps is a security organization for the galaxy, S.H.I.E.L.D. is an organization that defends the Earth. (S.H.I.E.L.D. stands for The Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division.) Like other security and governmental agencies, there are thousands of S.H.I.E.L.D. Members who fall into various ranks and special ops teams. S.H.I.E.L.D. first appeared in the comics in 1965, and they have been a staple ever since! They also made the leap to the MCU and spawned a successful TV series that ran for seven seasons from 2013-2020. Is there anything they can't do?

Thunderbolts

Original Thunderbolts Comics Team:

• Baron Helmut Zeno
• Beetle
• Cardinal
• Charcoal
• Cobalt Man
• Cyclone
• Fixer
• Goliath
• Gypsy Moth
• Hawkeye
• Jolt
• Man-Killer
• Moonstone
• Ogre
• Plantman
• Screaming Mimi
• Vantage

Thunderbolts MCU Team:

• Bucky Barnes
• Contessa Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine
• Ghost
• Red Guardian
• Taskmaster
• Thunderbolt Ross
• US Agent
• Yelena Belova

Unlike other Marvel superhero teams, the Thunderbolts were partially assembled from reformed villains. They originally appeared in 1997 in an Incredible Hulk comic, but got their own publication later that year. The original Thunderbolts comic ranks as having one of the best plot twists in American comics—including one of the greatest moments in comics overall! With such high praise, it was only a matter of time before the Thunderbolts had their day in the MCU.

X-Men

Original X-Men Comics Team:

• Angel
• Beast
• Cyclops
• Iceman
• Marvel Girl

X-Men Animated Series Team:

• Beast
• Cyclops
• Gambit
• Jean Grey
• Jubilee
• Morph
• Professor X
• Rogue
• Storm
• Wolverine

The X-Men are a group of superheroes who, in their universe, are referred to as mutants. They have a unique gene from birth called the X-gene and are therefore born with supernatural powers. (Unlike some superheroes who gain powers through accidents or experiments, or other means.) The X-Men first appeared in Marvel comics starting in 1963. They initially had a poor run, but a revival in 1975 led to the X-Men's success as one of Marvel's greatest superhero teams! There are several X-Men TV series and movies, including the incredibly popular 90s X-Men animated series.

Marvel Gift Guide

Deadpool Gifts

It's the Merc with all the merch! Even though Deadpool isn't part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe yet, he's an insanely popular character, so it's no wonder that someone would ask for Deadpool gifts. Find a Deadpool shirt so friends and family can show off their favorite character, or perhaps a new Deadpool figure to add to their collection. You can even snag some of these Deadpool gift ideas for yourself! After all, what Merc with a Mouth fan wouldn't want a Deadpool backpack for hauling their comic books and other nerdy goodies around?

Captain America Gifts

Captain America sits right at the heart of the Cinematic Marvel Universe as leader of the Avengers. The iconic look of his Vibranium shield is the inspiration for many of the Captain America gift ideas featured here. We love a good Captain America shirt, and what collector could resist a classic Captain America Funko Pop!? Even the Captain America snuggie has a pattern resembling the Cap's costume, and while wearing it might not make you as strong as Steve Rogers, it will leave you looking every bit as stylish.

Iron Man Gifts

Tony Stark is different than Thor and Steve Rogers because he doesn't have any special abilities besides his genius and wealth. But he's known as a superhero because of the incredible Iron Man suit! Anyone looking to give out Iron Man gifts might be considered of similar intelligence if they were smart enough to buy one of these Iron Man collectibles or apparel items. Who could resist a Marvel Legends Iron Man action figure or a cozy pair of Iron Man socks? Anyone who receives these Iron Man gift ideas will feel prepared for their day, just like Tony Stark!

Black Panther Gifts

Wakanda forever! Black Panther made a splash on the silver screen like no other solo superhero movie before it. A favorite of many Marvel comics fans, Black Panther gift ideas are essential for anyone who loves superheroes. You can find a variety of Black Panther merchandise, from apparel and accessories to home decor and collectibles. We're partial to the Black Panther sweatshirt and sweatpants set, perfect for snuggling up during cold winter nights while watching your favorite superhero movies!

Spider-Man Gifts

With a whole Spider-Verse of fun characters, what's not to love about Marvel's Spider-Man? Peter Parker has been wowing the crowds with his web-slinging for years, meaning that generations of fans would love any of these Spider-Man gift ideas! Snuggle up in a pair of Spider-Man pajamas or find another Spider-Man Funko Pop! to add to your or someone else's collection. Just make sure to snag these wonderful web-slinging gifts before they crawl away!

Thor Gifts

Any fan of Odinson will love these Thor gift ideas. One of our favorites is the MiniCo Thor figurine. It comes complete with a mounted base and would make for great décor and a talking piece! If you're looking for wearable Thor merch, you can't pass up a great Thor shirt, or perhaps a cozy beanie hat. Any Thor fan would love to have the plush Thor at their side, especially while sitting on the couch playing a few video games! (He may have some advice for you too.)

Hulk Gifts

Turning into a green rage monster anytime you get mad would be a hard thing to live with—but it also makes for a truly incredible superhero. After all, Hulk likes to smash, and we like to watch Hulk smash, so it works out pretty well for everyone involved. Of course, we also like to look at our favorite Incredible Hulk statues, too. If you'd prefer other ways to show off your love for the Hulk, we have some Hulk gift ideas that should do the trick. It IS easy being green!

Guardians of the Galaxy Gifts

Since the release of the Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014, this band of space-traveling misfits has become incredibly popular! While Peter Quill leads them, Rocket Raccoon and Groot have become fan favorites, hence the Rocket Raccoon and Groot gifts! And, of course, we have plenty of Guardians of the Galaxy gift ideas available online at FUN.com!

Black Widow Gifts

Anyone that's a fan of the Marvel ladies would appreciate some Black Widow gift ideas for Christmas, their birthday or just whenever! Pop Vinyl collectors would love any classic Black Widow or new movie Black Widow Pop!s. There's also apparel, like Black Widow shirts and socks, and accessories such as backpacks and even headphones.

If you're interested in Black Widow but not (yet) a superfan, we wrote a guide to Black Widow that you might want to check out!

Captain Marvel Gifts

Captain Marvel was the first female Marvel character to have her own solo movie, and it was a (plasma) blast! Anyone looking for Captain Marvel gift ideas can find a variety of figurines and other items, from both her movie appearances and her famed comic book look. Also, fans of Goose the cat can find some goodies, too! (It's okay to admit that you're a fan of the space cat.)

Doctor Strange Gifts

Doctor Strange is one of the most mysterious characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Unfortunately, we can't give you a magic cape that will come to your aid, but we do carry some fun Doctor Strange gift ideas that will make you way cooler than your foes. Enjoy Doctor Strange Pop! Vinyl figures, and even a replica Eye of Agamotto! (Sadly, it doesn't work like the real thing either.)

X-Men Gifts

Another television and film series that exists outside of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the X-Men franchise has quite a bit of media to back it up! Classic characters like Wolverine and Gambit are faces that everyone can remember and appreciate, and they would make great additions to anyone's Funko Pop! Vinyl collection. Other X-Men gift ideas include cool doormats, pins, and X-Men accessories.

Eternals Gifts

Whether you're excited about all the latest Marvel movies or you have a soft spot for the Eternals, new movies mean new Marvel merch! Fans of the Marvel Legends line will be happy to know that there's an entire batch of new Eternals action figures to collect, including a Build A Figure with pieces scattered throughout the other toys. Of course, we couldn't leave out other Eternals gift ideas by favorites such as LEGO and Funko.

Shang-Chi Gifts

Fans of Marvel movies and martial arts action flicks were in for an utter treat with the arrival of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings on the silver screen. Naturally, you're going to want to hunt down the perfect Shang-Chi gift ideas for your favorite fan. (Or yourself!) Find cool action figures, as well as Ten Rings blaster toys and LEGOS. While many of these gifts are Marvel kids' toys, that's not to say that a collector wouldn't be interested either!

With this diverse selection of superheroes, we are quite certain that there are Marvel gift ideas in here for everyone. Between our helpful gift guide and your knowledge of who you're buying for, you've got pretty good odds of being known as the greatest gift-giver ever! It's a title that many strive for, but few achieve! So, we have to ask: did you find the perfect gift? What else would you like to see in our selection of Marvel gifts? Let us know what you think in the comments!

Marvel FAQ

If you're interested in learning more about Marvel superheroes, we've also included some Marvel Q&As! We believe that knowing some trivia about the gifts you're giving can only be helpful. These Marvel FAQs might provide insight into your gifts, help you write a gift card, or pass along a fact with the perfect gift!

Who was the first superhero in Marvel Comics?

Marvel Comics was initially named Timely comics. The first comic in 1939 included The Human Torch, Angel and Namor the Sub-Mariner. The Human Torch is generally credited as the first Marvel character because of the order he appeared in the comic.

Who are the original Avengers?

The first Avengers comic book was published in 1963. It included Thor, Iron-Man, the Wasp, Ant-Man and Hulk as the original members. This differs from the original MCU Avengers team in 2012, which consisted of Captain America, Iron-Man, Hulk, Black Widow, Hawkeye and Thor.

Who are the Dark Avengers?

The Dark Avengers was a comic book series from 2009-2013 about a team of supervillains, most of which are disguised as well-known superheroes. Founding members include Norman Osborn, Ares, Noh-Varr, Mac Gargan, Lester, Karla Sofen, Akihiro and Robert Reynolds.

What is the strongest metal in the Marvel universe?

The Marvel universe is full of unique metals and materials. So far, proto-adamantium appears to be the strongest metal. It outranks both adamantium and vibranium, two other famous Marvel metals. That's not to say that a stronger new material won't get invented!

Who is the richest Marvel character?

The richest character in the Marvel universe is Black Panther. Not only is he a king of an entire nation, but his lands contain the only known deposit of vibranium, one of the strongest and most sought-after metals. There is an argument for Thor, but you can't put a net worth on items from the realm of the gods.