Royalty stands amongst some of the strongest heroes, gods, and villains of the Marvel Universe. Whether it be noble, kind-hearted rule or a stubborn grip on control, all types of monarchies are visible across the galaxies. Whether these positions have been inherited, earned, or seized, the leader who sits in the throne is required to ensure their nation thrives and – above all – remains safe for their subjects. This task might be even more difficult for superpowered leaders who inevitably attract some of the multiverse’s mightiest dangers to their doorstep. These Marvel kings not only need to wisely and diplomatically lead their people to prosperity but can’t be afraid of getting their hands dirty in battle either. Let’s take a look at the ten most powerful kings in Marvel Comics.

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10 10. Namor The Sub-Mariner

Half-mutant, half-Atlantean, the King of Atlantis holds incredible power. Adding the ability to control water, communicate telepathically with marine life, and even fly alongside his superhuman Atlantean strength, his mixed genes make him the most powerful member of Atlantis and a hero strong enough to battle heavyweights like Luke Cage and the Savage Hulk with ease when on land.

It’s not just physical power that makes Namor a great leader. Dedicated to the Kingdom of Atlantis, he always fights for their best interests, no matter who the battle may be against, and his subjects follow him loyally in return. Keeping Atlantis separate from the wider world's problems, he’s an unreliable ally for Marvel’s superhero teams.

9 9. Black Panther

Black-Panther-throne

Respected around the globe, T’Challa is truly a remarkable leader in many respects. Inheriting the throne, he acknowledges and honors his duty, ensuring Wakanda is a haven for all of his people, leading him to work alongside the Fantastic Four, the Avengers, and even the Illuminati to ensure Earth (and therefore Wakanda) can live peacefully.

Gaining super soldier-like powers from the Heart-Shaped Herb, T’Challa’s senses and strength are at their peak ability, with his powers further enhanced by a blessing from the Panther Goddess, Bast. Combining his athleticism and incredible intelligence with his enhanced weaponry and vibranium suit, he’s a deadly foe, willing to cross friends and enemies to ensure his people are safe.

8 8. Vulcan

The lesser-known brother of Cyclops and Havok, Vulcan has walked a darker path than his heroic siblings. Enslaved by the Shi’ar after they killed his parents, Vulcan eventually escaped and could have had a bright future with the X-Men, but instead sought revenge against the Shi’ar. Returning to space, he usurped their kingdom and declared himself Emperor, where he has ruled with a cruel iron fist.

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A leader who prefers to solve conflict with battle rather than words, he not only leads a large army, but is a near unstoppable omega-level mutant who can manipulate time and energy. Attacking the Inhumans during ‘War of Kings’, Vulcan nearly defeated the royal family single-handedly, leading to both Black Bolt and Vulcan’s apparent deaths. But with his incredible power and the resurgence of the Inhuman’s Silent King, it’s likely we haven’t seen the last of Vulcan.

7 7. Kang The Conqueror

Born years in the future, the time-traveling conqueror has been a thorn in the Avenger’s side throughout all of history. Armed with futuristic technology and a power-enhancing suit, his advanced intelligence makes usurping prominent thrones and establishing power in ancient eras easy. His time-traveling ability has allowed him to seize control across time and space, from posing as the Pharoh Rama-Tut in ancient Egypt to defeating King Arthur and ruling over Camelot.

This ability to time-travel has not only allowed Kang the opportunity to declare himself King repeatedly, but has also granted him significant knowledge, making him an intelligent and wily foe, particularly savvy with political and military tactics. Adding his charismatic charm to the mix, Kang has quickly rallied dedicated followers across the centuries.

6 6. Doctor Doom

Scientifically brilliant and a master of sorcery, Doctor Doom is one of Marvel’s most powerful villains, combining his two strengths to make him a near-unstoppable enemy. Having taken tyrannical control of Latveria, it appears his kingdom lives in peace and prosperity. Retaining its traditional European village feel, Latveria is a technologically advanced place, complete with a robot army protecting its inhabitants.

However, upon closer inspection, the Lord of Latveria has not been a popular monarch, with his subjects living in fear and squalor. While a handful of coups have been attempted, Doctor Doom’s immense power means only the bravest try to overthrow him. More recently, the King abdicated his throne, but returned to protect the citizens after learning they were under threat from a new tyrant. Perhaps there is a heart under that battlesuit armor after all, albeit a power-hungry one.

5 5. Thor

Thor Raising Mjolnir

The God of Thunder is a reluctant King whenever he assumes the title. He much prefers being in the thick of it on the battlefield than discussing diplomacy around a grand table – a reluctance felt across all iterations of the character, including Marvel’s Cinematic Universe. Nevertheless, he’s a worthy leader who cares for the people of Asgard, understands humanity, and is undoubtedly one of the most powerful characters in the Marvel roster.

Strong enough to stand toe-to-toe with the Hulk, dent Captain America’s shield, and cause Galactus to flinch, his physical strength alone is astounding. Add to that his ability to manipulate natural energy and control the weather, he’s a fierce and unstoppable King who can step up and protect his people when they’re in need.

4 4. Ikaris

Ikaris of the Eternals using his powers in Marvel Comics

Part of the new immortal race of god-like beings created by the Celestials, Ikaris is one of the most powerful members of The Eternals and a natural leader. In terms of sheer power alone, he can hold his own against Hulk and Thor. Projecting cosmic energy from his eyes and hands, he can quickly and easily subdue threats, such as the Deviants who occasionally rise with an aim of oppressing humanity.

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As a leader, Ikaris remains steadfast and loyal to his people, his heroic nature always evident in his actions. But he’s also renowned for being progressive, discarding many outdated Eternals traditions to wave in new era of heroics. Not only did Ikaris lead and protect the Eternals, he eventually became Earth’s guardian of humanity, showing that he is trusted and respected across the galaxy.

3 3. Hulk

When it comes to physical strength, few can beat the Hulk. Considered an Omega-level threat by S.H.I.E.L.D., he might seem like a monster, but there’s a lot more to him than smashing and destruction. After being banished from Earth by the Illuminati, Hulk found himself on the planet of Sakaar where he was put to work as a gladiator in extravagant battles. Fed up of living under a corrupt empire, Hulk led an uprising and overthrew Sakaar’s government. Declaring himself King, ruling alongside his queen Caiera, Hulk promised to be a fair and honorable leader.

Sakaar lived in peace and happiness under Hulk’s rule, but it didn’t last long. Tricked by Miek, Caiera died and his kingdom was ruined, leaving Hulk to return to Earth in a murderous rage. Had he not suffered tragedy, Hulk’s heroic and kind spirit may well have led Sakaar to become a thriving, prosperous planet.

2 2. Zeus

Stan Lee Zeus

The Skyfather of Olympus himself, Marvel Comics’ Zeus is nearly identical to the one from Greek mythology. His overall power is near indescribable. The Olympian God of Thunder and Wisdom, his incredible strength and intelligence allows him to defeat foes in combat, or outwit them completely.

While he mostly stays within the Olympian realm, he’s not afraid of getting his hands dirty in battle, having slain his own father, Cronus; single-handedly defeated Hulk and Galactus on separate occasions; and earned the respect of the Mad Titan, Thanos. His history is long and battle-hardened, and he may have earned the top spot on this list if we saw more of him outside of his own realm.

1 1. Odin

odin-avengers-header

The number one spot has to go to the All-Father. The most famous ruler of Asgard, he is perhaps the most well-known and respected King throughout the entire Marvel Universe. No one is really aware of his true origins, though it’s rumored that he absorbed the powers of his two brothers as a child, creating the almighty Odinforce, making him capable of significant feats of magic and sorcery. Combined with his superior Asgardian strength, he has been able to battle against Thanos and the Silver Surfer with great success; not to mention defeating and entrapping a literal storm which would later form Mjolnir.

On top of his strength, Odin is a proud and wise ruler who values bravery, empathy, and those who are worthy. While he may be a difficult father, he has trained Thor to his best ability to become a suitable successor for whenever Odin appears dead.

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