Black Cat Is Stealing Her Way Into Marvel Rivals, So Here Are 7 Must-Read Comics Before You Play

Black Cat #1 crop

Marvel Rivals is one of the company’s most successful games, with constant updates and a massive user base. And it’s time for Black Cat to join the roster as the newest duelist hero. She’ll be introduced during Season 7.5: The Hunt Is On, launching on April 17, 2026.

As with every character, she’ll have her own lore in-game, fitting into the game’s universe. However, Black Cat already has a rich history, spanning over 45 years of comic book appearances. That’s not something you can get caught up in a matter of days, but if you want a crash course, we’re here for you!

Check below to find seven must-read Black Cat comics to fall in love with her (and you can always check out the currently running Black Cat series by G. Willow Wilson, as well)!

1. “Never Let The Black Cat Cross Your Path!”

The Amazing Spider-Man #194 cover

Writer: Marv Wolfman

Artist: Keith Pollard, Frank Giacoia

The Amazing Spider-Man #194 marks Black Cat’s first appearance, and it’s great. Many characters’ first comics don’t do justice to who they are today, but we learn a lot about Felicia, her crew, and a bit about what her relationship with Spidey might become.

2. Marvel Knights: Spider-Man (2004)

Marvel Knights #10

Writer: Mark Millar

Artist: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson

Black Cat features heavily in this run, and she’s one of its highlights. She displays her viciousness, but also how much she loves Peter. Marvel Knights #10 is a stand-out issue everyone should read.

3. “Nothing Can Stop the Rhino”

The Sensational Spider-Man #34

Writer: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa

Artist: Sean Chen, Scott Hanna

Aguirre-Sacasa spectacularly writes Felicia in The Sensational Spider-Man #34, showcasing her intelligence, resourcefulness, humanity, and kindness. As she takes revenge on Rhino for beating up Peter, the writer explores her complex history and characterization (which sometimes fails her).

4. The Amazing Spider-Man Presents: Black Cat

The Amazing Spider-Man Presents: Black Cat

Writer: Jen Van Meter

Artist: Javier Pulido

This very fun mini works as a tie-in to the “Grim Hunt” arc (“Kraven’s Last Hunt” direct sequel). Meter explores Black Cat’s relationships and gives a new cast of characters, proving she can work great in a solo adventure.

5. “The Devil And The Details”

The Devil And The Details

Writer: Mark Waid

Artist: Emma Ríos, Kano

Black Cat is arrested, and Daredevil is the only one who can help her. Spider-Man and Daredevil bantering is always incredible, but Black Cat makes it even better. This two-part crossover (in Amazing Spider-Man #677 and Daredevil #8) is so hilarious that it has even created memes, such as the perfect “I think this is my super villain origin” Spidey line.

6. Black Cat (2019)

Black Cat (2019)

Writer: Jed MacKay

Artist: Travel Foreman

Speaking of solo adventures, Felicia gets her first-ever series with MacKay at the helm. It focuses on her escaping the New York Thieves Guild, and it’s incredibly fun. This solo is the reason many people fell in love with her, so much so that it has spun other sequels and spin-offs.

7. Marvel’s Spider-Man: The Black Cat Strikes

Marvel's Spider-Man: The Black Cat Strikes

Writer: Dennis Hopeless

Artist: Luca Maresca

We can’t talk about Marvel Rivals and forget the Gamerverse. This issue follows the events of Marvel’s Spider-Man (the PS4 game) and shows an alternative version of Felicia.

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