Determining the "most popular" comic book superhero characters can be subjective and may vary over time and across different audiences. However, here is a list of 20 iconic and widely recognized comic book superhero characters, many of whom have had a significant cultural impact:
1. **Superman (Clark Kent):** The Man of Steel, known for his super strength, flight, and invulnerability, is one of the most iconic superheroes in history.
2. **Batman (Bruce Wayne):** The Dark Knight relies on intelligence, martial arts skills, and high-tech gadgets to fight crime in Gotham City.
3. **Spider-Man (Peter Parker):** The friendly neighborhood Spider-Man uses his agility and web-shooting abilities to swing through New York City.
4. **Wonder Woman (Diana Prince):** An Amazonian warrior with super strength, speed, and her iconic Lasso of Truth.
5. **The Flash (Barry Allen):** The fastest man alive, known for his superhuman speed and time-traveling adventures.
6. **Captain America (Steve Rogers):** A super-soldier with enhanced strength and agility, often depicted wielding a shield.
7. **Iron Man (Tony Stark):** The genius inventor in a suit of powered armor, armed with an array of high-tech weaponry.
8. **Thor:** The Norse god of thunder wields the enchanted hammer Mjolnir and has superhuman strength and control over storms.
9. **Hulk (Bruce Banner):** A scientist who transforms into a giant, green, rage-fueled behemoth when angered.
10. **Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff):** A skilled spy and assassin with exceptional combat abilities.
11. **Aquaman (Arthur Curry):** The King of Atlantis has the power to communicate with sea creatures and control water.
12. **Green Lantern (Hal Jordan):** A member of the intergalactic Green Lantern Corps who wields a power ring.
13. **Black Panther (T'Challa):** The king of Wakanda possesses enhanced strength, agility, and vibranium-powered technology.
14. **Doctor Strange (Stephen Strange):** A former neurosurgeon turned Sorcerer Supreme, skilled in mystic arts and time manipulation.
15. **Wolverine (Logan):** A mutant with retractable adamantium claws, enhanced senses, and rapid healing.
16. **Deadpool (Wade Wilson):** Known for his regenerative abilities, humor, and breaking the fourth wall.
17. **Green Arrow (Oliver Queen):** A master archer and vigilante who fights crime using a bow and arrow.
18. **Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers):** A former Air Force pilot with superhuman strength, energy projection, and flight.
19. **Ant-Man (Scott Lang):** A size-shifting superhero who can shrink down to the size of an ant or grow to giant proportions.
20. **Shazam (Billy Batson):** A young boy who can transform into an adult superhero with various powers by uttering the word "Shazam."
These characters have made their mark not only in comics but also in movies, television, merchandise, and popular culture, contributing to the enduring popularity of the superhero genre.