Nemesis the Warlock

Nemesis the Warlock is one of the most visually striking and ideologically complex characters to ever emerge from the pages of 2000 AD. An alien sorcerer of immense and terrifying power, Nemesis stands as the champion of a universe oppressed by humanity — specifically by the fanatical Termight Empire and its genocidal leader, Torquemada. His first appearance in 2000 AD #167 in 1980 marked the debut of a character who would go on to redefine what British comics could do with science fiction, dark satire, and genuinely subversive storytelling. That early prog is a cornerstone issue for any serious 2000 AD collector.

Created by Pat Mills and initially brought to life artistically by Kevin O'Neill — whose grotesque, intricate linework became inseparable from the character — Nemesis is a demon-like figure who fights not as a hero in any conventional sense, but as a liberator, a revolutionary, and at times a genuinely frightening force of chaos. His ongoing war with Torquemada spans multiple story arcs across years of publication, each escalating in scope, surrealism, and artistic ambition. The series cycled through a legendary roster of artists including Bryan Talbot and John Hicklenton, making key issues highly sought after by art lovers and story collectors alike.

Beyond his solo conflicts, Nemesis is also a core member of the ABC Warriors, a team of rogue war robots whose own series intersects with his mythology in deeply satisfying ways. This dual presence across two beloved 2000 AD properties makes him one of the publisher's most embedded characters, and tracking down every appearance across both series is a rewarding long-term collecting challenge. His storylines touch on religious extremism, colonialism, and the nature of monstrosity — themes that have kept the material feeling urgent and relevant decades after publication.

For collectors, Nemesis the Warlock books represent some of the finest British comics of the 1980s and beyond. Early 2000 AD progs featuring his debut and formative arcs are increasingly difficult to find in high grade, and the various collected editions have gone in and out of print, making original issues especially prized. Whether you are hunting that first appearance in Prog 167, chasing down rare Kevin O'Neill pages, or completing a full run of the ABC Warriors crossovers, Nemesis books consistently reward the hunt.