8) The Legion Of Super-Heroes
The Legion of Super-Heroes might be the least-known of the teams on this list for a wider audience, as the group has never really found the on-screen success of many others (despite the old animated appearance). Still, their incredibly long shelf life and the abundance of ideas surrounding them ensures that they earn their place here.
From the mind of Otto Binder and Al Plastino, the Legion of Super-Heroes dates back to 1958 – predating more famous names like the Avengers and the Justice League. A major part of Superman’s adolescence in Smallville, this team of time travellers – including Cosmic Boy, Saturn Girl and Lightning Lad – from the 30th (later 31st) century became firm allies to the Boy of Steel.
Most known for their handy Legion flight rings, the team have been rebooted so many times over the years that it’s hard to keep track, but they’ve always embodied a Star Trek-like positive vision of the future – one where the heroes of the present have inspired the citizens of the future to follow their ideals.