![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/starsmedia.ign.com/stars/image/object/923/923986/lucifer_dc_pictureboxart_160w.jpg)
Neil Gaiman is responsible for creating one of the more complex and, dare we say, sympathetic portrayals of the devil is quite some time. Lucifer's adventures on Earth following his exit from Hell are methodical and patient, poetic in their simplicity and always underlined with a sense of menace.
Part of Lucifer's appeal as a villain is that he doesn't brow beat readers over the head with his villainy. His intellect is matched by his ability to manipulate creation into what he imagines. Any being that can marshal demons to battle angels and still find time to stir humanity from indifference is a threat no one can ignore. Yet somehow, Lucifer's ability to stay below the radar and simultaneously impact mankind is both a gift and a curse.
Being mostly confined to the Sandman universe has not stopped this character from making an impact, but it has prevented Lucifer Morningstar from making the epic one he deserves. But we like his less is more approach. Lucifer doesn't have to lie to make you do what he wants. Worse, he tells the truth and allows people to find their own way to Hell.