Buying comics can be an expensive hobby. A lot of fans simply can’t afford everything they’re interested in, due to rising prices and the over-saturation of the market with superhero titles.
That’s why we’re here. Every week, the Multiversity staff is asked “What would you buy this week if you couldn’t go over $20?” and shares their reasons why, in order to help others who might have similar tastes make their own decisions in buying comics on a budget. Be sure to leave your own picks in the comments!
Wonder Woman #24 ($2.99) – Goran Sudzuka steps in, but whether it’s Cliff Chiang, Tony Akins, Aco, or Sudzuka – Wondy has always looked and read great since the ‘New 52’ started. Brian Azzarello’s “Wonder Woman” remains my sliver of hope in the DC darkness.
Zero #2 ($2.99) – There might have been a better #1 issue in 2013, but if there was, I’m really struggling to think of what it could be. Ales Kot continues his sterling emergence through the comic book ranks with a book that is his most slick and accessible, but without sacrificing the pure quality of his craft.
Hawkeye #13 ($2.99) – I (heart) Hawkeye.
Letter 44 #1 ($1.00) – Insanely good. The next great creator-owned book is only a dollar in its first ish.
Total: $9.97
B.P.R.D. #112 ($3.50) – Tyler Crook’s return has been remarkably uncelebrated in the comics world, and that is crazy. His work has been crisp and expressive, and terrifying all at once.
Batman/Superman #4 ($3.99) – The end of the first arc is upon us – and that means that Brett Booth is right around the corner. Enjoy Jae Lee while you can – and enjoy a damn good story.
Kings Watch #2 ($3.99) – I loved the first issue – it was fun and nostalgic and easy to jump right into. By far my most anticipated book of the week.
New Avengers #11 ($3.99) – Do I really need to explain this each month? This book has been one of the bleakest superhero comics in recent memory, certainly from the Big Two. It is also pretty great.
Total: $15.47
Nowhere Men #6 ($2.99) – This book is so glossy and good-looking (and the plot ain’t bad either) that the wait between issues can drag on and on. Snatch this up and savour it.
Sheltered #4 ($2.99) – The pre-apocalypse (or is it?) continues, with the Bri$$ delivering the moral ambiguity and Johnnie Christmas working in all kinds of nuance. Besides, if the cover of this one hasn’t grabbed your attention, you’re past hope.
Buzzkill #2 ($3.99) – An superhero whose powers are fueled by alcohol? It’s a helluva tough concept, but the first issue knocked it out of the park. Get on this one.
Letter 44 #1 ($1.00) – You guys know I’m a sucker for high-concept SF, and this one apparently centers on aliens chilling in the asteroid belt. Plus, it’s only a buck!
Hawkeye #13 ($2.99) – This is really shaping up to be an excellent week in comics.
Morning Glories #33 ($3.50) – This is really, really shaping up to be an excellent week in comics.
Total: $17.46. Spend the spare change on a hotdog from street vendor, because you’re already feeling nostalgic about NYCC, aren’t you?
Wonder Woman #24 ($2.99) – Duh, this is DC’s best book right now!
Zero #2 ($2.99) – Confession time, I still haven’t gotten around to reading “Zero” #1. Still, I know that any comic written illustrated by Mateus Santolouco is an absolute must buy.
Hawkeye #13 ($2.99) Hawkguy is back! Rejoice!
Batman/Superman #4 ($3.99) The last issue of Pak’s fantastic opening arc, the last issue with Jae Lee on art for the foreseeable future, and what is likely the last time I can call this the second best book at DC. Everything is better with alternate dimensions.
Justice League of America #8 ($3.99) Unfortunately, Matt Kindt’s DC work hasn’t really been to my cup of tea. However, this is essentially a Martian Manhunter/Stargirl team-up, illustrated by Doug Mahnke. Come on!
Continued belowJustice League of America’s Vibe #8 ($2.99) Confessions Part II: I think this book is pretty rad. Before you discredit this list and my opinion in general, I’m touting this particular issue based on a recent Sterling Gates quote in a USA Today interview: “If you like DC multiverse stuff and seeing other worlds, then Vibe No. 8 is your jam.” See last sentence of my “Batman/Superman” bit.
Total: $19.94
Adventure Time #21 ($3.99) – I hate that I do, but I always forget how good this book is except for when it comes out. This time I’m going to stay ahead of the curve and recommend it while it’s hot.
Morning Glories #33 ($3.50) – When MGASH33 comes out, I will be in a bunker hiding from fan reaction. That’s all I’ll say.
Zero #2 ($2.99) – Originally issue #4, Tradd’s issue got bumped up to “Zero.” I saw it at NYCC and I can confirm: it’s some of his best work, and the series continues to be amazing.
Whispers #6 ($2.99) – I feel like I’ve been waiting a lifetime for this issue to come out. I’m sure it’s not that bad, but man, am I curious to see how it all wraps up.
Hawkeye #13 ($2.99) – Oh, hey, Hawkeye is back. ‘Bout time, y’know?
Letter 44 #1 ($1.00) – I got to look at a preview of this issue and I’ll admit, I’m intrigued. I’m not 100% in the game yet, but for $1, it’s hard not to give this book a chance at a home on my pull.
Total: $17.46
Whispers #6 ($2.99) – Yes, this is late. Really late. But I don’t care. The first five were all great, and I can’t wait to see how this mini series ends.
Letter 44 #1 (3.99) – Charles Soule is getting lots of attention lately, and rightly so. I loved his last creator-owned effort, and I expect this one to be top notch as well.
Total: $6.98 – a very light week. Any suggestions for other books I should try?
