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!
Matt Lune’s Picks:
GI Joe Sierra Muerte #1 ($4.99) – Michel Fiffe’s whole career has seemingly led to this moment. His groundbreaking independent work on “Copra” and “Zegas,” and his take on Rob Liefeld’s “Bloodstrike” last year feel like they all took their inspiration, in part, from franchises like “G.I. Joe.” It’s great to see him have his own miniseries to explore the world.
Vindication #1 ($3.99) – The current political landscape affects every part of our lives, whether we like it or not, and this new miniseries looks to put racial tensions under the microscope in ways that, frankly, more comics should be doing.
Age of X-man Marvelous X-Men #1 ($3.99) – Well. I was not expecting to enjoy “Age of X-Man; Alpha” as much as I did (apologies to all involved). My old, cynical brain was quietened though when I found myself drawn into this new utopian society and the darkness creeping in at the edges. I’m in, all in, and I’m looking forward to more
Daredevil #1 ($4.99) – As long as Matt Murdock keeps getting back up, I’ll keep showing up with my money in my hand. Daredevil has long been one of my fave characters, and the new creative team – Chip Zdarsky and Marco Checchetto – only sweetens the pot.
These Savage Shores #3 ($3.99) – Three issues in, and I’m already convinced this is one of the best books of the last few years. I sort of take for granted that subsequent issues are going to be awesome, that’s how much I trust the creative team.
Total: $21.95 – I was close to recommending “Uncanny X-Men” #11, but this is Comics Should Be Cheap, and I cannot recommend a single issue that costs $7.99 and still be able to sleep at night.
Mark’s Pick:
“Shadow Roads” #6 ($3.99)— The first time I heard about “The Sixth Gun” was actually right here on this site, in an installment of Tradewaiter. I was curious enough to check out the first volume, and upon finishing immediately picked up everything that was currently out, read it all in an afternoon, then asked my editor if I could take over the Haunted Trails column, which had been dormant for nearly two years. My point is that “The Sixth Gun” clicked with me fast. And it’s the same for the spin-off series “Shadow Roads.” I love what Cullen Bunn, Brian Hurtt, and A.C. Zamudio are doing with this series and I’m impatient for each new issue.
“Giant Days” #47 ($3.99)— I’m not sure I’m ready for this. Just looking at the cover, I’m already getting anxious, memories of my own driving lessons flashing before my eyes…
“B.P.R.D.: The Devil You Know” #13 ($3.99)— Look, I’ve been writing for Mignolaversity for almost five years. Obviously, I’m going to recommend this. I mean, “B.P.R.D.” is ending in a few short months, so how could I not? …Damn it, I made myself sad.
“The Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion” #5 ($3.99)— With the upcoming Netflix show only ten days away, this is clearly required reading.
Total: $15.96.
Justin Beeson’s Picks:
Age of X-Man: The Marvelous X-Men #1 ($3.99) – “Age of X-Man Alpha” #1 was surprisingly good, especially after the disappointing setup over in “Uncanny X-Men.” This mini has the same writing team as the Alpha issue so I want to try it out. And at $3.99, it’s pretty much a bargain by Marvel standards these days.
Conan the Barbarian #3 ($3.99) – I don’t even care that this feels very similar to Jason Aaron’s “Thor: God of Thunder.” He’s so damn good at this kind of comic that it doesn’t matter.
Continued belowDaredevil #1 ($4.99) – I’ve hopped onto each “Daredevil” relaunch since Mark Waid and Paolo Rivera’s run, and then haven’t kept with it past a few issues. I’m hoping Chip Zdarsky changes that trend.
Die #3 ($3.99) – I’ve never participated in a tabletop RPG, but the last issue is already on my best-of radar for 2019. Kieron Gillen and Stephanie Hans are creating something special.
Total: $16.96. A Marvel-heavy week that screws up my budget with a $4.99 book.
Kate’s Picks:
The Girl in the Bay #1 ($3.99) – Time travel meets a murder mystery meets doppelgangers. There’s a lot of twists and turns promised just in this solicit alone, and I’m intrigued to see how J.M. DeMatteis brings these all together.
Vindication #1 ($3.99) – Comics tapping into current political and social issues aren’t always everyone’s cup of tea, but if they are done right, they can gently educate and entertain. MD Marie looks to present a perspective on the African-American relationship with law enforcement that society needs to read right now.
Female Furies #1 ($3.99) – Fourth World Females Gone Rogue, under the leadership of Granny Goodness. I wanted more Big Barda after reading “Mister Miracle” and I’m glad I now have it.
Archie 1941 #5 ($3.99) – This series has had its ups and downs, but presenting the Archie characters in the context of their year of origin, dealing with more grounded, adult subjects such as war, was a creative idea, and I hope to see more of this.
Giant Days #47 ($3.99) – Daisy gets her driver’s license. Hijinks will ensue.
Total: $19.95
Nick’s Picks:
New Kid GN ($12.99) – Diverse talent on a coming-of-age book means a new spin on classic coming-of-age themes: a kid from a diverse area struggles to fit in at a prestigious private school where the kids don’t look or act like him. This sounds like exactly the kind of book that the world needs right now.
Archie 1941 #5 ($3.99) – While not as good as Waid’s main Archie run, I’ve been enjoying this slower, more somber take on the characters and World War II Americana. Looking forward to seeing how things wrap up.
Giant Days #47 ($3.99) – Always one of my favorite reads of the month. Sitcom perfection.
Total: $20.97.
