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!
Mark’s Picks:
“The Damned” #2 ($3.99) — Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt are two of my favorite comics creators, and the work they do together is fantastic. This arc, “Ill-Gotten”, has the multiple tasks to juggle: serve as an introduction for new readers; fill a gap between two existing arcs; and not tread on too much familiar ground for continuing readers. So far it’s pulled off all three with flying colors.
“Helena Crash” #4 ($3.99) — Four issues in and I haven’t gotten sick of Helena smashing into/through something and someone exclaiming ‘Helena Crash!’ If anything, it gets better every time. This miniseries has been a hell of a ride.
“Regression” #2 ($3.99) — I don’t normally do body horror stories, but for Cullen Bunn’s writing, I’ll make an exception. Plus, after that first issue, I’m curious where this one goes.
“Harrow County” #24 ($3.99) — OK, yeah, this is a heavy Cullen Bunn week for me, but of everything coming out this week, this is the title I’m excited about the most. The friendship between Emmy and Bernice was a big part of the reason I got hooked on this series early on, and this arc is all about testing that friendship, perhaps to the point that there won’t be a friendship left when the arc ends…
“Bitch Planet Triple Feature” #1 ($3.99) — This book takes a look at the world of “Bitch Planet” through the work of three different creative teams. In part this issue was created to fill a hole in the “Bitch Planet” publishing schedule, and yet I think of it as anything but filler. There’s a number 1 on the cover after all, so I’m hoping we’ll be seeing more of these.
Total: $19.95. A big week, and I didn’t even mention the trades I’ve got to get too…
Matt Lune’s Picks:
Dark Days The Forge #1 ($4.99) – The start of DC’s big summer Event, and I’m all in for it. There’s a scary amount of talent going into this, and it looks to be bonkers fun and unafraid to be over the top. Whether this issue will be a great lead in or not is anyone’s guess but it’s worth checking out.
Winnebago Graveyard #1 ($3.99) – I’m in love with Alison Sampson’s art. Ever since her work on “Genesis” with Nathan Edmondson I’ve loved her surreal linework and imaginative structure. Seeing that she’s illustrating a horror series written by Steve Niles seems like a match made in heaven.
Defenders #1 ($4.99) – If it wasn’t for the latest solo ongoings of all of these characters being so good, I’d be more wary of this blatant attempt to cash in on the upcoming Netflix series. I mean, it still is a blatant cash grab, but I’m hoping it’ll maintain that momentum of quality that books like “Jessica Jones” currently have.
Rai: The History of the Valiant Universe #1 ($3.99) – These anniversary one-shots have been fantastic so far, and this – the third of four – looks equally as good. Boasting shocking revelations that span the entire history of the new Valiant U, I’m looking forward to many throwbacks and deep cuts that’ll get me digging back through my longboxes.
Total: $17.96 – a lighter week thanks to those $4.99 issues, but still some great looking books.
Kevin’s Picks:
Dark Days: The Forge #1 ($4.99) – Oh. My. God. This book is nuts and there is a cornucopia of ideas contained within these 48 pages. Snyder, Tynion IV, Lee, Kubert, and Romita Jr. have crafted the beginning of something really special. If you have even the tiniest inkling of curiosity or the smallest investment in the DCU this book is a must get.
Continued belowMotor Crush Vol 1 TP ($9.99) – I loved The New 52 “Batgirl” both Gail Simone’s run and then Stewart, Fletcher and Babs Tarr’s later addition. That creative team has since moved to this series and while its debut issue didn’t wow me the art has always been amazing and everything after is well worth the trip and this series has turned into an interesting one with an intriguing premise and diverse characters rendered in Tarr’s manga-esque art style. Plus you gotta love those $9.99 first volumes.
Rai: History of the Valiant Universe #1 ($3.99) – I wasn’t reading comics when Valiant relaunched in 2012, but I have since gone back and tried to reread everything from the universe in trade as I think it’s a cool superhero universe that seems more “real” than Marvel or DC. I encourage you if you are looking to get into Valiant to check out this reading order for the trades on Reddit. I have started reading more Valiant regularly with their newest relaunch, and think this issue will give some much needed context to the universe that I may not have for only $3.99. If you have been wanting to get into Valiant, but don’t know how look no further.
Total: $18.97
Nick’s Picks:
Catalyst Prime: Accel #1 ($3.99) – Damion Scott’s “Batgirl” run was one of the first major comic runs I ever read, and it was one I frequently used to get friends into comics. I haven’t read a comic drawn by Scott since, so this new addition to the Catalyst Prime line looks as good a place as any to jump back in!
Martian Manhunter and Marvin the Martian Special #1 ($4.99) – First, look at that title. Second, look at that creative team. Third, get ready, because this meeting of two green aliens should be a blast.
Invader Zim #20 ($3.99) – The quality of this series about yet another green alien widely varies depending on who’s writing. This issue, however, is written by series creator and underground cartoonist Jhonen Vasquez. I have no doubt this will be a high point in the run.
Misfit City #2 ($3.99) – That first issue really surprised me with its character-first approach. Looking forward to the actual adventure now.
Wonder Woman #24 ($2.99) – Rucka’s second-to-last issue, which should tie up any lingering plot threads relating to the past stories. Most agree that the past stories have been the better half of this run- enjoy this final farewell.
Total: $19.95
Kent’s Picks
Old Man Logan #25 ($3.99) – Stewardship of the grizzliest geezer from the Great White North passes from Jeff Lemire to a fellow canuck this week. And writer Ed Brisson is inviting the Maestro along to help lead the overture. Hulk vs. Wolverine is a tried and tested rivalry, so it’s about time someone pit Old Man Logan against Old Man Banner. Game on!
Space Riders: Galaxy of Brutality #2 ($3.99) – Has there been a void in your life since the last issue of Keller and Neely’s “The Humans”? Say hi to Fabian Rangel and Alexis Ziritt’s “Space Riders.” Granted, you’ll have to exchange primate biker gangs for intergalactic bat-shit insanity, but the brown-acid vibes are all the same. Sometimes you just have to buy a comic that you need to hide under your mattress, even after you’re all growed-up.
Dark Days: The Forge #1 ($4.99) – This seems like required reading for anyone with a passing interest in Rebirth. But the fact it’s Scott Snyder returning to DC proper keeps it from feeling like a chore.
Helena Crash #4 ($3.99) We’ve come to the last cup of coffee in this pot brewed by Warwick Caldwell-Johnson. It’s been energetic, enthusiastic and wholly original. Will Helena crash or stick the landing? Who cares – at this point, Crash kicks ass. Period.
Winnebago Graveyard #1 ($3.99) – I’m not typically one for horror comics, the real world is unsettling enough as is. But Steve Niles’ pedigree for scaring the crap out of people is impeccable. Alison Sampson’s an artist I’ve never seen before, but from the previews, her discomforting grit will get under my skin like a fibreglass silver (and if you’ve never had that displeasure, it’s seriously uncomfortable as hell). Plus, if I take the family on a road trip this summer, I can use this book as a primer for what not to do.
Continued belowTotal: $20.95 – Thanks a lot DC – you put me 95 cents over. Well, now that that dam’s been broken, there’s no going back. So lets also grab the latest Kim Reaper… and Quantum Teens are Go… and There’s Nothing There… and Bug: The Adventures of Forager… and… and…
Ramon’s Picks:
Jimmy’s Bastards #1 ($3.99) — Garth Ennis’ take on 007’s misogyny. Also, the cover from Dave Johnson is both simple and eye catching, I’m in.
Bug the Adventures of Forager #2 ($3.99) — Allreeeeeds! That’s all you need, go buy this.
Vision Directors Cut #1 ($5.99) — I missed it the first time, so this is my chance to catch up on the best series in years.
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #21 ($3.99) — I love Squirrel Girl and I also love all the secondary characters in it, Koi Boi and Chipmunk Hunk are great! Also, can someone hook me up with a vector of Koi Boi’s logo?
Total: $18.96. Trade waiters might be interested in: “Venom” Vol.1 ($17.99) with Sandoval’s art, or “Rockstars” vol. 1 ($9.99) from Image, or “Batwoman by Greg Rucka and JH Williams III” ($24.99) which is wonderful.
Matt’s Pick
Pop Gun War: Chain Letter ($19.99) – Farel Dalrymple’s work is surreal and intoxicating. While it might be difficult to follow the story chain (he’s prone to tangents, asides, and digressions), it’s so easy to be immersed in his world. His cartooning is confident and unique, offering an odd and engrossing experience with some askew lines and sharp perspectives. “Chain Letter” is a trip.
Total: $19.99
