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!
Brian’s Picks:
Justice League #75 ($6.99): Look, do I really believe that the Justice League will die, as in go away for anything resembling a long time? No, no I do not. But there is something about a big event that goes down like popcorn at the movies. It’s been over a decade since DC used the term ‘crisis’ in the sense of a universe-altering event. [Note: even if DC ever considered it, “Heroes in Crisis” is not a Crisis]. While I still need to see more to fully buy into “Dark Crisis,” let’s get this going. The Justice League is dead, long live in the Justice League.
Amazing Spider-Man #1 ($5.99): While I am a dyed in the wool DC stan, I have always, and will always, have a soft spot for ol’ Webhead. In this house, we try out every Spidey reboot, even if we rarely stick around.
British Paranormal Society: Time Out of Mind #1 ($3.99): I must admit, I have not been as regular of a Mignolaverse reader ever since the Scott Allie takeover and the push out of John Arcudi. The books fell off a cliff, and while there have been fun moments here and there, it just lacks the oomph that the Arcudi-era brought with it. That said, the solicit for this gave me an old-school vibe, so I’m willing to give it a shot.
Total: $16.97
Mark’s Picks:
Lightfall – Book Two: Shadow of Bird ($12.99): Tim Probert’s “Lightfall: The Girl & the Galdurian” was a love-at-first-sight book for me. I’ve a fondness for fantasy adventures and this one hit all the right notes. It opened with a map (Ah, books with maps are the best!), followed by a teasing prologue, then a glorious double-page title spread, and then… it settled into a quiet opening that eases its reader into Beatrice’s world, making it feel real and lived in before the grand adventuring begins. (Also it uses a lowercase typeface for speech balloons, which I adore… Sorry, but they just add more nuance to dialogue than all caps can muster.) Probert’s art is wonderful, with little details that inform character—we can infer that Alfirid is forgetful before he’s even said a word, because he has little colored strings tied around his fingers. And because it’s an OGN, it doesn’t have to rush through any of this stuff.
Anyway, I’m rambling. I love this book. I’m sure I’ll love the sequel. (Oh, and check out this process post about making the cover.)
The British Paranormal Society: Time Out of Mind #1 ($3.99): I’m pretty excited about this series. It opens up a new time period in the Hellboy Universe with characters we barely know, so there’s a lot of room for writer Chris Roberson and artist Andrea Mutti to explore. This isn’t just a miniseries either, but rather the first miniseries in a series of miniseries, so while this story is self-contained, it is also the beginning of something larger. . .
Total: $18.98. I was torn between Lucy Knisley’s “Apple Crush” and Tim Probert’s “Lightfall: Shadow of the Bird.” Sadly, there’s only ever room for one OGN with a $20 budget, but I’ve been anticipating both books for over a year. This time, my desire for fantasy adventure won out, but considering how much I enjoyed “Stepping Stones” (or really any of Knisley’s books), I am certain I’ll love “Apple Crush” too.
Kate’s Picks:
The British Paranormal Society: Time Out of Mind #1 ($3.99): The fact that I am now the third person suggesting this title this week tells you that you need to get this title.
Continued belowNaughty List #1 ($4.99): While it is way too soon to be thinking about Christmas and winter holidays (I just put my space heater away for the season dammit!) this Santa Claus meets The Sopranos mashup has me okay with a little springtime Kris Kringle.
Ms. Marvel Beyond the Limit #5 ($3.99): This finale is probably the last bit of Kamala Khan we’ll have before her Disney+ series drops, so don’t sleep on it and make sure you have all the back issues to give to your favorite kids who want to know more about her before her TV debut.
Total: $12.97
Christopher’s Pick:
Batman: Fear State HC ($49.99) – Yes, I know it’s past double the limit, but DC Universe Infinite still hasn’t launched in the UK, and the Scarecrow is one of my favorite Batman villains, so I’d say picking James Tynion, Jorge Jimenez and co.’s recent crossover event showcasing one of the Dark Knight’s most underappreciated foes is well worth breaking the rules this week. Afraid? I’m not.
Total: $49.99
