This issue does so much right – the art is awesome and the idea of a Daredevil horror story is a great one…but that was a pretty big gaffe with respect to Foggy.

No joke, I was grinning from start to finish while reading this issue. You need to be buying this comic.

This is just about everything that was fun or good about Bendis' Avengers. Of course, that also makes it very “Bendis”, so if you hate that…well, why the hell are reading issue #31 anyway?

A decent starting point, but precious little more than that, to a promising plot and a nice chance to relax and unwind, which may not be every reader's ideal way of spending money.

Marvel NOW is off to a rock solid start with this one. A character-driven, introspective read with a gigantic wtf of a final page.

Another excellent issue of Fatale. What a shocker.

Jarring artwork aside, I really liked the emotional notes and big ideas that Fraction hits here. I have no idea how the hell he's going to wrap this up next month though.

Another solid outing for Uncanny X-Force. If there's one thing this book is, it's consistent, and as everything comes together and Remender brings his run full circle, back to his very first arc, it's still a guaranteed good read.

It's not the greatest comic in itself, but there's something innately satisfying about this issue that feels like a weight's been lifted by the end of it.

As is the usually the case with Winter Soldier, it's really not a question of what's good and what's bad, but more one of simply “how good?” While it may not be the loudest book in Marvel's line-up, it's been nothing less than solid for 11 issues now and once again, I find myself with nothing to really complain about.

Even with underwhelming art, I think it says a lot about the quality of the script that I still absolutely loved this issue.

Brilliant art, brilliant character work, and sophisticated storytelling by all involved. This is an absolutely top tier comic and I'm more than a little pissed that it's been canceled….let alone canceled for sure to be vapid, immature dross like a Daniel Way/Steve Dillon Thunderbolts book.

A surprisingly solid issue of Incredible Hulk, which is enough to make it Aaron's best issue in quite a while.

There are glimmers here and there, but this was…kind of a mess. The amazing artwork just barely carried it through.

After a transitional issue last time around, this issue shows up in a big way, delivering satisfying action and introducing more elements that are sure to please long-time readers.

Great artwork can't change the fact that so much of this issue is just repackaged material.

This issue was one that was just kind of….there. Normally, I'm not this harsh on Secret Avengers but I guess I'm just wishing that it were more than it is. It's still fun, I just wish it had a little more depth and heart to it.

I can't go into much more detail without spoiling this issue's laughs, so I won't. Suffice it to say, when I finished reading this, I realized that my face was literally sore because I had apparently been smiling the entire time.

It's very much a transitional issue, but it still retains the flavour that's made the crossover a success thus far and it ends on a huge high note, which seems to ensure that the next installment will be vital. Also, Alan Davis art is never a bad thing.

Nothing short of a revelation, this has emerged as one of the best books at Marvel. If you like Waid's Daredevil, buy this. If you just like great comics with two talented creators making the most of the medium, you must read this.

Some parts work better than others but at this point, Fraction and Larroca's Invincible Iron Man can do little wrong.

I really do love this current status quo for the Rogues, which is tons of fun. Bring on the Annual! And keep feeding me that Manapul artwork.

The book certainly looks good and it's well-written, but the emotional attachment and investment just isn't there.

A really, really fantastic read that manages to pull the reader in and get him/her truly involved. Issues like this only make me more upset about this series' cancellation due to poor sales. Seriously, what's wrong with you people?

It's a decent issue, but clearly a transitional one. Still, a transitional issue of one of the best superhero comics on the stands is better than the majority of what's out there.

The big swerve is great and while it doesn't truly break the mould, this was definitely a fun ride.

Another fantastic issue of Fatale. As unbelievable as it may be, this series just keeps getting better.

A creative reversal of the usual dynamic between good guy and bad guy combines with great character-work for Psylocke, a hilarious Deadpool moment, and excellent use of time-travel. From Psylocke dreaming of Warren to Deadpool poking fun at Castle, this is one of those great “you'll laugh and you'll cry” issues.

A complete waste of time for everyone involved.

I liked this issue, but again, I think your enjoyment might be affected by whether or not you've been reading New Avengers of late. Regardless, I thought it was a lot of fun; it was an issue of big action sequences and great villains.

It's great to read, it's great to look at. Last issue, we got a fantastic Ant-Man comic but this month, Waid really cuts to the core of who Matt Murdock is and why Murdock and Foggy's friendship matters. The result is straight-up good comics.

A perfect ending to what's been an amazing run, giving us a little bit of almost everything that made this series a keeper.

Possibly the best single issue of New Avengers this year.

It's early at this point, but I think that this may very well be the best Thor we've ever gotten from Fraction.

Well, it sure is pretty, but in the end, it's an issue largely composed of meaningless punching.

I never thought I'd truly say this about an issue of Brubaker's Captain America: “This sucked.”

It pains me to say this, but this was bad. It's the firmest proof yet that Hickman does not have enough material to last from when his run was supposed to end to the Marvel NOW relaunch. Not by a long shot. Of course, that's Marvel's fault and not his.

Kind of a mixed bag of an issue. The scenes with Spider-Man and Emma were very strong, but the earlier portions were a bit dull.

At $2.99, you need to give this book a shot. Marvel is really trying something different here, and it's brilliant, with a creative team that is working at their absolute peak. This doesn't just meet expectations, it exceeds them.

Another very solid outing for one of Marvel's best series, even if it is a bit guilty of being a chapter in a trade paperback more than an issue in an ongoing series. Still, lots of cool stuff here.

A brilliant issue with nothing but huge, emotionally evocative moments…even if you'll hate Gillen for it.

A mediocre, poorly developed script meets art that's merely passable. I have a feeling that Hickman's Fantastic Four/FF work post-Fantastic Four #604 (when Hickman wanted to end his run, but for Marvel's insistence) will be treated much like Rucka's final arc, “Cutter”, on Batwoman's Detective Comics. That is, it'll probably end up being largely overlooked and forgotten. Well, hopefully with the exception of that awesome “Ben Grimm in the future” done-in-one one and the hilarious “Annihilus on the toilet” issue of FF.

I love where Fraction is going with Tony in this arc and can't wait to see what's in store.

It's not a terrifically smart read, nor is it one that'll take you a lot of time to get through, but it's boatloads of fun and, in the end, isn't that be what reading big Marvel event comics all about?

A really big, hard-hitting issue and a major moment for the team. It has just about everything that you got you into this book in the first place.

I've been really hard on this issue and I've perhaps made it seem worse than it is. I suppose I'm just irritated to see one of my favourite writers half-assing it like this and turning out such mediocre work. And that's just what it is – not horrible, just completely mediocre and forgettable.

Again, your mileage will vary depending upon your immediate reaction to the twist. For me, it didn't work. That said, the art is gorgeous, even if it won't give you happy feelings.

By far the best issue of Wolverine and the X-Men in quite some time. Great character dynamics and lots of tugging on the heart-strings

It's not a bad issue, but it's a disappointment. As a conclusion, Remender acts as though this was a much longer, better established arc than it is, while the loss of Breitweiser's colours is a letdown.

Against all odds, AvX #6 gives us plenty to be excited about. If you've been unhappy with AvX thus far, give this issue a chance; Marvel promised that this was the start of “Act 2″ and that last month really changed the game, and they've delivered. This is a very different book from what we've been getting for the past five issues.

An absolutely fantastic read that entertains on all levels: drama, comedy, action, and great art. This issue does it all.

I'd say it's an improvement over last issue, though there are character issues and your mileage may vary on the art.

The start of a story that feels much more like JIM in its element, both in script and art. A good issue and I think it'll only get better from here.

Great art and a great villain make for a great first issue of what will hopefully be a really strong arc.

Next to #4 (the Michael Lark illustrated Dr. Strange issue), this was probably my favourite issue of Fraction's Defenders thus far.

While this issue isn'tquite up to the sky-high standard of the past few installments of Invincible Iron Man, it's still very solid.

A bunch of vapid pages that serve no purpose but to kill time, all leading up to a giant stinker of a twist. But hey, it's definitely not one you'll see coming?

No effort was spared on this book and the result is a very fine product.

This is a comic that grabs by the throat, squeezes, and does. not. let. go.

A smart read with great characters that nonetheless brings the laughs. In other words, it's Hickman's Fantastic Four/FF doing its thing.

Honestly, this issue is a showcase of all the downsides of "the event tie-in issue." On the plus side, it has that sweet, sweet Nick Bradshaw artwork.

There are huge problems here that I can't totally ignore, but I can't deny that I had a LOT of fun reading this.

Slowly but surely, Captain America is returning to what we expect from the book, which is a very, very good thing.

Proof that you really can't win them all and what seems like a good idea may not quite pan out upon execution.

While the art still isn't my favourite, Exiled is really coming together now with this issue featuring another clever game-changer.

Wonderful art and a wonderful setting clash with a sadly forgettable story that is a substantial drop from the “last stand” awesomeness of last month's narrative.

While one plot is stronger than the other, this is a good issue that follows up on the promise of the last issue. Let's hope that Fraction and Larraz keep up the momentum.

Another solid outing for Venom and the Savage Six. The artwork, while not at all bad, is a bit forgettable, but otherwise, you'll find much of what you enjoy about this book in these pages.

Timeless artwork is paired with a story that, while technically sound, is problematic plot-wise.

Merely okay artwork and a script that, while it has its high points, is really just a do-over and proper conclusion of something that should've been wrapped a month ago.

Jam-packed with content, big moments, and tons of excitement, Invincible Iron Man continues the roll it's been on lately, double-shipping be damned.

An issue that's book-ended by quality moments, but between those moments, there's just a whole lot of wheel-spinning.

Thrilling, page-turning, breathless, desperate, and ultimately, a punch to the gut. In other words, it's another great Brubaker/Phillips comic.

Gillen and DnA took some daring creative risks for this issue, but they did not pay off at all. You can't win them all.

A fantastic, psychological read of how the Punisher myth erodes one man's identity. So far, the smartest read of the week.

While the core plot may be uninspired, there are a lot of elements going into it that hold a lot of promise.

There's not much to say about this comic that I didn't say about the last issue – it's absolutely excellent for all of the same reasons that last month's issue was excellent. This is a very different sort of Bendis book with fantastic artwork. The difference between last issue and this one, however, is the addition of that fantastic new guest star, which raises the book to another level. I imagine some might begrudge this book's featuring no Avengers or X-Men whatsoever, despite the admittedly misleading cover. That may be true….but it's still a great comic.

Another satisfying, rock solid issue of Venom with fun art from Kev Walker.

Waid continues to do test the limits of the “Daredevil comic” to great success. A fun issue with a goodly amount of heart.

Solid artwork and an engaged writer with his heart in the game nonetheless give us an issue built around poorly explained plot elements and ham-fisted, out of the left field retcons.

Fraction's Iron Man continues to be one of the best reads at Marvel. Witty, emotional, well-balanced, and with twists and turns aplenty, this isn't one to miss.

Strong characters carry an issue held back by middling artwork and excessive ambiguity. Still, this is clearly a set-up issue, so I expect it to be all uphill from here.

I wasn't overly thrilled about last issue, but this one rights the ship. Really great stuff, AvX is the most fun I've had with a Marvel event in a VERY long time. The Architects continue to make it more about the characters than anything else and it's paying off in spades.

A real blast and an absolute must if you're looking for a light-hearted good time.

A rock solid conclusion to a series that saw Bendis and Maleev at their best.

A fun crossover completely undercut and shot to bits by a terrible conclusion. Seriously, the Omega Effect may as well have never even happened. This entire crossover achieved nothing. But hey, on the plus side, that Marcos Martin cover is totally wicked.

An underwhelming effort by two very, very good creators with a lot that feels rushed or slapped together

Excellent artwork in a very different sort of Bendis comic. If anything, this issue just showed how badly we need an Iron Fist/Immortal Weapons/K'un Lun comic. It's a fascinating area of the Marvel Universe that needs and deserves attention.

A fantastic, epic sci-fi experience with stirring heroics in words and deed and truly brilliant artwork. Who'd have thought that a tie-in issue lacking both the regular artist and the regular cast could be so damned good?

The issue is a bit of a resetting for Fraction – he goes back to basics while also teasing us with great potential in the Donald Blake/Enchantress plot. Let's hope that he capitalizes on that potential this time around, as he's not had a great track record for doing that in his tenure on Thor thus far.

Mark Waid and Paolo Rivera give us a perfect blend of fun and characterization, all while continuing to challenge pre-conceived notions of Daredevil and “Daredevil comics.”

A really fun, exciting issue of Moon Knight with a really nasty twist towards its end.

I love Thor. I've picked up all the issues since JMS started his run. This may be my last issue for a while, which should tell you all you need to know.

A comfy, ho-hum issue, nothing much to see here until BAM….smashing you in the face with awesomeness in its last few pages.

A rock-solid issue with a really creepy tone and brilliant art.

A complete and utter surprise and everything you could hope for out of a big event. If the rest of the series can keep this up, we are in for one heck of a ride.

Well, it really did nothing at all to set up AVX, so this issue didn't really do what it was meant to and may, to some, even feel pointless as a result. Aaron's Hope story is also a bit dull, even if it picks up at the end. That said, the art is gorgeous and Bendis' Scarlet Witch story is absolute dynamite, delivering in spades in action, bombasity, and soap opera drama.

A great battle, or game, of wits that intensifies with each issue. A fantastic read, this issue only continues a trend that sees this arc get better with every month. This is a real return to form for Fraction's Invincible Iron Man.

Not a bad issue, but it's weighed down by forgettable artwork that merely gets the job done.

Sharon manages the heavy lifting this month in a comic where classic art meets classic script.

There really isn't much to say here. This isn't a bad issue by any means and it's competent in both art and script. But it's not anything more than that. It felt as though Rucka was running in place here. This is the first stumble this series has had but, given that this issues entire problem was a lack of significance or real meat on the bones, I imagine it'll be quickly forgotten.

A perfect ending to a fantastic run. Forever has proven that if Marvel gives it's next big event story to anyone but Hickman, they will be sorely, sorely mistaken.

Another glimmer of potential that I'm still waiting to be capitalized upon.

On the one hand, it underachieves a bit. On the other hand, it's better than expected due to wonderful art and solid narration.

This is the start of something really, really big. The hype is justified. Do not miss out. Get in on the ground floor because I can guarantee that if you don't, you'll just end up reading the first six trades and jumping in at issue 30-something after this series becomes the “it” book. I could be wrong, but this feels like a classic in the making, much like Y.

Hope/Namor and the Apex carry this issue through the rough patches, as does Gillen's nack for dialogue in general. That said, the wrapping up of the plot is done in a very troubling way.

Don't get me wrong, for everything I've said, this is not an unenjoyable read. It's the equivalent of a light, breezy beach read of a novel (albeit with stabbing). It's just strange that Aaron would end on such a simplistic arc. Furthermore, it's hard to wholly enjoy an action heavy “fun” comic when one of the artists isn't quite up to the task, as comics like this one often rely on the artist to do the heavy-lifting.

You probably can get by without picking up this issue, but if you're a Hickman FF devotee, you probably will anyway.

Great issue that sees Moon Knight and its creators living up to their potential. It's just such a damned shame that there are only two issues left.

It's amazing to see Bendis do wrong in one issue what he does right in another issue…in the same week. But that's where we are.

Spends more time with the fun and less time on the stupid, leading to a much more enjoyable issue. The amazing, lush artwork also makes this one worth a look.

A big improvement over last month and a solid experience overall.

Lots and lots of fun with several big, memorable moments.

All this said, Sosa and Sotomayor once again do incredible work and do their best to salvage the art. Sotomayor's colors are absolutely brilliant, full of life and charm, while Sosa's thick inking is loaded with character. These are two names I'll definitely keep an eye out for in future. Bobillo's artwork does its damndest to work against Hickman's script and was the only thing keeping this book from an A-grade.

Readers may wonder where the X-Men went and find this issue a little strange, but I enjoyed Gillen's taking an issue out to do something a little outside of the box.

I can't imagine a scenario where a combination of Tony Daniel getting political and DC experimenting with new ways to hit deadlines leads to a good comic.

It's an appetizer, certainly, but Fatale is most definitely a book to be excited about. This isn't one to trade-wait, let alone miss.

Another fantastic issue of the Punisher. If you're not reading this, you really should be.

Improved, but still inappropriate artwork mixes with a solid script with satisfying high spots.

A bit of a falter for this fantastic series but hey, a weaker issue of I, Vampire is still pretty bloody good.

Much like last month, this is a mixed bag, which I guess is inevitably going to be the case when a writer tries to cover so many disparate narrative threads. Some quite good and some mediocre bits combine with very pretty artwork.

It's hard to believe that we live in a world where we have not one, but TWO excellent Punisher books, both of which are among the very best comics that Marvel publishes. Issues like this validate PunisherMAX's claim to that title.

It's action-heavy and not particularly revelatory, groundbreaking, or emotionally evocative, but I cannot deny that this was a really fun comic that sees Jason Aaron clearly operating within his comfort zone.

Despite the bright spots in this issue, the giant, glaring gaps in this storyline weigh it down quite heavily.

About as non-new reader friendly as possible, but an issue that shows that if Marvel had any sense, there really is only one correct choice for the writer of their next big event, and that's Jonathan Hickman.

Not bad, but nothing to really get excited about either. Aaron's take on the Hulk is getting better, the boar brothers are amusing, but I'm still waiting for this book to live up to, and capitalize on, those glimmers of potential that it so clearly has.

He may not have shown it in Fear Itself, but Matt Fraction is an excellent writer. I'll have to double-check my longbox, but I think this may have been the best issue of Invincible Iron Man to come out this year.

Heartfelt, gripping, hilarious, emotional, and sincere with great artwork and great character-work. What more could you ask of a comic?

I find it unbelievable that this story exists. If you had a sneaking suspicion that this was a re-run of various elements from Dark Reign, you're only half right: it's Dark Reign, recycled, but only dumber and more unbelievable than last time.

Decent, but plays it safe.

This is among the best single issues of the year.

Some really good ideas and character-work mixed with a messy potpourri of art and some slightly undercooked elements.

Amazing character dynamics, amazing dialogue, amazing structure, amazing art, and an amazing setting. Do not let this book pass you by, as it is easily in the top five, maybe top three, of the entire relaunch. If there is any justice in the universe, this book will be the one to make Fialkov and Sorrentino's respective careers.

Looking for another Marvel book? This one's a prime candidate. Man, is it great to have Greg Rucka back on the stands.

While Jason Aaron's talent is apparent, it's ultimately pretty misdirected here. If you're not a completionist, this is pretty skippable.

Having a great first issue is one thing, but in many ways, it's the second issue that counts the most when it comes to getting idea of how things are going to go long-term. After this issue, it's clear that Rucka's Punisher is the real deal.

A mixed bag, but the good ultimate outweighs the bad.

If it ain't broke, don't fix it, I suppose. That said, this was pretty derivative.

No sophomore slump here. If you liked the first issue, you'll like this.

A lot of the negatives I list are really entirely due to Journey into Mystery's sky-high standard. Taken on it's own, this issue is absolutely fantastic and not at all a bump in the road or a misstep.

My quibbles are really nit-picking, for the most part. Overall, this is a story that needed to be told and it managed to serve its purpose in a way that managed to feel both fun and integral to Fear Itself. It also served as grounds for Bendis to try something a little different.

Pepper Potts saves the day, making something generally enjoyable out of an otherwise humdrum issue.

Not awful, but certainly the weakest issue of Fear Itself thus far.

A solid issue of New Avengers. I continue to enjoy how Bendis is using these tie-ins to give us a more personal vantage on such a massive, universe-wide event.

By far the weakest issue of the arc thus far.

The Punisher comic I've wanted for years and one that, for this reviewer, makes Frankencastle look even dumber in retrospect.

A really excellent conclusion, but also won that makes you wistful for what could have been.

Thank God this disastrous storytelling decision on Hickman's part is over, with the comic I actually subscribed to returning next month. The fact that this two-part digression even saw release is proof to me that Marvel's editors have given Hickman a very, very long leash. Excessively so.

It may not be an Eisner-contender, but it's still a hell of a good time.

An A for effort, but still a prologue, and perhaps one that's a little overexcited.

Schism remains a winner.

One failed joke, even if it drags on through the whole issue, isn't quite enough to snuff out strong character work.

A bunch of poorly timed, poorly executed, and poorly reasoned Spider-Woman love.

Truly, a comic for Daredevil fans. If you've ever been even remotely curious about DD but have never read one of his comics, now is the time.

Jason Aaron and Steve Dillon continue to deliver a Punisher comic unlike any that has come before.

Are you reading this? If not, you really should be, because I can guarantee that this comic is better than a good chunk of whatever's on your pull list. That's certainly the case for me.

Jason Aaron doing his thing, basically. A great example of why this book, when at its best, isn't just Wolverine; it's Jason Aaron's Wolverine.

I'm honestly not sure why I had to read this. Worst issue of FF by far, but then again, I'm not sure whether this even counts as an issue of FF.

Fantastic ideas and solid artwork hampered by Fear Itself and some at times sketchy writing.

The best issue of New Avengers to come along since the first arc of this relaunch. Those who stuck out the last arc are really, really well rewarded.

Not the strongest issue, but that last page ensures that this rare misstep for Sweet Tooth won't be a lasting one.

A really fantastic and exciting read that puts on display all the fun to be had in a big, superhero comic. Oh, and for what it's worth, I thought it was significantly better than Flashpoint #3.

FF remains a book that is a consistently solid read.

An excellent Thor-verse comic that's a nice counterpoint to Fear Itself.

My grumbling about thematically understandable but still odd creative decisions aside, this is a really well-written comic with solid action scenes that I generally quite enjoyed.

Pacing issues aside, this was really solid as far as tie-ins go, with a balanced model that I wish more writers would use when writing these sorts of issues.

A decent enough issue with solid artwork and its heart in the right place.

All told, Journey into Mystery is a fantastic book that you really should be reading, particularly if you're at all partial to fantasy, Thor, or, well, good storytelling in general. It's laughs, adventure, and above all else, very strong character-work with stunning artwork to back it all up.

A rock solid experience that both Wolverine and Jason Aaron fans will enjoy.

Against all odds, we get a pretty good conclusion to what has been an absolutely horrible arc.

Even if you've not read anything Age of Apocalypse related, you'll still really enjoy this issue of what is by far the best X-book on the stands.

Spencer writes really good comics. Morning Glories is fantastic. THUNDER Agents is fantastic. His Fear Itself tie in for Secret Avengers, the first issue of which came out this week as well, was surprising in just how good it really was. So what the hell is the problem here? Once again, it feels like Spencer is flailing.

Gotta be honest – it's a bit of a letdown compared to the last two issues. Still a really strong book, however, and not one that I'd stop recommending.

Everything a good tie-in should be. Solid character-work, a message that's powerful but not cheesy or sappy, and a really good representation of everything Fear Itself should be about. Very well done, and hopefully more than enough to keep a few Brubaker fans on-board for the time being.

FF continues to be a very, very solid read, month in and month out. For this reason, it remains a comic that I consistently recommend.

Really good, this did a lot to restore my faith in Fraction's Mighty Thor.

Despite Mystique's 10-mile long health bar, this was a back to basics issue for Wolverine that does a lot to get this book back on track.

After issue 1, I forgot about this book. After this issue, I'll be taking a look at issue 8. Call it a win.

Kirkman and Howard have a really good comic on their hands here. If you spent the mornings of your childhood watching cartoons and your afternoons playing with the action figures from those cartoons, you need to read this.

This is what you signed up for when you added DMZ to your pull-list, whenever-a-go.

Solid art and a glimmer of potential from what is, unfortunately, an utterly unremarkable comic.

As an actual comic book, this, frankly, kind of sucks. But the world and the characters are so awesome that I actually enjoyed it and wanted more. I'm not quite sure how that works, but frankly, that's how I feel about much in this comic, and yet, work it does.

Another solid entry in what is one of the best team books on the market.

An issue that's sure to be divisive. Despite the complete lack of plot development, I enjoyed it and found it a unique read as far as Marvel superhero comics go. Certainly, reading this comic, there's no way anyone but Bendis could've written it.

A really good, really powerful issue that stamps home how high the stakes are in Fear Itself and left me wanting more.

Two issues in, this is set to take a place among the very best comics out of Marvel. I hope people are reading it.

Another really strong issue of PunisherMAX. This is quickly becoming not just a must-read, but a comic that, when all is said and done, will most likely be on many shortlists for "best Punisher comics of all time."

An improvement over last month's issue, but I still feel like this is an arc that keeps shooting itself in the foot and neglecting its potential.

Despite my gripes, this is really only a slightly weaker issue from an exemplary series.

A fantastic issue of a fantastic comic. Give it a go. Better still, even if you've not been reading from issue 1, this is a very accessible place to jump on.

A decent issue, but one that was held back by having Fear Itself shoehorned into it.

The best issue of this arc with solid work all around, particularly if you want to see something different out of Deadpool. That said, it isn't the A-quality, in story or art, that the previous arc most definitely was.

Brilliant. The best first issue of the year thus far. This issue is naked proof that Kieron Gillen is a name you need to know.

Matt Fraction has an actual story to tell, which means this is a hell of a lot better than Siege #1.

Bendis does something different, and it ultimately pays off in a big way.

An enjoyable Steve Rogers adventure.

Kind of a mess, really.

I'm by no means a Steve Rogers fanboy, but this was the best single issue of Cap since Reborn.

Glimpses of the future show very promising things as Jonathan Hickman continues to carve his place among the best FF writers of all time.

Still a great book, but needs more actual X-Force.

Something for everyone. You get the talky battle of wits and the Pepper Potts action scenes. Invincible Iron Man readers are going to have to get especially grumbly to find major fault with this one.

I liked it less than last month's book, but War Machine fans may very well feel differently.

Though I've come to not expect much from prologue issues, this was pretty good.

One of the best issues of Jason Aaron's PunisherMAX thus far, if not the best. With two astounding issues in a row, this title has returned with guns blazing.

The worst issue of New Avengers since the relaunch. Sorry, folks.

The best issue of the Six to come around in a while.

Freaking great. Just don't make me wait another 5 months.

A really good issue in and of itself, but doesn't do much to alleviate my concerns about how Hickman is going to finish this beast of a series.

It seems that there are only two types of issues when it comes to Sweet Tooth: fantastic, or absolutely fantastic. This one's the latter.

A strong, if surprising, outing.

Not at all bad, but by no means fantastic. Still, it's an enjoyable experience that is completely inoffensive.

A bit of a stumble in what has thus far been a really good arc. While it succeeds in the little things, the major components have got some issues.

A return to form of sorts. It may not be the most intellectually challenging book and it may have a bit of a rough start, but once things get going, it's a hell of a lot of fun.

Is anyone hotter than Nick Spencer right now? Buy this book! I will be very angry at all of you if this ends up as another quick sales casualty.

Slow, but nonetheless a return to form in content and quality.

It's not all gold, but I really like this Super Team idea, which is what's important, given that it's the meat of this new story-arc.

Daniel Acuna comes to the rescue, basically. An effective and moody ride that has me once again, looking forward to Aaron's Wolverine.

Man, it's really great to have this series back. It appears that Aaron has also finally settled on the tone that suits him best.

While the artwork is fantastic, I really have no idea what the hell Hickman was thinking with this one.

Much like Fraction's attempt at it, this is a solid issue held back by Marvel's nebulous point on initiative

Really fun with both the Barry Allen and Flash portions delivering the goods, albeit very different goods.

Despite my other complaints, the biggest problem here is that it flies by way too fast and ends up a bit insubstantial. A shame, since what we do get is pretty good.

Radical's best comic. Alice Hotwire is among the best characters in comics today and her world is similarly top tier. Whatever the format you choose, this is a book you need to be reading.

A really deeply touching issue and one of the best issues of the series. And this is coming from a guy who thinks landscape comics ought to be burned.

An outstanding issue of Invincible. Hopefully we won't have to wait long for the next one.

While my inner Doom-fanboy was a little peeved but honestly, this was a really good issue.

Minor quibbles aside, this was a really good issue. More than that, it was a really good issue where Bendis and Romita Jr. managed to eliminate, or at least minimize, their usual weaknesses.

A truly great send-off for a character that never feels tacky. That said, there's also plenty more to like this month. It's a big comic book that's well worth your four bucks.

For a seeming filler issue between major story-arcs, this is pretty good actually. Spencer and Eisma's talents carry an issue and make what could have been disastrous into something pretty enjoyable.

Scarlet finally works for me. A fantastic comic.

Absolutely outstanding and exactly what an anniversary issue should be: a creative celebration.

A strange read, honestly.

Bland and uninspiring. Reading Frank Miller's run on the title and his later retelling of DD's origins were some of my best comic experiences as a kid. However, until a good creative team revives the Daredevil franchise, I'm gone.

The fact that this was just a little bit better than your standard issue goes to show that Sweet Tooth truly is one of the best books on the stands right now.

Good, but not great. Blame Marvel.

A big-time Marvel comic that was both ominous and fun. One of my favourite issues of this Avengers title thus far.

An absolutely outstanding issue. I wish all filler issues between major story-arcs could be this good.

Pure dynamite. This is Nick Spencer and Joe Eisma at the very top of their games.

An issue of set-up and gags, but I genuinely laughed more than a couple of times, and that gets any comic a good amount of points from me.

Another really, really good issue of Hickman's Fantastic Four that's guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

Bland bad guy aside, this was a solid outing for your favourite characters with art that's guaranteed to make you wince. In a good way.

Detroit Steel may be boring, but the rest of the cast isn't. This issue promises big things to come.

Not quite at the same level as the last couple of outstanding issues, but still quite a bit better than that disappointing first arc.

While I feel that there's only so high I can grade a book whose greatest strength, and majority of content, is action sequences, this was a really fun ride in an arc I've had mixed feelings about thus far.

I enjoyed it, but I imagine that this issue could be something of a divisive one.

A bit safer than previous issues, this wasn't bad, but it didn't reach the creative heights of Fraction's prior issues.

Yup, no sophomore slump here. Jeff Lemire is quickly establishing himself as a fresh new voice in superhero comics.

Yup, no sophomore slump here. Jeff Lemire is quickly establishing himself as a fresh new voice in superhero comics.

The best DC annual that I've read in some time. I wish DC would do this more often for the Annuals: use them as an excuse for the title's usual creative team to do something different instead of calling up some B or C list creative team to do something underwhelming and unrelated.

While Hickman plays it safe this month, this is still a very good issue.

Surprisingly good, Hickman does quite a bit to restore hope for this series.

To everyone who dropped Secret Avengers, disappointed by the first arc: come back! This is the book you wanted!

A fun start to a promising new arc.

The only part of this book that wasn't fun was how long I had to wait for it to be released.

Too little space means too many missed opportunities.

Still one of the best books at Marvel. Needs more Volstagg though, although even issues that feature Volstagg need more Volstagg.

Mixed feelings about that death aside, this is a fun issue that provides a strong finish to an at times uneven arc.

A hard issue to grade, really. It's unmistakably a high quality product with excellent writing and artwork on a technical level, but it's all marred by very odd creative decision. I feel like I'm still waiting, albeit excitedly, for the first issue.

Scarlet finally gives me something to grab onto.

I have to dock points for just how crammed and rushed this is, but Dysart's success under these circumstances wins out.

Good, but not $5.99 good.

Mr. Lemire, you make good comics. The best issue of Sweet Tooth in a while.

Elegantly constructed, thoughtful, and action-packed, this is a rousing success and everything I'd hope for from a Superboy book.

Way better than last month, but seriously torpedoed by bad artwork.

A nice break from Hickman's usual insanity that is sweet (up until the epic cliffhanger) but never contrived. Also, see if you can spot the rather funny Easter egg cameo by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby!

This is truly one of the best character studies I've ever read in a comic. This is the sort of comic that you'll instantly want to re-read and revisit for years to come.

As an all-around experience, this was probably the most solid issue yet of the main Avengers title.

If you gave up on this comic,come back! It's really starting to deliver on those expectations.

Brian Wood gives me what I'm looking for: thoughtful, heart-wrenching, hard-hitting comic goodness.

Weaker than last month's issue in some ways, stronger in others, but still all-around awesome.

A bland slab of Marvel Comic void of soul in, ironically, a tale that should be all about the soul.

Overall, if you enjoy Bendis Avengers, this is the kind of solid experience youve been picking up for years. If you dont like Bendis Avengers, this wont change your mind.

Turn your brain off, ignore the intricacies of the time stuff, and there's fun to be had.

A good issue, but I expected a little more.

One of the best-looking comics of the year with a script that can't quite keep up. Vertigo needs to get Zullo on an ongoing.

A really good issue of Scalped, no surprise there, but ultimately one that will read better when collected.

Not bad, but Unknown Soldier #23 ultimatelydoesn't play to its strengths.

Bland Viltrumites aside, this was a really fun outing with awesome art that continues to surprise me with how much I'm enjoying it.

This issue of Chew is “fricken” good. Sorry, couldn't help myself.

Jason Aaron closes out Weapon X in somber style.

I'm happy to once again find myself excited for the next issue of Fables.

Quite possibly the best single issue I have read this year.

The New Avengers doing what they do best.

Wood is at his best with one-shots and shorter arcs, and this issue of DMZ does not buck that trend.

After just one issue, I'm addicted.

The same core problems as last month means the same grade as last month. Better than Shadowland #2, though.

Great ideas again hindered by amateurish storytelling.

A daring choice by Lemire, but one that prevents this from being an unremarkable filler issue.

It may be strange and inexplicable, but it's still a good time.

A really solid outing for Cap that left me wanting more.

Frustratingly mediocre.

A great story is hamstrung by terrible art.

I liked this more than Superman #601. It has a definite life to it and much promise for the future.

A uniquely fantasy comic and the best issue of Thor in a while.

Certainly miles better than Siege #1, this was a fantastic start.

It's hard for me to really bad-mouth this series though because I love the characters, I love the concept, I love the world, and I love the art, but as of right now, Roberson's storytelling is holding this series back.

An enjoyable issue of the Six doing their thing. And Ragdoll's never been better.

This book is not necessarily a disappointment and certainly not a failure, nor is this issue's grade a sign of things to come. This series will be great; I got that feeling profoundly from this issue. But I can only grade what I have in my hands, which is merely an introduction.

This is basically the best possible pitch Sweet Tooth can make while playing its B-game. Thankfully, that's still one great comic.

A great concept, but this felt like a #0 issue stretched to 29 pages.

A by-the-numbers ending doesn't stop this from being a great issue. Ms. Zarcone is also a real find who I hope will get more work with Vertigo.

A really great idea that needed a little more breathing room. I guess I just wanted more.

A giant improvement over last month and the beginning of a promising new direction. Unfortunately, this issue still had to show what was being left behind.

A good issue, but not quite of the same level as last month's issue. Apparently even the fastest man alive can suffer from “middle-of-the-arc” syndrome.

Who knew psychics could be this cool, gritty, or slick?

Lots of fun, Hickman's FF is back in shape. If you've got kids interested in comics, I imagine they'd love this.

A good issue that would've been great were it not for those damned solicitations.

A really fun romp. Not much more I can ask for.

An interesting issue, though not quite up to the ridiculously awesome standard set by this arc thus far.

While not overly impressive, it's an improvement and, more importantly, it's an improvement that looks to continue.

This is quickly becoming one of the best books that DC has to offer. In fact, I'd put it in the top three.

If you're patient and can appreciate the big picture, this is a great issue.

This book totally exceeded my expectations and delivered the fun.

It's hard not to look forward to Shadowland.

A really good issue and one of the best of Aaron's run thus far.

A wonderfully gripping read that was also highly intellectual if you wanted it to be.

I really hope readers give this book another chance. This was a much better issue and carried much of the energy that the first issue should've had.

Better than last month's dire affair, I guess.

Has there ever been a bad issue of Scalped? No, not really.

This is actually a really good book, but I just found it to be an unpleasant read.

Fantastic characters and great art make for another excellent issue of Madame Xanadu.

This is the weakest issue of Gillen's run, as it just isn't particularly entertaining or gripping.

Weapon X continues to be a very strong series, despite a somewhat light first half.

Art problems just barely keep this from a perfect score.

A generally good debut that should please Zatanna fans.

Great art and a great script still make for frustration. Go figure.

A really fun book save for one baffling, inexplicable component. Best to just pretend that that one speech bubble doesn't exist.

Still a definite recommend for anyone's pull-list.

The New Avengers, and their readers, get their reward, though it's a bit drawn-out.

The quintessential comic blockbuster that brings much promise for the Marvel U.

A rocking good time.

I like the characters and I feel a ton of potential here, but at the moment, it's just that: potential.

A strong issue, but not the guaranteed pick of the week that Sweet Tooth usually is.

A heady mix of anger and sadness, this is the sort of piss-and-vinegar blend that is Scalped at its very best.

There are bright spots, but overall, this issue is just kind of “there.”

A very, very good comic that falls a hair short of an A-grade.

Miles better than last month's illustrated essay, but not up to Hickman's usual A-grade.

It's hard to imagine New Avengers, especially without New Avengers, any better than this.

I can't believe I'm recommending it, but if you don't demand your comics to take themselves at all seriously, this is actually pretty good.

Another solid outing in the DMZ.

A couple of bits of sloppy writing, but this was generally a good set-up for the story-arc to come.

Bendis and Oeming continue to plant seeds for what should be another amazing run.

Another solid outing for Diggle's continuing ninja adventure.

If I could hug a comic, this would be it.

I'm glad Kirkman wrote this issue, but it's not as engaging as it should be.

Another great Weapon X issue. This continues to be a comic that”ll make you fall in love with Wolverine all over again.

Sweet Tooth remains consistently one of the best books on the racks.

Great for newer fans, fairly pointless for older ones.

Half the comic is fun, the other half isn't. What to do?

A cataclysmic twist balances disappointing character work.

All told, a beautiful book and likely the pick of the week for me.

A surprising mediocre and insubstantial read. A lot of moodiness and nice art, but little else.

The first misstep in a run that's been phenomenal thus far. I can forgive that.

Man, am I glad to be done with the flashbacks.

The little logic holes can be forgiven. This is a really, really great issue.

A solid tie-in overall that Volstagg and Kelda fans should enjoy. And what Thor reader doesn't like those two?

Fun, but it needs more Bucky and less attempts at being “relevant.”

A really great book that feels worthwhile and significant as a tie-in.

More fun than the last few issues, this chapter in this arc promises more great issues to come. Still, there are some jitters.

I have to respect any book that even uses the inside back cover, but despite this and the awesome art, I still wish there was a bit more meat to its narrative.

Forget that Frankencastle foolery. This is a Punisher comic.

An absolutely amazing issue that will definitely be remembered for a long time to come.

While it's pretty much all talking, this issues brings together Dark Avenger's best aspects.

A little comedy and a lot of action, this was big, epic fun.

It's not quite as brooding as previous issues, but it makes up for it with spades of fun.

Being the best issue of an uninspired arc still means being trapped in a field of mediocrity.

It's fun, but familiar.

The best issue of Guillen's short run and probably the most fun issue of Thor in some time.

An enjoyable story meets atrocious art.

A lot of “meh” concluded with a slap to the forehead. I can't wait to hear from you in the comments section.

A huge shift from previous issues in the arc, but still a lot of fun.

If you're the right kind of reader, you'll like this. If you're not, why the hell are you reading Punishermax?

It may not blow your socks off, but it maintains the series' high standard.

A really fun Secret Six issue, but if you're here for Blackest Night or the Suicide Squad, you may as well skip this.

“Seven years in the making” somehow manages to mean “slapped together.”

Good, clean fun. Hickman's FF is one of the best Marvel reads.

A really flashy, enjoyable issue of Thor that shows there is life after JMS.

The best issue of Uncanny in quite a while. Why can't they all be like this?

Overall, a fun outing with the Avengers.

All-around, a fantastic issue.

Utterly appalling. Don't even give this a chance.

After this issue, it's clear that Diggle's run won't be any weaker than those of his predecessors, which is saying quite a bit.

As far as Fables goes, it doesn't get any better.

It's good, old fashioned fun, but it's also damaged goods.

It's Dark Avengers, it's fun, and barring a wardrobe malfunction, Victoria Hand is a great character, but this issue has its weaknesses.

It's an eventful issue, but Wood falls prey to needing “good guys” and “bad guys.”

It's a great comic, one that confirms that Jason Aaron is bringing his own talents to the table, not just Ennis'.

Despite the lack of Nicola Scott, this was my favourite issue of Secret Six in a while. Long live Black Alice!

An issue that is a fun read on surface level and deceptively clear cut, but packed with philosophical ideas and very readable on a deeper level. The book is nonetheless enjoyable on both sides.

Enjoyable for what it is, but admittedly a bit on the drier side.

A good issue with an absolutely fantastic overall theme and atmosphere, but it falters on some of the little things.

Scalped is an awesome series, and this is another really solid outing. I can't wait for next month's installment.

An inoffensive issue that is a bit rough around the edges.

Having been on-board since issue one, I'm sad to say that I'm done with this series.

The best issue since the series debut. If you're not reading this, you are really missing out.