Action Comics #1061 kicks off the "Superman Superstars" initiative in style and gives Bizarro a major upgrade. Superman had a stellar run of comics last year, and 2024 looks like it will only add to that.

Akogun: Brutalizer of Gods #1 forges a new mythology full of blood, intrigue and action but mostly blood. It's a big swing, but then again the best comics tend to be. If you're waiting for the next God of War game, or if mythology was your favorite subject in school, you've got to pick this comic up.

Avengers Inc #1 continues Al Ewing's trademark for pairing up with stellar artists and shaking up the Marvel Universe, while Leonard Kirk's artwork helps things feel actually grounded without being ashamed of the more outlandish elements. It's a solid opening for an offbeat title, and like any good mystery it ends with more questions than answers. After all, how else will you get readers to pick up the next issue?

Avengers: Twilight #2 continues to flesh out a new vision of the Marvel Universe, with its creative team tackling some truly timely subjects. With the big reveal of this issue, I can't wait to see what the next installment brings and what else has happened to Earth's Mightiest Heroes after their fall from grace.

Avengers: Twilight #3 asks what its heroes are willing to sacrifice, expertly blending moral dilemmas with blockbuster action. Zdarsky and Acuna are at the top of their game here, and the back half of the series is set up to be just as engaging - if not more - than the first.

Avengers: Twilight #5 delivers emotional moments and blockbuster action often in the same moment, as the Avengers face off against the Red Skull. Judging from that final page, Zdarsky and Acua have truly saved the best for last, which is fitting for a book about Earth's Mightiest Heroes.

Batman: Off-World #1 is the weirdest, wildest Batman book in a long while, and it's worth the read. Jason Aaron's DC debut is off to a good start, and judging from the final page Batman's prepared to take on anything and everything no matter what galaxy it comes from.

Batman: Off-World #2 is a brutal blast, showcasing the Dark Knight's ability to adapt to any situation while ratcheting up the insanity. This issue ends with Batman in a seemingly hopeless situation, but given that this is the same man who survived having his spine snapped in two by Bane and Darkseid's Omega Beams, his captors will have plenty to fear.

Batman: Off-World #3 doesn't let off the gas, closing off one conflict while introducing a new interstellar threat for the Dark Knight. It's pedal-to-the-metal insane in the best ways; here's hoping that Aaron and Mahnke don't run out of steam in the back half.

Batman: Off-World #4 starts the back half of the series with a new threat and a new look into Batman's head. So far this comic has been firing on all cylinders, and signs point to it ending just as strongly as it began. One can only hope that between Off-World and his stint on Action Comics that Aaron gets to cut loose on other DC icons.

Blade #1 is the jolt of life the Daywalker needed. It firmly breaks him out of the "vampire hunting" box and sets him on a bloody new mission. With this title as well as Bloodline: Daughter of Blade, it's looking like Eric Brooks may finally get the same recognition in comics that he has in other media. To which I say: it's about damn time.

Blue Beetle: Graduation Day #1 is the perfect jumping-on point for fans who've been anxiously awaiting Jaime Reyes' new adventure.

Captain America #750 is both a celebration of the Captain America legacy as well as a roadmap to its future. If you love the character, you owe it to yourself to pick this issue up. No matter who wields the shield, the creators behind this issue understand the power that a hero like Cap holds.

Captain America #2 continues to deliver a layered and visually stunning exploration of what makes Steve Rogers a great hero, thanks to an amazing creative team. Miss Chris Evans as Cap? Read this comic. Want to get into Cap? Read this comic. Want to read a good comic? You get the idea.

Cyborg #1 finally gives the Teen Titans' tech powerhouse some much-needed dimension, as he deals with a life-changing event. In my opinion, you should definitely read this comic and Titans #1 back to back they're a great example of how to push characters in new directions and a great mission statement for the Dawn of DC.

Takes the idea of the mecha anime and transforms it into part sports match, part sci-fi odyssey.

Deep Cuts #1 launches a series that serves as a love letter to the impact jazz has had on the world of music. Music fans and comic fans alike should pick it up, and I hope the rest of the entries are just as well crafted.

Duke #1 is one of the textbook examples of how to do a reboot. It won't just appeal to the G.I. Joe fanatics or an agnostic like myself, but anyone who loves a good action-thriller. Williamson is slated to tackle the other side of the coin with the upcoming Cobra Commander series next month, and a small part of me can't help but say "YO JOE!"

Dungeons & Dragons: Saturday Morning Adventures #1 lives up to its title and then some, diving back into the world of the show with a creative team that has a clear love for the source material. All that's missing is a bowl of cereal and pajamas. Between this comic and Honor Among Thieves dropping in theaters this Friday, it's never been a better time to be a D&D fan.

Fall of the House of X #1 begins the end of the X-Men's Kraokan Age with all the spectacle you'd expect. No matter what happens in its companion series Rise of the Powers of X or whatever the future may hold for mutantkind, one truth remains: Don't mess with the X-Men.

Fall of the House of X #2 is visually stunning, but lacking in story and character development. I truly hope the rest of this series is an improvement; the Krakoan Age needs to end on as strong of a note as it began. The X-Men, and readers, deserve no less.

Geiger: Ground Zero #1 provides a compelling, yet tragic origin for its radioactive protagonist and an entry point for new readers. This comic is proof that Image is firing on a wholly different set of cylinders than other publishers, and it makes me even more excited for the future of comics in genera.

Geiger: Ground Zero #2 packs a lot into its finale, wrapping up the title character's origin story while setting the seeds for future adventures. It needed an extra issue to breathe, but as far as introductions to new characters go I've seen worse. Rev up the Ghost Machine!

Geiger #1 offers a new path for the nuclear nomad, both in terms of a new story and a new venture for its creative team. The Ghost Machine line is off to a strong start, and hopefully it's one that can be sustained given the lineup of creators involved.

Ghost Machine #1 delivers a smorgasbord of comic book goodness, opening up a variety of new worlds to readers. It's big, it's bold, and it's exactly the kind of comic publishers should be looking at. Whether it's a radioactive man, a family from the future, or the darkest corners of our own imagination the Ghost Machine is charged with potential.

Ghost Rider #17 cranks the throttle on the Weapons of Vengeance crossover, delivering some macabre imagery as well as more introspection. The last page promises a showdown for the ages, which will hopefully make Wolverine #36 worth the cover price.

Wolverine/Ghost Rider: Weapons of Vengeance Alpha #1 unites two of Marvel's biggest badasses for a metal, macabre, and menacingly good read. I was hooked from start to finish, and hopefully the rest of the crossover lives up to the promise of this initial issue.

Giant Robot Hellboy #1 is everything I love about comics. It's ridiculous, yet awesome. It puts a favorite character of mine into a new situation that fits his universe. Most importantly, it's the kind of comic you could give a friend and/or family member and they'd love it. Because who doesn't love giant robots?

Like Giant-Size Spider-Man #1, this comic also contains a bonus tale a reprint of Fantastic Four #33 from Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. It's fitting for two reasons: one, the story revolves around Namor. Two, Lee and Kirby built Fantastic Four as the bedrock of the Marvel Universe it's from there that Spider-Man, the Avengers, Daredevil and the X-Men sprung into being. Even a one-off tale like this is reminiscent of the pure creative power that gave birth to an entire universe.Giant-Size Fantastic Four #1 introduces a new foe in a classic Fantastic Four story. For longtime fans of the Four or those wanting to see what makes the Four stand out before their big movie reboot next year, this is worth checking out. At the very least it should get fans invested in North and Coello's run (which is sorely underrated.)

Giant-Size Spider-Gwen #1 hits all the right notes for a Spider-Verse story, even if the ending leaves you wanting more. It's a great read for Spider-Gwen fans, especially as it includes two stories for the price of one with the reprint of Spider-Gwen #13. Hopefully Flores will get a chance to write Gwen again in the future.

Giant-Size Fantastic Four #1 introduces a new foe in a classic Fantastic Four story. For longtime fans of the Four or those wanting to see what makes the Four stand out before their big movie reboot next year, this is worth checking out. At the very least it should get fans invested in Nicieza and Coello's run (which is sorely underrated.)

Green Lantern: War Journal #1 is the start of a well-crafted character study about John Stewart that aims to put him back into the spotlight. If you've been asking for John Stewart to have a bigger role in the DC Universe, this is the comic for you. It also helps that the creative team has a genuine love for the character, and a desire to drive him to greater heights.

Guardians of the Galaxy Annual 2024 brings the latest Guardians run to a spectacular, emotional close. In their closing letter, Lanzing and Kelly reflect on the road they've taken and how, like the Guardians, they've come out of it changed. It's those kinds of statements that let you know you're reading a good comic; if the creators pour their heart into it, chances are it'll stick with you long after you close the page. I know that I'll be looking up at the stars, wondering where the Guardians' next adventure will take them.

Hulk #14 wraps up one of the more interesting takes on the Green Goliath, though it does so in a rather rapid matter. While I'm looking forward to Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Nic Klein's take on the Hulk this June, there will always be a small part of me missing Hulk smashing his way through the stars. But if the final page is any indication, Ottley's left a door open for creators if they want to walk through it.

Hulk Annual #1 makes a triumphant return to the Jade Giant's horror roots while also offering a unique take on a well-worn plot device. Not only is it a great stand-alone story, but it also offers a unique look into the upcoming Incredible Hulk series. Simply put, it's a smashing good time.

Icon vs. Hardware showcases the difference between its titular heroes, all the while laying the groundwork for the next stage of the Milestone Universe. The final page teases a showdown for the ages, and I'm more than looking forward to it. But no matter who wins the final fight, the true victor is Milestone's fans.

Indigo Children #1 delivers a tightly plotted, starkly illustrated sci-fi thriller that raises just as many questions as it answers. Is Alexei a savior or a tyrant? Is he the next stage of evolution, or a force from beyond the stars? Whatever the answers, I look forward to where future issues take us.

Inferno Girl Red #3 closes the book on one of the most engaging superhero origin stories I've read in years. While each book in the Massiveverse has its own flair and reasons worth reading, this is the title that I feel will appeal to everyone. Anime fans, toku fans, comic book fansthere's truly something for everyone, and I hope Cassia Costa's light burns for a long, long time.

Invincible Iron Man #14 feels way too bogged down with plot, even if it does look gorgeous. Hopefully the next issue, which is slated to focus on War Machine, is more focused.

Kill Your Darlings #1 delivers a dark fantasy wrapped in bright colors, which should hook readers from start to finish. There's no doubt on my end: between this, Vanish, and The Schlub, KLC Press is proving to be the place to be when it comes to comic imprints. More than that, it's a reminder of why I love comics, and proof that even if you grow up you don't have to shed your creative spirit.

Kill Your Darlings #2 shows no signs of letting up, taking a darker turn while still blending elements of fantasy alongside its reality. Like the previous issue, the ending promises to go deeper and potentially darker than what came before, but that's what makes it one of the most interesting books on the stands.

Kill Your Darlings #5 kickstarts the second act of the book, unveiling revelations fast and furious while also building a sense of dread. This has been one roller coaster of a comic, and we haven't stopped plummeting into the depths of the darkness the creators have cooked up. I'm equal parts exhilarated and terrified to find out what's coming up next.

Kill Your Darlings #7 sets the stage for a grand finale, while still remaining full of all the elements that made this miniseries an amazing read. The final issue debuts next month, and all signs point to it being one that fans won't want to miss.

Kill Your Darlings #8 ends the series on the highest of notes, delivering emotional catharsis and some eye-meltingly good imagery in the process. Fantasy lovers, longtime comic book readers and new comic book readers should definitely read this series. As for the creators, I hope they continue to turn out new work or team up for another project down the line.

King Spawn #31 offers a promising start to a new status quo, which puts the hellish antihero in peril. I will say that without reading Spawn #350, some of the context is lost not to mention that this doesn't feel like much of a jumping-on point. But the future is looking promising, particularly with how McFarlane and co. plan to expand the Spawn universe.

Local Man: Gold #1 is a blast from the past in every sense of the word, using time travel to craft a poignant story while also paying tribute to the early years of Image Comics. It's also a great standalone story, to boot. Definitely pick this up if you've heard the positive buzz about Local Man, or if your inner '90s kid wants a sophisticated comic book story that also happens to feature a dragon-powered superhero and a four-armed cyborg.

Local Man: Bad Girls Special #1 continues to be the perfect marriage of '90s-era tropes and character study, this time turning the spotlight on its female cast. Not only do I hope that Local Man continues for a while because it's a great comic, but I also hope that we get more specials that continue to flesh out its world.

Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars: Battleworlds #1 is a solid start to a celebration of the original crossover event, though it needs more to hook readers. So far the only draw is the connection to Secret Wars and that can only take a series so far, especially where new readers are concerned.

Masters of the Universe: Forge of Destiny #1 gives a solid Year One origin for He-Man, though only hardcore Masters of the Universe fans will probably check it out. I'll say this much: It definitely pumps up my anticipation for Masters of the Universe: Revolution.

Masters of the Universe: Forge of Destiny #2 continues to expand upon the canvas of Masters of the Universe: Revelation, thanks to some great character work and action-packed artwork. Whether you've watched the series or not, this book is shaping up to be worth a read. And we've only hit the halfway point!

Midlife (Or How To Hero At Fifty) #1 continues Image Comics' superhero revolution, delivering an older hero in an entirely new situation. If you want something new in the realm of superheroics, pick it up. If The Boys isn't your speed, pick this up. It has to potential to be one of the biggest superhero comics on the stands.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: 30th Anniversary Special #1 is a celebration of everything Power Rangers, from people who love Power Rangers. I can't recommend this one-shot enough, whether you've been reading the MMPR comics since the first issue or you've watched every episode of Power Rangers. Or both. It's truly morphinomenal.

Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers: The Return #1 lives up to its title in more ways than one, as one of the franchise's original stars helps craft a unique tale featuring the teenagers with attitude. In some ways, it feels like the Power Rangers movie some fans have been clamoring for. Either way, the old saying is true: once a Ranger, always a Ranger.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Return #2 is a carefully crafted and well thought out tragedy that details the last days of the Power Rangers. Readers shouldn't feel too sad though: the last page promises that the Ranger legacy will carry on.

Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers: The Return #3 is mostly setting up for the final showdown, but it's some mighty good looking table setting. When all is said and done, this is going to be one of the better Power Rangers comics BOOM! Studios has put on the stands.

Miles Morales: Spider-Man #18 is full of everything you'd want from a Miles Morales comic, a Spider-Man comic, or just a good comic in general. All of this is thanks to the creators who contributed to this issue, and the ones who paved the path before them. Here's to 300 more issues.

Minor Threats: The Fastest Way Down #1 expands upon one of the most interesting superhero books on the stands, and it isn't afraid to shake things up. This comic alongside other titles like Radiant Black and Local Man prove Blum's point that superhero fatigue is only a state of mind.

Moon Knight #28 kicks off "The Last Days of Moon Knight" storyline, paying off two years' worth of work from its creative team. This has been one of the best Moon Knight runs I've ever read, and I'm glad that MacKay will continue to steer Moon Knight's adventures in Vengeance of the Moon Knight. Khonshu himself would be proud.

Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant #1 leaps headfirst into Kamala Khan's new status, keeping everything fans have grown to love about the character while introducing new wrinkles into her life. Though I may not have been a fan of the path to get down this road, the end result is off to a promising start. Welcome to the X-Men, Kamala Khan. You're definitely going to survive the experience.

Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant #2 is a mediation on dreams, both for the titular heroine as well as the creators. After the bombastic opening that was the first issue, it's fine that the story has slowed down a bit. But now that we've hit the halfway point, I'm curious as to what these dreams entail and what they might mean for Kamala's future.

Napalm Lullaby #1 offers hints of a greater narrative, with its characters and artwork doing most of the work to keep readers invested. Perhaps future issues will dig deeper into the Magnificent Leader and why he poses such a threat, but this first issue made me feel like I was being held at arm's length.

Night Thrasher #1 isn't content to just be an ode to a '90s icon it's aiming to be an actual character study. It's rare that a hero who isn't in Marvel's big leagues is afforded this kind of treatment, but it's a testament to the creative team that Dwayne Taylor's newest adventure is worth reading. Maybe the rest of the New Warriors could hopefully get the same deal.

Night Thrasher #2 gives its protagonist a new costume while reuniting him with some old friends turned foes. It's a pattern that looks to continue in the next issue, which makes for some interesting storytelling especially with a character like Night Thrasher.

No/One #1 proves that the Massiveverse isn't running out of steam any time soon, delivering a visually stunning and tightly-wound superhero noir thriller. It's a great reminder of everything I love about comics, as well as a glimpse of what they can be.

Outsiders #1 once again reinvents the dark horse DC team, bringing in elements of hard sci-fi along with some gorgeous artwork. If you're looking for something different from the Batman line, or your superhero comics, you wouldn't go wrong with this book. The ending, especially, hints at greater things to come.

Outsiders #2 continues to plumb the hidden depths of the DC Universe, providing an alternative to the usual caped-and-cowled crusade of other books. There's plenty of obscure, interesting elements of the DC Universe to explore, and I for one hope this book uncovers all of them.

Outsiders #3 interrogates the very concept of Batman, and how his influence shapes friends as well as foes. This is one of the most interesting books DC is putting out on the stands - Batman fan or not, DC fan or not, you owe it to yourself to check it out.

Outsiders #4 not only continues to reintroduce elements of the Wildstorm Universe, but it also injects plenty of humanity into a superhuman origin. More and more this book continues to set itself apart from other superhero fare a rare feat, but one this creative team seems confident in accomplishing.

Outsiders #5 takes a walk on the darker side of the DC Universe, testing its heroes yet again in the process. This series continues to impress with every issue, and we haven't even hit the halfway point yet. That's how good it is.

Outsiders #6 once again breaks into the realm of metafiction, delivering some jaw-dropping revelations in the process. I might sound like a broken record at this point but it bears repeating: comics like these don't come along that often and when they do, they're worth a read.

Planet of the Apes #1 is how every good science fiction comic should start out: a compelling story, eye-catching visuals, and a clear appreciation for the source material. It also continues to follow in the Predator and Alien comics' footsteps of taking bold new steps with licensed material.

Power Rangers Unlimited: The Coinless #1 returns to the world of the Coinless, while also giving Lord Drakkon more dimension. The end promises to explore even more about this world, and I hope that it receives a follow up. After all, who wouldn't want to see the Rangerverse's deadliest villain back in action?

Power Rangers Unlimited: HyperForce #1 finally brings a fan-favorite team into the comics canon, and it does so with style. Given the ending, as well as the ties to Flores' work on the MMPR ongoing, it's safe to say that we haven't seen the last of the HyperForce team.

Predator vs. Wolverine #3 sets the stage for a final fight between its titular combatants, though it could have used a few more pages. There's only one more issue to go, but I hope that this isn't the end of the Predator battling the Marvel Universe. There are plenty of other heroes (and villains) the Yajuta could mount on its wall.

Predator vs. Wolverine #4 puts a bloody, brutal bow on the titular matchup, and it definitely more than lives up to expectations in the end. My hope is that Wolverine won't be the only Marvel hero to face off against a Predator personally, I'd love to see Spider-Man test his luck against the dreadlocked demon.

Radiant Black #24 forces both of its protagonists to re-enter Existence and deal with some harsh truths, while setting the stage for the Catalyst War. Whatever this storyline brings to the table, it should continue the trailblazing path that the series has been on.

Radiant Black #25 launches the biggest storyline of the series to date, while pushing it in an entirely new direction. This has been one of my favorite comics ever since it launched two years ago, and it's clear that the creative team is aiming to truly shake things up when the Catalyst War is done. Simply put: this is one of the few comic book events that might actually live up to the hype.

Radiant Black #26 continues to push the boundaries of a comic book event, and the comic book medium, with its bold new approach to storytelling. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: this is a book worthy of being on your pull list.

Ranger Academy #1 shows off a new side of the Power Rangers universe, setting the stage for what could be BOOM! Studios' biggest swing with the franchise yet. The artwork and characters make up for a plot-heavy first issue, and hopefully future issues will continue to build on the foundation being laid here.

Rat City #1 is a truly bold expansion of the Spawn universe, as it takes the elements you've come to know and love and puts a futuristic spin on them. The rest of the "New U should take hints from this debut; it may be Spawn's world but there's plenty of room for other characters to stand out.

Red Hood: The Hill #0 is both a great refresher for the upcoming miniseries and a fresh new take on Red Hood. I've always felt that every character can shine, given the right creator. Shawn Martinbrough may be the creator that Jason Todd's been searching for.

Red Hood: The Hill #1 is a slow burn of a start to Jason Todd's newest adventure, as it prioritizes character building over action beats. It also sows the seeds of a potential new direction for Red Hood a direction that I'd like to see go forward in the future.

Red Hood: The Hill #2 explores the balance between order and chaos, and what some characters are willing to do to maintain that balance. The series might be a slow burn, but it's giving us some good character work. Plus the addition of a longtime Batman foe hints at even more conflict in store for Red Hood which is where Jason Todd operates best.

Rise of the Powers of X #1 continues laying the foundation for the end of the Krakoan Age with a creative team that's more than willing to swing for the fences. Even if this period of X-Men comics is at an end, it's willing to go back to its roots in more ways than one.

Rogue Sun #13 launches a new story arc that finds its titular hero battling his greatest enemy: self-loathing. Once again, the ending not only leaves readers wanting more, it also opens up all manner of possibilities. More superhero books could stand to learn a lesson from this one.

Sam and Twitch: Case Files #1 is a somewhat slow start to the latest entry in the Spawn universe. While longtime Spawn fans will probably pick it up, others may want to check out the duo's previous appearances or wait for other Spawn titles that are more their speed.

Shift #1 pulls back the curtain on Radiant Black's arch-nemesis, thanks to an all-star roster of creative talent. It's also the perfect entry point into the Massiveverse, as well as a great alternative to the other titles within said universe. Don't worry, dear readers the ending promises that Shift will continue to break bad.

Sons of Star Trek #1 uses its unique setup to tell a different kind of Star Trek story, exploring questions of legacy and belonging along the way. If you've been enjoying the current Star Trek ongoing and/or Star Trek: Defiant, this is another series to add to your pull list. If you're a Trek fan, particularly of Deep Space Nine, then you'll definitely want to give this a read.

Spider-Gwen: Smash #1 sends Gwen Stacy on a musical tour, while also exploring her mental state and expanding the world of Earth-65. If you loved Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, or you're a huge fan of rock music, you're going to want to pick this comic up.

Spider-Gwen: Smash #2 explores the ups and downs of superhero life, showcasing Melissa Flores' aptitude for character work. This kind of writing makes for good superhero comics, and other creators could take a few notes.Spider-Gwen: Smash #2 is available wherever comics are sold.

Spider-Woman #1 isn't your usual tie-in book; there's a real emotional core backed by great writing and great art. Whether or not you're invested in the Gang War storyline, this comic is worth a read.

Star Wars: Dark Droids #1 is a horror-tinged tale that finally touches upon one of the unanswered questions of the Star Wars universe. I can't wait to see what happens in the next issue, especially as it looks like no character is safe from the Spark Eternal's influence.

Darth Vader: Black, White & Red #2 continues to paint the Dark Lord of the Sith in a new and terrifying light via a trio of tales. With the series now at its halfway point, there's still plenty of ground to be covered and plenty of creators to leave their mark on Vader.

Star Wars: Darth Vader - Black, White & Red #3 delivers one of the most chilling Vader tales, showcasing the full force of the Dark Lord of the Sith. With one issue left, it remains to be seen how anyone can top this issue. But I hope they try or as Yoda would say, do.

Darth Vader: Black White & Red #4 ends the series the same way it began: as a testament to the terror of Darth Vader. If you crave more Vader stories, then this series is definitely tailor made for you.

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi Lando #1 continues to give some much-needed dimension to Lando Calrissian, and is a fun caper story. It makes me wish that there was a Lando ongoing, as there's so much you could do with his character in the years in-between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens. Let's hope the rest of the Return of the Jedi one-shots follow the same track.

Star Wars: Revelations #1 offers an intriguing look at the next wave of stories for the Star Wars comic line, as well as a collection of top-tier artists. Star Wars fans old and new should check it out, as it's a solid jumping on point.

Star Wars: Revelations #1 is somewhat of a mixed bag, but sets the stage for next year's Star Wars comics. If this continues into next year, hopefully the creatives present a stronger, more unified special that touches on all eras of Star Wars.

Static: Shadows of Dakota #3 tilts into the horror genre, reworking Ebon into one of the most frightening villains ever to graze the pages of a comic book. Now that we've hit the halfway point of the series, the stage is set for Static to battle one of his most fearsome foes. Let's hope it's a good matchup!

Static Team-Up: Anansi #1 offers a breezy, one-off tale that manages to continue the mix of animated and comic book influence on the new Milestone universe. If this continues to be a thing, then I'm all for it once again, we're getting the best of both worlds.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Sourcebook #1 condenses years of Turtle history into an accessible, entertaining read. Elhers rightfully points out that the series' first arc, "Change Is Constant, was a metaphor for the IDW TMNT run and with Jason Aaron set to take over a brand new relaunch, it's a motto that could apply to the Turtles as a whole. Thankfully, fans of the current series will have this Sourcebook to look back on.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate #1 more or less serves as a giant ad for a mobile game, with stellar art making up for a stock story. Granted the one shot did its job, as I'm curious enough to check out Splintered Fate.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/Usagi Yojimbo: WhereWhen #1 is perhaps one of the most interesting crossovers I've read. It's not only a crossover that makes sense, but it's structured in a way that avoids the usual pitfalls and tropes. All in all, this is a great start to a story Usagi and TMNT fans alike will enjoy.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution #1 is unlike any Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles story you've ever read, which is what makes it such an interesting read. Longtime Turtle fans will definitely be in for a treat, while newcomers to the franchise might find their new favorite characters in this second generation of Turtles.

The Bloody Dozen #1 continues the tales of the Shrouded College with a slow-burn approach to its high-concept tale. If nothing else, give it a try or check out Hell to Pay. Good horror isn't just limited to the movies or TV; you can find it in the pages of comics like these.

The Devil That Wears My Face #1 delivers one of the most horrifying comic books on the stands, as its story tackles matters of faith while delivering some bloody thrills. If you're a fan of films like The Exorcist or The Conjuring, this is the comic for you. Other readers may want to keep a crucifix and/or holy water on hand before turning the page...

The Infernals #1 is a hellishly good read. It presents a unique look on theology, as well as the struggles we have with our loved ones. So the next time you have a fight with your family, look at it this way: You're not related to the Antichrist.

The Sacrificers #1 delivers a unique fantasy world as well as the kind of high-concept character work fans have come to expect from Rick Remender. Yes it might leave you with questions, but it'll also have you patiently awaiting the next issue for answers.

The Schlub #1 may have one of the world's worst superheroes, but it's one of the best comics I've read this year. Stegman proves to be just as capable of a writer as he is an artist, especially when backed with top-tier talent, and it's proof that Vanish wasn't the only great comic to come out of KLC Press.

The Schlub #2 once again delivers an expert blend of comedy and superhero action, with a heaping helping of dynamic art. It's shaping up to be one of the funniest books on the stands, and hopefully it keeps up this momentum in future issues.

Thunderbolts #1 hits like a bolt of lightning: fast, furious, and charged with creative intent. The concept and the creative team not to mention some of the characters involved is too good to pass up, and I recommend you at least check out this first issue.

Ultimate Black Panther #1 is another excellent entry into the new Ultimate Universe, revamping the world of Wakanda with plenty of political intrigue and new challenges for its titular regent. If you loved the Black Panther movies, the new Ultimate comics, or you're looking for a great jumping on point this comic has it all. Here's hoping the next issue keeps up the forward momentum.

Ultimate Black Panther #2 continues to weave a tale of political intrigue throughout its pages. Next issue will finally see Black Panther encounter Killmonger and Storm given that this Ultimate Universe hasn't been what anyone expected, it'll be exciting to see how this meeting turns out.

The only problem I had with the issue is that it didn't reveal much until the end. Things that were brought up, like Moon Knight's dominion over Africa or the spy within Wakanda, have been left on the back burner. Maybe the next issue will deal with them, but for now it feels like table setting. In any case, Ultimate Black Panther #3 is still worth a read for its take on Killmonger, especially with how he manages to be both ally and foil to T'Challa.

Ultimate Universe #1 blends together a sweeping story with epic artwork to present the next version of Ultimate Marvel, as only Jonathan Hickman and Stefano Caselli could put it. Even if Hickman's left the main Marvel universe behind for the most part, he's proven he still has the chops to deliver the kind of barrier-breaking stories that made Marvel a major force in comics and will continue to do so when he and Marco Checchetto take over Ultimate Spider-Man.

Uncanny Spider-Man #1 weaves a tangled web for Kurt Wagner, as he dons a new identity and continues to keep fighting the good fight. It's far from a gimmicky title, but another entry into a solid character study and something worth reading, whether you're a Spidey fan, an X-Men fan or both.

Vanish #5 kicks off its second story arc, though the art is more or less carrying a shaky script. The strongest part of this series is that it wore its '90s influences on its sleeve, making sure its story had just as much oomph as its art. I hope that tradition continues in future issues, because not everything about the '90s needs to be replicated.

What If? Dark: The Tomb of Dracula #1 has a great setup but lackluster execution, which is disappointing. I was really looking forward to this book as both a Blade fan and a fan of Wolfman's work. While it's not the worst What If? one shot I've ever read, it definitely needed more time to breathe.

X-Men: Days of Future Past - Doomsday #1 provides a deep, dark insight into the origins behind one of the most famous X-Men storylines and pulls no punches in the process. It's tricky to build upon such a beloved storyline, but this first issue is off to a solid start.

X-Men Forever #1 is the beginning of a carefully crafted coda to both the Krakoan Age of X-Men as well as Kieron Gillen's run with the mutant heroes. They say all good things must come to an end, but Gillen seems determined to make that end worthwhile.