Tag Archives: betty and veronica

Review: Betty and Veronica Shopping Spree

band v shppp covSometimes I get the feeling from Archie Comics like there is some kind of great big inside joke, and that the people behind the comics are all kind of laughing at us.  Archie and his friends are after all an anachronism on numerous levels, both inside their stories and in popular culture.  They live inside of a world which is a mix of the modern with something from around the 1950s, and they are the last-romance-comic-standing from a time in comics when romance was big.  Despite all of that they find a way to be relevant and pertinent in a way that few of us would suspect.

This trade paperback featuring Betty and Veronica is an excellent example.  It is nothing more than a loosely tied together compendium of all the relevant stories from over the years about the two girls going to the mall (though focusing more on Veronica than on Betty, due to her in-story riches.)  While the volume might be labeled shopping spree, its name does not really relate to the stories inside.  Instead the stories deal with a variety of issues, some of them humorous, but others serious enough.  For instance, in one story Veronica sees a down-on-their-luck family that wants to buy a dress for their daughter’s birthday, but cannot due to the price.  After some surreptitious work with the clerk, Veronica manages to get the dress for the girl after.  Or in another, Betty uses saved-up babysitting money to go shopping, only to buy clothes for a down-on-her-luck friend, just as Veronica did.  So in a compendium where one might expect a series of goofball adventures fighting over deals and the last designer purse, instead we get a sequence of stories, half of them full of the morality of being generous and sharing, instead of being greedily interested in brand names.

The end result is a pretty fun experience.  Of course, those people that are irritated by the antics of the Riverdale gang are not going to enjoy this, but for those that look a little farther past the hijinks associated with this series, they will find a deeper message here.  And perhaps the inside joke of the Archie Comics comes out in the end in a different way after all, as a morality tale about shopping, highlighting friendship and generosity, comes out the same week as Black Friday, when we are told by corporations to act the opposite of what we see here.

Story: Dan Parent, Frank Doyle, George Gladir, Angelo DeCesare, Craig Boldman, Joe Edwards, Kathleen Webb, Mike Pellowski, Barbara Slate, Greg Cosby Art: Dan Parent, Dan DeCarlo, Tim Kennedy, Pat Kennedy, Jeff Shultz, Doug Crane   

Story: 8.6 Art: 8.0 Overall: 8.6  Recommendation: Buy

Archie Comics provided Graphic Policy with a free copy for review.

Preview: Betty and Veronica #273

BETTY AND VERONICA #273

Script: Michael Uslan
Art: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Jack Morelli, Glenn Whitmore
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
Candy-Coated Variant Cover: Art Baltazar
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Get ready for the adventure of Betty and Veronica’s lives in FAREWELL BETTY & VERONICA PART 2! Betty and Veronica are getting tired of their lives in Riverdale! Day in, day out, it seems that nothing ever changes! But there is a light at the end of the tunnel: an escape, an adventure! The Riverdale School Board has approved the chance to send a student overseas in a rotating student exchange program for one school year. The catch is that only ONE student can go! Betty and Veronica are in for the fight of their lives, as they campaign against each other for the one chance get into the exchange program!

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Here a Witch, There a Witch

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From 2014’s World of Archie Digest #43

Archie Comics has traditionally struggled more than other comics at staying relevant, modern and current.  As opposed to other comics which can update their settings within their storylines, there are certain elements of Archie which remain tied to the past. For instance, hanging around at the corner diner or the jalopy which Archie is often seen to be driving. In recent years the publisher has tried to break from this past by incorporating in a lot of more current events, be that a meeting with Glee, Vampirella themed crossovers, or introducing a more diverse group of supporting characters than is common in most comic book series. In so doing the publisher has been successful at turning itself into something different from its previous incarnation. The older stories dealt with Archie getting into trouble, Jughead eating burger, Reggie flirting with Midge and the girls flirting with Archie, but newer issues have dealt with more relevant topics especially for their fanbase and targeted demographics such as interracial relationships, rights for disabled people and ethics in sports.

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From World of Archie Double Digest #32

One key mechanic which has remained throughout all series is the topical subjects of the series and their covers, especially as it relates to the seasons. So the gang goes to the beach in summer issues and goes skiing or has snowball fights in winter issues. While there has been a topical focus throughout the course of the comics, one topic has generally been missing, and that is Halloween. Archie comics fluctuates between how many series it publishes focused on Riverdale, but it is usually between 6 and 8 regular series with other specials thrown in. From among the main series though since 2011, there has been a Halloween themed issue at least once a year.  Although Archie does rely on the past for some stereotypical inspiration at most times, the trend here is actually kind of weird. Over the course of these five covers, Betty and Veronica are dressed as either witches or as the Bride of Frankenstein in every case. Witches are even more preferred showing up in six out of nine of the character appearance (both Betty and Veronica don’t always appear). Although the cases are equally limited for the male characters they at least get to have some variety as zombies, firefighters, vampires, mummies, and Frankenstein.

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From Betty and Veronica Double Digest #195

In looking at these covers though, it is not that there is one cover artist that really likes witches. Dan Parent is involved with a few of them, but it would seem that even aside from that there is a tendency to resort to the cliché in this specific case, even when the two main characters have been defined as much more modern and independent in recent years. Perhaps though it is just easiest for the publisher this way. Archie struggles for its market share as much as the other smaller companies, and though its demographic is different, it is likely worth not veering too far off of the stereotype when it comes to Halloween. After all, the girls dressed as a witch is an easy visual reference, but them dressed as something else might only confuse and lose the point of the Halloween theme anyway. Perhaps though maybe the artists will realize this odd trend and maybe break the girls into something else next year. A skeleton? A cat?  Alice in Wonderland? Or maybe even a firefighter?

Preview: Betty and Veronica #267

BETTY AND VERONICA #267

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Fiona Staples
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

Betty and Veronica in “Little Mermaids” – The storybook series rolls on, this time with Betty and Veronica as mermaid princesses in an aquatic adventure! Betty is unhappy with her life under the sea and wishes to be a part of the human world—much to the chagrin of her father, King Tritonkins, and her step-sister Veronica. Things get even more complicated when she and Veronica venture to the surface and save the life of the human Prince Archie—and both fall in love with him! In order to re-connect with their human love interest, they must make a sacrifice. Enter: the evil sea-witch Cheryl. When she gives them an offer they can’t refuse, is it sayonara to the sub-aquatic world and, if so, at what cost? Find out in this Archie-fied take on the classic Little Mermaid story!

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Archie Comics in October 2013

THE FOX #1

NEW RED CIRCLE SERIES! From the world of the New Crusaders, comes the FANTASTIC debut of the high-flying FOX! Emmy Award winning writer/artist Dean Haspiel (Billy Dogma, HBO’s Bored to Death) and Eisner Award winning writer Mark Waid (Daredevil, Thrillbent) bring the legendary, pulp-style hero The Fox to life in “Freak Magnet, Part One: The True Face of MyFace”! When photojournalist Paul Patton, Jr. donned a super hero costume, he thought it would be a quick way to make some news—now the strange and unusual just can’t help but be drawn to the freak-magnetism of the fabulous fighting FOX! While working on a puff-piece at the Red Circle Gazette, an evil truth about social media mogul Lucy Fur is discovered, bringing Paul face-to-face with a criminal kingpin! Get in on the ground floor with the hottest new fall series featuring art and story from the biggest names in comics today! Including variant cover art from Darwyn Cooke and Fiona Staples! Get freaky!

Plot/Script: Dean Haspiel, Mark Waid
Art: Dean Haspiel, Allen Passalaqua, John Workman
Cover: Dean Haspiel
FREAK MAGNET Variant: Dean Haspiel
Running with the Foxes Variant Cover: Darwyn Cooke
High-Flying Variant Cover: Fiona Staples
Shipping Date: 10/16
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/30
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE #2

NEW ONGOING SERIES! The end of the world is here… The horror continues as a zombified Jughead goes on a relentless hunt for brains in this shocking new series by Harvey Award-winning comic/screenwriter Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Stephen King’s Carrie, Archie meets Glee) and Eisner-winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman, Black Beetle). When he performs a despicable and frightening act in front of everyone at the Halloween dance, tensions start to rise and fears begin to mount—who will be next to join Jughead in the Afterlife? And what about those who are already infected? Be warned, kiddies, this one’s not for the faint of heart! For TEEN+ readers.

Script: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
Art: Francesco Francavilla, Jack Morelli
Cover: Francesco Francavilla
Bowtie Variant Cover: Tim Seeley
Shipping Date: 10/23
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 11/6
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE #649

Archie in “Magic Mayhem” – Archie tells the tale of his pal Jughead in this magical story! Things are getting very strange in the halls of Riverdale High School—or should we call it, Riverdale: The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? With the UGAJ (United Girls Against Jughead) back in action, can Archie’s crowned compadre manage to avoid having to take a date to the Fall Gala? When the usual suspects up their antics with some supernatural help, it’s going to take some wizardry to make it out alive!

Script: Tom DeFalco
Art: Bill Galvan, Rich Koslowski, Jack Morelli, Digikore Studios
Cover: Bill Galvan, Bob Smith, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Nighthawks Variant Cover: Jeff Shultz, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/16
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/30
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #245

Archie in “A Tree Grows in Riverdale”—The holidays are here and Archie and the gang are getting into the Christmas spirit! Everyone except for one little guy… no, not one of Santa’s elves—a tiny Christmas tree! Can even a small sapling bring joy on Christmas? Find out in the lead story to this digest filled with holiday cheer!

Script: George Gladir
Art: Stan Goldberg, Mike Esposito, Bill Yoshida
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/16
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/30
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DOUBLE DIGEST #33

Archie in “Not Even a Moose”—Archie steps into the shoes of the jolly fat man to bring some Christmas cheer to the halls of Riverdale! But when he seems to only be spreading the joy to girls—namely Midge—Moose is bound to see red. Unless, of course, he thinks Archie’s the real Santa Clause! Can Archie fool Moose or will he be spending Christmas in a hospital bed? Find out in a hilarious lead story to a holly jolly double double digest!
Script: Frank Doyle

Art: Bill Vigoda, Terry Szenics, Barry Grossman
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/30
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 11/13
320-page, full color comic
$5.99 US.

ARCHIE COMICS SPECTACULAR: IT’S A DATE! (TPB)

Archie and Betty, Archie and Veronica, Moose and Midge, Chuck and Nancy, Reggie and Midge—as you can see, the dating scene at Riverdale High School is far from simple! No matter who your favorite couple is, you can’t help but laugh at the dysfunctional world of teenage dating! This collection features 128 pages of hand-picked, favorite stories about the romantic ups and downs of Riverdale, presented in high-quality, bright white paper with a cardstock cover!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
978-1-936975-70-9
$5.99/$6.99CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16”
Trade Paperback
128pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/23

ARCHIE 1000 PAGE COMICS JAMBOREE (TPB)

Get ready for 1000 more pages of hilarious antics and iconic stories courtesy of Archie and the gang! From school shenanigans to dating disasters, Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead and the rest of the pals ‘n’ gals of Riverdale know how to make everyone laugh—and they’ve been doing a spectacular job of it for over seven decades! Celebrate everything Archie with the largest Archie collection series EVER offered at an incredible value price!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
978-1-936975-80-8
$14.99/$15.99CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16”
Trade Paperback
1000pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 11/13

BETTY AND VERONICA #268

Betty & Veronica in “Reggiestiltskin”—Archie’s take on classic fairy tales continues with Betty and Veronica as two peasant girls who fall in love with a Prince named Archie—unfortunately Prince Archie is already betrothed to the evil princess Cheryl! When Cheryl finds out that Archie’s interested in the two peasants, she imprisons the girls in her dungeon. The only way they can be set free is to spin straw into gold—psh, yeah right—how is that possible?! Throw an evil little troll into the mix and things REALLY get crazy. Will he be their key to freedom or will he only make things worse? And what exactly is that little weirdo’s name? Prepare for more fairy tale fun in this reimagining of Rumplestiltskin!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Storybook Variant Cover: Stephanie Buscema
Shipping Date: 10/2
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/16
160-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

BETTY AND VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #217

Betty and Veronica in “Treed”—It’s Christmas decorating time, and boy does Veronica have a big day planned for Betty and herself! With four huge trees to decorate in the mansion, the girls are sure going to be busy—unless they get some help from a magical holiday friend! But when Sugar Plum gets a little overzealous, will she help them out or crush their holiday fun? Find out in this fun story to a double digest filled with Christmas cheer!

Script: Kathleen Webb
Art: Jeff Shultz, Al Milgrom, Vickie Williams
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/9
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/23
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #236

Veronica in “The Doghouse!” – Who’s the most privileged pet in Riverdale? Why, it must be Veronica’s dog Fifi! However, when Veronica’s snooty cousin comes to visit and her dog’s doghouse upstages Fifi’s, Fifi refuses to settle for less than the best! Can Veronica create a living space for the likes of her classy canine? And what will her father think of the expense?

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent, Jim Amash, Teresa Davidson, Barry Grossman
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/2
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/16
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #197

Jughead in “The Holiday Season” – The holidays are here and Jughead and Archie are down in the dumps—where’s the Christmas cheer? With a warm front predicted for the holiday season, the boys have to scramble to make money to afford presents for their family and friends—especially since shoveling snow is not an option! Will they find the perfect job to salvage their holiday? It might just take a Christmas miracle!

Script: George Gladir
Art: Tim Kennedy, Jim Amash, Teresa Davidson, Joe Morciglio
Cover: Bill Galvan, Bob Smith, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/23
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 11/6
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

MEGA MAN #31

“Curse of Ra Moon” Part Three: The fate of the earth hangs in the balance as Mega Man enters into the final, frantic battle with the sinister alien known as RA MOON! With Mega Man outgunned and outnumbered—will our hero survive? And if he can, how will he stand against the evil villain Ra Thor? You won’t want to miss this epic issue which features the first alliance of Mega Man and Break Man! Brother fights alongside brother for the first time in the Mega Man comics, only in the penultimate chapter to the latest MEGA-EPIC! Featuring an all-new cover art from Mega Man art legend Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante and a killer new variant cover from artist Brent McCarthy!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Mike Cavallaro, Gary Martin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover: Patrick Spaziante
Movie Poster Variant cover: Brent McCarthy
Shipping Date: 10/23
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 11/6
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC/MEGA MAN: WORLDS COLLIDE BOOK 1 (TPB)

The year’s most talked-about comic crossover is HERE, collected for the first time in graphic novel form! SONIC/MEGA MAN: WORLDS COLLIDE BOOK 1 collects the historic first meeting of two of the biggest video game icons in the world! See the two blue heroes do battle while their evil counterparts doctors Eggman and Wily revel in every minute of it! Featuring all the action, fun and adventure of the first four chapters of the 12-part miniseries, plus exclusive bonus features you can only see in this graphic novel collection!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Ryan Jampole, Jim Amash, Matt Herms, John Workman
Cover: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
978-1-936975-68-6
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
Trade Paperback
104 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/23

SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE #9

Get ready for the truest, bluest and way-past-coolest Sonic Super Special Magazine issue ever made! The world’s first Sonic comic magazine has got your hook up for everything new in Sonic video games and comics — featuring an all new comic adaptation of the latest SEGA video game smash hit “SONIC LOST WORLD”! At a full 20 pages, SONIC LOST WORLD is the longest video game adaptation yet to be featured in an issue of Sonic Super Special Magazine – but that’s not all! This issue also features your OFFICIAL guide to the NEW Sonic Comic Universe! Get ready to explore new settings, new villains, and a new Sonic comic universe landscape in the aftermath of the Sonic/Mega Man crossover event! Plus all the super special features you love AND an all-new, multicolor foil-enhanced cover by Sonic art legend PATRICK “SPAZ” SPAZIANTE!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Jamal Peppers, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli, Dustin Evans and Various
Cover: PATRICK “SPAZ” SPAZIANTE
Shipping Date: 10/30
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 11/13
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 US.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #254

“Countdown to Chaos” Part Two: The long-awaited debut of the NEW Freedom Fighters CONTINUES! The mysteries deepen as Sonic and Tails find their long lost pal Antoine! But what is the state of our formerly fallen fellow freedom fighter? What has Uncle Chuck’s research uncovered about the nature of the dark power they’ve found seeping from the earth? And an unlikely return of a character you won’t expect alongside Uncle Chuck! PLUS—Eggman versus G.U.N.! The prize: Eggman’s life! The action rolls on, featuring new cover art from Sonic art superstar Ben Bates, which connects with the other “Countdown to Chaos” covers to form one giant image of awesomeness!

SCRIPT: Ian Flyn
ART: Tracy Yardley, Lamar Wells, Terry Austin, John Workman, and Matt Herms.
Cover: Ben Bates
SEGA Variant Cover, with Vincent Lovallo
Shipping Date: 10/16
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/30
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: LEGACY VOL. 3 (TPB)

The hit Sonic Legacy Series returns with a third massive volume! Over the years, the Sonic comics have inspired thousands of stories, three spin-off series, and a library of graphic novel collections. The legacy of the Sonic Series is a long and proud one! Continue your library of the Blue Blur’s earliest adventures with this GIGANTIC collection of thrilling adventures and hilarious antics as only Sonic and the Freedom Fighters could provide! It’s perfect for long-time fans of the series or those looking to get in on the ground floor! SONIC: LEGACY VOLUME 3 collects Sonic the Hedgehog #37-56 and is loaded with extra material and special features! Sonic and the Freedom Fighters take on the evil Dr. Robotnik once and for all, and the result will surprise you!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Ben Bates
978-1-936975-75-4
$16.99/$19.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
Trade Paperback
512 pp, Black & White
Direct Market On-sale: 11/20

SONIC UNIVERSE #57

“Pirate Plunder Panic” Part Three: THA’RR BE MUTINY ON THE HIGH SEAS! As Capt. Metal and Capt. Whisker clash, the quest for the Sol Emeralds pits pirate against pirate even if they be on th’ same vessel! YO-HO! Meanwhile, Blaze, Amy, Cream and Marine are caught in the blazin’ crossfire—and in the tentacles of the terrifying, sea-villain salty dog, the Kraken! You’ll be walkin’ the plank if you don’t read this exciting issue with new cover art from that scallywag Tracy Yardley, plus a variant cover from Sonic comic veteran artist Dawn Best!

SCRIPT: Tracy Yardley!
ART: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Thomas Mason
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Steve Downer
Titanic Variant Cover: Dawn Best and Dustin Evans
Shipping Date: 10/2
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/16
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC UNIVERSE 6: TREASURE TEAM TANGO (TPB)

It may take two to tango, but it takes TWELVE to Treasure Team Tango! The most successful Sonic Graphic Novel series continues strong as some very special SEGA game characters take the center stage! It’s Team Rose vs. Team Hooligan vs. Team Babylon vs. Team Dark in a winner-take-all battle royal! The race is on for the missing Sol Emeralds as the heroic Amy Rose teams up with the fiery Blaze the Cat and the charming Cream the Rabbit in this super-fun, action-packed hit story! SONIC UNIVERSE 6 collects the entire Treasure Team Tango storyline from Sonic Universe #21-24 plus exclusive special features!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Teresa Davidson and Jason Jensen
Cover: Tracy Yardley and Ben Hunzeker
978-1-936975-72-3
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
Trade Paperback
104 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 11/6

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #33

Archie in “Piggy With It”—Archie’s new friend is a real pig—no, not Jughead! When Archie brings home a pig named Mr. Portly to pet-sit while the owners are on vacation, the Andrews have a hard time adjusting to their new house guest! Will they be able to put up with him making a sty out of their house, or will they find someone better suited to take care of him?

Script: Bill Golliher
Art: Tim Kennedy, Ken Selig, Barry Grossman, Bill Yoshida
Cover: George Frese, Rosario ‘Tito’ Peña
Shipping Date: 10/2
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/16
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

Preview: Betty and Veronica #266

BETTY AND VERONICA #266

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Jill Thompson
Shipping Date: 6/5
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/19
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

The hit Storybook Tales continue with “Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs” In this fairy tale reimagining, an evil queen (AKA Veronica), asks her magic mirror, “who is the hottest of them all?” to which the mirror replies, “Snow White,” (or Betty, as we know her!). Can the vain queen rid herself of the beautiful Betty, or is she relegated to live out her life as the second hottest of them all? With some familiar faces rounding out the seven dwarfs, prepare for a surprise twist on a classic story as this series of fables through the Archie lens continues!

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Archie Comics in August 2013

ARCHIE #647

Archie in “Welcome to Mirrordale”—a date night with Betty turns into an inter-universe collision when the Madhouse Carnival comes to Riverdale! Archie has a lot to reflect on when he takes a trip to the House of Mirrors, but little does he know those mirrors are more than they appear! He’s catapulted into a world where everything seems familiar to home—just a bit different! Can Archie make it back to his date in Riverdale, or is he doomed to switch places with his mirror-world counterpart forever? There’s only one way to find out!

Script: Steven Duvall Scott
Art: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Jeff Shultz, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/21
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/4
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE COMICS SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE #4

Something amazing is happening in Riverdale! The quarterly Archie Comic Super Special Magazine rolls on with this awesomely autumn-themed edition! School is back in session, the leaves are changing colors and Halloween is approaching with its promises of tricks and treats!

Get ready for colors, classes and costumes galore from the Archie vault. All this plus creator spotlights, the latest Archie news, a brand new multi-color foil-enhanced cover and much, much more in this jam-packed magazine! Featuring stories with Archie, Betty and Veronica, Jughead, Sabrina the teenage Witch, Josie and the Pussycats and more!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 US.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #243

Archie imagines what it would be like if he were a private eye, donning the fedora of Detective Sam Scooper! When socialite Veronica Lodge is robbed for the third time in one month, she believes it’s an inside job and calls on Scooper to find out which of her mansion staff has been snagging her swag! But the mystery of the missing mansion merch won’t be a mystery for long! Find out who’s the thief in “The Ocelot Caper,” the lead story in this fun-filled double digest!

Script: George Gladir
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Bill Yoshida
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/21
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/4
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #31

Archie and the Gang head west—the Wild, Wild West, that is! When Mr. Lodge plans on opening a Western theme park, he brings along Veronica, Betty, Archie and Jughead for some insights to make the park teen-friendly. But their trip to the quiet town of Silverton soon turns into more than they bargained for when they’re met with resistance—and not just from the townsfolk! Could the quaint town be hiding a dark secret? Find out in the lead story, “A Change of Plans”! Then, Veronica sets out to save the world—one shop at a time! After learning of the positive effects on the environment in Rwanda because a nation-wide ban of plastic bags, she bans plastic from her own life—and tries to do the same in Riverdale! Will Riverdale be plastic-free? Or is Veronica in over her head? Find out in “Getting Drastic with Plastic”!
Script: George Gladir, Batton Lash

Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowksi, Bill Yoshida, Bill Galvan, Jim Amash, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE 1000 PAGE COMICS EXTRAVAGANZA (TPB)

Archie 1000 Page Comics Extravaganza is the latest volume of our biggest-ever collections, featuring over 100 full-color stories in a format similar to the hugely popular Archie Digest series at an amazing price! Follow America’s favorite red–head as he navigates the pressures of the American teenager in the awkward, charming and hilarious way you’ve come to know and love. Features the same mix of wild humor, awkward charm and genuine relatability that has kept Archie and the gang relevant for kids and adults alike for over 70 years. It’s 1000 pages of Archie fun at one low price!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan DeCarlo, Tito Peña
978-1-936975-74-7
$14.99/$15.99CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16”
Trade Paperback
1000pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 8/7

THE ART OF ARCHIE: THE COVERS (HC)

From the team that brought you the highly acclaimed The Art of Betty and Veronica hardcover comes the all new prestige collection The Art of Archie: The Covers. Discover America’s favorite teenager as never before with this beautifully-designed celebration of over 70 years of the funniest, most classic and iconic Archie Comics covers as selected by fans and creators alike. The Art of Archie: The Covers goes behind the scenes of the all-time best comic book covers in Archie’s history with an insider’s look at their inspiration, creation and ongoing cultural legacy, featuring its own gorgeous foil and spot UV-enhanced cover.

Script: Craig Yoe and Victor Gorelick
Art: Cover: Harry Lucey
978-1-936975-79-2
$29.99/$34.99CAN
9 x 12”
Trade Paperback
160pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/29

THE BEST OF ARCHIE COMICS BOOK 3 (TPB)

The third volume of the bestselling BEST OF ARCHIE series is here! This fun, full-color collection features over 400 pages of all-time favorite stories, hand-picked and introduced by Archie creators, editors, historians and famous fans from over 200,000 pages of material. A must-have edition for anyone who’s ever enjoyed Archie Comics, or a great introduction to a new generation of Archie fans!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan Parent
978-1-936975-61-7
$9.99/$10.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 1/2”
Trade Paperback
416pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 9/3

BETTY AND VERONICA #267

Betty and Veronica in “Little Mermaids” – The storybook series rolls on, this time with Betty and Veronica as mermaid princesses in an aquatic adventure! Betty is unhappy with her life under the sea and wishes to be a part of the human world—much to the chagrin of her father, King Tritonkins, and her step-sister Veronica. Things get even more complicated when she and Veronica venture to the surface and save the life of the human Prince Archie—and both fall in love with him! In order to re-connect with their human love interest, they must make a sacrifice. Enter: the evil sea-witch Cheryl. When she gives them an offer they can’t refuse, is it sayonara to the sub-aquatic world and, if so, at what cost? Find out in this Archie-fied take on the classic Little Mermaid story!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Fiona Staples
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

BETTY AND VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #215

When Veronica insists Betty get a makeover at the mall, Betty ends up loving her new look—but not the price tag that comes with it! Can she manage to stay beautiful on a budget? And what will Archie think of her new style? The answer is sealed with a kiss in “Lip Lock”!

Script: Kathleen Webb
Art: Jeff Shultz, Henry Scarpelli, and Vickie Williams
Cover: Gisele, Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/14
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/28
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DOUBLE DIGEST #196

It’s double the Jughead, and double the laughs! When Jughead’s Uncle Clabberhead gives him a palace guard hat as a gift, Reggie challenges him to walk—er, stand—in a guard’s shoes. In order to win a free lunch, Jughead has to remain still for an entire free period. That shouldn’t be too hard—until Archie leaves an important task in Jughead’s hands that could decide whether or not Veronica goes to the dance with him! Will the real challenge be for Jughead, or the distraught Archie? Find out in “All I Can Stand,” the first of many hilarious stories in this Double Double Digest with TWICE the laughs!

Script: Craig Boldman
Art: Rex Lindsey
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koswloski, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
320-page, full color comic
$5.99 US.

MEGA MAN #29

The biggest storyline in Mega Man comic history starts here! “BLACKOUT: Curse of Ra Moon” Part One: The world has shut down! When the power of Ra Moon robs the Earth of all its technology, it’s up to Mega Man and a handful of Robot Masters to set things right. But just how can robots handle the force of a technological meltdown if they’re cut off from the ability to re-charge? Has Mega Man fallen right into Dr. Wily’s trap? Or has Wily underestimated his mysterious new ally? Featuring all-new cover art from Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, and variant cover by comics-superstar Dean Haspiel!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Mike Cavallaro, Gary Martin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover by Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Variant Cover by Dean Haspiel
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH: THE MAGIC WITHIN 3 (TPB)

The popular manga-style take on Sabrina the Teenage Witch returns with a third thrilling installment! Full of romance and the supernatural, Sabrina is torn between two worlds and two boys while attending both a mortal and magical high school. It’s Sabrina as you’ve never seen her before in an enchanted adventure brought to you by super talented writer/artist Tania Del Rio, collecting her acclaimed run on everyone’s favorite teenage witch!

Script: Tania Del Rio
Art: Tania Del Rio
Cover: Tania Del Rio
978-1-936975-60-0
$10.99/$11.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 1/2”
Trade Paperback
256pp, B&W
Direct Market On-sale: 9/4

SONIC SELECT 8 (TPB)

Sonic the Hedgehog’s most popular graphic novel series is BACK! Miles “Tails” Prower is Sonic’s best friend—and now it’s his turn to take to the skies on his very own adventure! Debuting in the video game and appearing in the cartoons, Tails now continues his quests in the comic series. In this volume, you’ll catch Tails on a journey that takes him to the mysterious continent of Downunda, a chance meeting with two brand new teams of Freedom Fighters, and an encounter with some really fearsome badniks! This volume of Sonic Select collects all of the stories leading up to as well as the fan-favorite, ultra-rare entire Tails mini-series!

Script & Art: Various
Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
978-1-936975-63-1
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 x 9”
Trade Paperback
128 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 9/11

SONIC SUPER DIGEST #4

Sonic Super Digest is celebrating 20 years of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG COMICS! For the first time in Sonic Comic history, Sonic the Hedgehog’s comic book adventures are now available in the popular digest format! Where Sonic Super Special Magazine leaves off, this quarterly digest collection picks up – with even more classic adventure from the Sonic comic library! This issue hosts a special spotlight on some super special family members of Sonic and the Freedom Fighters’! Perfect for fans new and old, Sonic Super Digest collects tons of comic stories, coloring pages, bonus content, and features an all-new cover with pencils by Sonic artist Lamar Wells! Get SUPER!

Script & Art: Various
Cover: Lamar Wells, Jim Amash, and Matt Herms
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
128-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #252

SONIC IS BACK and facing the HUGE consequences of the mega-hit Sonic/Mega Man crossover story arc in “At All Costs” Part Two! As the crossover crashed to a close, Sonic and Tails have returned to a world which is reeling from the cataclysmic effects of the Eggman/Wily genesis wave! The damage was severe, the threats have changed, and the mysteries are piling up! What has happened to Naugus in this new landscape? What is the final fate of Sally Acorn? Sonic and Tails are ready to tackle all the drama ahead of them—but first they must survive the wrath of the terrifying Tails Doll! Featuring new cover art from Sonic artist superstar Ben Bates and a special “SEGA” Variant!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover by Ben Bates
Variant Cover artwork provided by SEGA
Shipping Date: 8/21
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/4
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC UNIVERSE #55

AAAAARRRR you ready?? “Pirate Plunder Panic” Part One: It’s mystery and mayhem on the high seas as Amy and Cream join first mates Blaze and Marine in their search for the final Sol Emerald! As ships clash on the stormy waters, familiar faces start to appear amongst the opposition and Blaze is targeted as enemy number 1! Who is the new, sinister force leading the robot pirates, and what is his past with Blaze? And what does a certain dynamite duck have to do with it all? Straight out of the smash-hit Sonic/Mega Man crossover event, you’re going to TREASURE this all-new storyline written and penciled by Sonic art guru TRACY YA’RRRRR-DLEY!

SCRIPT: Tracy Yardley!
ART: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Thomas Mason
Cover by Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Steve Downer
Variant Cover artwork provided by SEGA and Vincent Lovallo
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #31

School is back in session, but everyone’s still got summer on their minds! Can the students get their heads out of the clouds and their noses back in the books or will the teachers have their work cut out for them? You might just be surprised to find out who else is distracted by sunny thoughts! Read “Mind Games,” to find out!

Script: Mike Pellowski
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Rudy Lapick, and Bill Yoshida
Cover: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

Preview: Betty and Veronica #265

Betty and Veronica #265

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Renae De Liz
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 4/17
Price: $2.99

Betty and the Beast”— If Veronica can’t have Archie, no one can! Prince Archie has been cursed into beast-form by Enchantress Veronica who saw no love in his heart for her. There is, however, a loophole to the spell: if another falls for Archie by his 21st birthday, the curse will be lifted! Otherwise, he’ll remain a beast for eternity. Just when it seems all hope is lost, along comes a romantic contender named Betty. Could she be the one? Will the spell be broken at long last? Not if Enchantress Veronica has anything to say about it!

bv265-0

Archie Comics in June 2013

ARCHIE #645

a645.600Archie in “Summer Daze!” – Archie proclaims this will be the “greatest summer of all!” However, after a water skiing accident, a hang gliding mishap, and a run in with Mr. Lodge, it just may end up being the worst! And that’s just day one! Can his vacation be salvaged or is Archie in for a bummer of a summer? Find out in this special summer-themed issue with extra summer fun packed into 48 pages wrapped in an eye popping cover!

Script: Tom DeFalco
Art: Rex Lindsey
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Tito Peña
Variant Cover: Tim Seeley
Shipping Date: 6/19
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/3
48-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #241

add241.600Having girlfriends like Betty and Veronica makes Archie one of the luckiest guys ever, right? You might think twice after seeing just how much energy it takes to make sure they stay his girls! Can Archie beat the competition when he’s forced to run the gauntlet at Riverdale Beach? See for yourself in “The Big Rescue,” just one of many hilarious stories in the latest Archie Double Digest!

Script: George Gladir
Art: Pat Kennedy, Al Nickerson, and Jack Morelli
5th ink Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 6/19
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/3
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE AND FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #29

afd29.600After pondering their futures, the gang decides it’s time they take their first step toward carving out a career. High school won’t last forever after all so they decide to take advantage of their summer breaks and learn their families’ trades. However what began as well intentioned leads to some dire consequences. See how things worked out (or didn’t!) as Archie and friends take their first steps into the big world of business in “Career Fear!” That’s just one of many outrageous stories in this double digest of barrel laughs!

Script: Bill Golliher
Art: Tim Kennedy, Ken Selig, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, and Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 6/26
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/10
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE COMICS SPECTACULAR: SCHOOL DAZE

acs-sd.600Check out all your favorites–Archie, Betty Veronica, Reggie, Jughead, and more at Riverdale High! Can Archie balance his two-pronged love life and keep his grades up, all under the watchful eye of Principal Weatherbee? Will Reggie be able to continue his chaotic pranks without spending every day in detention? Can Jughead indulge his bottomless appetite when Ms. Beazley’s cafeteria food is so…unique? It’s high school fun in a great pocket-size edition, printed on bright white paper with a cardstock cover.

Script & Art: Various
Cover: Various
978-1-936975-52-5
$5.99/$6.99CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16”
Trade Paperback
128 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 7/3

BETTY AND VERONICA #266

bv266v.600The hit Storybook Tales continue with “Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs” In this fairy tale reimagining, an evil queen (AKA Veronica), asks her magic mirror, “who is the hottest of them all?” to which the mirror replies, “Snow White,” (or Betty, as we know her!). Can the vain queen rid herself of the beautiful Betty, or is she relegated to live out her life as the second hottest of them all? With some familiar faces rounding out the seven dwarfs, prepare for a surprise twist on a classic story as this series of fables through the Archie lens continues!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Jill Thompson
Shipping Date: 6/5
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/19
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #213

bvdd213.600While collecting seashells at the beach, Betty uncovers the most amazing seashell which just may possess magical good luck powers! Suddenly everything is working out for her and Veronica—but just how long will their luck last? See for yourself in “Luck Before You Leap,” the lead story in this laugh-filled double digest featuring Archie’s girls.

Script: Angelo DeCesare
Art: Jeff Shultz, Al Milgrom, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Glenn Whitmore
Shipping Date: 6/5
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/19
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #234

bvfdd234.600The girls are on a losing streak in beach volleyball thanks to Veronica’s lack of coordination. Undeterred, Veronica manages to convince Betty they should sign up for a big tournament despite her reservations. Even with some of the top pros preparing her for the competition, will the girls have a chance? Veronica just may have a backup plan up her sleeve in “Losers Can Be Choosers!” That plus many more classic stories fill this jam-packed digest.

Script: George Gladir
Art: Jeff Shultz, Al Milgrom, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Glenn Whitmore
Shipping Date: 6/12
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/26
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #194

jdd194.600A case of mistaken identity leads a napping Jughead to receiving a stolen kiss. Upon waking, Jughead has acquired a taste for the flavored lipstick and is on a quest to track down its owner, even if he has to kiss every girl in Riverdale! See if he finds the mystery smoocher in “Missed Kiss,” the first outrageous story in the latest double digest staring Archie’s best pal.

Script: Craig Boldman
Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowski, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Glenn Whitmore
Shipping Date: 6/26
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/10
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

LEGACY OF THE CRUSADERS

lotc.600A SUPER HERO LEGACY IS BORN! In one of history’s greatest battles against the forces of evil, The Mighty Crusaders did the impossible: they won. Now, for the first time ever, witness their heroic battle for the fate of the world like never before in this unique graphic novel collection from Red Circle Comics! Using an innovative blend of NEW and CLASSIC material, Legacy of the Crusaders takes readers on a tour of the Red Circle universe, guided by the characters themselves! Picking up directly following the events of New Crusaders: Rise of the Heroes, our new team of young heroes struggle under the tutelage of the world’s first patriotic super hero: the Shield. The Shield teaches these New Crusaders about the early history of their parents, the Mighty Crusaders, seen by the reader in the form of some of the best classic tales from the 1980s Red Circle super hero titles. Featuring legendary comic artists such as Steve Ditko and Alex Toth!

Script (new): Ian Flynn
Script (classic): Robert Kanigher, Marty Greim, Chas Ward, Stan Timmons, Bill Dubay, Rich Margopoulos, and David Singer
Art (new): Jerry Gaylord, Kent Archer, John Workman, and Thomas Mason
Art (classic): Steve Ditko, Gray Morrow, Alex Toth, Carmine Infantino, Eduardo Barreto, Dick Ayers, Chic Stone, Rich Buckler, Frank Giacoia, Vicatan, Lou Manna, Rex Lindsey, Alex Nino, Alan Kupperberg, Adrian Gonzales, and Ricardo Villagran
Cover: Ben Bates
978-1-936975-22-8
$16.99/$19.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
Trade Paperback
192pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 7/10

LIFE WITH ARCHIE #30

lwa30.600 lwa30v.600“Archie Marries Veronica” – It’s the day before the big election and Kevin Keller’s run for senate has nearly reached its conclusion! Just when campaign manager Veronica thinks she can take a well-deserved breather, she’s about to get the shock of her life! She’s not the only one, as Archie, Jughead and Mr. Lodge’s worlds are quickly turning upside down and there’s just one man responsible for everyone’s misery…

“Archie Marries Betty” – Workaholic Betty has been so busy with her new role as assistant principle that she barely has time for anything else – least of all Archie! Will she be too busy for the surprise Archie is planning for her? Meanwhile, the streak of Riverdale robberies comes to a head in a gripping conclusion that… well, you’ll just have to see for yourself… Don’t miss it!

Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Pat and Tim Kennedy, Bob Smith, Jim Amash, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Tito Peña
Variant Cover: Phil Jimenez, Tito Peña
Shipping Date: 6/5
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/19
48-page, full color comic
$3.99 US

NEW CRUSADERS: DARK TOMORROW #3

ncdt3.600 ncdt3v.600The critically acclaimed NEW CRUSADERS series continues this month with “Hard Lessons” Part Two! The past comes alive as the Fox returns—but how is he connected to the new Fly Girl?  And how will his presence push her to make a life-altering decision?  Meanwhile, the tension breaks as the New Crusaders get embroiled in a brawl at school. But who threw the first punch? Featuring cover and variant cover art from comics superstars Sergio Cariello and Hack/Slash creator Tim Seeley!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Alitha Martinez, Rick Bryant, John Workman, and Steve Downer
Cover: Sergio Cariello
Variant Cover: Tim Seeley and Steve Downer
Shipping Date: 6/19
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/3
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC SAGA SERIES 3: EGGMAN EMPIRE (TR)

sss-3.600Sonic’s epic adventures aren’t just stories—they’re SAGAS! Blast into the action at Sonic speed with the continuation of the all-new Sonic Saga graphic novel series! Sonic and Dr. Eggman have dueled for over ten years now, but all the while the heroic Freedom Fighters have enjoyed the safety and comfort of Knothole since its humble beginnings as a village to its prosperous days as a city. All that is about to change, however, as the mad doctor is ready to step up his game. “Eggman Empire” is the story of evil triumphing over good and the heroes’ struggle to fight back.  As Dr. Eggman unleashes all of his might against our heroes, will they be able to endure?  When down to the last hedgehog, can there still be hope for a happy ending? SONIC SAGA 3 collects selected stories from Sonic the Hedgehog #170-176.

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, Tracy Yardley!, James Fry, Tania Del Rio, Gary Bedell, Jim Amash, Rich Koslowski, John Workman, Josh & Aimee Ray, and Jason Jensen
Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 6/7
978-1-936975-53-2
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
Trade Paperback
112pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 6/26

SONIC UNIVERSE #53

su53.600 su53v.600“When Worlds Collide”: Part Eight of Twelve—The hunt for the Roboticized Masters comes to its explosive end! As the gripping second act of the Sonic/Mega Man crossover event comes to a close, Proto Man and the Chaotix make a crucial discovery in the battle to restore BOTH worlds!  The tension is fraying the bromance of Drs. Eggman and Wily!  Bass and Metal Sonic prepare to lead an army—but an army of what? Featuring new cover art from Sonic/Mega Man art legend Patrick Spaziante, and a special “E.F.F. (aka Evil Friends Forever) Variant” featuring Dr.’s Eggman and Wily gaming on their EGGSbox!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley!, Terry Austin, Jack Morelli, and Thomas Mason
Cover: E.F.F.* Variant Cover: Tracy Yardley!, Phyllis Novin, and Thomas Mason
*evil friends forever
Shipping Date: 6/5
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/19
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #250

sth250.600 sth250mmv.600 sth250smm.600 sth250sv.600Celebrate 250 issues of the longest-running video game based comic series, Sonic the Hedgehog, with “When Worlds Collide” Part Nine of Twelve! The final act of the crossover mega-event starts here as Sonic and Mega Man stand united against the Wily Egg – and backing them up are all their heroic friends. Standing against them are the Robot Masters—all of them! Let the battle begin! At a whopping 48 pages, this double-sized issue features a special, digitally remastered re-presentation of the first Sonic the Hedgehog issue! Also featuring a stunning new wrap-around cover by Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante. Plus, choose YOUR favorite hero with the “Team Sonic” and “Team Mega Man” CHIBI variant covers!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Ben Bates, Gary Martin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Wrap-Around Cover by Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante and Ben Hunzeker
Team Chibi Sonic Variant: Ryan Jampole, Gary Martin and Matt Herms
Team Chibi Mega Man Variant: Ryan Jampole, Gary Martin and Matt Herms
Shipping Date: 6/19
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/3
48-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

MEGA MAN #27

mm27.600 mm27v.600The most anticipated crossover event of 2013 rolls on with “When Worlds Collide” Part Ten of Twelve! We enter the final assault as Sonic, Tails, Mega Man and Rush storm the Wily Egg to end the dastardly duo of doctors’ plans!  Speaking of “duos,” what’s that entering Earth’s atmosphere?  Can it help Sonic and Mega Man fend off the Mega Man Killers?  How about a Chaos Devil? Featuring more new cover art from the legendary Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante and a special look at the cover process with a super special “pencil, ink, color” sketch variant!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Ben Bates, Gary Martin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover by Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante and Matt Herms
P.I.C. Sketch Variant Cover by Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 6/26
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 7/10
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DOUBLE DIGEST #30

woadd30.600While Veronica soaks up the summer fun, Betty can’t seem to find anything to be cheerful about. Determined to improve Betty’s mood, Veronica schemes to make Betty the most popular girl at the beach! Will her plan succeed or is Betty doomed to suffer from the “Summer Blues”? Grab your sunscreen, head to the beach and don’t forget to pack this summer-themed DOUBLE DOUBLE digest with twice the laughs!

Script: George Gladir
Art: Dan DeCarlo, Allison Flood, Bill Yoshida
5th ink Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Glenn Whitmore
Shipping Date: 6/5
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/19
320-page, full color comic

$5.99 US.

Archie Comics in April 2013

ARCHIE #643

“Archie Meets GLEE Part 3” – The crossover event everyone’s talking about rolls on! Dilton Doiley invented a machine that opened a wormhole between Riverdale and an alternate, mirror-verse with kids exactly like the Archie gang. Now Dilton and his new BFF Artie are trying to rebuild the Portal-Porter before the delicate balance between universes is disrupted by a kiss between star-crossed teens. Even the possibility of a Betty-Puck romance would set off a chain-reaction of cataclysmic events ending with not one, but TWO worlds imploding. Don’t miss the penultimate chapter of Archie Meets GLEE, where America’s favorite teenager crosses paths with the hit FOX TV series!
Script: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
Art: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/1
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #239

Archie drops by Chuck’s and discovers the artist at work on some portraits of the gang. Using Chuck’s skills to his advantage, Archie stumbles upon the key to getting into any girl’s good graces by presenting Chuck’s work to them. And Chuck doesn’t mind helping Archie get dates since drawing is easy, right? See what happens when Archie’s greed pushes the freelance artist too far in “The Big Draw,” the first of many hilarious tales from Riverdale!
Script: Craig Boldman
Art: Stan Goldberg, Bob Smith
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/1
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE AND FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #27

Abracadabra! Magician extraordinaire, the Illustrious Salustri, is coming to Riverdale to perform! The magic man makes things disappear for a living, but when his doves and props go missing for real, Archie and friends set out to catch the culprit. Can they solve the mystery before the illusionist is set to perform or will he have to pull a trick out of his sleeve before it’s show time? Read “The Magic Is Gone,” the first story of this fun-filled digest!
Script: Paul Castiglia, Barbara Jarvie
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Andrew Pepoy, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/8
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

BETTY AND VERONICA #265

Betty and the Beast”— If Veronica can’t have Archie, no one can! Prince Archie has been cursed into beast-form by Enchantress Veronica who saw no love in his heart for her. There is, however, a loophole to the spell: if another falls for Archie by his 21st birthday, the curse will be lifted! Otherwise, he’ll remain a beast for eternity. Just when it seems all hope is lost, along comes a romantic contender named Betty. Could she be the one? Will the spell be broken at long last? Not if Enchantress Veronica has anything to say about it!
Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Renae De Liz
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 4/17
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

BETTY AND VERONICA DOUBLE DOUBLE DIGEST #212

It’s DOUBLE-sized DOUBLE-trouble in the all-new DOUBLE DOUBLE digest series! Archie’s really done it this time – The goofball accidentally asked both Betty and Veronica to prom! Betty is furious and cancels their date. Archie is on a mission to make things right but little does he know that he’s got competition. Can he repair the damage before someone else swoops in and offers to take Betty? And how will Veronica take the news? Read “Prom Princess” and find out for yourself in this extra-sized Double Double Digest with a foil cover!
Script: George Gladir
Art: Stan Goldberg, John Lowe
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 4/24
320-page, full color comic
$5.99 US.

B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #233

Veronica’s birthday is fast approaching and she is ready to celebrate in typical Veronica fashion—big and flamboyant! Best of all, her parents are flying her and all her friends to any destination she chooses for an unforgettable birthday bash! Where in the world will the gang party? It makes no difference to Betty, whose prior commitments mean she can’t take off for the birthday event of the year. How will Ronnie be able to enjoy her special day without her BFF?
Discover the solution in “World Party,” the first of many fun-filled adventures starring Archie’s girls!
Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent, Jon D’Agostino
Cover: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 4/17
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #192

The Lodges are throwing a swanky party and Jughead didn’t make the guest list! Missing a chance to rub shoulders with Riverdale’s elite is no big deal, but Chef Gaston’s appetizers are to die for. Luckily Jug has a man on the inside. It’s up to Archie to smuggle the goods to him during the soiree without getting caught, but little do they know there’s an even bigger heist going down that night and if they’re not careful they’ll either take the fall or go down with them in “Sneaking & Snacking!”
Script: Craig Boldman
Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowski
Cover: Rex Lindsey, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/8
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

LIFE WITH ARCHIE #29

“Archie Marries Veronica” – Kevin is rarin’ to go for his first political debate! While gun cnotrol laws had previously been the centerpiece of Kevin’s campaign, the issue of marriage equality has taken center stage in a showdown with his political opponent. Meanwhile, Archie struggles to gain control of Mirth Music, pushing quality artists over manufactured ear candy. Will his gut instincts pay off? Not to mention Betty’s got the reality TV blues as her fights with Reggie are escalating in order to keep the show alive! Can their relationship survive the fake melodrama?
“Archie Marries Betty” – An alternate reality finds Archie lonely for companionship as Betty’s crazy busy schedule makes it so he’s practically single again. Can his parents reassure him it’ll get better? Meanwhile, Jellybean earns more responsibility at her brother Jughead’s diner, but is her shifty boyfriend looking to take advantage? It wouldn’t be Riverdale if love wasn’t in the air as Cheryl may be on the verge of a budding relationship and even Mr. Weatherbee is on the dating scene!
Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Pat Kennedy, Tim Kennedy, Bob Smith, Jim Amash
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Andrew Pepoy, Tito Pena
Variant Cover: Jon Gray, Gary Martin, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/8
48-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

MEGA MAN #25

“When Worlds Collide” Part Four of Twelve: It’s Sonic versus Mega Man – Round Two! Celebrate 25 issues of Mega Man with the throwdown brawl to end all throwdown brawls! The Blue Bomber has the home field advantage this time – can Sonic keep up in this unfamiliar city? Meanwhile, Drs. Eggman and Wily make their boldest move yet in their master plan! This milestone issue marks the dramatic conclusion to the first act in the biggest crossover story of 2013! Featuring a stunning gatefold cover by Sonic/Mega Man art legend Patrick Spaziante, and a special “E.F.F. (aka Evil Friends Forever) variant” featuring Drs. Eggman and Wily on a (presumably evil) bicycle built for two!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jim Amash, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Commemorative gatefold cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
E.F.F.* Variant cover: Jamal Peppers, Gary Martin, Matt Herms, and Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
*evil friends forever
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/8
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

NEW CRUSADERS: DARK TOMORROW #1

“Second Strike”: The New Crusaders are back! Picking up directly where 2012’s “Rise of the Heroes” left off, “Dark Tomorrow” will follow the team of young legacy heroes as they struggle with the shocking death of their teammate, living as super hero celebrities, and returning to – HIGH SCHOOL?! The teens are at their lowest after the nightmare in the prison riot, but there’s no rest as a new threat attacks Impact City. With Shield away, can the New Crusaders pull themselves together and avert catastrophe? Featuring a stunning new cover and variant by comics legend Phil Jimenez!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Alitha Martinez, Rick Bryant, John Workman, and Steve Downer
Cover by Phil Jimenez and Steve Downer
50/50 Variant cover: Phil Jimenez and Steve Downer
Open-order Variant cover: Ben Bates
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/1
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH: THE MAGIC WITHIN 2 (TPB)

The magic returns in this enchanting second volume of the SABRINA: THE MAGIC WITHIN graphic novel series! Sabrina Spellman is your average teenager by day, attending Greendale High where her crush Harvey plays for the school basketball team. But by night, Sabrina enters the Magical Realm, where she hones her witchcraft and attends charm school with the handsome and mysterious Shinji. Pick up where volume one left off as Sabrina deals with her two eccentric aunts and her conflicting lives in the Mortal and Magic Realms! Featuring the fan-favorite manga-style art and supernatural stories of the multi-talented Tania del Rio.
Script & Art: Tania del Rio
Cover: Tania del Rio
978-1-936975-54-9
$10.99/$11.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 1/2”
Trade Paperback
240 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 5/15

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #248

“When Worlds Collide” Part Three of Twelve: It’s Sonic versus Mega Man – Round One! The fight that every fan of both the Blue Blur and Blue Bomber has been waiting for is here at last, and it looks like Sonic’s got the hometeam advantage! Can Mega Man cope with the Blue Blur in a land of loops? Meanwhile, Dr. Wily is concerned his old rival might cause problems, which sets Dr. Eggman’s sites on Dr. Light! Don’t miss a moment of this historic crossover event as the heroic fights and evil friendships rage on!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jim Amash, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante and Matt Herms
Variant cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, Thomas Mason and Ryan Jampole
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/1
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC UNIVERSE #51

“When Worlds Collide” Part Two of Twelve: The crossover event of 2013 continues HERE! There are strange things afoot as Mega Man’s world is menaced by a super-fast, blue attacker. Sonic’s world is being stalked by a blue-armored figure with a cannon for an arm. Could these mysterious villains be Sonic and Mega Man? Or are they some kind of sinister copies? Mistaken identities and explosions galore in this explosive second part to the historic Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man crossover!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jim Amash, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Variant cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, Thomas Mason, and Ryan Jampole
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 4/17
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE #7

Celebrate 20 years of Sonic the Hedgehog Comics with this very special edition of the SONIC SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE! Join the party and grab yourself a front row seat to this collection of Sonic-comic firsts, greatest moments, and highlights from the longest-running video game-inspired comic book series in history! Over 100 pages of comics, news, and features, available for the first time in one place in this deluxe, magazine-sized, quarterly collection! Also featured is an exclusive interview with the longest-running artist still working on the Sonic comics today — inker Jim Amash! Plus an all-new foil-enhanced birthday-style cover penciled by the newest edition to the Sonic comic family – Lamar Wells!
Script & Art: Various
All-New Foil-enhanced Cover: Lamar Wells, Gary Martin, and Matt Herms
Shipping Date: 4/17
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/1
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 US.

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #28

Archie is flat broke (what else is new?). Along with his penniless pals Betty and Jughead, Archie brainstorms a way to put their finances back on track: Go into business together as personal aides! But as the new business partners soon discover, assisting clients with their chores can be very time consuming. What good is money when you’ve got no time to spend it? The gang have to decide what’s more valuable – time or money – in “A Yelp For Help!”
Script: George Gladir
Art: Stan Goldberg, Bob Smith
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Tito Pena
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 4/17
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

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