After an announcement during the ComicsPRO Comic Industry Conference, Marvel Comics has today shared details on its new Marvel Must-Haves initiative.
These free issues will collect multiple iconic issues that "spotlight the Marvel characters and comic book series currently at the forefront of pop culture." It's said, "These stories have been handpicked to get fans in-tune with current Marvel adventures, and act as perfect jumping on points for new readers too!"
It's a smart move on Marvel's part, especially as the multi-billion dollar box office success of superhero movies hasn't really translated to comic book sales. An endless series of relaunches with new #1 issues alienated longtime collectors and confused newer readers, so it seems this is a new approach by the publisher to attract fans.
The first Marvel Must-Haves issue will hit comic book stores next month and, at 80 pages, it will include the following tales. As we're sure you'll notice, Marvel Comics is using this opportunity to direct readers to its trade paperbacks!
SPIDER-MAN/DEADPOOL #1 (2016)
It's action, adventure and just a smattering of romance in this epic teaming up the Webbed Wonder and the Merc with a Mouth! Talk about a REAL dynamic duo! Brought to you by two Marvel superstars—Joe Kelly and Ed McGuinness—it’s a perfect tale for those looking forward to the Deadpool’s return to the big screen.
Dive into the full story in SPIDER-MAN/DEADPOOL MODERN ERA EPIC COLLECTION: ISN’T IT BROMANTIC? TPB (9781302951641)
IMMORTAL THOR #2 (2023)
An Elder God of the Utgard-Realm had marked Thor for destruction - and a city with him. Yet the only power that could prevail carried its own terrible price. This is the story of THE IMMORTAL THOR...and the hour of his greatest trial. Following his masterful work on Immortal Hulk, Al Ewing is breaking mythology yet again in this acclaimed new run of the God of Thunder. Featuring breathtaking artwork by superstar Martin Coccolo.
Dive into the full story in IMMORTAL THOR VOL. 1: ALL WEATHER TURNS TO STORM TPB (9781302954185)
MS. MARVEL: THE NEW MUTANT #1 (2023)
Resurrected back into this world of hate and fear, Kamala Khan has a secret mission to pull off for the X-Men, all the while struggling to acclimate to this new part of her identity! Co-written by the MCU's own Kamala, Iman Vellani, and Sabir Pirzada of both Dark Web: Ms. Marvel and her Disney+ series! Don’t miss this exciting evolution for one of Marvel’s brightest young heroes!
Dive into the full story in MS. MARVEL: THE NEW MUTANT VOL. 1 TPB (9781302954901)