May 2025 brings some of the most anticipated comic book releases of the year, with major publishers launching titles that will likely shape both the industry and collectors' markets for years to come.
Comic enthusiasts have plenty to be excited about this May with several significant releases hitting shelves. This month features highly anticipated series launches, creative team-ups, and the return of beloved characters. We’ve compiled a comprehensive look at the three most noteworthy releases you shouldn’t miss.
Star Wars #1 - A New Era Begins
STAR WARS #1
Set after Return of the Jedi, Marvel's new flagship Star Wars series follows Luke, Leia, and Han as they navigate a galaxy still recovering from Imperial rule. Written by bestselling author Alex Segura with art by Phil Noto.
Marvel Comics launches a bold new era for Star Wars with this series set after Return of the Jedi. Following the New Republic’s victory at the Battle of Jakku, this series explores the adventures of Luke, Leia, and Han as they face new threats in the post-Empire galaxy. Writer Alex Segura and artist Phil Noto bring their talents to this exciting new chapter in the Star Wars saga.
This new run marks the first time Marvel’s Star Wars line has moved into the post-Return of the Jedi era, offering readers fresh stories in a previously unexplored timeline.
Collection Tip
First issues that establish a new timeline or era for popular franchises often become valuable collector’s items. Consider purchasing multiple covers or a high-grade copy for potential long-term value.
Fantastic Four Fanfare #1 - Celebrating Marvel’s First Family
FANTASTIC FOUR FANFARE #1
A special anthology series focusing on Marvel's First Family, with each issue highlighting a different member. This inaugural issue features three distinct Human Torch stories by all-star creative teams.
Marvel celebrates its First Family with this special anthology series, with each issue focusing on a different member. The inaugural issue spotlights the Human Torch with three distinct stories by all-star creative teams including Mark Waid, Alan Davis, and Sara Pichelli.
Three Stories in One Issue:
- Story 1: Mark Waid and Ramon Rosanas present an escalating prank war between Human Torch and Thing
- Story 2: Alan Davis sends the team underground for a classic adventure
- Story 3: Andrew Wheeler and Sara Pichelli show what happens when the Mole Man interrupts Johnny Storm’s reality TV appearance
The timing of this anthology series coincides with the Fantastic Four’s upcoming MCU debut in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” releasing on July 25.
Captain Planet #1 - Earth’s Champion Returns
CAPTAIN PLANET #1
The iconic environmental superhero returns after three decades. Five young people from around the world are chosen to wield the elemental rings of Gaia, summoning Captain Planet to battle environmental threats.
Earth’s ultimate protector returns in Dynamite Entertainment’s revival of the iconic environmental superhero. This series marks Captain Planet’s first comic book appearance in over three decades, written by David Pepose (Space Ghost, Cable) with art by Eman Casallos (Vampirella, Pathfinder).
The story follows five young people from around the world who are chosen to wield the elemental rings of Gaia. Each Planeteer can control one of Earth’s elemental forces: Earth, Fire, Wind, Water, and Heart.
Investment Potential
Nostalgia-driven revivals of beloved properties from the ’90s have seen significant market interest in recent years. Captain Planet #1 combines this nostalgia factor with timely environmental themes.
Other Notable May 7th Releases
DC Comics
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN #7
The seventh issue of DC's Absolute Universe Superman series reveals key information about the new Brainiac.
ABSOLUTE GREEN LANTERN #2
The second issue in DC's Absolute Universe Green Lantern series deepens the mystery of the Black Hand.
BATGIRL #7
The start of a new arc that unveils Lady Shiva's true, secret origins as revealed to Batgirl.
Marvel Comics
ULTIMATE WOLVERINE #5
The fifth issue of Marvel's Ultimate Wolverine series continues the story in Marvel's revamped Ultimate Universe.
Why These Comics Matter For Collectors
Investment Warning
While first issues often have investment potential, collecting should primarily be about enjoyment. The most valuable modern comics are typically those that introduce significant new characters or storytelling concepts, not just new #1s of established franchises.
Supporting Your Local Comic Shop
Remember that supporting your local comic book shops is crucial to the health of the industry. Many stores offer subscription services (often called pull lists) to ensure you never miss an issue of your favorite series.
Can’t make it to a store? Digital comics are available through publisher websites and various comic reading apps, giving you instant access to new releases on the same day they hit physical shelves.
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