BACK ISSUE #173

Strap in! Back Issue #173 is heading “To the Stars! ” Just in time for the 50th Anniversary of A New Hope, we’re taking a look back at Marvel’s original Star Wars run. Then there’s more galactic adventure with Space Family Robinson and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Plus, spotlights on Starhawk, Desaad, Dalgoda, DC’s Twilight, and “The Ballad of Halo Jones. ” Featuring the work of Archie Goodwin, Walter Simonson, Roy Thomas, Jack Kirby, Steve Gerber, Al Milgrom, Alan Moore, Ian Gibson, Jan Strnad, Dennis Fujitake, Howard Chaykin, José Luis García-López, and others. Featuring a soaring Starhawk cover by Ron Wilson and Frank Giacoia! Edited by Roger Ash.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs