CONAN THE BARBARIAN THE ORIGINAL COMICS OMNIBUS VOL. 5

Conan the Barbarian enters a new creative phase as J.M. DeMatteis (Kraven's Last Stand) debuts as series writer. He will take Conan to the magical city in the clouds, Mreead-Zza; return fan-favorites Jenna and Murilo to the supporting cast; and team with John Buscema on a set of stories pitting Conan against Eilaynia, Princess of Mist. Then, Marvel legend Gil Kane takes the artistic reins for an extended run featuring "The Creation Quest" saga, while writer Bruce Jones (Incredible Hulk) mixes a blend of humor and horror. Plus: A story illustrated by titans John Buscema and Neal Adams, a pair of Annuals by Roy Thomas, and Thomas and Buscema's Conan of the Isles graphic novel, reprinted for the first time!This volume Reprints: CONAN THE BARBARIAN (1970) #116-149, CONAN THE BARBARIAN ANNUAL (1973) #6-9, CONAN OF THE ISLES (1988), WHAT IF? (1977) #39.

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