HEAVY METAL MAGAZINE #7

New worlds emerge, epic journeys reach their conclusion, and dangerous new visions take shape in another action-packed issue of Heavy Metal. Presented by Ridley Scott and Scott Free Productions, Taarna continues as writer Aaron Guzikowski (Raised by Wolves) and artist Andy Belanger push the legendary warrior into the next chapter of her saga. Fan-favorite series Millstone by Michael W. Conrad and Ilias Kyriazis, Gladiatrix by Dan Gordon and John Stanisci, Ink by Charley and Vlas Parlapanides with art by Marco Failla, and Titans by Olivier Peru and Laci return with thrilling new chapters. Acclaimed writer Peter Milligan also returns with a new installment of Sick Future, his dark and provocative vision of tomorrow. This issue also marks the debut of West Fantasy by Jean-Luc Istin, Bertrand Benoit, and Elodie Jacquemoire, an epic fantasy western where ancient magic, ruthless outlaws, and frontier adventure collide. Meanwhile, Thellus by Simona Mogavino and Carlos Gómez reaches the conclusion of its first book, bringing a major chapter of the acclaimed fantasy saga to a dramatic close. Plus, new short fiction including God Safari by Mark McCann and Axel Medellin, Orion by Abraham Martinez, and Burton & Cyb by Antonio Segura and Jose Ortiz, alongside visionary science fiction, fantasy, and stunning artwork from creators around the globe. Writers: Aaron Guzikowski, Michael W. Conrad, Peter Milligan, Dan Gordon, Charley Parlapanides, Vlas Parlapanides, Olivier Peru, Jean-Luc Istin, Simona Mogavino, Mark McCann, Abraham Martinez, Antonio Segura and more. Artists: Andy Belanger, Ilias Kyriazis, John Stanisci, Marco Failla, Laci, Bertrand Benoit, Carlos Gómez, Axel Medellin, Jose Ortiz and more.

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