New Avengers Modern Era Epic Collection: Dark Reign

The shocking conclusion to the first volume of Brian Michael Bendis’ Avengers saga!

As the New Avengers chafe under Norman Osborn’s Dark Reign, one of the Hood’s gang discovers a way to negate the heroes’ powers — turning the tide of battle in a single shocking instant. Which Avenger suffers a debilitating injury during the clash, and are the others willing to turn to their newest nemesis to save their teammate’s life? Plus: Ronin takes the law into his own hands, making an attempt on Osborn’s life — but when his plan falls apart, the women of the Avengers must band together to save him. Then, Steve Rogers is back — but he may be too late, as Osborn launches his invasion of Asgard! As the gods fall, the Avengers must run a gauntlet of the Hood’s cronies. Will they emerge triumphant in time to stop Osborn’s siege?

COLLECTING: Free Comic Book Day 2009 (Avengers), New Avengers (2004) #55-64, Dark Reign: The List - Avengers One-Shot (2009), New Avengers Annual (2006) #3, New Avengers Finale (2010) #1; Amazing Spider-Man (1999) #601 (B story), Breaking Into Comics the Marvel Way! (2010) #1 (F story).

Written by: Brian Michael Bendis

Penciled by: Jim Cheung, Stuart Immonen, Daniel Acuña, Mike McKone, Marko Djurdjević, Mike Mayhew, Bryan Hitch & 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