I feel the need to preface this review with a few facts about me regarding the Sonic comics in general. In short, I am not a fan of them. I read a few of them back when I was twelve, and they were OK then, but trying to read them now is an exercise in WTF-ness for me. The storylines are very complex and I always felt that I needed a scorecard to know all the players. The irony is not lost on me that this is how a lot of people who try to get into Marvel or DC feel like. That being said, when I heard about the Sonic: Genesis storyline starting in Sonic #226, my interest was piqued. Not only did I think that I could enjoy it without a headache, I also have a young niece who is just learning to read and is crazy about Sonic. Does it pass our combined litmus test? Well, yes and no… Mostly yes.

Sonic knows things, and yet he doesn't. Strange things afoot...

As a jumping on point, the book is pitch-perfect. You can jump into the issue not knowing a lick about Sonic. Everything you need to know is laid out for you, and the various characters (re)introduced in the story appear naturally and the story flows well. Ian Flynn definitely knows his Sonic-lore. In fact, most everything in this issue has a basis in either the original Sonic the Hedgehog game for the Sega Genesis, or the much beloved Sonic SatAm animated series from the 90’s.

The art looks like it leaped off the screen an onto the comic page.

The story begins with Sonic trying to rescue some missing animals, just like the original 16-bit game. Along the way, he finds out their fate, and faces Snively, a lackey of Dr. Robotnik Eggman from the animated series. Eventually Sonic meets up with the Freedom Fighters for the first time, and they team up and in turn face Eggman for the first time. The story ends rather abruptly, with the Freedom Fighters continuing to take the fight to Eggman. Regardless of the negatives I’m about to point out, I’m eagerly awaiting part 2 of “Genesis” and that’s something I never suspected would happen.

Now for the negatives I just mentioned. Now, I am not well-steeped in Sonic lore, but I do have a rudimentary understanding. To me, it seems like this re-imagined world is cherry picking events from the previous one to be more streamlined, and that’s great. I mean, it’s kind of hard to work things into an ongoing story according to the edicts of a game company. Case in point, in the United States, The man who is now called Dr. Eggman was originally called Dr. Robotnik. When the Dreamcast and Sonic Adventure came out in 1999, Sega decided to use the Japanese name of Dr. Eggman in all territories with little to no explanation. The comics took a different tack involving clones, or alternate reality versions of the same mustachioed villain. It was all very confusing. It seems Flynn and company are taking this opportunity to just make things easier to understand. The negative aspects come in because while this is great for new readers, people who are well versed in the Sonic comics just had the rug unceremoniously pulled out from under them. It’s actually brings to mind fanboy fear of the upcoming DC Relaunch as to what from the past counts or not. While there are little seeds in the story that hint that all may not be as it seems (Sonic seems to know more than he should, Sonic and Sally are very familiar for people who’ve just met), it remains to be seen how everything is going to play out.

On the art side of things, the team of Patrick Spaziante, Tracy Yardley and Terry Austin(!) absolutely nail it! The character designs are a nice mix of the old and the new, everyone seems to be in proportion and it literally looks like the old Genesis graphics were translated into pencil and ink. From the environment to the characters, almost everything absolutely pops off the page. That’s in no small part to the colors by Matt Herms. It’s pleasing to the eye and never garish. The only oddity I could pick out is that, the characters seem to use their latter-day designs except for Dr. Eggman, who looks like he did in the Genesis days. I am not sure if this is for a future story reason or not, but it was noticeably jarring, at least for me.

Yes, Snively still snivels, and Sonic still has "attitude".

The real test of course was my niece’s reaction. To her, continuity, especially Sonic continuity doesn’t matter in the least bit. The various games, shows, and yes, comics she’s been exposed to have at least 6 different incarnations of Sonic & friends. All she wants is to be entertained. The comic fit the bill. Her favorite parts were those with Boomer Walrus. Whenever he’s show up on panel, she insisted I call him BOOMer, putting the emphasis on the boom. When I asked the kidlet if you had five of Sonic’s rings to give this comic based on how good it was, how many would you give it, she said 5 and a half. While I myself would give the issue a solid 4 rings, I can’t think of a better endorsement than that of a 5-year old enamored with all things Sonic.

The bottom line is if you were always intimidated by the Sonic comic-verse, this is the perfect time to jump in, and if you have younglings that you just want to share your love of comics with, you can’t go wrong with Sonic the Hedgehog #226. It’ll be out in comic shops this Wednesday, pick it up, won’t you?

My rating:

My niece’s rating:

Once again, Archie sent along a preview of one of their upcoming books. This time, it’s World of Archie Double Digest #8, in which the Riverdale gang decide to diversify their musical portfolio by being a little more country! Can the world handle the Archies when they veer away from the bubblegum pop they’re known for? Will there ever be a sequel to the Dukes of Gizzard? Find out the answer to these questions and more besides when you pick up the 160-page WoA DD #8 and finer bookselling establishments everywhere!

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #8

“The Archies In Nashville”

Yeeee-Haw! In “The Archies In Nashville,” the band travel to the Country Music Capital to try their hand at a different style of music. With the help of superstar Jessica Simmers, the only way for them to go is up! Then, in “In No Condition To Work,” not even working for an air conditioning company can cool off Archie’s love of the ladies.

SCRIPT: Hal Lifson
ARTIST: Tod Smith
COVER: Tod Smith

Shipping Date: 6/15/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 6/29/2011
Newsstands: Week of 7/5/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color

$3.99 US

Once again, the fine people at Archie have given us a look at the products they have in store for September! The monthly books don’t contain any surprises, aside from Archie’s 625th issue not having any real details available.One wonders if anything special is in store for the book. Surely not a relaunch with a new #1 (I hope not, anyway)! Oh that left a bad taste in my mouth. To cleanse the pallet, the very nice looking Best of Archie Deluxe Hardcover looks especially nice. Unlike other hardcovers, this one seems to back up it’s slightly higher price tag with a truly beefy page count. Is there anything you’re looking forward to? Read on, you may find something to your liking!

ARCHIE #625

SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz
COVER: Dan Parent
Shipping Date: 9/14/11
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/28/11
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US
ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #222

“FANTASY TIME, PARADE REST”

Archie and Dilton share a love of reading in “FANTASY TIME” but Archie will have to leave his head in the books instead of in dreams if they’re are going to come true. After Veronica is named Homecoming Queen, she enlists her friends to build the biggest, most spectacular parade float Riverdale has ever seen. Their work is a success but they’re too tired to enjoy it in “PARADE REST.”

SCRIPT: George Gladir
ARTIST: Stan Goldberg
COVER: Dan Parent
Shipping Date: 9/7/11
On Sale at Comic Shops:9/21/11
Newsstands: Week of/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US
ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #9

“DINNER FOR ONE”

Betty dons her Superteen costume and goes head to head with the consumer, only to find his appetite is too much for her. About to admit defeat, Jughead comes to her rescue and challenges the evil Consumer to a battle of the stomachs. Can Riverdale’s bottomless pit defeat the insatiable Consumer? Find out in the conclusion of “DINNER FOR ONE.”

SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Dan DeCarlo
COVER: Dan DeCarlo
Shipping Date: 9/14/11
On Sale at Comic Shops:9/28/11
Newsstands: Week of/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US
BETTY #194

“HOW SWEET IT WAS”

All of Betty’s dreams come true when Archie asks her to be his date at the dance. But she’s forced to wake up when she can’t afford to buy a new dress. Never one to sulk, Betty gets a job and with Archie at her side. She may not dance the night away, but she still gets Archie in the hilarious conclusion. In the second feature, KATY KEENE, Skipper Mason goes on a monkey chase and gets more than he bargained for. LIL JINX makes an appearance in “SOUNDS FISHY,” and Archie goes classic in “ERRANT BOY” FROM 1957. Finally, everyone’s favorite witch shows up in SABRINA “STRANGE LOVE.”

SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz
COVER: Dan DeCarlo
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/11
Newsstands: Week 9/28/11
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US
B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #218

“MY BROTHER’S KEEPER”

In “MY BROTHER’S KEEPER” Betty tries to show Veronica the error of her superficial ways by helping those in need. Too bad Betty just proves Veronica right and gets left in the rain. Maybe Veronica will learn one day, but that won’t be any time soon for the spoiled Ms. Lodge.

SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz
COVER: Dan DeCarlo
Shipping Date: 9/21/11
On Sale at Comic Shops:10/5/11
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US
JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #174

“THE DARK SAGA,” LET’S GO GEO”

When Gladys tells Jughead he looks like teen vampire heartthrob, Basil Loverton, he wants to know more about the new movie craze. Taking it as a compliment, he plays into it on his date with her the next night. Unfortunately, Gladys isn’t the only one who thinks Jughead looks like her idol and a mob of fans swarm poor Juggie like wild animals. He manages to get away but must end his tortured romance before it even begins – just like a teen vampire. In “LET’S GO GEO,” Dilton shows Archie and Jughead a new internet scavenger hunt. Leave it to Jughead to find a way to include food and follow along as “Geo Snacking” is born.

SCRIPT: George Gladir
ARTIST: Pat Kennedy
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 9/21/11
On Sale at Comic Shops:10/5/11
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US
KEVIN KELLER #3

“KEVIN KELLER in LET’S GET IT STARTED…”

Kevin Keller is the new kid in Riverdale and the gang has made him feel right at home. When Wit Masters, a trivia game show for rival high schools comes around, Dilton and the crew want Kevin to represent them for the win. Too bad Kevin has a fear of public speaking. Will he pull it off and get Riverdale the winning championship for the third year in a row or will he choke in front of the big lights? Follow along as Kevin, his family and everyone you know and love from the Archie Universe face this challenge together.

SCRIPT: Dan Parent
ARTIST: Dan Parent
COVER: Dan Parent
Shipping Date: 9/28/11
On Sale at Comic Shops: 10/12/11
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US
MEGA MAN #6

“TIME KEEPS SLIPPING” Part Two: Dr. Wily has vanished! Roll has been kidnapped! Dr. Light is in federal custody! What’s Mega Man to do?! The blue bomber teams up with Cut Man and Ice Man to investigate the ruins of Wily’s castle and search for clues, but what dangers await within? And who are these two, new, powered-up Robot Masters?!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Chad Thomas, Gary Martin, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 9/28/11
On Sale at Comic Shops: 10/12/11
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #229

“GENESIS” Part Four: Our 20th Anniversary of Sonic celebration ends with this blockbuster issue! Sonic tackles the treacherous Metropolis Zone alone, while Sally leads her friends through the perils of the Oil Ocean Zone! At the end of the gauntlet lies the Death Egg and an epic battle! Will the world ever be the same again?!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Terry Austin, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 9/21/11
On Sale at Comic Shops: 10/5/11
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US
SONIC UNIVERSE #32

“INSIDE JOB” Part Four: The explosive finale to the Scourge Arc! Sonic’s evil twin is running with the Destructix, and they’re fighting for their lives to escape Zone Jail! If the rioting prisoners don’t get them, the Zone Cops will! In the mad dash for freedom, who will escape – and who will be left behind?

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Phil Felix and Steve Downer
COVER: Tracy Yardley! & Ben Hunzeker
Shipping Date: 9/7/11
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/21/11
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US
WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #11

“WHAT THE DO DID,” “THE ULTIMATE PEP TALK”

Pop tells the boys women change their hair after traumatic events and after breaking a date with Betty for another girl, Archie’s guilt gets the better of him when he’s sees her with a new hairstyle. He invites her to a night on the town but it all backfires for poor Betty when Archie enlists the help of a specialist for her supposed depression. Betty won’t be changing her hair again anytime soon after this fiasco in “WHAT THE DO DID.” On the eve of his 25th anniversary at Riverdale High School, Coach Kleats recounts some of the highs and lows of his career only to reveal that obstacles often come from within.

SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ARTIST: Stan Godlberg
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 9/28/11
On Sale at Comic Shops:10/12/11
Newsstands: Week of/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

GRAPHIC NOVELS:
ARCHIE FRESHMAN YEAR BOOK 2

Archie and his friends have forever been chronicled in the latter portion of their high school journey, but after many long years, the story of how “the gang” all met up was finally told in the first volume of Archie Freshman Year Book 1: The High School Chronicles. But that wasn’t the whole story!

In this second volume, Eisner-winning writer Batton Lash answers more questions that fans have been asking for decades about the early years of life at Riverdale High. See what happens when Jughead and his family move, Betty and Veronica become internet celebrities, and Reggie breaks out and finds himself a new group of “Pals ‘n’ Gals.” Catch Chuck’s first real foray into the world of comics and find out whatever happened to Pencilneck G.

SCRIPT: Batton Lash
ARTIST: Bill Galvan, Al Milgrom
COLORS: Glenn Whitmore
Direct Market On-sale: 9/7/2011
6 x 9” Trade Paperback 128 pgs
978-1-8797-9471-9
$9.95 US
ARCHIE: THE MARRIED LIFE BOOK 1

This giant graphic novel collects from Life with Archie Magazine 1-6 the most critically acclaimed storyline in Archie Comics history, following two separate paths for Archie as a newlywed if he had married Betty Cooper or if he had married Veronica Lodge. Archie Marries Betty features the newlyweds as they move to the city to pursue their dreams and are faced with seemingly endless disasters engineered by a sinister figure from the past, and also includes the moving story of the death of their former teacher Miss Grundy. Archie Marries Veronica showcases the newlywed couple struggling to balance business and conscience while trying to keep Mr. Lodge’s sensibilities from destroying their ideals, their hometown – and their marriage. Find out what happens to all of your favorite Riverdale characters! Based on an outline by Emmy® award-winning Batman producer Michael Uslan, written by comic book veteran Paul Kupperberg and featuring the fluid and lush artwork of longtime Batman artist Norm Breyfogle.

SCRIPT: Michael Uslan, Paul Kupperberg
ARTIST: Norm Breyfogle, Andrew Pepoy, Joe Rubenstein
COLORS: Glenn Whitmore
Direct Market On-sale: 9/14/2011
6 5/8 x 10 3/16” Trade Paperback 320 pgs
978-1-9369-7501-3
$19.99 US
BEST OF ARCHIE COMICS DELUXE EDITION

This gigantic 432-page hardcover edition is an essential introduction to new readers and a must-have companion for longtime Archie fans, featuring the best Archie tales in a beautiful full-size volume. Includes classic tales covering every decade of Archie’s history from some of the biggest creative names in the company’s history, including Bob Montana, Harry Lucey, Dan DeCarlo, Samm Schwartz, Stan Goldberg, Dan Parent and more. Hand-picked by Archie historians and experts, the stories collected in The Best of Archie Comics Deluxe Edition take readers on a veritable pop culture tour of America, from the World War II era to the swingin’ 60s to the present – including anecdotes, memories, historical highlights, exclusive content and more from Archie creators. This large hardcover deluxe edition is printed on quality paper and contains an additional 16 pages of extras not found in the smaller digest paperback version. The Best of Archie Comics Deluxe Edition is the flagship title of Archie’s 70th anniversary and will receive intense publicity, marketing and sales support through 2012.

Various authors/illustrators
Direct Market On-sale: 9/28/2011
6 5/8 x 10 3/16” Hardcover 432 pgs
978-1-9369-7502-0
$29.99 US
MEGA MAN – VOLUME ONE “LET THE GAMES BEGIN”

MEGA MAN is the hit new action-adventure series from Archie Comics! Dr. Light wanted to build a better tomorrow with his new Robot Masters, but the evil Dr. Wily reprogrammed them to take over the world! Now it’s up to one little robot to save us all – MEGA MAN! Don’t miss the first heroic adventures of Rock, a simple helper robot who takes up the fight for the greater good! This volume contains Rock’s transformation into Mega Man, his first battles with the famous Robot Masters, and his titanic clash with Dr. Wily!

MEGA MAN VOL. 1 collects MEGA MAN #1-4 plus variant covers, exclusive sketches and special features!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, Chad Thomas, Ben Bates, Jamal Peppers, Rick Bryant, Gary Martin, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
Direct Market On-sale: 9/14/2011
978-1-8797-9485-6
5 x 7 3/8” Trade Paperback 112 pgs
$11.95 US
SONIC ARCHIVES VOL.16

The best-selling SONIC ARCHIVES graphic novel series continues! The hunt for the evil Ixis Naugus goes into full swing as Sonic and his best friend Tails continue the World Tour Saga! Can the power of friendship overrule the wills of interdimensional machine-gods? What is the sinister secret of Sand Blast City? And are those duck-bill platypus warriors riding crododiles?! You won’t want to miss all of the first time appearances for characters like the Iron King and Queen, Jack Rabbit and his Sand Blast Freedom Fighters, and the debut of the Secret Service!

SONIC ARCHIVES VOLUME 16 collects SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #59-62 featuring digitally re-mastered art and special features!
SCRIPT AND ARTIST: Various
COVER: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
978-1-8797-9479-9
5 x 7 3/8” Trade Paperback 112 pgs
$7.95 US
SONIC UNIVERSE – VOLUME ONE

“THE SHADOW SAGA”

Enter the SONIC UNIVERSE with the first ever Graphic Novel collection of the new hit comic series! SHADOW THE HEDGEHOG, the dark and grim Ultimate Lifeform, embarks on his first mission for the Guardian Units of the Nation! He will travel across time and space, fighting deadly killer robots and facing down beings of god-like power! SONIC UNIVERSE VOL. 1 collects the entire “Shadow Saga” storyline from Sonic Universe #1-4 plus exclusive sketches and special features!

SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Teresa Davidson and Jason Jensen
COVER: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante
978-1-8797-9486-3
5 x 7 3/8” Trade Paperback 112 pgs
$11.95 US

There is an old saying that “every comic is someone’s first”. Usually when that’s bandied about, it’s referring to a comic reader. Today, I’m applying it to a writer. Archie & Friends #156 is Alex Segura’s first writing gig for Archie Comics. Alex is Archie’s “Director of Publicity and Marketing”. He’s also a pretty cool guy. Those qualities don’t necessarily make for a good storyteller, though. I was incredibly curious as to how this book would turn out ever since it was announced. I’m happy to say that Mr. Segura hits his first effort out of the park with an enjoyable tale that encompasses just about every member of the Riverdale gang!

As evidenced by the cover, this tale takes place at the Riverdale Comic Con. The core group of Archies come together, but are all there for different reasons. Archie wants a copy of the first comic he ever read, Betty & Veronica want to meet celebrities, and Jughead wants to sample the Con food. Reggie on the other hand, is up to his regular antics…

It’s not all fun and games, as there is the underlying mystery of “Who is Maximus Chrome?” He’s cosplaying with the rest of the group and seems to know them, but none of the Archies know exactly who he (or she) is. As everyone starts to speculate, the laundry list of suspects gets whittled down as we’re greeted with cameos by many other Riverdale denizens. The first person they meet is actually one of my least liked Archie characters, so I got a bit of a chuckle at his treatment in this issue.

Bingo tells the gang about the Con’s costume contest, and the entire group is off like a shot, trying to win. From there, the story moves on at a good clip with all of the various plot threads introduced as the group goes about their day converging at the end. Of course there is the big reveal of identity of Maximus Chrome. I’ll admit that at first, this reveal kind of fell flat for me and was my only real complaint about the issue. When I re-read it for this review, knowing who he was made it obvious that clues were dropped throughout and that actually made the story more enjoyable for me.

In summary, on the writing side, this was a pretty good book. Alex Segura obviously has a hold on everyone’s characterizations, and I’d enjoy reading more of his work. While the writing is great, the real star of this comic is the stellar artwork by Bill Galvan. I don’t know where Segura ends and Galvan begins for all of the comic-booky homages in this issue, but they brought a smile to my face more than once. Where else are you going to see Josie and the Pussycats eschew their usual look for Catwoman/Black Cat inspired looks? Not to mention a certain teenage witch being the chair of Riverdale’s equivalent of the 501st Legion? All of the inspired costuming combined with all of the geeky background details made this book a visual treat.

For anyone that likes good, clean fun and is not afraid to wallow in all of the things that make us geeks, this issue is great. It’s not perfect, but it is enjoyable. I don’t have a rating scale, but if I were to compare this to say, a typical Jughead meal of 5 hamburgers, I’d give this issue 3 and a half burgers.

I find this preview a little odd. I know you can’t show a full story when you want people to buy a book, but these preview pages end so abruptly, it’s difficult to see where they’re going. At any rate, this being a digest, there are a lot of stories, so even if the ones previewed don’t whet your appetite, there is still plenty of comic goodness to be had!

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #219
“Tow Wow” and “Wet Behind the Ears”
In “Tow Wow,” Archie’s frustration with his car forces him to join the Motor Club. But Archie doesn’t get his car fixed! He just gets towed everywhere: school, home and even dates! Next, in “Wet Behind the Ears,” Archie can’t seem to keep himself dry! Sprinklers, rain and even water balloons don’t slow him down on his way to a party at Veronica’s.
SCRIPT: Bill Golliher, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Pat Kennedy, Jim Amash, Bob Bolling
COVER: Pat Kennedy
Shipping Date: 5/25/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 6/8/2011
Newsstands: Week of 6/14/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

Next week’s issue of Betty continues the spy antics of Betty & Veronica. These preview pages are enjoyable, and funny. What really intrigues me though is that if you read between the lines a little, you could easily see a bunch of mind-controlled toddlers as the ultimate killing machines. Maybe it’s just me. At any rate, enjoy the be-catsuited antics!

BETTY #192
“Spy Girls – Back in Action,” Part 2
The conclusion of a two-part spy crossover! Pranks and bad behavior are running wild in Riverdale! Agents Betty and Veronica soon discover the problems could be caused by coded messages hidden on the popular kids show Funtime USA! And the main culprit appears to be a lovable clown named Klutzy. Things look to get worse when Funtime USA makes a live stop in Riverdale! Continues from last month’s VERONICA #206.
SCRIPT: Dan Parent
ARTIST: Dan Parent
COVER: Dan Parent
Shipping Date: 5/18/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 6/1/2011
Newsstands: Week of 6/7/2011
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

Not too much to say about today’s first look, except that Mr. Lodge is a decadent hypocrite. He has a totally green house in one story, and in the next he converts a 6-car garage into a den? Well, I guess he’s still being green if he doesn’t actually use a garage for cars,but still. I’m just jealous. Enjoy the previews!

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #191
“Going Green”
When Mr. Lodge introduces his environmentally friendly homes, he agrees to let the gang live in one to try it out! But how will they react to being watched 24/7? In the end, they not only show how the house saves the environment, but they get a song out of it.
SCRIPT: Bill Golliher
ARTIST: Stan Goldberg, Jim Amash
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 5/18/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 6/1/2011
Newsstands: Week of 6/7/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

The Archie people were gracious enough to send us the solicitiations of the books they’re shipping in August. There is some interesting stuff coming down the pike. A few standouts include The Best of Archie softcover, a cheap trade with a bunch of classic stories inside with a whopping 416 pages! We also have the return of The Man for R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E. For video game fans, we see the continuation of the Sonic: Genesis storyline which continues to have awesome throwback covers. Over in Mega Man, we get the first appearance of Time Man, who previously had only shown up in the Mega Man: Powered Up game for the PSP. These things along with the usual Archie suspects means we’re going to have an Absolutely Alliterative Amazing Archie August!

ARCHIE #624 “GEEK FACE-OFF!”
Dilton reunites with his former best friend from tech camp, Mark Zuckerberg, to dispute his right to Facebook in court. Even though the judge rules in Dilton’s favor, the Blossom twins own 99% of the profits. Once the air is cleared, Dilton and Mark are friends again and the tide has turned in their favor.
SCRIPT: Dan Parent
ARTIST: Dan Parent, Jack Morelli
COVER: Dan Parent
Shipping Date: 8/10/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/24/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/30/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #157
“THE MAN FROM R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E. – THE NOSE KNOWS!” & “ENTER THE DEMON”
P.O.P. operatives A.R.C.H.I.E., R.E.G.G.I.E., and J.U.G.H.E.A.D. face off against the infamous C.R.U.S.H. agent Dr. Nose after he subdues Pop and captures V.E.R.O.N.I.C.A. In this thrilling story, the gang must battle explosive robots and corporate espionage to save the day! Dr. Demon is up to no good again in “Enter the Demon,” but can he get to Lodge Industries’ secret weapon before P.O.P. does?
SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Bob White, Mario Acquaviva, Sal Contrera
COVER: Bob White
Shipping Date: 8/3/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/17/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #8
“PUREHEART THE POWERFUL EVILHEART’S REVENGE”
Who would have thought Reggie could get any worse than he already is? Archie’s Pureheart is faced with the battle of his life when Evilheart faces off against him to win the affections of Betty and Veronica.
SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Bob White, Mario Acquaviva
COVER: Barry Grossman
Shipping Date: 8/10/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/24/2010
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Digest, 160 pages, 30 lb. newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #221
“BALL IN THE HALL,” “COMP-EATING,” “E-CON-NOMICS,” & “PHONE A FRIEND”
In “Ball in the Hall,” Archie and Sayid search the school for the prankster behind the dangerous bouncing ball. Jughead races through a hotdog contest in “Comp-Eating” only to walk away when he’s almost at the finish line. Even though Archie wants to win, ol’ Jughead is in it for something else entirely. It’s hard to make it in the comics business, and as Chuck and Archie learn in “E-Con-Nomics,” you have to stay away from the merchandise if you hope to profit from your own. Be careful, Archie. With the arrival of his new smart phone/“best friend” in “Phone a Friend,” it might not be long before there’s no one left in Riverdale to call.
SCRIPT: Tom DeFalco, J. Torres
ARTIST: Gisele, Pat Kennedy
COVER: Pat Kennedy
Shipping Date: 8/3/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/17/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #217
“That Suits Me Fine!”
A day at the beach for Betty and Veronica quickly turns into a fashion competition when Betty’s homemade swimsuit grabs all the attention. With Veronica left in the shadows, she decides to reverse the situation and creates a bathing suit of her own. Too bad no one told Ronnie glue is not an acceptable substitute for needle and thread before she ran into the ocean.
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz, Jim Amash, Barry Grossman
COVER: Dan DeCarlo
Shipping Date: 8/17/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/31/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/6/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

BETTY & VERONICA #255
“BEACH BLANKET BASH-UP,” “CHISEL FIZZLE,” & “THE BEST OF BUDS”
The heat is on! Betty and Veronica go head to head in a contest that will decide who wins Archie’s fiery affections. Round after round the girls battle it out to find that sometimes working against each other has worse consequences than a volleyball loss. Sometimes, the best art is created when you least expect it. In “Chisel Fizzle,” Betty and Veronica help ‘the next Michelangelo’ with his craft. Finally, in “The Best of Buds,” Archie’s #1 girls take a trip down memory lane and recall what makes them the best of friends.
SCRIPT: Paul Kupperberg, Craig Boldman, George Gladir
ARTIST: Jeff Shultz, Jim Amash
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 8/10/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/24/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/30/2011
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #194
“THE BIG PUZZLE” & “RUNNING GAG”
While Veronica is away fundraising for her country club’s charity, Betty will try for all the time she can with Archie. But poor Betty is alone again once Veronica sees photographs of their adventures and steals him back for an event honoring her. In “RUNNING GAG,” Betty and Veronica take some much needed nature time to hike and stay fit but after learning of a bear sighting, their walk is anything but relaxing.
SCRIPT: George Gladir, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Pat Kennedy
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 8/31/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/20/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

JUGHEAD #209
“BUILDING A BETTER JUGHEAD”
Jughead and Moose make an unlikely team, but when Jughead needs a place to stay, he finds a soft bed, and some hard exercise at Moose’s house. It’s too bad sharing their conflicting routines means bruises and weight gain.
SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ARTIST: Rex Lindsey
COVER: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski
Shipping Date: 8/31/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/20/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #173
“BFFs…NOT!” and “Food for Thought”
Jughead and Veronica are at it again. In “BFFs…NOT,” they learn that the most turbulent friendships can find a common ground – even if it’s by insulting each other. In “Food for Thought,” Jughead tries to decide what he wants to do for a career. How does his decision bring together two business rivals?
SCRIPT: Paul Kupperberg, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Tod Smith, Jim Amash, & Barry Grossman
COVER: Tod Smith, Fabio Redivo
Shipping Date: 8/17/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/31/2011
Newsstands: Week of: 9/6/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb. newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

LIFE WITH ARCHIE #13
“ARCHIE MARRIES VERONICA” & “ARCHIE MARRIES BETTY”
Dilton’s doctoral thesis reveals the existence of an infinite number of parallel realities while Archie’s reality is slowly crumbling around him. Veronica leaves him to find someone more suitable and Jughead finally finds a way to balance work at the Chocklit Shoppe and his marriage to Midge. An exonerated Reggie begins to think of his future, and it seems to include Betty! In “Archie Loves Betty,” Archie finds comfort in teaching and scouting musical talent for Ambrose’s club, the Chowhouse. All the while, Hiram Lodge’s world is dark when Veronica’s plane to their Paris office goes missing, allowing Fred Mirth to continue his dastardly scheme to take over Lodge Industries. Will Mr. Lodge mobilize fast enough to save his company, his daughter, and maybe the world?
SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ARTIST: Rex Lindsey
COVER: Norm Breyfogle
Shipping Date: 8/31/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/20/2011
Comic, pgs, lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$3.99 US

MEGA MAN #5
“Time Keeps Slipping” Part One:
The evil Dr. Wily may be in jail, but that doesn’t mean the adventures are over for Mega Man! Federal agents are investigating Dr. Light for ties to the Robot Masters’ rampage while sinister figures lurk in the shadows. And why does Dr. Wily look so smug in his jail cell? Don’t miss the beginning of the newest Mega Man adventure! Featuring a painted cover by fan favorite artist Greg Horn!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Chad Thomas, Rick Bryant, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Greg Horn
VILLAIN VARIANT COVER: by Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 8/24/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/7/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/13/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #228
“Genesis” Part Three:
The most talked-about story in Sonic comic history continues as Sonic brings a curious new face into his adventures: Miles Prower, the boy genius! As Sonic and his friends continue the good fight against the evil Dr. Robotnik, the perils get more perilous, old memories begin to resurface, and the Death Egg orbits. Don’t miss the penultimate issue to this anniversary special event!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Terry Austin, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 8/17/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/31/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/6/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

SONIC UNIVERSE #31
“Inside Job” Part Three:
Scourge the Hedgehog, evil doppelganger to Sonic, is half-way to his goal: put together a gang and bust out of Zone Jail! But first he’ll need to win the loyalty of two of the most dangerous members of the Destructix. If he can survive that, the rest is easy: fighting an army of Zone Cops and rival inmates!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn.
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Phil Felix and Steve Downer
COVER: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash & Matt Herms (After Spaz)
Shipping Date: 8/3/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/17/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Comic, pgs, lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #10
“LOVE ME BABY, MUMBAI” PART 2
In the conclusion of “LOVE ME BABY, MUMBAI,” Archie and the gang call it a wrap on Raj’s movie and learn that there are always two choices to make when it comes to love and compromise. Will Raj and Betty find romance or will their Bollywood flirtations end before they even begin?
SCRIPT: Tania del Rio
ARTIST: Bill Galvan
COVER: Bill Galvan, Al Milgrom
Shipping Date: 8/24/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/7/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/13/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

GRAPHIC NOVELS:
The Best of Archie Comics (softcover)
Various authors/illustrators
978-1-8797-9484-9
$9.99/$10.99CAN
5 ¼ x7 ½”
Trade Paperback
416 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 7/27/2011

An essential introduction to new readers and a must-have companion for longtime Archie fans – The Best of Archie Comics features the best Archie tales in a stunning 416-page full-color $9.99 volume.

For 70 years, Archie Comics has been a vital and constant presence in American entertainment and pop culture, selling over 1.5 billion comic books. Archie — the lovable Riverdale teen who constantly finds himself in funny, entertaining and action-packed situations, and his closest friends Betty, Veronica, Jughead and Reggie – continues to be the bestselling kid’s magazine line in North America at retail.

The Best of Archie Comics features classic tales from some of the biggest creative names in the company’s history, including Bob Montana, Harry Lucey, Dan DeCarlo, Sam Schwartz, Stan Goldberg, Dan Parent and more. Hand-picked by Archie historians and experts, the stories collected in The Best of Archie Comics take readers on a veritable pop culture tour of America, from the World War II era to the swingin’ 60s to the present – including anecdotes, memories, historical highlights, exclusive content and more from Archie creators.

The Best of Archie Comics is the flagship title of Archie’s 70th anniversary and will receive intense publicity, marketing and sales support through 2012.

Knuckles the Echidna Archives Vol. 1
Written by Ian Flynn, Illustrated by Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
978-1-8797-9481-8
$9.95/$10.95CAN
5 x 7 3/8”
Trade Paperback
160 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 8/24/2011
Knuckles Archives is Archie’s new SEGA-licensed book series spun off of Archie’s #1 best-selling Sonic Archives line. Knuckles serves as a companion piece to Sonic Archives—each references the other when stories intertwine.
Published in the popular full-color digest format that has done so well in children’s graphic novel sections, this super-sized 160-page title collects comic books Sonic’s Friendly Nemesis: Knuckles #1-3 and Knuckles the Echidna #1-3.
Knuckles is a highly popular character in the Sonic universe. In this volume, dive in as Knuckles investigates the mysteries of his origins and the wonders of the Floating Island and tries to solve the riddle of Archimedes! Brace for the harrowing adventure as Knuckles comes face to face with the dreaded Dark Legion and has his first encounter with Enerjak.

Archie Comics have a history of have celebrity guests in their books. Heck, they’re going to have an American Idol/X-Factor face off pretty soon. That’s why it’s really surprising that the guest stars in the upcoming World of Archie Double Digest are thinly veiled celebs rather than the actual people themselves. You see, the “Eats” Network has come to Riverdale. “Dude Ferrari” “Maple May” and “Deanna Paul” are there to enter Riverdale High’s own Ms. Beazley to compete in “Cafeteria Cook-Off”! It’s just surreal check the preview pages below, for a taste of your favorite Food Eats Network celebs!

Archie #621 has a few things going for it. First, it’s the first issue with a retro style red band on the top. I think that’ll make the book stand out nicely on the stands. Also, we are teased with the promise of a Lost Land full of dinosaurs and Archie becoming king of said land. While the preview pages below just tease it, I’m hoping Archie gets a bump on his head, declaring himself Ar-Chee and finds himself in a love triangle with two native girls, Mira and Manee. At any rate, enjoy the preview below !

ARCHIE #621
“The Lost Land” Part 1
What is the secret of San Mantana? In the “Lost Land,” the gang heads south of the equator for an archeological expedition. On a routine hike, the gang discovers dinosaur bones that are only a few months old! And then discover dinosaur bones… on a hungry live dinosaur!
SCRIPT: Tom DeFalco
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 5/11/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 5/25/2011
Newsstands: Week of 5/31/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US