We're #1: Taking a look at new first issue comic books for 12/3/2025
Weekly Comic Book First Look: Key Issue Potential or Back Issue Bin? We dissect new #1 releases, analyzing art, story, and market buzz to predict which comics could become hot collectibles and which might fade into obscurity. Perfect for comic book investors and speculators!
Key or Filler?
In the expansive universe of comic books, new titles are frequently released, each with the potential to captivate readers in unique ways. Today, we will present a curated list of upcoming first issue comic book titles that are stirring excitement in the community. Which new #1 issues will you be picking up this week?
DC K.O.: Superman vs. Captain Atom #1
DC K.O.: Superman vs. Captain Atom #1 ignites DC's "All Fight Month" with an explosive Round 1, pitting the Kryptonian's raw strength against Captain Atom's volatile quantum energy in a universe-shattering one-shot. Collectors should target this issue because it is the debut title of an eight-part tournament event written by fan-favorite Joshua Williamson, guaranteeing significant story moments and potential character fallout that drives up long-term collecting value.
Doctor Strange #1
Doctor Strange #1 finds Stephen Strange stranded as the Sorcerer Supreme of Asgard, embarking on a 'Journey Into Mystery' with Angela to prevent a war between elves and angels in Alfheim. Collectors should target this debut issue because it establishes a radical new status quo for Strange, spinning directly out of the events of Immortal Thor, which often signals a new era with long-term story implications and collectible value.
Ultimate Universe: Two Years In #1
Ultimate Universe: Two Years In #1 prepares the stage for Ultimate Endgame as the Ultimate Guardians recruit new and old heroes across time and space for a final confrontation with the Maker. Collectors should target this book because it features the first appearance of Ultimate Daredevil (reimagined as a cosmic-level hero) and the radical mashup villain M.O.D.O.S. (Mental Organism Designed Only for Sorcery), guaranteeing high long-term speculation value.
Hulk: Smash Everything #1
Hulk: Smash Everything #1, written by Ryan North and drawn by Vincenzo Carratù, is a wild five-issue miniseries that pits the Jade Giant against everything from dinosaurs and planets to cosmic forces in a test of pure strength. Collectors should keep a close eye on this debut issue, as the star creative team and high-concept, character-defining premise ensure this #1 will be highly sought after for its non-stop action and long-term speculative potential.
Giant-Size Criminal #1
Giant-Size Criminal #1 delivers the first new single-issue story in years from Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips, featuring a novella-length heist starring fan-favorite Ricky Lawless, a major player in the upcoming television adaptation. Collectors must keep an eye on this issue as its release is timed with the impending Criminal TV series premiere, making it a highly desirable, key transitional book between the original series and the new screen adaptation.
Wiccan: Witches' Road #1
Wiccan: Witches' Road #1 marks the highly anticipated first solo series for the former Young Avenger and Son of Scarlet Witch, Wiccan (Billy Kaplan), as he crashes back to Earth and embarks on a dark, mystical quest to save his grievously wounded husband, Hulkling. Collectors must keep an eye on this issue as it explores the character's legacy and defines his new status quo in the Marvel magical hierarchy, making it a key developmental issue with multiple high-profile variant covers that could increase its value.
Dark Souls: Mother of Mourning #1
Dark Souls: Mother of Mourning #1 from Titan Comics dives back into the bleak, beloved fantasy video game lore, but whether this four-issue miniseries will "boom" or "bust" is a true collector's gamble. On one hand, the core fanbase is devoted and previous Dark Souls comics have seen aftermarket price spikes, but on the other, it's a licensee title from a non-Big Two publisher and lacks a known first appearance; you'll need a crystal ball to predict the fate of the Mother of Lillies and this title's future value.
Barbaric: The Long Death #1
Barbaric: The Long Death #1 from Vault Comics brings back the fan-favorite cursed barbarian Owen, his bloodthirsty Axe, and the original, highly-praised creative team, but whether this continuation will "boom" or "bust" remains a true collector's gamble. On one hand, the series is critically acclaimed, has a dedicated following, and features key character backstory revelations, but on the other, it is a non-Big Two title returning for its fifth series arc, which may dilute long-term collectibility; you'll need a crystal ball to predict the future value of this chaotic new chapter.
Conclusion: Buy what makes you happy and have fun.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post regarding potential key issues and comic book values is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The opinions expressed are based on our analysis and observations, and should not be considered financial advice. The comic book market is highly speculative and volatile, and past performance is not indicative of future results. We strongly encourage readers to conduct their own thorough research and consult with qualified professionals before making any purchasing decisions. Comic book collecting should be enjoyed as a hobby, and any financial gains or losses are the sole responsibility of the individual.