We're #1: Taking a look at new first issue comic books for 1/7/2026
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?
Absolute Batman: Ark M Special #1
The Absolute Universe continues to expand in Absolute Batman: Ark M Special #1, a dark exploration into the twisted architecture of Gotham's new asylum and the chilling secrets held within its walls. We think this has potential to become a key issue, as any new #1 from a superstar creative team for an iconic character like Batman, especially as a core expansion of the high-demand Absolute Universe, has high potential for key story developments and will be a sought-after collectible.
50th Anniversary Treasury Edition - Superman vs. The Amazing Spider-Man Facsimile Edition #1
50th Anniversary Treasury Edition – Superman vs. The Amazing Spider-Man Facsimile Edition #1 celebrates a half-century of the most iconic intercompany crossover in history, presenting the legendary clash between the Man of Steel and the Web-Slinger in its original, massive treasury format. We think this has potential to become a key issue, as the combination of the prestigious 50th-anniversary milestone and the oversized treasury dimensions—which traditionally see lower print runs and higher survival difficulty—makes this a must-have trophy piece for high-end bronze age enthusiasts and modern completionists alike.
Marvel/DC: Spider-Boy Team-Up Facsimile Edition #1
Marvel / DC: Spider-Boy Team-Up Facsimile Edition #1 reproduces the historic 1996 Amalgam Universe debut where the high-flying fusion of Superboy and Spider-Man first swung into action against the terrifying Bizarnage. We think this has potential to become a key issue, as the 30th-anniversary timing and the enduring cult status of the Amalgam era—combined with the modern popularity of the current Spider-Boy character—make this a high-priority "must-own" for fans of intercompany history and multiversal collectors.
Marvel Rivals: The Cities of Heaven #1
Marvel Rivals: The Cities of Heaven #1 expands the lore of the hit video game as the heroes navigate the mystical and high-tech landscapes of the Celestials' ancient strongholds. Collectors should keep a close eye on this issue, as any new #1 tied to a major gaming franchise and featuring character designs by top-tier talent has high potential for story developments and will be a sought-after collectible.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Zord Quest #1
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Zord Quest #1 follows the original team as they journey to a distant, mechanical world to unlock the hidden potential of ancient Zord technology before a new cosmic threat reaches Earth. Collectors should keep a close eye on this issue, as any new #1 from a superstar creative team for an iconic franchise like the Power Rangers, especially one that promises to expand the mythology of the Zords, has high potential for story developments and will be a sought-after collectible.
Slasher Royale #1
Slasher Royale #1 follows a group of the world's most notorious serial killers who are forced into a deadly, televised gauntlet where only one slasher can remain standing. Collectors should keep a close eye on this issue, as any new #1 from a superstar creative team for an iconic concept like a "battle royale" of horror archetypes has high potential for story developments and will be a sought-after collectible.
Carmen Red Claw: Belly of the Beast #1
Carmen Red Claw: Belly of the Beast #1 follows a supernatural gun-for-hire and shape-shifting descendant of El Bogavante as she investigates a 1870s New Mexico ranch plagued by cattle mutilations and a dark, potentially human-driven conspiracy. This debut issue is a true toss-up: the integration of a new creator like Rae Allen into the beloved Hellboy universe offers a sophisticated, prestige hook that could capture a high-end collector market; however, as a paranormal western expansion of an existing franchise, its ability to generate the mainstream heat necessary for a sustained market boom remains unproven. Collectors will need to look into their crystal ball to determine if this gritty frontier thriller becomes a breakout expansion of the Mignola-verse or remains a quiet, niche bust, making this first issue a true collector's gamble.
Fence Breakthrough: Quarter Clash #1
Fence Breakthrough: Quarter Clash #1 propels the competitive world of elite fencing into a high-stakes tournament format as rival athletes face off in a series of intense, quarter-final matches that will determine their professional futures. This debut issue is a true toss-up: the massive, dedicated fanbase of the original Fence series offers a built-in audience that could drive an immediate sell-out and secondary market spike; however, as a sports-centric spin-off in a market typically dominated by capes and monsters, its ability to maintain long-term investment heat is far from guaranteed. Collectors will need to look into their crystal ball to determine if this athletic drama becomes a perennial indie favorite or ends up as a quiet, niche bust, making this first issue a true collector's gamble.
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.