We're #1: Taking a look at new first issue comic books for 8/20/2025
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?
Black Cat #1
The feline fatale returns in a brand new solo series with Black Cat #1, featuring the queen of crime and a new series of high-stakes heists across the Marvel Universe. This premiere issue is poised to become a key collectible for speculators and fans because any new #1 for a major character like Black Cat is a sought-after entry point and often the start of pivotal new story arcs that can drive long-term value.
All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider #1
Spider-Gwen returns with a new name and a fresh start in All-New Spider-Gwen: Ghost-Spider #1, picking up her thrilling adventures as she swings through the multiverse once more. This debut issue is a strong contender to become a key collectible because any new #1 series for a major fan-favorite character like Spider-Gwen often marks a new creative direction or pivotal story arc that will be essential for character collectors and speculators to have.
Escape #1
An epic new saga begins in Escape #1, a brand new creator-owned series from the acclaimed team of Rick Remender and Daniel Acuña. This debut issue is a strong contender to become a key collectible because any new #1 from a superstar creative team with a proven track record of creating successful, long-running, and adaptable original IPs has a high potential for long-term speculation and value.
Justice League Red #1
A new era begins for a different kind of Justice League in Justice League Red #1, a brand new team tasked with black ops missions under the "All In" banner. Collectors should keep a close eye on this issue, as any new #1 that forms a new Justice League team and is part of a major publishing event has the potential to introduce pivotal new characters or a new status quo that will be essential for future collectors.
Marvel All-On-One: The Thing vs. the Marvel Universe #1
The one and only Ben Grimm takes on every hero in the cosmos in Marvel All-On-One: The Thing vs. the Marvel Universe #1, a brutal new saga that pits the ever-lovin' blue-eyed Thing against his closest allies. Collectors should keep a close eye on this one, as these "character vs. the universe" titles are always a recipe for a popular collectible and could contain a pivotal key moment or new status quo change for the Thing.
Venom: Black, White & Blood #1
The legendary symbiote is back in a new anthology series in Venom: Black, White & Blood #1, featuring an all-star cast of creators telling stories in a dynamic, monochromatic style. Collectors should keep a close eye on this issue, as the "Black, White & Blood" series has a strong track record of becoming highly sought-after, and a new #1 featuring a top-tier character like Venom is a near-guaranteed hit with the potential for new first appearances or pivotal new stories.
Event Horizon: Dark Descent #1
Journey back to the terrifying void in Event Horizon: Dark Descent #1, a brand new horror series that expands the lore of the iconic sci-fi film. This debut issue is a true gamble for speculators; while the name recognition of the classic film offers the potential for a breakout hit, the success of licensed comics is always a toss-up, and only a crystal ball could tell you if it will become a valuable key or fade into the darkness.
Kill or Be Killed #1
A future of fear arrives in Kill or Be Killed #1, a brand new illustrated novella that delivers a visceral story in a single, self-contained issue. This one-shot is a true gamble for speculators; while the prestige format could make it a surprise hit, its self-contained nature and status as an original one-shot mean its long-term viability and collector value are unpredictable, and only a crystal ball could tell you if it will become a valuable key issue.
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.