We're #1: Taking a look at new first issue comic books for 9/3/2025
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?
Batman #1
A bold new era begins for the Dark Knight in Batman #1, as Eisner Award-winning writer Matt Fraction and superstar artist Jorge Jiménez team up to test Batman and Bruce Wayne like never before. This new #1 is poised to become a key issue for speculators and collectors for several reasons, including the introduction of a new Bat-suit and Batmobile, a high-profile creative team, and the promise of new characters, all of which are significant firsts for the new era of the character.
Spider-Man '94 #1
After nearly 30 years, the hit 1990s animated series returns in Spider-Man '94 #1, a new comic that picks up where the show's infamous cliffhanger ending left off. This debut issue is poised to become a key collectible because it features the first in-universe appearances of two classic villains, Morlun and Kaine, and is set to resolve a long-standing mystery for fans of the beloved animated series.
Everything Dead & Dying #1
Eisner Award-nominated creators Tate Brombal and Jacob Phillips present a haunting new take on the zombie genre in Everything Dead & Dying #1, a new series about a man who chooses to live alongside his undead family. This debut issue is a strong contender to become a key collectible because any new #1 from a creator-owned publisher like Image Comics with a high-profile creative team has the potential to become a breakout hit.
Adventures of Superman: Book of El #1
A powerful enemy from the past returns to challenge the entire Super-Family in Adventures of Superman: The Book of El #1, a new series that continues Phillip Kennedy Johnson's epic Superman saga. Collectors should keep an eye on this book because it concludes a critically acclaimed run and has the potential to introduce new allies and major story developments that could impact the Superman mythos for years to come.
Imperial War: Exiles #1
A coup in the Shi'ar Empire sends Professor Charles Xavier on the run with his family in Imperial War: Exiles #1, a key one-shot in Jonathan Hickman's new cosmic event. Collectors should keep a close eye on this book because any tie-in to a major event by a star-studded creative team has high potential for key story developments and to become a pivotal issue for a major character like Charles Xavier.
Closer #1
From the creative team of Kieron Gillen and Steve Lieber comes Closer #1, a new one-shot that is described as a cosmic horror you can dance to in a one-off apocalypse romance. Collectors should keep an eye on this issue, as any new project from a high-profile creator at a publisher like Image Comics has the potential to become a breakout hit, and this marks the first time this entire story is collected as a single comic.
Artificial #1
A fashion stylist uses a futuristic dating service to find an android lover, but her dream companion glitches into a possessive stalker in Artificial #1, a new erotic sci-fi thriller from creator Maria Llovet. Whether this title will boom or bust is a true gamble for speculators, as its status as a new original IP in a niche genre means its long-term value is uncertain, and only a crystal ball could tell you its future.
Survive #1
A fiery explosion turns a Russian submarine into a watery tomb, trapping two sole survivors—a Russian sailor and an American spy—in Survive #1, a new action-packed thriller from writers Robert Venditti and Doug Braithwaite. This comic is a true gamble for speculators because its long-term value is tied to its unique sales model from publisher Bad Idea Comics, so you'll need a crystal ball to know if this new original IP will be a "boom" or a "bust".
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.