Thanks to the opinions of you lot my zarjaz 2000AD collection continues to grow. Based solely on the recommendations from everyone here I have made several purchases, and to my delight, they have been some of the best comics I have read (Kingdom, Jaiger, Glimmer Rats etc.)!
I'm conflicted as to what to buy next, but trust that you drokkers can guide me in the right direction. Below is a list of books I am currently interested in; make a suggestion as to what you think I should read first. I will buy the book that has the most 'votes' at the end of a few weeks (and post my thoughts after reading). If there is a book I should be reading that is not on the list, or a book that is on the list that shouldn't be, let me know! (Note: This list does not include Dredd, Strontium Dog, or Rogue Trooper as I already collect those). Thanks for any input! :D
• Flesh: The Dino Files
• Chopper: Surf-S Up
• The Complete Al's Baby
• The Taxidermist
• Button Man: Get Harry Ex
• Judge Death: The Life and Death of...
• The Simping Detective
• Missionary Man: Bad Moon Rising
• Mega-City Undercover
• Leviathan
• Age of the Wolf
Leviathan is the best thing on that list.
Nikolai Dante is better. Get the first book of that insted.
Button Man is not just an entertaining forum member, but also one of Tharg's top thrills.
I believe that something along the lines of 98% of long time 2000AD readers plagiarized 'The Killing Game' as an English class essay.
I'd go for that.
Nobody mentioned ABC Warriors so Im gonna.You might as well jump straight into Volgan War. Not that stories before it were bad or anything.
I'd written a lengthy screed on how, despite some less essential inclusions, Chopper: 'Surf's Up' does contain 'Song of the Surfer', which is one of the absolute crowning glories of 2000AD's entire run. But... it's probably even better if you've already encountered Chopper in the various Dredd yarns in which he originated. So probably worth leaving until you've got up to Case Files 11 for maximum impact.
I think RJ is around CF18 or 19 now,so he should have the previous Chopper stories covered.
Quote from: Smith on 26 January, 2017, 10:01:53 AM
I think RJ is around CF18 or 19 now,so he should have the previous Chopper stories covered.
In which case I indeed recommend 'Surf's Up' - with the caveat that the brilliance of 'Song...' is counterbalanced by the post-'Song...' stories. If you're looking for a volume of consistent excellence, this may not be the one. If you want the best non-Dredd Dreddworld tale there is (and its excellent predecessor), and are prepared to put up with some other stories, none of which are bad when viewed in isolation, just unnecessary in context, then this is it.
I'm continually impressed by your commitment to thrill power, Rogue Judge!
The only post-Song of the Surfer Chopper story I've read so far is Earth, Wind and Fire, which is... fine. It's hardly Garth Ennis's fault - Song is an all-time classic, and a tough act to follow.
Al's Baby is fun, but it's not essential - unless you happen to be a fan of Damon Runyon or Guys and Dolls. I am, so I was delighted by lines like "[spoiler]Al takes out his ice machine and lays it on the table and it is a pretty safe bet that the first one to burst out laughing is going to be doing it without the aid of a face.[/spoiler]"
Cosh is wise. Start on your epic Nikolai Dante odyssey, you won't regret it.
From that list however I'd go MC Undercover next.
Actually,there was a Chopper one shot in Meg 2.36,but its not really worth mentioning.
I second the MC Undercover recommendation.
Quote from: I, Cosh on 26 January, 2017, 08:14:30 AM
Leviathan is the best thing on that list.
Nikolai Dante is better. Get the first book of that insted.
This is pretty much spot on.... well except.
See with the things you enjoyed I'd go with what Cosh says BUT my recommendation is to go for a punt and get Flesh Dino Files. Its brilliant but of course a very different beast to the stuff you have read up to now, in that its from the very early days and as such is aimed at a younger audience... though is pretty superb and surprisingly violent. Here's some thought from myself when I reread it for the umpteenth time recently
QuoteArh Flesh Book 1, I will never doubt you again.
I've read it for the third time in maybe 5 years and it really is the Thrill that keeps giving... well okay not giving, its not as if it has any hidden depths or is anything other than its meant to be on the surface. BUT since on the surface its THE BLOODY COOLIST STORY EVER, dinosaurs, cowboys, blood, guts and a monster as villianous and terrible as any there has ever been, frankly who the hell cares. I think I've talked about this countless times before. Each time I've re-read it though it doesn't disappoint. Its well plotted has wonderfully engaging characters, in all their vivid two dimensions and if basically the joy of reading action and adventure comics boiled down into its puriest, undistilled form.
Its simply the best.
I can send you I think book 3 or 4 of Nikolai Dante (The Great Game) if you get going on that - I won some kind of facebook competition but already owned this book, so Molch-R told me to keep this one and sent me the collected Future Shocks instead (what a lovely droid). I always wanted to pass it on to someone but it is mid-series, I don't know many comic book readers in RL, feels like a waste in a charity shop AND it's not kid appropriate....
I recently bought the digital collection of Age of the Wolf and am half-way through. It's better than I remembered from the weekly, and I'd recommend that as a really good flavour of the sort of thing 2000AD does today. If you like that, as well as all the JD/SD/RT you've been reading, it's a pretty safe bet that you'll enjoy almost anything Tharg has to offer!
I'd also recommend avoiding Mega City Undercover for now in the hope that they produce a new set of collections specifically for Low Life, which is far and away the best of the 'undercover Judges' serials. Unless you feel you need a Dirty Frank fix in a hurry, and I wouldn't blame you if you did!
For me the first series of the ABC Warriors is by far the best, so I would go for Mek Files vol 1 which has colour centre spreads.
A few other obvious things to add to your list (IMHO)
Nemesis the Warlock esp vol 1 and 2
Early Slaine up to end of The Horned God plus the Langley stuff if you like. You might not want to bother with the bits in between.
Zenith.
Robo Hunter.
Ace Trucking.
Of the stuff on your list my vote goes to the Simping Detective. Simply the best thing in the Meg ever (well until Lawless came along).
Oh and Age of the Wolf is no where near my best of 2000AD list.
Quote from: AlexF on 26 January, 2017, 02:00:35 PM
I'd also recommend avoiding Mega City Undercover for now in the hope that they produce a new set of collections specifically for Low Life, which is far and away the best of the 'undercover Judges' serials. Unless you feel you need a Dirty Frank fix in a hurry, and I wouldn't blame you if you did!
MegaCity Undercover 3 only came out in October so I wouldn't thing a new set would be likely in the medium term
I envy anyone who hasn't read Leviathan because they still get to experience it for the first time.
I bought it based on a recommendation from this board and it's one of the best 2000ad stories ever.
Of that particular list, I'd say Leviathan is the best and most unique option, so I'd go for that. (I'm assuming you're in the US, based on the list names – otherwise for the Dreddworld stuff, you'd probably be better off buying the relevant Hachette volumes.)
My take on the others:
- Flesh: The Dino Files: fun, old-school 2000 AD (cowboys and dinosaurs), but very much of its era, and with diminishing returns as it goes on.
- Chopper: Surf-S Up: Song of the Surfer is one of the best things 2000 AD has ever run. After that point – which is when it should have ended – it varies between OK Ennis work and the dismal Supersurf 13, before Wagner (hopefully) ends the Chopper series with the fairly good The Big Meg.
- The Complete Al's Baby: Amusing but relatively throwaway.
- The Taxidermist: Cheesecake art a go go from Gibson, but otherwise a decent set of Dreddworld tales, much of which has some real heart.
- Button Man: Get Harry Ex: Basically a movie on the page. One of my favourite 2000 AD one-shots of all-time. Just not quite Leviathan good for me. (The subsequent volumes are good too, although not for me to the same level as the original.)
- Judge Death: The Life and Death of...: I'm assuming this is the Young Death arc, which sucked most of the horror out of the character.
- The Simping Detective: An odd one for me. I never got on with Simping at all in its original run, but it reads very nicely when collected. It's a real pity what the writer did with one of the female characters though.
- Missionary Man: Bad Moon Rising: Fairly early Rennie with some surprisingly gory Quitely art. MM got better as it went along, but this particular collection didn't do a whole lot for me.
- Mega-City Undercover: The Rebellion trade is a mash-up of the first Lenny Zero tale (which is very good) and figuring out how Low Life would play out. Low Life in particular became a real treat, and so I would recommend this and the follow-up volumes. But they're cheaper in Hachette form.
- Age of the Wolf: I bought this one myself in a 2000 AD sale, partly because I think Mrs IP might like it. I recall it being a solid tale, even if some of the werewolf art was a bit weird.
flesh
harlem heroes
nemesis (come ON man!)
abc warriors
hewligans haircut :)
and, indeed, your dedication to thrill power is awe-inspiring!
The Complete Halo Jones by Alan Moore & Ian Gibson - Mr Moore at his finest, one of the best things 2000ad has ever run and a story that really hasn't dated very much (compared to some other 70s and 80s thrills). I wish this wasn't "The complete.." because it collects the only thee volumes that were ever published, but in a perfect world it would be part 1 of 4 as this was supposed to be a 12-book epic.
I'd also recommend:
the three "phonebook" size Nemesis collections;
Zenith;
The Complete Ro-busters (a bit dated and juvenile but great fun)
Robohunter:Verdus, the first and best robohunter arc - It became much more comedy-focused after this and IMO went downhill rapidly.
And the winner is... Leviathan! I'm not surprised to see Leviathan at the top as I had constantly heard whispers here about this title before (Thanks to I, Cosh, Nic Freeman, and IndigoPrime etc. for recommending!) Today I ordered Leviathan online, so I should have it in a few weeks – Really looking forward to it! :D
Thanks again to everyone who made recommendations! I take them very seriously as I want Tharg's best! As for my commitment to thrill power – I have 40 years of reading to catch up on! Im jealous of everyone who grew up with a weekly dose of 2000AD, you lucky creeps! I dropped 99% of the monthly floppies I used to buy (mostly Marvel) and put my money towards 2000AD instead. Much happier!
Mega City undercover had a few votes too, so I will keep that near the top of my list too. Thanks to AlexF, James Stacey and Smith for recommending it!
Another popular recommendation is Button Man (Thanks to Link Prime and IndigoPrime for the recommending). I think I might buy this one next...
@Smith and @ Magnetica, I have never read ABC Warriors but they have been on my radar. I looked online and it appears the Volgan War trades are difficult to come by. Are the Complete Mek Files worth picking up (3 volumes I think)? How abut The Meknificant Seven trade? I know nothing of these characters but reading the synopsis for these books online looks pretty cool! (Also Is Ro-Busters necessary reading before getting into the ABC Warriors?)
Thanks to Greg M. and Echidna for explaining the Chopper book. I really like the character and would like to see where he goes after the ending of CF #11 (Which is one of my favorite Dredd stories so far and I wish was printed in color as there appeared to be a lot of colour spreads printed in B&W). I'll keep it on my list.
I was hoping to hear that Al's Baby was an essential read as it has a great creative team and premises. I think Ill leave it on the list but its not at the top.
Colin YNWA, your thoughts on Flesh Dino Files make me want to read it badly. I mean, cowboys, dinosaurs, blood, guts and monsters? What's not to love!? This stays at the top of my list.
As for Nikolai Dante, it sounds like I will have to add this to my list. My problem is I'm really a completionist and looking online it appears I can only get a few volumes here and there, and could therefore not collect/read the whole story.
@ Theblazeuk - Thank you very much for your generous Dante offer! I do live in Canada, however, and am not sure how much postage would be. What kind of competition did you win? Congrats!
Age of the wolf sounds good, Andy Lambert really sold it when describing it in another thread and I look forward to reading it.
@IndigoPrime, thanks for the detailed list. Based on your list I am most interested in Leviathan, Flesh, and Button Man. Missionary man sounds good too. However, I also don't think Ill be getting Judge Death: The life and Death of... or the Simping detective, as they sound nowhere as good as some of the other titles on the list. Thanks for the detail.
@ Dandontdare, I already read the Zenith books (book 3 is my fave) and have the 4 Robo Hunter casebooks too (I enjoyed them a lot, but that's enough Slade for me!). I haven't considered Nemesis yet, so thanks for the input. As for Halo Jones, I hear its great and will probably get it someday. The completionist inside me hates that the story was never completely told)
I would like to learn more about Slaine too, what to search out and what to avoid. Thanks again everyone!
IMO reading Ro-busters is not required to understand ABC warriors.
You could get Mek files #1(which collects the first 2 arcs: Meknificent Seven and Black hole) and see if it works for you.
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 30 January, 2017, 04:48:19 AMI have never read ABC Warriors but they have been on my radar. I looked online and it appears the Volgan War trades are difficult to come by. Are the Complete Mek Files worth picking up (3 volumes I think)? How abut The Meknificant Seven trade? I know nothing of these characters but reading the synopsis for these books online looks pretty cool! (Also Is Ro-Busters necessary reading before getting into the ABC Warriors?)
ABC Warriors, I think, to some extent depends on how well you get on with Pat Mills's writing. For me, the original ABC Warriors and follow-up The Black Hole (both compiled in Complete Mek Files vol. 1 – or separately as Meknificant Seven and The Black Hole) remain the best of the entire run. The original series was knockabout early 2000 AD fun, and feels somewhat dated, but has great ideas and art. It feels like Mills was having fun. The Black Hole has some stunning early Bisley artwork, some capable SF by SMS, and is a high-octane tale.
For me, ABC Warriors is broadly diminishing returns thereafter, with Mills getting increasingly preachy, and the stories too often relying on 'getting the band back together' over a dozen episodes. The Volgan War series is in part a massive ret-con, combined with divisive photo-realistic art by Clint Langley. In all honesty, I've found the series pretty dull in recent years, but I'm sure people here would beg to differ. Regardless, I suspect most most
would recommend Mek Files, and so get the first hardback collection.
Ro-Busters is a lot of fun, if again aimed at the audience of the time (ten year olds who could afford a relatively expensive alternative to 2000 AD, Starlord). There are in theory two options there: Complete Ro-Busters from 2008 bundled up the entire run in a phonebook-style reprint. It suits the pulpy nature of the strip, but loses all the colour art. More recently, Rebellion reissued the run across two hardbacks, similar in nature to the Mek-Files. They look gorgeous. Inessential, perhaps, but there are some great old-fashioned 2000 AD stories lurking within.
You also mention Nemesis. That series is, essentially, batshit. The first book (reprinted in 2014 and so available again) is superb. Mills at his very best, joined by some fantastic artists. There's crossover between the strip and ABC Warriors (although you don't need to read both to understand anything), but I'd shove that towards the top of your list.
The other two volumes are, again, not quite as essential. Mills drifts into preachy politics quite a bit, although not nearly to the extent seen elsewhere. They're both very strong on the whole, though the second is a pain to track down, despite ocassionally showing up on eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/nemesis-the-warlock-volume-2-/262823098057?hash=item3d317a36c9:g:ZwkAAOSwLEtYiNSH). Note Nemesis also has a 'Deviant Edition' of the early tales. This is a reprint of the US coloured editions, with reworked art. However, go for the 'complete' volume one, since you get more strip and it leads on to the other 'complete' volumes.
It is worth noting that Mek Files Vol1 has colour centre spreads where as the Meknificent 7 vol doesn't, so I would go for that.
I bought all the Volgan War volumes last year but did have trouble locating suppliers for a couple of them. The forum helped with suggestions though - not sure which thread it was under. As I recall I got them from a combination of the 2000AD online store, Amazon and Wordery.
And IMHO you definitely need Nemesis vol1. It is better than ABC Warriors in my view.
Magnetica, IndigoPrime, and Smith - Okay, you guys sold me on the ABC Warriors. I just ordered Volgan War v.1 from the webshop!
I'll definitely get the 1st Mek Files soon (are all three good?) and will consider Ro-Busters.
I looked around and was able to find volumes 2-4 of Volgan War as well and will get them as well if I enjoy volume one. On the webshop it also mentions ABC Warriors: Return to Earth, Return to Mars, and Return to Ro-Busters. Are these a continuation of the Volgan War (and worthwhile)?
Slaine and Nemesis sound interesting (and I'm sure are very good) but I am hesitant as I'm not really into fantasy (Conan, Lord of the Rings etc). I prefer the sci-fi of Dredd/Strontium Dog/Glimmer Rats etc - this is why I think I'll really like ABC Warriors. However, I am open to reading new things, and you guys haven't steered me wrong yet, so I will have to consider those eventually.
Thanks again for your recommendations, they continue to guide my reading!
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 31 January, 2017, 06:21:52 AM
Slaine and Nemesis sound interesting (and I'm sure are very good) but I am hesitant as I'm not really into fantasy (Conan, Lord of the Rings etc).
Nemesis has fantasy elements, but it's largely big, mad, over-the-top, spaceships/aliens/laserguns/time-travel sci-fi set in the far future. It also has the greatest villain (or indeed character) in all comics: Torquemada. It goes off the boil towards the end, but is generally the best thing Pat Mills has ever written.
My personal favourite regarding the A.B.C Warriors is Khronicals of Khaos. It's a mad tale with some fantastic artwork.
Cheers
So where is the best place to get the Leviathan collection? On Amazon the softback price is listed as '2 New from £83.28' :o
Quote from: norton canes on 31 January, 2017, 12:20:22 PM
So where is the best place to get the Leviathan collection? On Amazon the softback price is listed as '2 New from £83.28' :o
There are second hand (soft cover) copies on Amazon starting at around £11.30.
Cheers
Ah, cool. Just wondered if someone had discovered somewhere selling new copies at a reasonable price.
Quote from: norton canes on 31 January, 2017, 12:36:15 PM
Ah, cool. Just wondered if someone had discovered somewhere selling new copies at a reasonable price.
The ones listed on Abebooks at £11.31 (which are probably from the same seller) are apparently new.
I always think I don't like Sword and Sorcery but then I read Slaine (or Nemesis) and just forget that.
My opinion: early Slaine (up to end of Horned God) and Nemesis up to end of Bryan Talbot's run, are the very best things in the Prog ever. The first series of ABC Warrriors comes close.
After that none of them were ever as good again. Still worth reading, just not at the stellar level of before.
And yes Robusters is worth getting including the Starlord stuff. So go for the Nuts n Bolts hardback ( same style as the Mek Files hard back -including colour centre spreads).
I say all that as someone who is a massive Dredd and Stront fan.
Going a bit wider,we have Mazeworld.
And something of a personal favorite Ten-Seconders.Sadly,the final story has yet to be collected.
Quote from: Smith on 31 January, 2017, 01:13:19 PM
Going a bit wider,we have Mazeworld.
A very good series on the whole, although I found the 3rd act probably the weakest part of the book.
Definitely worth a read!
Cheers
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 31 January, 2017, 06:21:52 AM
Magnetica, IndigoPrime, and Smith - Okay, you guys sold me on the ABC Warriors. I just ordered Volgan War v.1 from the webshop! I'll definitely get the 1st Mek Files soon (are all three good?) and will consider Ro-Busters.
As I noted, it depends what kind of Mills you're into. Mek Files vol 1 compiles the earliest ABC Warriors. It's fun and brash, and not bogged down with where Mills subsequently went, but the first series is also of its time, in being a bit juvenile. By contrast, the Volgan War stuff is 'cinematic' modern proggage that also happens to ret-con a chunk of the original story. Personally, I'm not a fan of the Volgan War stuff at all – I find it quite dull. But then if you're coming at it new, it's not like a remastered re-run, and that freshness should help it.
As for the other Mek-Files volumes, none of them are bad, and the second one is quite inventive and weird. The third one veers into retread territory, but has some suitably energetic b+w art within. I'd still say the first volume's the best of them.
QuoteI looked around and was able to find volumes 2-4 of Volgan War as well and will get them as well if I enjoy volume one. On the webshop it also mentions ABC Warriors: Return to Earth, Return to Mars, and Return to Ro-Busters. Are these a continuation of the Volgan War (and worthwhile)?
The order in which the trades are shown in the shop are more or less following the continuity – such that it is – of the strip. But, yes, Return to Earth, Return to Mars, and Return to Ro-Busters follow on from the Volgan War volumes. If you enjoy those, you'll probably like the other books, too.
QuoteSlaine and Nemesis sound interesting (and I'm sure are very good) but I am hesitant as I'm not really into fantasy
As others have noted, Nemesis isn't so much fantasy and bonkers future weirdness. It's a mash-up of sword/sorcery/far-future/aliens/knackered old robots. And, honestly, those first few books are among the best things 2000 AD has run – they really
are 2000 AD in many ways, to the equal of the best Dredd and Strontium Dog. Sláine is a bit different, in that it's mostly in more traditional sword/sorcery territory. The Warriors Dawn to Horned God run is very good, though, as is much of Book of Invasions through The Wanderer. But that first Nemesis collection is a must.
As for Leviathan, the 2000 AD store currently has copies (https://shop.2000ad.com/catalogue/XB397).
Wordery also has stock (https://wordery.com/leviathan-ian-edington-9781907992698?cTrk=Mzg1ODEwNzZ8NTg5MDliYzgyYzQ0NToxOjEyOjU4OTA5YmJlMmI5OTM1LjkwNzExOTc5OjBmZjU4NDkw).
Thanks for all the Leviathan collection links! :D
Quote from: NapalmKev on 31 January, 2017, 11:17:22 AM
My personal favourite regarding the A.B.C Warriors is Khronicals of Khaos. It's a mad tale with some fantastic artwork.
Cheers
Thanks for the input - I'm guessing this is collected in one of the Mek Files collections (seeing that it came out in the early 90's).
Quote from: Smith on 31 January, 2017, 01:13:19 PM
Going a bit wider,we have Mazeworld.
And something of a personal favorite Ten-Seconders.Sadly,the final story has yet to be collected.
The Ten-Seconders has caught my interest as well, but I suppose it might be worth waiting for the whole thing to be collected. I googled Mazeworld, sounds interesting...
Another one I am interested in is The Grievous Journey of Ichabod Azrael (And The Dead Left In His Wake). I haven't heard anyone mention it, but I really enjoy the western genera (One reason I enjoy Strontium Dog so much. Also, Tex and Rio are great western reads).
Quote from: IndigoPrime on 31 January, 2017, 02:15:35 PM
As I noted, it depends what kind of Mills you're into. Mek Files vol 1 compiles the earliest ABC Warriors. It's fun and brash, and not bogged down with where Mills subsequently went, but the first series is also of its time, in being a bit juvenile. By contrast, the Volgan War stuff is 'cinematic' modern proggage that also happens to ret-con a chunk of the original story. Personally, I'm not a fan of the Volgan War stuff at all – I find it quite dull. But then if you're coming at it new, it's not like a remastered re-run, and that freshness should help it.
As for the other Mek-Files volumes, none of them are bad, and the second one is quite inventive and weird. The third one veers into retread territory, but has some suitably energetic b+w art within. I'd still say the first volume's the best of them.
The order in which the trades are shown in the shop are more or less following the continuity – such that it is – of the strip. But, yes, Return to Earth, Return to Mars, and Return to Ro-Busters follow on from the Volgan War volumes. If you enjoy those, you'll probably like the other books, too.
As others have noted, Nemesis isn't so much fantasy and bonkers future weirdness. It's a mash-up of sword/sorcery/far-future/aliens/knackered old robots. And, honestly, those first few books are among the best things 2000 AD has run – they really are 2000 AD in many ways, to the equal of the best Dredd and Strontium Dog. Sláine is a bit different, in that it's mostly in more traditional sword/sorcery territory. The Warriors Dawn to Horned God run is very good, though, as is much of Book of Invasions through The Wanderer. But that first Nemesis collection is a must.
Thanks again for all the information. I read some reviews on the Volgan war online which are mostly very positive so I and am quite excited (I think the art is incredible!). As you said, I am coming at it with no previous history so will probably be able to enjoy it more. I'll tackle the Mek files in a bit too, they sound like they are all worthwhile, and three books isn't a strain.
I'll keep Slaine on the backburner for now, but you have piqued my curiosity about Nemesis. If I was to just get the Deviant edition (I do like the color option), does it collect most of the best stories and does it tie up most loose ends (does it feel like a self contained story without a big cliff hanger)?
Thanks again all!
Quote from: norton canes on 31 January, 2017, 02:21:26 PM
Thanks for all the Leviathan collection links! :D
One more for you: Book Depository (its the cheapest by a few cents, with free shipping). The webshop is about the same price and Wordery is a buck more, but also with free shipping.
I ordered my copy from Chapters.ca (a Canadian big box bookstore) as I had a gift card to use up. They have slow delivery but that only builds anticipation...
Quote from: Magnetica on 31 January, 2017, 01:01:29 PM
And yes Robusters is worth getting including the Starlord stuff. So go for the Nuts n Bolts hardback ( same style as the Mek Files hard back -including colour centre spreads).
I say all that as someone who is a massive Dredd and Stront fan.
Sounds like we are into similar stuff (Stront/Dredd), so I will have to take your advice add add the Robusters hardbacks to my wish list. Cheers
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 31 January, 2017, 09:49:14 PMThanks for the input - I'm guessing this is collected in one of the Mek Files collections (seeing that it came out in the early 90's).
It's roughly half of the second hardback.
Quote from: Smith on 31 January, 2017, 01:13:19 PMAnother one I am interested in is The Grievous Journey of Ichabod Azrael (And The Dead Left In His Wake).
I really like that one. It goes a bit meta at one point, but the story and art throughout are rather good. Not top-tier 2000 AD, but a very solid read.
Quote from: IndigoPrime on 31 January, 2017, 02:15:35 PMI'll keep Slaine on the backburner for now, but you have piqued my curiosity about Nemesis. If I was to just get the Deviant edition (I do like the color option), does it collect most of the best stories and does it tie up most loose ends (does it feel like a self contained story without a big cliff hanger)?
The problem with the Deviant edition is it collects the first three books, whereas The Complete vol 1 is books 1–4. So if you do like the run and want to continue, you're pretty much screwed with the Deviant edition.
As for self-contained... sort of. I'd say book four has the more satisfying conclusion than book three, again making The Complete the better buy in that regard. Relatively little is left dangling, although there are pointers to where the series would go next.
Thanks again for your feedback IndigoPrime. I will keep Nemesis on my list, but will go for the complete v.1 (like to said, that way if I like it I can get vol.2 and so on. Very logical).
Looking at the ABC Warriors, it appears that each volume (Return to Mars or Return to Ro-busters for example) is only released in hardback. The only Volgan war volumes available are softcover (which I ordered), but it would be bothersome (to me) if the other books are only available in hardback (makes for an inconsistent collection). I know Marvel often releases hardback versions of a book several months before releasing the softcover versions. Does Rebellion do this as well, or it it likely they will only release the HC versions?
For what it is worth when I bought the Volgan War books last year, vols 1, 2 and 3 were soft cover, whereas 4 was hardback.
Re Nemesis Deviant edition it is worth knowing that as well as colouring the art, Kev O'Neill has also changed some of the panel layouts, including redrawing some. There is a different mapping of what panels are on what page, and hence a slightly different page count.
The colouring is different to the original centre spreads in Book III.
As such I view it as "non definitive" although others have, on another thread, put forward the view that there is no definitive version.
As I recall it possibly also has different extra stories.
For me it is mainly for completists and as a newcomer I would definitely go for the standard vol1. Lack of colour centre spreads not withstanding it is some of the best art ever in 2000AD and was originally draw to be in black and white; the colouring adds little/ nothing/actively detracts. The Deviant edition ends after book III and so misses the Gothic Empire (book IV).
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 31 January, 2017, 09:49:14 PM
Another one I am interested in is The Grievous Journey of Ichabod Azrael (And The Dead Left In His Wake). I haven't heard anyone mention it, but I really enjoy the western genera (One reason I enjoy Strontium Dog so much. Also, Tex and Rio are great western reads).
Its a great strip but don't go into it expecting it to be a western. It really isn't. It goes sideways almost straight away :)
Quote from: Magnetica on 01 February, 2017, 02:41:46 PM
Re Nemesis Deviant edition ...
As I recall it possibly also has different extra stories.
It includes the poster prog story in addition to the early O'Neill and Redondo stuff. Since this is quite a challenging item to obtain and so expensive for what it is, it is well worth it. Personally went for the Termight edition with the signed postcards from messrs Mills and O'Neill.
Quote from: Magnetica on 01 February, 2017, 02:41:46 PM
For what it is worth when I bought the Volgan War books last year, vols 1, 2 and 3 were soft cover, whereas 4 was hardback.
Oddly enough...this does make me feel better.
As long as they are the same size.
Quote from: Magnetica on 01 February, 2017, 02:41:46 PM
For me it is mainly for completists and as a newcomer I would definitely go for the standard vol1. Lack of colour centre spreads not withstanding it is some of the best art ever in 2000AD and was originally draw to be in black and white; the colouring adds little/ nothing/actively detracts. The Deviant edition ends after book III and so misses the Gothic Empire (book IV).
Right-O, I'll go for the standard v.1 as recommended. I really do appreciate B&W art (I sometimes wish certain Dredd stories were B&W - the early coloring sometimes detracts/muddies from the art). Also, Im not to sure how long one is considered a new comer. Ive been reading 2000AD about a year but am making up for lost time!
Quote from: James Stacey on 01 February, 2017, 03:52:31 PM
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 31 January, 2017, 09:49:14 PM
Another one I am interested in is The Grievous Journey of Ichabod Azrael (And The Dead Left In His Wake). I haven't heard anyone mention it, but I really enjoy the western genera (One reason I enjoy Strontium Dog so much. Also, Tex and Rio are great western reads).
Its a great strip but don't go into it expecting it to be a western. It really isn't. It goes sideways almost straight away :)
I was curious enough to download the free preview from the webshop. From what I read it seems awesome! ([spoiler]Its not often the main character is killed in the first issue[/spoiler]). I like the transition from color to B&W as well, and would like to know what happens next. He seems like a irredeemable sort.
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 02 February, 2017, 03:49:57 AMAs long as they are the same size.
I'm afraid not. The Sláine and ABC Warriors Volgan War hardbacks are quite large – about A4. The paperback editions are standard 2000 AD trade size. (Mek Files is a slightly different size again – a little oversized versus a standard trade. It's about 2cm taller.)
Quote from: IndigoPrime on 02 February, 2017, 10:51:35 AM
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 02 February, 2017, 03:49:57 AMAs long as they are the same size.
I'm afraid not. The Sláine and ABC Warriors Volgan War hardbacks are quite large – about A4. The paperback editions are standard 2000 AD trade size. (Mek Files is a slightly different size again – a little oversized versus a standard trade. It's about 2cm taller.)
Stop the madness!!
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 02 February, 2017, 05:06:47 PM
Quote from: IndigoPrime on 02 February, 2017, 10:51:35 AM
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 02 February, 2017, 03:49:57 AMAs long as they are the same size.
I'm afraid not. The Sláine and ABC Warriors Volgan War hardbacks are quite large – about A4. The paperback editions are standard 2000 AD trade size. (Mek Files is a slightly different size again – a little oversized versus a standard trade. It's about 2cm taller.)
Stop the madness!!
sssh. No one mention the spines
What makes Nemesis essential reading for 2000ad fans is the main villain Torquemada. He is the best villain ever to appear in 2000ad - perhaps Judge Death is the only other one who comes even close.
Quote from: WhizzBang on 02 February, 2017, 08:48:04 PM
What makes Nemesis essential reading for 2000ad fans is the main villain Torquemada. He is the best villain ever to appear in comics - perhaps Judge Death is the only other one who comes even close.
As the saying goes, I believe, fixed that for ya.
Going to rejuvenate (and appropriate) this thread to ask for some advice from 2000AD regulars.
I've been reading AD since July of last year, and in that time have jumped in deep on Dredd, and everything around him, with the Mega Collection. I've now decided that I need to branch out a bit, and am wondering what would be the best next steps into 2000AD.
At the 40th yesterday, Pat Mills told me to read Crisis when I mentioned that I loved his Savage work. Now, I can't seem to find this online. Is it in print?
Aside from that, I've read everything in the Prog and Meg since last July. I particularly enjoy Kingmaker, Hope...For The Future, Savage and Lawless. I've also read 2 volumes of Stickleback and volume 1 of Slaine the Horned God.
What would be the recommendations from here? I've read through the thread and there's a lot on offer, so was wondering if anyone happened to have similar tastes to me and could make any suggestions on what to do from here. Cheers
Im thinking you might like Tales of Telguuth?
http://www.cbr.com/tales-of-telguuth-tpb-vol-1/ (http://www.cbr.com/tales-of-telguuth-tpb-vol-1/)
Hopefully now rebellion own the rights the might do collect editions of crisis, revolver and starlord
Quote from: JaHawkDroid on 12 February, 2017, 08:36:03 AM
Pat Mills told me to read Crisis when I mentioned that I loved his Savage work. Now, I can't seem to find this online. Is it in print?
Crisis (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crisis_(Fleetway)) was a fortnightly, politics themed
2000ad spin-off title from the late eighties. Sort of a more didactic version of
Dice Man (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diceman_(comics)), where Pat Mills told the reader which direction they should go
(and the answer was always Left).
None of the strips Crisis published are currently available, but Rebellion have recently acquired the rights to them
(as well as the above mentioned Dice Man and Tharg's other adult spin-off, Revolver (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revolver_(comics))), so presumably Mills and Ezquerra's
Third World War Book One (http://www.theransomnote.com/culture/pulp-cult/crisis-pat-mills-remembering-the-uk-comic-that-changed-the-game/) will eventually turn up as a trade paperback.
There's a fair amount of Garth Ennis
Crisis material, but I'm not sure he's still a big enough name to guartantee sales. John Smith and Jim Baikie/Sean Phillips'
New Statesmen is probably a 50/50 shot, but we might have to wait for Megazine floppies to see that, Grant Morrison's
Bible John and other
Crisis strips back in print.
If you like Dredd you would probably go for Strontium Dog as well. Dredd aside it is my favorite 2000Ad series so far. My other favorites include Kingdom (vol 3 comes out next month so its a good time to catch up and jump on board) and I highly recommend Jaegir which is a brilliant series set in the world of Rogue Trooper and focuses on the norts.
My orders of Leviathan, Button Man, and ABC Warriors have not arrived yet. Im expecting most books to arrive this week! :) When they do I'll read em and post my thoughts here!
QuoteI will keep Nemesis on my list, but will go for the complete v.1 (like to said, that way if I like it I can get vol.2 and so on. Very logical).
Good luck with that.
If you find v.2 at an affordable price, please do let me know.
For the record, I've just added Meltdown Man, The Complete D.R. & Quinch and Zombo vol. 1 & 2 to my ever-growing collection.
Have you bought Age Of The Wolf yet?
Quote from: Andy Lambert on 17 February, 2017, 03:45:51 PM
If you find v.2 at an affordable price, please do let me know.
Might be worth looking in the webshop in 6-8 weeks' time as it's just been sent to be reprinted.
Quote from: Molch-R on 17 February, 2017, 03:50:30 PM
Quote from: Andy Lambert on 17 February, 2017, 03:45:51 PM
If you find v.2 at an affordable price, please do let me know.
Might be worth looking in the webshop in 6-8 weeks' time as it's just been sent to be reprinted.
That news has just made my day! Thank you...! :)
Now, since we're talking about reprints.... about vol.1 of Ace Trucking Co. .... ;)
Andy, I look forward to hearing your thoughts on Meltdown Man, another series that appeals to me. I have not yet bought Age of the Wolf but I am really looking forward to it. The next batch of thrill power I buy will likely be a mix of Age of the Wolf, Case Files, and finishing of my Tales of Nu Earth collection (and possibly Missionary Man...).
Molch-R, thanks for the news. I may have to jump on this series while it is available as well.
So these arrived this week - I am thrilled (see image below)! (I'm still waiting for Volgan Wars v.1 to arrive from the webshop, hopefully soon as I cant start reading the others without it). That Mek Files #1 is a beautiful large HC, I really look forward to reading it. And art in Volgan War is mind blowing!
The fist book I read was Leviathan, which I read in a single sitting last night (while sitting one the couch beside my wife while she read the novel 'The Woman in Cabin 10' - timely that we were both reading horror/suspense books about cruise ships).
My thoughts on Leviathan (mostly spoiler free, but I will include a few): [spoiler]First of all I can see why everybody likes this series, it really gets the imagination going and the great artwork by Matt Brooker ( D'Israeli - any idea why he calls himself that?) beautifully creates the world that is the Leviathan. The story starts out quickly with the first murder in first class and unfolds into the journey to the engine room. Honestly, I enjoyed the first 3/4 of the book the most, when there was still mystery and some intrigue as to why/who was responsible for the murders. Also, the reveal of Hastur wasn't as surprising as it should have been as his appearance was mentioned in an amazon review I read (plus his head is on the spine of the book...). I liked that it was in B&W too, as the imagination filled in the gaps nicely (what would be the yellow colors of limbo etc.) The ties to the Biblical narrative were interesting (the dealings with one of the wise men / the fallen angels etc.) - with him being a demon and all its hard to tell what he was lying about and what was the truth, I would likely believe the opposite of what he was telling me if I was Detective Lament.
The ending was satisfying, if not a little quickly resolved - I would have liked to have seen more of the lower levels of the ship and how people lived there. The fight with Ashbless at the end was solid, it was good to see him get what was coming. Finally, I didn't necessarily like the way that Hastur kept his word and returned Leviathan to NYC; I would have liked to have seen the weeks ensuing where he betrays/kills all of the passengers from the Leviathan in mysterious ways, or something. [/spoiler]
Overall, a very interesting read. I am more into sci-fi than spiritual/magic books, therefore I still prefer books like Jaegir and Kingdom. I never enjoy stories as much when quick deal with a demon/ghost what have you uses magic to make everything better (see Spiderman One more day etc.) A quick flip through Buttonman also has me Very excited.
Thanks again for everyone's opinions, I will be reading Button Man next! (Unless Volgan War v.1 arrives - I am anticipating that the most right now)
Quote from: Molch-R on 17 February, 2017, 03:50:30 PM
Quote from: Andy Lambert on 17 February, 2017, 03:45:51 PM
If you find v.2 at an affordable price, please do let me know.
Might be worth looking in the webshop in 6-8 weeks' time as it's just been sent to be reprinted.
Great news - though not for myself as I don't have the space (London living) and already have:
- the original stories that ran in the progs
- the 1980s Titan reprints
- the Eagle reprints
- the 'Quality' reprints - Spellbinders *tsk*
- the 2000-or-so Titan reprint
But great to see one of my favourite comic stories ever becoming more easily available.
QuoteAndy, I look forward to hearing your thoughts on Meltdown Man, another series that appeals to me. I have not yet bought Age of the Wolf but I am really looking forward to it. The next batch of thrill power I buy will likely be a mix of Age of the Wolf, Case Files, and finishing of my Tales of Nu Earth collection (and possibly Missionary Man...).
Meltdown Man was kinda fun in a juvenile sort of way - quite a lengthy strip as I think it was presented in one weekly run between October 1980 and August 1981. I felt that it could've been told in fewer episodes, and it did appear as just a series of set pieces for the most part, but I still devoured it in a week. Bellardinelli's artwork is just amazing, the Yujees and the world they live in are beautifully rendered and worth the book's price alone.
If you enjoyed the style of story telling of the early progs, in particular Dan Dare, Black Hawk, early Judge Dredd and ABC Warriors, you'll probably enjoy this.
Hope you enjoy Age Of The Wolf - hopefully I haven't overhyped that one...! lol
No idea, but he used to append D'emon D'raughtsman to his moniker (in the pages of Deadline - not sure if he used it outside that tome).
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 17 February, 2017, 10:21:53 PM
So these arrived this week - I am thrilled (see image below)! (I'm still waiting for Volgan Wars v.1 to arrive from the webshop, hopefully soon as I cant start reading the others without it). That Mek Files #1 is a beautiful large HC, I really look forward to reading it. And art in Volgan War is mind blowing!
The fist book I read was Leviathan, which I read in a single sitting last night (while sitting one the couch beside my wife while she read the novel 'The Woman in Cabin 10' - timely that we were both reading horror/suspense books about cruise ships).
My thoughts on Leviathan (mostly spoiler free, but I will include a few): [spoiler]First of all I can see why everybody likes this series, it really gets the imagination going and the great artwork by Matt Brooker ( D'Israeli - any idea why he calls himself that?) beautifully creates the world that is the Leviathan. The story starts out quickly with the first murder in first class and unfolds into the journey to the engine room. Honestly, I enjoyed the first 3/4 of the book the most, when there was still mystery and some intrigue as to why/who was responsible for the murders. Also, the reveal of Hastur wasn't as surprising as it should have been as his appearance was mentioned in an amazon review I read (plus his head is on the spine of the book...). I liked that it was in B&W too, as the imagination filled in the gaps nicely (what would be the yellow colors of limbo etc.) The ties to the Biblical narrative were interesting (the dealings with one of the wise men / the fallen angels etc.) - with him being a demon and all its hard to tell what he was lying about and what was the truth, I would likely believe the opposite of what he was telling me if I was Detective Lament.
The ending was satisfying, if not a little quickly resolved - I would have liked to have seen more of the lower levels of the ship and how people lived there. The fight with Ashbless at the end was solid, it was good to see him get what was coming. Finally, I didn't necessarily like the way that Hastur kept his word and returned Leviathan to NYC; I would have liked to have seen the weeks ensuing where he betrays/kills all of the passengers from the Leviathan in mysterious ways, or something. [/spoiler]
Overall, a very interesting read. I am more into sci-fi than spiritual/magic books, therefore I still prefer books like Jaegir and Kingdom. I never enjoy stories as much when quick deal with a demon/ghost what have you uses magic to make everything better (see Spiderman One more day etc.) A quick flip through Buttonman also has me Very excited.
Thanks again for everyone's opinions, I will be reading Button Man next! (Unless Volgan War v.1 arrives - I am anticipating that the most right now)
Note that I am not comparing Leviathan to OMD...just the "deal with the devil" solution to resolve stories. Leviathan was much different as the whole plot revolved around it which was unique.
Quote from: Rogue Judge on 17 February, 2017, 11:55:21 PM
Note that I am not comparing Leviathan to OMD...just the "deal with the devil" solution to resolve stories. Leviathan was much different as the whole plot revolved around it which was unique.
I was momentarily confused there, as I couldn't work out why you were referring to 80s synth band Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. I think I need a coffee.
Quote from: Andy Lambert on 17 February, 2017, 03:52:40 PM
Quote from: Molch-R on 17 February, 2017, 03:50:30 PM
Quote from: Andy Lambert on 17 February, 2017, 03:45:51 PM
If you find v.2 at an affordable price, please do let me know.
Might be worth looking in the webshop in 6-8 weeks' time as it's just been sent to be reprinted.
That news has just made my day! Thank you...! :)
Now, since we're talking about reprints.... about vol.1 of Ace Trucking Co. .... ;)
A reprint of Ace vol. 1 would be very welcome.
Quote from: CalHab on 18 February, 2017, 08:15:08 AMI was momentarily confused there, as I couldn't work out why you were referring to 80s synth band Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark.
Heh – snap! (Old synth-op gits unite!)