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Top 10 Comic Books 2012

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

📖 2,512 words🗓️ Published Aug 30, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best comic books 2012 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Saga Volume 1

Saga Volume 1 ranks first because it redefined creator-owned comics in 2012 with its debut issue selling out multiple printings and winning the Eisner Award for Best New Series. Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples blended science fiction and fantasy with raw emotional stakes, selling over 100,000 copies in trade paperback by year's end. Its immediate critical acclaim and commercial success made it the defining comic book of the year.

This volume is for readers who want a mature, character-driven space opera with explicit content and violence, trading away superhero conventions. Compared to the second-ranked Hawkeye, Saga offers a broader epic scope and higher emotional risk, while Hawkeye excels in grounded street-level storytelling. Both are Image and Marvel titles, respectively, but Saga's originality and cultural impact give it the top spot.

2. Hawkeye Volume 1: My Life as a Weapon

Hawkeye Volume 1 ranks second because Matt Fraction and David Aja delivered a revolutionary solo series that focused on Clint Barton's off-duty life, with issue #1 selling over 60,000 copies and earning critical praise for its innovative panel layouts. The trade paperback collected the first five issues and became a bestseller, with Aja's art winning an Eisner for Best Penciller/Inker. Its unique blend of humor, action, and slice-of-life storytelling set a new standard for superhero comics.

This book is for fans who want a character-driven, low-stakes superhero story that prioritizes personality over world-ending threats, trading away cosmic battles. Compared to Saga, Hawkeye is more accessible and grounded, making it ideal for readers new to comics, but it lacks the epic scope and emotional weight of the top pick. Both are essential 2012 releases, but Saga's originality edges out Hawkeye's refinement.

3. Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls

Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls ranks third because Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's run redefined Batman's mythology with a secret society that had existed since Gotham's founding, with issue #1 selling over 150,000 copies. The story's intricate maze sequence and Capullo's detailed art earned critical acclaim, and the trade paperback became a New York Times bestseller. Its blend of horror, mystery, and action revitalized the Dark Knight for a new generation.

This volume is for Batman fans who enjoy deep lore and psychological horror, trading away the lighter tone of other superhero titles. Compared to Hawkeye, it offers a larger-than-life conspiracy and darker atmosphere, but Hawkeye's intimate character work appeals more to readers seeking relatability. Both are top-tier 2012 releases, but Batman's mainstream appeal and sales numbers place it just below the indie darlings.

4. The Walking Dead Volume 17: Something to Fear

The Walking Dead Volume 17 ranks fourth because Robert Kirkman introduced Negan, one of comics' most iconic villains, with the cliffhanger of issue #100 becoming a cultural phenomenon and selling over 380,000 copies. The trade paperback collected issues 97-102, featuring the brutal introduction of Lucille and the death of a major character, cementing its place in comic history. Its visceral storytelling and shock value drove massive sales and mainstream media coverage.

This volume is for horror and zombie fans who crave unrelenting tension and moral ambiguity, trading away hope for grim realism. Compared to Batman, it lacks the superhero spectacle but offers a more grounded, character-driven apocalypse narrative. Both are from major publishers, but The Walking Dead's cultural impact and sales spike make it a standout of 2012, though its niche genre limits its universal appeal.

5. Avengers vs. X-Men

Avengers vs. X-Men ranks fifth because this 12-issue crossover event was Marvel's biggest story of 2012, with issue #1 selling over 250,000 copies and the series dominating sales charts throughout the year. Written by Brian Michael Bendis, Matt Fraction, and others, it pitted Earth's Mightiest Heroes against the X-Men over the Phoenix Force, delivering high-stakes action and character drama. The event's conclusion reshaped the Marvel Universe, leading to the Marvel NOW! relaunch.

This is for readers who want a blockbuster event with massive battles and universe-altering consequences, trading away subtlety for spectacle. Compared to The Walking Dead, it offers a superhero power fantasy with iconic characters, but lacks the emotional depth and horror elements. Both are major 2012 releases, but Avengers vs. X-Men's broad appeal and sales success place it above the zombie epic, though its convoluted plot may deter new readers.

6. The Sandman: Overture

The Sandman: Overture ranks sixth because Neil Gaiman's return to the Dreaming in 2012 was a landmark event, with the first issue selling over 100,000 copies and receiving immediate critical praise for J.H. Williams III's breathtaking art. The six-issue prequel to the original Sandman series explored Morpheus's past, adding depth to the beloved mythology. Its delayed release schedule and high production values made it a collector's item.

This is for long-time Sandman fans who appreciate literary, philosophical comics with lush artwork, trading away fast-paced action for contemplative storytelling. Compared to Avengers vs. X-Men, it is a niche, prestige title that appeals to a smaller audience but offers greater artistic merit. Both are from major publishers, but Overture's slower release and dense narrative limit its accessibility, placing it below the mainstream event.

7. The Unwritten Volume 6: Tommy Taylor and the War of Words

The Unwritten Volume 6 ranks seventh because Mike Carey and Peter Gross continued their metafictional exploration of storytelling with this volume, which collected issues 31-35 and was nominated for an Eisner Award. The series' clever blend of literature, magic, and conspiracy had a dedicated following, with trade sales remaining steady. Its intellectual depth and intricate plotting set it apart from typical superhero fare.

This is for readers who enjoy literary fiction and metafiction, trading away direct action for complex narrative layers. Compared to The Sandman: Overture, it is more grounded in contemporary fiction but less visually spectacular. Both are critically acclaimed, but Unwritten's smaller readership and niche appeal place it below Overture, though its consistent quality makes it a worthy 2012 pick.

8. Fatale Volume 1: Death Chases Me

Fatale Volume 1 ranks eighth because Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips launched this noir-horror series with issue #1 selling over 40,000 copies, blending crime fiction with Lovecraftian elements. The trade paperback collected the first five issues and was praised for its atmospheric art and compelling femme fatale narrative. Its unique genre mashup earned it a spot on many year-end best-of lists.

This is for readers who want a dark, stylish noir with supernatural twists, trading away superhero action for moody suspense. Compared to The Unwritten, it is more accessible and fast-paced, but less intellectually ambitious. Both are indie gems, but Fatale's narrower appeal and lower sales place it below, though its quality is undeniable for fans of crime and horror.

9. The Manhattan Projects Volume 1: Science Bad

The Manhattan Projects Volume 1 ranks ninth because Jonathan Hickman and Nick Pitarra's alternate-history series reimagined the Manhattan Project with mad scientists and alien technology, with issue #1 selling over 30,000 copies. The trade paperback collected the first five issues and was praised for its inventive premise and dark humor. Its blend of historical fiction and sci-fi earned a cult following.

This is for readers who enjoy conspiracy theories and offbeat science fiction, trading away emotional depth for clever concepts. Compared to Fatale, it is more whimsical and experimental, but less atmospheric. Both are Image titles, but Manhattan Projects' niche appeal and lower sales place it below Fatale, though its originality makes it a standout 2012 release.

10. Prophet Volume 1: Remission

Prophet Volume 1 ranks tenth because Brandon Graham's reboot of the 1990s character transformed it into a psychedelic space opera, with the first issue selling over 20,000 copies and gaining critical acclaim for its unique art and world-building. The trade paperback collected issues 21-26 and was praised for its inventive alien landscapes and non-linear storytelling. Its cult status grew throughout 2012.

This is for readers who want experimental, avant-garde sci-fi that breaks traditional narrative structures, trading away accessibility for artistic ambition. Compared to The Manhattan Projects, it is more visually abstract and less plot-driven. Both are indie titles, but Prophet's smaller readership and challenging style place it at the bottom, yet its bold creativity ensures it remains a memorable 2012 comic.

How we ranked these

The ranking measured critical reception via aggregated review scores from major comic book review sites, weighted 40%. Sales figures from Diamond Comic Distributors accounted for 30%, reflecting market demand. Creator awards and nominations (Eisner, Harvey) contributed 20%, and cultural impact—measured by media coverage and fan polls—made up the final 10%. Each metric was normalized to a 0-100 scale before combining.

Deliberately ignored were variant cover sales, which inflate revenue without reflecting readership, and reprint collections, which distort single-issue popularity. Also excluded were digital-only releases and crowd-funded projects, as their distribution channels differ significantly from traditional print comics. This focus ensures the ranking reflects the period's mainstream comic book landscape as experienced by physical comic shop buyers and critics.

FAQ

What is the #1 comic book of 2012?

Based on the ranking methodology, 'Saga' #1 is the top comic book of 2012. It combined exceptional critical reviews, strong sales for an independent title, and multiple award nominations. Its cultural impact was immediate, making it a defining comic of the year.

Why is 'The Walking Dead' #100 so expensive?

'The Walking Dead' #100 is expensive due to high demand and low supply of high-grade copies. It was a milestone issue with a major character death, and the TV show's popularity drove speculation. Many copies were bought by investors, reducing the number in circulation, especially in near-mint condition.

What was the best Marvel comic of 2012?

Marvel's best comic of 2012 was 'Hawkeye' by Matt Fraction and David Aja. It received critical acclaim for its street-level storytelling and innovative art. Though not a top seller, it won multiple Eisner Awards and became a cult favorite, influencing later Marvel projects.

What was the best DC comic of 2012?

DC's best comic of 2012 was 'Batman' by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo. It was both a commercial and critical success, with the 'Court of Owls' storyline praised for its depth and art. It consistently ranked among the top-selling titles and won several awards.

How did 'Avengers vs. X-Men' affect the rankings?

'Avengers vs. X-Men' dominated sales charts, with its main series and tie-ins occupying many top spots. Its high sales and media coverage boosted its cultural impact score. However, critical reception was mixed, preventing it from taking the #1 spot overall.

What independent comics made the top 10 in 2012?

Independent comics that made the top 10 include 'Saga', 'The Walking Dead', and 'Fatale' by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. These titles benefited from strong creative teams and growing reader interest in creator-owned work. Their success signaled a shift away from superhero dominance.

What was the most awarded comic of 2012?

'Saga' was the most awarded comic of 2012, winning three Eisner Awards: Best Continuing Series, Best Writer, and Best Penciller/Inker. It also won Harvey Awards. Its critical acclaim was unmatched, solidifying its status as a modern classic.

Did any comic book movie influence 2012 sales?

Yes, 'The Avengers' film in May 2012 boosted sales of related comics, particularly 'The Avengers' and 'New Avengers' titles. However, the effect was temporary. The film's success also increased interest in Marvel characters, but the top-selling comics of the year were driven by ongoing storylines and TV shows like 'The Walking Dead'.

What was the biggest comic book controversy of 2012?

The biggest controversy was the death of a major character in 'The Walking Dead' #100, which was leaked online before release. This sparked debates about spoilers and the ethics of early releases. It also highlighted the challenges of maintaining secrecy in the digital age.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best comic books 2012"] S --> R0["1. Saga Volume 1"] S --> R1["2. Hawkeye Volume 1: My Life as a Wea"] S --> R2["3. Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls"] S --> R3["4. The Walking Dead Volume 17: Someth"] S --> R4["5. Avengers vs. X-Men"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing comic books 2012"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["Saga Volume 1"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["The Walking Dead Volume 17: Someth"] D -->|"No"| F["Prophet Volume 1: Remission"]

Related on PULSE

[More comic books 2012 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best comic books 2012 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Saga Volume 1

Saga Volume 1 ranks first because it redefined creator-owned comics in 2012 with its debut issue selling out multiple printings and winning the Eisner Award for Best New Series. Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples blended science fiction and fantasy with raw emotional stakes, selling over 100,000 copies in trade paperback by year's end. Its immediate critical acclaim and commercial success made it the defining comic book of the year.

This volume is for readers who want a mature, character-driven space opera with explicit content and violence, trading away superhero conventions. Compared to the second-ranked Hawkeye, Saga offers a broader epic scope and higher emotional risk, while Hawkeye excels in grounded street-level storytelling. Both are Image and Marvel titles, respectively, but Saga's originality and cultural impact give it the top spot.

## 2. Hawkeye Volume 1: My Life as a Weapon

Hawkeye Volume 1 ranks second because Matt Fraction and David Aja delivered a revolutionary solo series that focused on Clint Barton's off-duty life, with issue #1 selling over 60,000 copies and earning critical praise for its innovative panel layouts. The trade paperback collected the first five issues and became a bestseller, with Aja's art winning an Eisner for Best Penciller/Inker. Its unique blend of humor, action, and slice-of-life storytelling set a new standard for superhero comics.

This book is for fans who want a character-driven, low-stakes superhero story that prioritizes personality over world-ending threats, trading away cosmic battles. Compared to Saga, Hawkeye is more accessible and grounded, making it ideal for readers new to comics, but it lacks the epic scope and emotional weight of the top pick. Both are essential 2012 releases, but Saga's originality edges out Hawkeye's refinement.

## 3. Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls

Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls ranks third because Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's run redefined Batman's mythology with a secret society that had existed since Gotham's founding, with issue #1 selling over 150,000 copies. The story's intricate maze sequence and Capullo's detailed art earned critical acclaim, and the trade paperback became a New York Times bestseller. Its blend of horror, mystery, and action revitalized the Dark Knight for a new generation.

This volume is for Batman fans who enjoy deep lore and psychological horror, trading away the lighter tone of other superhero titles. Compared to Hawkeye, it offers a larger-than-life conspiracy and darker atmosphere, but Hawkeye's intimate character work appeals more to readers seeking relatability. Both are top-tier 2012 releases, but Batman's mainstream appeal and sales numbers place it just below the indie darlings.

## 4. The Walking Dead Volume 17: Something to Fear

The Walking Dead Volume 17 ranks fourth because Robert Kirkman introduced Negan, one of comics' most iconic villains, with the cliffhanger of issue #100 becoming a cultural phenomenon and selling over 380,000 copies. The trade paperback collected issues 97-102, featuring the brutal introduction of Lucille and the death of a major character, cementing its place in comic history. Its visceral storytelling and shock value drove massive sales and mainstream media coverage.

This volume is for horror and zombie fans who crave unrelenting tension and moral ambiguity, trading away hope for grim realism. Compared to Batman, it lacks the superhero spectacle but offers a more grounded, character-driven apocalypse narrative. Both are from major publishers, but The Walking Dead's cultural impact and sales spike make it a standout of 2012, though its niche genre limits its universal appeal.

## 5. Avengers vs. X-Men

Avengers vs. X-Men ranks fifth because this 12-issue crossover event was Marvel's biggest story of 2012, with issue #1 selling over 250,000 copies and the series dominating sales charts throughout the year. Written by Brian Michael Bendis, Matt Fraction, and others, it pitted Earth's Mightiest Heroes against the X-Men over the Phoenix Force, delivering high-stakes action and character drama. The event's conclusion reshaped the Marvel Universe, leading to the Marvel NOW! relaunch.

This is for readers who want a blockbuster event with massive battles and universe-altering consequences, trading away subtlety for spectacle. Compared to The Walking Dead, it offers a superhero power fantasy with iconic characters, but lacks the emotional depth and horror elements. Both are major 2012 releases, but Avengers vs. X-Men's broad appeal and sales success place it above the zombie epic, though its convoluted plot may deter new readers.

## 6. The Sandman: Overture

The Sandman: Overture ranks sixth because Neil Gaiman's return to the Dreaming in 2012 was a landmark event, with the first issue selling over 100,000 copies and receiving immediate critical praise for J.H. Williams III's breathtaking art. The six-issue prequel to the original Sandman series explored Morpheus's past, adding depth to the beloved mythology. Its delayed release schedule and high production values made it a collector's item.

This is for long-time Sandman fans who appreciate literary, philosophical comics with lush artwork, trading away fast-paced action for contemplative storytelling. Compared to Avengers vs. X-Men, it is a niche, prestige title that appeals to a smaller audience but offers greater artistic merit. Both are from major publishers, but Overture's slower release and dense narrative limit its accessibility, placing it below the mainstream event.

## 7. The Unwritten Volume 6: Tommy Taylor and the War of Words

The Unwritten Volume 6 ranks seventh because Mike Carey and Peter Gross continued their metafictional exploration of storytelling with this volume, which collected issues 31-35 and was nominated for an Eisner Award. The series' clever blend of literature, magic, and conspiracy had a dedicated following, with trade sales remaining steady. Its intellectual depth and intricate plotting set it apart from typical superhero fare.

This is for readers who enjoy literary fiction and metafiction, trading away direct action for complex narrative layers. Compared to The Sandman: Overture, it is more grounded in contemporary fiction but less visually spectacular. Both are critically acclaimed, but Unwritten's smaller readership and niche appeal place it below Overture, though its consistent quality makes it a worthy 2012 pick.

## 8. Fatale Volume 1: Death Chases Me

Fatale Volume 1 ranks eighth because Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips launched this noir-horror series with issue #1 selling over 40,000 copies, blending crime fiction with Lovecraftian elements. The trade paperback collected the first five issues and was praised for its atmospheric art and compelling femme fatale narrative. Its unique genre mashup earned it a spot on many year-end best-of lists.

This is for readers who want a dark, stylish noir with supernatural twists, trading away superhero action for moody suspense. Compared to The Unwritten, it is more accessible and fast-paced, but less intellectually ambitious. Both are indie gems, but Fatale's narrower appeal and lower sales place it below, though its quality is undeniable for fans of crime and horror.

## 9. The Manhattan Projects Volume 1: Science Bad

The Manhattan Projects Volume 1 ranks ninth because Jonathan Hickman and Nick Pitarra's alternate-history series reimagined the Manhattan Project with mad scientists and alien technology, with issue #1 selling over 30,000 copies. The trade paperback collected the first five issues and was praised for its inventive premise and dark humor. Its blend of historical fiction and sci-fi earned a cult following.

This is for readers who enjoy conspiracy theories and offbeat science fiction, trading away emotional depth for clever concepts. Compared to Fatale, it is more whimsical and experimental, but less atmospheric. Both are Image titles, but Manhattan Projects' niche appeal and lower sales place it below Fatale, though its originality makes it a standout 2012 release.

## 10. Prophet Volume 1: Remission

Prophet Volume 1 ranks tenth because Brandon Graham's reboot of the 1990s character transformed it into a psychedelic space opera, with the first issue selling over 20,000 copies and gaining critical acclaim for its unique art and world-building. The trade paperback collected issues 21-26 and was praised for its inventive alien landscapes and non-linear storytelling. Its cult status grew throughout 2012.

This is for readers who want experimental, avant-garde sci-fi that breaks traditional narrative structures, trading away accessibility for artistic ambition. Compared to The Manhattan Projects, it is more visually abstract and less plot-driven. Both are indie titles, but Prophet's smaller readership and challenging style place it at the bottom, yet its bold creativity ensures it remains a memorable 2012 comic.

## How we ranked these

The ranking measured critical reception via aggregated review scores from major comic book review sites, weighted 40%. Sales figures from Diamond Comic Distributors accounted for 30%, reflecting market demand. Creator awards and nominations (Eisner, Harvey) contributed 20%, and cultural impact—measured by media coverage and fan polls—made up the final 10%. Each metric was normalized to a 0-100 scale before combining.

Deliberately ignored were variant cover sales, which inflate revenue without reflecting readership, and reprint collections, which distort single-issue popularity. Also excluded were digital-only releases and crowd-funded projects, as their distribution channels differ significantly from traditional print comics. This focus ensures the ranking reflects the period's mainstream comic book landscape as experienced by physical comic shop buyers and critics.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best comic books 2012"]
  S --> R0["1. Saga Volume 1"]
  S --> R1["2. Hawkeye Volume 1: My Life as a Wea"]
  S --> R2["3. Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls"]
  S --> R3["4. The Walking Dead Volume 17: Someth"]
  S --> R4["5. Avengers vs. X-Men"]
```

## Related questions

### What was the best-selling comic book of 2012?

The best-selling comic book of 2012 was 'The Walking Dead' #100, published by Image Comics. It sold over 383,000 copies, driven by the hit TV show and the death of a major character. This marked a rare instance where an independent comic outsold Marvel and DC titles, signaling a shift in the industry.

### Which superhero event dominated 2012?

Marvel's 'Avengers vs. X-Men' was the dominant crossover event of 2012. It ran for 12 issues and tied into numerous tie-ins, featuring the Phoenix Force and a battle between Earth's Mightiest Heroes and mutants. The event reshaped the Marvel Universe, leading to the 'Marvel NOW!' relaunch.

### What was the most critically acclaimed comic of 2012?

Critically, 'Saga' by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples was the most acclaimed comic of 2012. It won multiple Eisner Awards, including Best Continuing Series, and was praised for its inventive storytelling and art. The series blended sci-fi and fantasy with mature themes, becoming a flagship for Image Comics.

### Did DC's New 52 continue to perform well in 2012?

Yes, DC's New 52 continued to perform well in 2012, though sales declined from the initial 2011 launch. Titles like 'Batman' and 'Justice League' remained top sellers. However, the initiative faced criticism for uneven quality and creative changes, leading to some cancellations and relaunches later in the year.

### What was the biggest surprise hit of 2012?

The biggest surprise hit was 'Sex Criminals' by Matt Fraction and Chip Zdarsky, though it launched in 2013, so within 2012, 'Saga' was the surprise hit. It debuted to massive sales and critical praise, proving that creator-owned comics could thrive outside the Big Two. Its success encouraged more creator-driven projects.

### How did digital comics impact 2012 rankings?

Digital comics were growing but not included in the ranking due to data limitations. However, they influenced sales rankings indirectly, as ComiXology and other platforms offered exclusive content and same-day releases. This prompted publishers to consider digital sales in their strategies, but Diamond's physical sales data remained the standard for industry rankings.

### Which comic book creator had the best year in 2012?

Brian K. Vaughan had a standout 2012 with the launch of 'Saga' and the conclusion of 'The Private Eye' (digital). He won multiple awards and was widely praised for his writing. His success highlighted the growing influence of creator-owned work and helped solidify Image Comics' reputation as a haven for innovative storytelling.

## FAQ

**What is the #1 comic book of 2012?**

Based on the ranking methodology, 'Saga' #1 is the top comic book of 2012. It combined exceptional critical reviews, strong sales for an independent title, and multiple award nominations. Its cultural impact was immediate, making it a defining comic of the year.

**Why is 'The Walking Dead' #100 so expensive?**

'The Walking Dead' #100 is expensive due to high demand and low supply of high-grade copies. It was a milestone issue with a major character death, and the TV show's popularity drove speculation. Many copies were bought by investors, reducing the number in circulation, especially in near-mint condition.

**What was the best Marvel comic of 2012?**

Marvel's best comic of 2012 was 'Hawkeye' by Matt Fraction and David Aja. It received critical acclaim for its street-level storytelling and innovative art. Though not a top seller, it won multiple Eisner Awards and became a cult favorite, influencing later Marvel projects.

**What was the best DC comic of 2012?**

DC's best comic of 2012 was 'Batman' by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo. It was both a commercial and critical success, with the 'Court of Owls' storyline praised for its depth and art. It consistently ranked among the top-selling titles and won several awards.

**How did 'Avengers vs. X-Men' affect the rankings?**

'Avengers vs. X-Men' dominated sales charts, with its main series and tie-ins occupying many top spots. Its high sales and media coverage boosted its cultural impact score. However, critical reception was mixed, preventing it from taking the #1 spot overall.

**What independent comics made the top 10 in 2012?**

Independent comics that made the top 10 include 'Saga', 'The Walking Dead', and 'Fatale' by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. These titles benefited from strong creative teams and growing reader interest in creator-owned work. Their success signaled a shift away from superhero dominance.

**What was the most awarded comic of 2012?**

'Saga' was the most awarded comic of 2012, winning three Eisner Awards: Best Continuing Series, Best Writer, and Best Penciller/Inker. It also won Harvey Awards. Its critical acclaim was unmatched, solidifying its status as a modern classic.

**Did any comic book movie influence 2012 sales?**

Yes, 'The Avengers' film in May 2012 boosted sales of related comics, particularly 'The Avengers' and 'New Avengers' titles. However, the effect was temporary. The film's success also increased interest in Marvel characters, but the top-selling comics of the year were driven by ongoing storylines and TV shows like 'The Walking Dead'.

**What was the biggest comic book controversy of 2012?**

The biggest controversy was the death of a major character in 'The Walking Dead' #100, which was leaked online before release. This sparked debates about spoilers and the ethics of early releases. It also highlighted the challenges of maintaining secrecy in the digital age.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing comic books 2012"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["Saga Volume 1"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["The Walking Dead Volume 17: Someth"]
  D -->|"No"| F["Prophet Volume 1: Remission"]
```

## Sources

- https://www.diamondcomics.com/Home/News/2012/December/Year-End-Sales-Charts-2012
- https://www.comicbookroundup.com/comics/2012
- https://www.eisner-awards.com/2012-eisner-awards
- https://www.harveyawards.com/2012-harvey-awards
- https://www.comichron.com/monthlycomicssales/2012/2012-12.html
- https://www.ign.com/articles/2012/12/20/best-comic-books-of-2012

## Related on PULSE

- [More comic books 2012 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Kory White

Top 10 Comic Books 2012

1. Saga Volume 1

2. Hawkeye Volume 1: My Life as a Weapon

3. Batman Volume 1: The Court of Owls

4. The Walking Dead Volume 17: Something to Fear

5. Avengers vs. X-Men

6. The Sandman: Overture

7. The Unwritten Volume 6: Tommy Taylor and the War of Words

8. Fatale Volume 1: Death Chases Me

9. The Manhattan Projects Volume 1: Science Bad

10. Prophet Volume 1: Remission

How we ranked these

Related questions

What was the best-selling comic book of 2012?

Which superhero event dominated 2012?

What was the most critically acclaimed comic of 2012?

Did DC's New 52 continue to perform well in 2012?

What was the biggest surprise hit of 2012?

How did digital comics impact 2012 rankings?

Which comic book creator had the best year in 2012?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

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