City Of Heroes: CBR Pipeline: Moving To Trades, Part Two

by Augie De Blieck Jr, CBR.com

Last week's column discussing my increasing move towards trades over single issues caused quite a bit of discussion, both in my e-mail box and at the Pipeline message board. Some of this may seem old hat, if not redundant, for those who've been following this movement over the past few years. Since I've never gone too far in-depth with it in Pipeline, though, I'm going to touch on some points in the column now.

The comics industry is at an interesting crossroads. I think all of the sniping and bickering and complaining about the monthly format may finally be paying dividends to those advocating the change. Trades are becoming more popular not just for their ability to catch new readers up to speed, but also as a vehicle for pre-existing readers to get their story doses.

The trick now is in the transition, if it is to happen. Flipping from one format to another can't happen overnight, although it would be the simplest way to go. That's human nature. Barring an economic catastrophe or impetus of some outlandish type, this will be a long-term transition. If it happens at all.

Get the rest of the story at CBR.com.