Store variants good or bad?

#1 · 8 January 2025, 4:13 PM

I'm bit on the fence with these and I do buy covers that I like but also I get annoyed as A) so many and B) seems like all the best artist are hoovered up and ratio variants don't get as many good covers

I used to enjoy the thrill of hunting down 1:25, 1:50, 1:100 ratio variants on release day when they had amazing covers, now seems like all good covers are store variants which easy to get by just doing a pre order with yhe store knowing they might have anything from 1,000 to 5,000 copies and I tend to not bother now unless I see them cheap on the after market

What are your thoughts on store variants or just variants in general now??

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#2 · 9 January 2025, 9:06 PM

personally I think variants are a good thing for the hobby, there is drawbacks and certainly should be more limitations, but I think they're a great way of broadening a collection, and showcasing cover artists.

also store exclusives are a great way to bring new people into the comic hobby because they create excitement, build community, and give collectors something unique to chase. These exclusives often feature amazing artwork and limited print runs which can help highlight emerging artists, helping to draw in both new readers and seasoned collectors. However, it would be even better if publishers like Marvel allowed smaller print runs for exclusives. This would give smaller comic shops the opportunity to offer these exciting collectibles without needing to hit the high minimum orders, levelling the playing field and allowing more businesses to contribute to the growth of the comic community.

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#3 · 11 January 2025, 12:03 PM

My problem with the a lot of the variants is in their heyday there was a lot of fomo created and a false economy of short supply means expensive and rare, especially with store variants.

A lot of people got caught in the trap of thinking they were buying something that was not only awesome to look at but would grow in value. Only to later find 99% of what they had bought was pretty much worthless. There were many burned fingers out there.

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#4 · 11 January 2025, 4:45 PM

It’s the sheer volume of variants now that annoy me. I have no issue with variants as such but there doesn’t need to be as many as there is. Most can be picked up down the line for a lot cheaper than when released.

I don’t know if it’s good or bad for the hobby itself just an annoyance I have

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#5 · 11 January 2025, 5:07 PM

I know what you mean, just another way of milking the honey pot that is the avid collector.

I have no real problem with them really, I just don't like the average fan being taken advantage of.

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#6 · 11 January 2025, 5:10 PM

Live and let live for the most part.

It seems to be great for the businesses in the hobby with such a diverse range of options and the element of exclusivity appealing to many...

But Caveat Emptor in all things.

When I was actively subbed to a large number of books it was a bit of a chore trying to select the 'one' from a plethora of options I have to say.

I guess, in the end, buy what you love; for the love, is the way.

Just hope what you love isn't some obscure limited store variant that costs a wedge you'll never see again.

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#7 · 11 January 2025, 5:22 PM

Completely agree.

Choice is a great thing and there have been some awesome variants released.

If you are a completionist just have deep pockets 😂.

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Store variants good or bad?