As May arrives, comic fans worldwide celebrate Free Comic Book Day - an annual tradition where shops distribute complimentary issues on the first Saturday of the month. These specially curated books often preview major upcoming story arcs or highlight bestselling series, making them essential pickups despite the crowds.

Must-Have Comics for Free Comic Book Day 2025

The Amazing Spider-Man/Ultimate Universe #1

Publisher: Marvel

Marvel kicks off its FCBD offerings with this dual-feature issue. The first story by Joe Kelly and John Romita Jr. introduces their upcoming Amazing Spider-Man run, while Deniz Camp, Cody Ziglar and Jonas Scharf set the stage for Miles Morales' Ultimate Universe adventure.

Blood Type #0

Publisher: Oni Press

Get an exclusive early look at Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino's vampire saga through this reprint of their original Epitaphs From the Abyss short story.

Conan: Scourge of the Serpent #1

Publisher: Titan

Titan continues its FCBD tradition with three interconnected tales propelling Conan toward an epic confrontation with the serpent deity Set.

Critical Role: The Mighty Nein Origins/Black Hammer #1

Publisher: Dark Horse

This special showcases Dark Horse's hottest properties - featuring Beau and Caleb's theatrical misadventures plus a revealing Colonel Weird tale expanding the Black Hammer mythos.

DC All In: 2025 Special Edition #1

Publisher: DC

The flipbook format reveals Dan Slott and Rafael Albuquerque's Superman Unlimited while Jeff Lemire and Giuseppe Camuncoli explore DC's Absolute Universe.

Energon Universe 2025 Special #1

Publisher: Skybound

Skybound offers three new stories advancing its Transformers/G.I. Joe/Void Rivals crossover saga - featuring a cover-spoiling twist so big they censored it.

Fantastic Four/X-Men #1

Publisher: Marvel

Ryan North and Humberto Ramos deliver fresh FF thrills while Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing reveal Charles Xavier's first mutant recruitment failure.

Participation Details

The event occurs Saturday, May 3 at participating shops (find locations via FCBD Store Locator). While books are free, consider supporting stores through sales as they incur shipping costs. Digital releases typically follow on platforms like Comixology.

Additional Highlights

• Gargoyles: Demona #1: Greg Weisman expands his animated universe
• Godzilla: The New Heroes #1: IDW's kaiju universe primer
• Power Rangers/VR Troopers #1: BOOM! Studios' classic crossover
• Star Wars #1: Marvel's triune tale spotlighting new series
• Thundercats/The Powerpuff Girls #1: Dynamite's bizarre mashup

Which FCBD titles top your wishlist? Share your picks in the comments. For recommendations beyond free issues, explore our guides to essential Batman and Spider-Man graphic novels.