Marvel Digital Comics

So, in looking ahead to the future of publishing, Marvel seems to be taking the lead in getting material online.  They have over 5000 books you can view through a browser client, all for a low subscription fee.  It's nice, but they're missing large blocks of issues, and they don't seem to have anything new that you can get instead of the paper version.


They're taking a bold step in getting a lot of back issues online, but they're not ready to start cutting out retailers and distributors yet.  Personally, I'm ready to move on.  Most of my back issues are bagged in boxes in the attic now, so I can access them.  The idea of a huge number of books available online really appeals to me, and will get me to take a look at books I wouldn't normally buy.


For new issues, I would even consider paying per book to own a digital collection.  I won't pay the same as printed books, though, as the retailer and distributor are not taking cuts.  I'm over the collectability aspect, too.  I would like a library I could browse quickly and easily, and it doesn't take up a huge amount of room in my house.


I want new books, though.  They have to be able to offer new content at the same release timetable as brick & mortar stores.


Marvel is taking the right steps, but until they're willing to offer more and risk angering traditional comic stores, it won't really become the best method for reading comics.  I think they'll get there eventually, though.