Top 13 Must-Read Comics for Free Comic Book Day 2025

May has arrived, and with it comes the much-anticipated Free Comic Book Day. This annual event, held on the first Saturday of May, sees comic shops worldwide distributing free comics to eager fans. These free books often serve as introductions to major upcoming storylines or popular series, making it a must-visit event for comic enthusiasts. In 2025, the lineup is as exciting as ever, featuring a range of titles from top publishers like DC, Marvel, and more. Here's a look at some of the standout books you won't want to miss this year.

The Amazing Spider-Man/Ultimate Universe #1

Publisher: Marvel

Marvel kicks off its FCBD offerings with this dual-story special. The first tale, crafted by writer Joe Kelly and artist John Romita, Jr., acts as a primer for the relaunched Amazing Spider-Man series. The second story, penned by Deniz Camp and Cody Ziglar with art by Jonas Scharf, sets the stage for the upcoming Ultimate Universe crossover, drawing Miles Morales into the new Ultimate U. This issue is a must-grab for fans eager to dive into these exciting narratives.

Blood Type #0

Publisher: Oni Press

Oni Press is expanding its EC Comics imprint with new series, including the vampire-themed Blood Type by Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino. Blood Type #0 offers an early look at this new series by reprinting the short story from the anthology Epitaphs From the Abyss that launched the saga. If you're intrigued by the world of vampires, this is the perfect introduction.

Conan: Scourge of the Serpent #1

Publisher: Titan

Titan Comics continues its tradition of using FCBD to launch its annual Conan crossover events. Conan: Scourge of the Serpent features three interconnected stories that set up a grand conflict between Conan and the serpent god Set. This issue is essential for fans of the barbarian hero, offering a thrilling preview of the upcoming epic.

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

Publisher: Dark Horse

Dark Horse's FCBD special showcases two of its biggest franchises. One story delves into the Critical Role universe, where Beau and Caleb find themselves embroiled in a dinner theater adventure. The other tale focuses on Colonel Weird from the Black Hammer universe, exploring both its past and future. This issue is a treat for fans of both series.

Publisher: DC

DC's flipbook special offers a glimpse into the future of both the core DC Universe and the new Absolute Universe. One side introduces the upcoming Superman Unlimited series by Dan Slott and Rafael Albuquerque, while the other features a new Absolute Universe story by Jeff Lemire and Giuseppe Camuncoli. This issue is crucial for fans wanting to stay ahead of DC's evolving narrative landscape.

Energon Universe 2025 Special #1

Publisher: Skybound

Skybound's Energon Universe, which includes Transformers and G.I. Joe, takes center stage in this special. Featuring three new short stories and a censored cover hinting at a major twist, this issue is a must-read for fans of these iconic franchises. The surprise reveal of Void Rivals as the launch point for this shared universe adds to the excitement.

Fantastic Four/X-Men #1

Publisher: Marvel

Marvel's second FCBD release pairs the Fantastic Four with the X-Men. A new Fantastic Four story by Ryan North and Humberto Ramos is a highlight, while Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing revisit the day Charles Xavier assembled the All-New, All-Different X-Men, revealing a surprising twist about a mutant who declined. This issue is essential for fans of both teams.

How to Participate in Free Comic Book Day

Free Comic Book Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 3. Most comic book shops participate, but you can use the FCBD Store Locator to find a nearby shop and confirm their involvement. Many stores also offer promotions and sales, so consider supporting them by purchasing additional items, as they bear the cost of shipping these free comics.

For digital readers, most FCBD books eventually become available on platforms like Comixology, Marvel Unlimited, and DC Universe, though you might need to wait a few days or weeks for them to appear.

Gargoyles: Demona #1

Publisher: Dynamite

While Disney hasn't revived the Gargoyles animated series, Dynamite is expanding the comic line with Gargoyles: Demona. Written by creator Greg Weisman, this special sets up the new series and is a must-read for fans of the franchise.

Godzilla: The New Heroes #1

Publisher: IDW

IDW is launching a new shared universe of Godzilla comics this summer, and this issue serves as a primer. It includes a ten-page prelude story and previews of upcoming Godzilla books, making it essential for fans of the kaiju king.

Publisher: BOOM! Studios

BOOM! Studios is debuting a VR Troopers series spinning out of the Power Rangers Prime reboot. This issue offers a sneak peek at the new series and a nostalgic look at past VR Troopers comics, making it a must-have for fans of both franchises.

Star Wars #1

Publisher: Marvel

Marvel's third FCBD release focuses on its revamped Star Wars line, featuring stories tied to Charles Soule and Luke Ross' Star Wars: Legacy of Vader, Marc Guggenheim and Madibek Musabekov's Star Wars: Jedi Knights, and Alex Segura and Phil Noto's Star Wars. This issue is essential for fans of the galaxy far, far away.

Thundercats/The Powerpuff Girls #1

Publisher: Dynamite

Dynamite's unique crossover combines Thundercats and The Powerpuff Girls into one intriguing story. What happens when Blossom, Buttercup, and Bubbles visit Third Earth? This issue promises a fun and unexpected adventure, making it a standout pick for FCBD 2025.

Let us know in the comments below what books you're excited to pick up on Free Comic Book Day 2025.

Need some ideas for great comics to pick up along with your FCBD stack? Why not check out the top 27 Batman graphic novels and the top 25 Spider-Man graphic novels?