User blog:Porterfield/Thoughts on The New 52

DC Comics has officially launched their New 52 series reboots today, as I'm sure you're all aware (if not, the New York Times has a great summary from an outside perspective). Some readers are excited and others see this as the end of the days, but before we read and discuss this intriguing batch of Issue No. 1's, we should make our initial opinions clear, so that nobody claims a false "I told you so".

An obvious marketing scheme, the primary purpose of The New 52 is to attract fresh young readers, the ones believed to be avoiding comics because of the intimidating amount of previous issues. DC believes that a comic reboot, similar to what has been done in films (Batman Begins, anyone?), will be the clean slate needed to attract a legion of new fans. On the other hand, many lifelong DC readers are feeling alienated by this monumental hitting of the reset button. Moreover, they aren't confident in DC's ability to attract young readers in a world of video games, television, and 3D movies catered to an ADD generation. In that regard, my first question is... Do you think The New 52 will usher in a new generation of comic book readers? Yes, it's a wise move by DC to get more interest. No, kids these days don't read! We are the last generation of comic book fans. Regardless of the success of The New 52 as a marketing ploy, many fans are upset about how it will affect their favorite stories. Some readers welcome the clean slate, while other die-hards are considering this the end of their comic book reading days (at least for DC comics, that is). For a humorous taste of general opinion on the matter, check out The Outhouse's list of suggested slogans for The New 52 campaign. "It's Either This or Actually Try to Do Something Different" is an example that speaks volumes about DC in general, let alone this week's massive restart. So, for my second question... Are you satisfied with DC restarting every series at Issue Number One? Yes, it's great to get new perspectives on stories I know and love. No, this is a desperate, ridiculous move by DC! Meh. I love DC comics and I will read them regardless of story timelines. Thanks for voting!!