By Meghan Meier
Comic book stores are sprouting everywhere in NoVA. Whether you are an avid collector or just someone looking to dive into an epic adventure with your favorite superhero or villain, it can be quite the riddle to decipher which comic store best fits your own reading desires. Rest assured, there is no shortage of comic books in sight. But the question remains: Where to go? Here are some local options that will take you to that galaxy far, far away:
Your gateway to the past
Collectors World: This venue may seem like the Hall of Fame for fervent sports collectors, but comic book enthusiasts must not sidestep this hotspot. For those who are diehard collectors of the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s and even ’90s, this venue dedicates much of its inventory to ensuring customers can continue to keep their collection up-to-date. If you are just a beginner, the shop will help you catch up with all the adventures in no time. What also makes this venue unique is that readers can purchase a variety of comic books for a quality package deal. At Collectors World, you can find all the publishing names known to the comic universe. Whether you are looking for independent authors or looking for juggernauts like Marvel or DC, your collection will be fulfilled at this location. / 7030 Columbia Pike, Annandale; 703-256-8408.
Fun for the whole family big and small
Aftertime Comics: Having been a part of the comic book scene for three decades, Aftertime Comics does not require any further introduction to the local experts. For the newcomer, this building may not look like much, but this shop holds all the storytelling powers of the comic book universe in one location. Whether you are looking for a vintage comic or a new release, this family friendly shop has a story for everyone to sink their imaginations into. / 1304 King St., Alexandria; 703-548-5030.
The Amazing Comic Shop: If you happen to be bopping around the Fairfax area looking for a friendly environment the whole family can enjoy, then look no further. Designed to accommodate all generations genders alike, this shop has all the big names and variety associated to the comic book universe, not to mention toys and collectibles that will make a great addition to your personal collection. For those newcomers, all you have to do is ask, and The Amazing Comic Shop will help guide your way to the perfect read. /10647 Braddock Road, Fairfax; 703-250-6479.
Big Planet Comics: What started as a lifelong admiration for the comic book world became the inspiration for Big Planet Comics. With superhero staff members who know their comic lexicon and have the powers to help any reader in need, customers will have no problem sorting out the wall-to-wall shelves of stories. Plus, Big Planet Comics has its own sector dedicated to the creative minds of aspiring artists and writers of comic books. Here, if you want to test your storytelling abilities, you have the opportunity to have your work published and displayed. / 426 Maple Ave. E., Vienna; 703-242-9412.
Flashback Comics: For Flashback Comics, it is about providing its readers a balance of all the publishers, big or small, known to the comic book world. Here, anyone can find names like DC, Marvel, Image, Dark Horse and more. For parents looking to find a place for their children to enjoy, Flashback Comics has a whole assortment of stories that range from graphics to Star Wars dedicated only to its young readers./ 3062 P.S. Business Center Drive, Woodbridge; 703-878-5934.
Your comic and gaming delight:
Victory Comics: If you are looking for an all-inclusive comic book shop, then you will want to stop by Victory Comics’ showroom that encompasses 3,500 square feet of floor space. Designed to meet the needs of any type of comic connoisseur, this facility has all the features that enable the customer to buy, sell and attend monthly events without having to leave the building. Customers can also get their game on in the shop’s in-store game room. Whether you are looking to play Flares of War, Lady Planeswalker or Pokemon, there is a table for everyone. To know more information about the game room go to Victory Comics main website to get the full schedule. / 586 S. Washington St., Falls Church; 703-241-9393.
