“Ugh, Can’t You Google This?”
You wouldn’t think a world of spandex suits and alliterative names would be so exclusive! We’d love to say that comic book fans welcome each other with open arms, willing to share recommendations and ideas with like-minded geeks—but the reality is that this fun-loving fandom is actually rife with negativity. Of course, it’s not all bad, but we’re here to share some of the best and worst things about the community.
1. Wikipedia Fans
We wouldn’t hate Wiki fans so much if they didn’t insist otherwise. Real fans recognize echo chamber readers immediately—the ones who do a quick Google search or comb through a Reddit thread and suddenly become experts on a character. What makes them even worse is when they belittle anyone who “doesn’t know as much as they do.”
2. Readers Who Gatekeep
In a perfect world, comic readers would share recommendations. But this is the real world we’re talking about, and plenty gatekeep their favorites instead. Good luck trying to crack those eggs open, especially since hidden comics are their biggest power trip.
3. Belittling Other Fans
We know it’s annoying to answer the same question, but it’s just as annoying to snap at curious newcomers. It doesn’t matter if it’s online or in your favorite shop—it’s much better to lend a helping hand than roll your eyes at basic inquiries. Don’t even get us started on fans who scoff when you don’t know something.
4. Lack of Media Literacy
You know, just because an author includes some pretty dark topics, that doesn’t mean they support them. However, insufferable fans will stand on their soapbox and shout that certain authors condone terrible behavior. That’s not always the case.
5. No Room for Differences
Ew, a Marvel fan! Gross, you like Batman over Superman? Cue the flood of mean girl comments. It’s not enough to have different opinions in the comic community—many fans tear out each other’s throats when they don’t agree.
6. People Who’ve Never Read Anything
It’s okay if you haven’t picked up a comic before; we all have to start somewhere! But there’s nothing worse than someone who acts like a know-it-all when they actually don’t know anything. For some reason, a lot of fans take pride in their so-called knowledge…even when they don’t have it.
7. Freaking Out Over Continuity
We hate to tell you, but continuity isn’t always a thing in comic books. A lot of authors try their hand at different timelines and lore, which is okay! At least, it would be okay if some fans didn’t faint over the changes.
8. Refusal to Accept Change
Speaking of change, we know it isn’t easy, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Change can be anything from different costumes to new storylines—sometimes it turns what we love best on its head. Trust us, it’s way better to embrace change (or ignore it) than lose your cool over it.
9. Character Stubbornness
“That’s not the Lex Luthor I know!” And that’s okay. No one said you had to read every comic or indulge every timeline. But a lot of fans blow a gasket when anything veers from their personal headcanons.
10. Bigoted Opinions
It’s 2025, and that means female protagonists and proper representation. The majority of fans welcome characters like Northstar and Jean Grey, but a lot of people still live in the dark ages, and it’s tiresome to hear.
Though some fans aren’t with the times, the comic book community still offers a welcoming, nerdy environment! Let’s explore some of the best things about it.
1. In-Depth Recommendations
Comics have been around since the 1930s—you never know what ancient stories lie beneath the surface until you meet another fan! Real comic lovers can’t wait to share recommendations, be it specific authors or their favorite timelines.
Ekaterina Krusanova on Unsplash
2. Genuinely Helpful Fans
Let’s be honest, the world of comics is more than a little confusing. If you’ve followed characters from the beginning, you’ve likely gone through dozens of stories and nonsensical shifts in the lore. Luckily, the best fans can walk you through the nitty-gritty details.
3. Like-Minded Interests
We love finding like-minded fans! It’s always a good feeling to walk into a comic shop and know you’re in good company, surrounded by people willing to recommend novels or suggest similar characters. What was once an insulted community has blossomed into a welcoming fandom.
4. Welcoming Environment
As we mentioned, not every fan is on board with all the representation in comic books. However, the majority love to see all the new characters and enjoy the stories for what they are. If anything, guys like Alan Scott or Apollo have been around for decades, and most fans don’t bat an eye.
5. Geeky Conversations
It’s not always easy to find fellow nerds, but once you do, it’s a nonstop flow of geeky conversations. Comics that go back years, fascinating character developments, epic battles—true fans know all about it, and they’re just waiting for someone to match their energy.
6. Enthusiastic Fans
One of the most endearing qualities someone can have is passion. We love meeting someone who’s wholeheartedly devoted to their character. We love chatting with someone who met their heroes at conventions. That never-ending enthusiasm rubs off on people, and it’s hard not to get excited with them!
7. Wide Selection of Comics
The world has seen hundreds, and we mean hundreds, of thousands of comics. What you’ve read might be new to another fan and vice versa. You may not have known that your favorite author actually penned their own graphic novel series. But other fans do, and they’ll tell you all about it.
8. Niche Community
For the longest time, comic book fans were shunned from everyday society. They were portrayed negatively in shows or had hurtful stereotypes attached to them. Nowadays, it’s a booming culture that welcomes everyone (so long as you find the right people).
9. Finding New Creatives
One of the coolest things about comic books—and their fans—is finding new creative types. You’ll likely stumble across someone who loves to draw. You might encounter someone who dabbles in fanfiction. You might even meet someone who does voiceover work. Comics are the perfect avenue to find other creative people!
10. Making Real Friends
Trying to make friends as an adult is…difficult. It’s even harder when you like something that’s stereotypically nerdy. Luckily, there is a silver lining! Conventions, local comic shops, and online forums are all great spots to meet new people.
