5 Indie Comics You Should Be Reading in 2026

The independent comic scene is experiencing a renaissance in 2026, with creator-owned titles consistently outperforming expectations both critically and in the aftermarket. Here are five indie comics that deserve your attention—and possibly your investment dollars.

1. SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #1 (Boom! Studios)

James Tynion IV and Werther Dell'Edera's horror phenomenon continues to dominate. First prints of issue #1 now regularly sell for $200+ in high grade, and the Netflix adaptation has only increased demand. If you haven't read it yet, the trade paperback is an excellent entry point.

2. RADIANT BLACK (Image Comics)

Kyle Higgins and Marcelo Costa's love letter to tokusatsu heroes has become Image's breakout superhero hit of the decade. The first issue introduced multiple characters with their own spinoff potential, making it a smart speculative play.

3. MONKEY PRINCE (DC)

Technically DC, but with a distinctly indie flavor, Gene Luen Yang's creation brings Chinese mythology to the DC Universe. First appearances of Monkey Prince and his supporting cast are still affordable but gaining traction.

4. LITTLE MONSTERS (Image Comics)

Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen's vampire story set in a post-apocalyptic world has been a sleeper hit. The stylized art and mature storytelling have built a dedicated fanbase, and first prints are becoming harder to find.

5. DEPARTMENT OF TRUTH (Image Comics)

James Tynion IV and Martin Simmonds' conspiracy-laden thriller continues to be one of the most thought-provoking books on the stands. Early issues, particularly #1 with its multiple printings, remain solid holds.

Why Indie Matters

Independent comics often offer something that mainstream superhero books can't: complete creative freedom and finite runs with definitive endings. For collectors, this means genuinely scarce first appearances of characters that won't be diluted across dozens of titles.

"Indie first appearances are the modern equivalent of Silver Age Marvel keys," says speculator and YouTuber ComicTom. "Everyone's looking for the next Spawn, the next Walking Dead."