May's arrival signals the return of Free Comic Book Day, the annual global event where comic shops distribute free titles on the first Saturday of the month. These special editions often preview major upcoming storylines and popular series, making them must-read collectibles despite the crowds.
The Hottest FCBD 2025 Releases to Watch For
The Amazing Spider-Man/Ultimate Universe #1
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Marvel kicks off its FCBD offerings with this dual-feature issue. Joe Kelly and John Romita Jr. provide a primer for the relaunched Amazing Spider-Man series, while Deniz Camp and Cody Ziglar set the stage for Miles Morales' Ultimate Universe crossover with artist Jonas Scharf.
Blood Type #0
Publisher: Oni Press
Get an exclusive first look at Corinna Bechko and Andrea Sorrentino's vampire saga with this reprint from Epitaphs From the Abyss, launching Oni Press's expanded EC Comics horror line.
Conan: Scourge of the Serpent #1
Publisher: Titan Comics
Titan continues its tradition of unveiling annual Conan crossovers through FCBD. This year's trilogy of interconnected tales foreshadows an epic showdown between Conan and the serpent deity Set.
Critical Role: The Mighty Nein Origins/Black Hammer #1
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Dark Horse spotlights two beloved franchises - featuring Beau and Caleb's disastrous dinner theater adventure in Exandria alongside a Colonel Weird story exploring Black Hammer's past and future.
DC All In: 2025 Special Edition #1
Publisher: DC Comics
DC's flipbook reveals major developments for both the main DC Universe and new Absolute Universe, including previews of Dan Slott's Superman Unlimited and Jeff Lemire's Absolute Universe storyline.
Energon Universe 2025 Special #1
Publisher: Skybound Entertainment
Skybound's explosive shared universe (combining Transformers, G.I. Joe and Void Rivals) continues with three new stories featuring a major twist so significant the cover had to be partially obscured.
Fantastic Four/X-Men #1
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Ryan North and Humberto Ramos deliver a new FF adventure, while Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing reveal the untold story of the one mutant who rejected Charles Xavier's original X-Men recruitment.
Gargoyles: Demona #1
Publisher: Dynamite Entertainment
Series creator Greg Weisman expands the Gargoyles universe with this prelude to the Demona-focused spinoff, giving fans new content while they await any potential animated revival.
Godzilla: The New Heroes #1
Publisher: IDW Publishing
This ten-page prelude offers the first look at IDW's ambitious new Godzilla shared universe, complete with previews of upcoming series launching this summer.
Power Rangers/VR Troopers #1
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
BOOM! debuts its VR Troopers series (spinning out of Power Rangers Prime) with this special that also includes classic VR Troopers comic content.
Star Wars #1
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Marvel's revamped Star Wars line shines with three new stories tied to Legacy of Vader, Jedi Knights, and the core Star Wars titles from Charles Soule, Marc Guggenheim and Alex Segura respectively.
Thundercats/The Powerpuff Girls #1
Publisher: Dynamite Entertainment
This year's most unexpected crossover sees Blossom, Buttercup and Bubble transported to Third Earth for a genre-blending adventure with Lion-O and the Thundercats.
How to Celebrate Free Comic Book Day 2025
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 3 and use the official FCBD Store Locator to find participating shops. Remember to support local retailers by exploring their FCBD sales and promotions.
Digital readers should note: While most FCBD titles eventually appear on platforms like Comixology and publisher apps, physical copies remain the best way to get first access.
Which FCBD 2025 titles have you most excited? Share your must-read picks in the comments below.
Looking to expand your comic collection? Check out our guides to the 27 Essential Batman Graphic Novels and 25 Must-Read Spider-Man Collections.
