I've been reading comic books steadily since I was about 10 years old. The majority of those comics have followed the exploits of super powered beings in masks and flashy costumes. But I've noticed a trend developing these past couple of years. The percentage of superhero books in my weekly stack has steadily dwindled while my overall enjoyment in what I'm reading has increased significantly.
Now I love superheros as much as the next person. But let's be honest. There is only so much you can do with these characters that hasn't already been done. When you are writing characters that have existed for close to 75 years (I'm looking at you Superman), it's hard to find new and exciting situations to put them in. Occasionally you get something you've never been given before and it stands out. Sadly, more often than not, the stories are derivative and lack any real tension because you know the good guys always have to make it out safe and sound. But more than just being the same old thing, my tastes have changed because I've finally learned to see comics for what they truly are: a medium and not a genre.
