New Concept and Comics

Since I don't have as much time to write reviews as I originally thought, I changing this to a more general blog. I'll include random musings along with recommendations and reviews. I'm hoping this will motivate me to post more!

I've become fascinated by web comics lately. I started reading one, Order of the Stick, when I was bored at work and I've branched out to include others. At first, I was skeptical. I'm not much of a comic reader. I've read a few graphic novels, which I enjoyed, but I still tend to prefer novels. Now, I've realized that comics don't have to be like the dailies in newspapers. They can have long-running storylines, complex characters, and they don't necessarily have to be focused on humor. Here some good webcomics to check out.

Order of the Stick by Art Burlew (www.giantitp.com/comics)
This is a funny, long-form comic parodying role-playing games, specifically Dungeons and Dragons. The characters are modified stick figures and go on fantasy adventures. I didn't understand most of the jokes until I played Dungeons and Dragons, but you'll get most of them if you know the basic rules and format of D&D. Although it has some poignant and dramatic moments, OOTS is primarily a funny comic with puns, sight-gags, and character-based humor. OOTS is updated three times a week on no particular days.

Gunnerkrigg Court by Tom Siddell (www.gunnerkrigg.com)
Another long-form comic about Antimony, a 6th grade (or technically 7th form) girl at a mysterious boarding school in London. There are mythical creatures, gods, robots, and classic teenage drama and comedy. It is more serious than Order of the Stick, but has plenty of funny moments. Anyone who loves Harry Potter should check it out. Although Antimony and her friends aren't wizards, the story has a similar feel with an added science vs. mysticism aspect. Gunnerkrigg Court is updated Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. It is my current favorite comic.

The Phoenix Requim by Sarah Ellerton (http://requiem.seraph-inn.com/)
Phoenix is more cheesy and anime in style, but still entertaining. It is about Anya, a young woman in a small frontierish town attempting to become a doctor in the male-dominated field. A mysterious stranger comes to town and a strange sickness takes hold. This is a new comic, so she hasn't written many strips yet.

Although the comics I suggested are all long-form and related to fantasy, there are webcomics of every genre and style. Other than OOTS, which was recommended, I found the others by googling the Webcomic Awards. Enjoy!