The Top Four series looks at certain aspects of the comic book world from two perspectives: Rob’s, as a relative newcomer to mainstream comics, and Kristine’s, as an older hand in the world.  Each installment evaluates the top four choices from both Rob and Kristine and why they chose their picks.

By Robert J. Baden and Kristine Chester

While not actually a part of the traditional comic book world, webcomics have had a profound impact on readership and the comic industry for nearly 3 decades. Tomorrow, May 5^th, is Webcomics Appreciation Day, and we felt that this would be the best time to pay tribute to our fondness for them. Both of us have read a lot of webcomics over the years, Kristine co-wrote and colored a webcomic for a college project, and Rob has had some experience writing for a few in his day (though nothing that anyone has likely heard of).

There is an extensive list of webcomics available to people—most are free to read, some have paid viewerships; some are comedies, some are dramas, some are fantasy, some are slice-of-life, some are gag-a-day, while others are ongoing serials. There are few that have popular followings and make enough money to support the creator(s), but most just do it for fun and expression. Some webcomics you’ve probably heard of, such as Sluggy Freelance or Schlock Mercenary, while others have only garnered a small following, such as Fanboy Otaku Gamers Club or Mory’s Education. The ones below, however, are the webcomics we enjoy the most.

SPOILERS BELOW