When publishers convert older comic books into a digital format, I call it archiving. I know some fans who frown on digital editions, but they have their place. Again, that is often only a day to read some comics easily and affordably. Now, I wish the legacy publishers did this more often, but there is often no rhyme or reason to what they archive—but I am glad when they do!
Take Archie Comics, which, a year ago, began archiving Golden Age issues of Pep Comics. I don’t remember them giving a reason why, but (with a few gaps) they are fast approaching Pep Comics #150. Okay, even I, who reads a lot of everything, isn’t going to get through all those Golden Age comics, because there are only so many hours in a day.
However, there are some compelling reasons to check out these comics. The digital editions run $2.00, issues wasn’t a bad price point. Even better, these are available to read for free on both Global Comix and ComiXology Unlimited, and all new Archie hits the apps the same day they appear in shops.
It may not have moved Superman‑level numbers, but Pep Comics carved out its own place in the Golden Age. It launched with a punch—introducing The Shield (the first patriotic hero), The Comet, and The Hangman—before pulling one of the biggest pivots in comics history. When Archie showed up in issue #22, the series’ tone shifted, setting the stage for a transformation that still fascinates fans today.
In the past, I wrote about how the heroes were gradually phased out, replaced by Archie and the rest of the Riverdale characters. With a few gaps, you get the introduction of Archie, and, from a fan and historical perspective, it’s interesting to see how, over time, the issues become the characters we know today.
Archie is up to Pep Comics #140, from 1960, which means an almost complete twenty-year run of Riverdale tales. Not even DC or Marvel can top that! It also offers some perspective on the changing times in culture and history. Archie’s debut hit the stands weeks before the USA entered WW2. And remember, during this run, there were a few boom-and-bust cycles, with different genres coming and going. I mean, a case could be made that Archie Comics probably wouldn’t have stayed in business when superheroes stopped selling as well if Archie Andrew hadn’t come along.
Many comics, after so many years, often feel dated. But that doesn’t mean the stories aren’t worth reading. One thing about Archie Comics, even decades later, is that it is still a fun read for all ages. Maybe the slang is off, or the clothes are from a different era, but they still tend to hold up, which says a lot considering the countless other comics that don’t hold up well over time.
Again, I don’t suggest you start reading all the hundreds of Golden- and Silver-Age Archie Comics out there. That goes for any publisher, but since Archie is one of only three publishers still going since the Golden Age, I often don’t think they get the attention they deserve for their lasting impact on the industry. When was the last time YOU read an Archie Comic? Chances are, that in a long time! There’s no better time than now to start.
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