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Best Comic Book Shops In New York City

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Samuel L. Jackson, as Elijah Price, in Touchstone Pictures' "Unbreakable." (credit: Getty Images)

Whether it's to stay abreast of the next comic tale headed to theaters or to just stay current with what's happening in Metropolis and Gotham City, there are dozens of shops in New York City catering to your comic book needs (and addiction). Here is a list of some locations by borough where hardcore fans and the recently-converted can get their fix. - Nicola A. Menzie/BestofNY Staff

Book-Off

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Midtown's Book Off NYC, a comic book shop featuring rare titles inb oth English and Japanese. (credit: Flickr)

49 W. 45th Street, New York, N.Y. 10036
(212) 685-1410
http://www.bookoffusa.com

With multiple locations throughout the United States, Book-Off USA gives comic book collectors and enthusiasts the ability to buy and sell their goods across the country. Book-Off isn't just a comic book store either -- you can find used and new books, magazines, video games, music, and electronics here too. Check out their online marketplace to browse their expansive collection and to buy and sell your items.

Forbidden Planet

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The Forbidden Planet comic book store in Manhattan, on the corner of Broadway and East 13th Street. (credit: Luigi Novi)

832 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10003
http://www.fpnyc.com

If you're looking for all things superhero-related, this place is for you. From Superman to Star Wars, this lower Manhattan locale is jam-packed with graphic novels, science fiction, manga, action figures, posters, collectibles and more to fit every fantasy fanatic's need. Don't forget their collection of Magic: The Gathering cards! Check out their website to stay up-to-date on their newest arrivals.

Jim Hanley's Universe

Jim Hanley's Universe
(credit: Librarything.com)

4 W. 33rd Street, New York/299B New Dorp Lane, Staten Island
http://www.jhucomicbooks.com

With two locations in Manhattan and Staten Island, JHU Comics has established itself as one of the premier comic books locations in New York City. Truly a collector's store, JHU offers comics from big-name publishers like Marvel, DC, Image and Dark Horse, as well as titles from indie zines and top manga artists. Aside from their large collection of graphic novels, JHU also hosts sanctioned gaming tournaments for Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering players. They also offer a selection of collectible cards, action figures and apparel.

Midtown Comics

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Midtown Comics in Times Square. (credit: midtowncomics.com)

200 W. 40th Street, New York, N.Y. 10018
459 Lexington Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10017
(800) 411-3341
http://www.midtowncomics.com

It's hard to miss Midtown Comics when you're walking through the heart of Times Square. Head into their spacious locale to check out rows upon rows of new releases and older classics. Even if you're not a superhero fan, this store is a great stop on your tour of shops in the heart of New York City.

St. Mark's Comics

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Employee Ryan Mundaca holds vintage Spider Man and X-Men Marvel comic books at St. Mark's Comics Aug. 31, 2009, in New York City. (credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

11 St. Mark's Place, New York, N.Y. 10003
(212) 598-9439148
http://www.stmarkscomics.com

It may seem like a hole-in-the-wall off of the iconic St. Mark's strip, but this tiny enclave boasts a fantastic collection of comic books, graphic novels, action figures and more. Shuffle through tightly-packed shelves of singles from all the Marvel and DC universe or browse their extensive omnibus collections. St. Mark's offers very flexible hours at their two locations as well -- open until 1 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. The store also has a location on Montague Street in Brooklyn, for those not looking to venture into Manhattan.

Desert Island

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Desert Comics in Brooklyn. (credit: Desert Comics)

540 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11211
(718) 388-5087
http://www.desertislandbrooklyn.com

This Brooklyn comic shop is known for its eclectic selection, featuring work from indie artists and local publishers. The storefront itself even reflects their quirky style, with bright decor and paisley wallpaper. Desert Island is also the store behind the borough's annual Comic Arts Brooklyn festival, featuring presentations from industry leaders, art galleries and forums.

Anime Castle

Anime Castle
(credit: hoshukoalumni.org)

35-52 Union Street, Flushing, N.Y. 11354
(347) 438-1296
http://www.animecastle.com

Located right in the heart of Flushing, Queens, Anime Castle is the go-to spot for all things anime. The store boasts a collection of the latest anime and manga titles and actively host weekly buy-in games for Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering players. Check out their events calendar here.

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