Marvel #1 Offers 700 Free Digital Comics Until March 12

Today at SXSW in Austin, TX, Marvel Comics announced a jaw-dropping promotion on the digital comic store. Over 700 free #1 issues of Marvel Comics from the past and present are now free to download through the end of Tuesday, March 12. Marvel is taking aim at attracting comic book readers both new and veteran with the initiative:

“At its core, Marvel #1 is all about bringing new readers into the fold,” explains Gabriel. “That doesn’t just mean fans who have never read a comic, but [also] longtime fans [who want] to jump into books they may have been waiting to try. With a plethora of great content and digital devices—be it tablets or smart phones—in more hands than ever, there is no better time to launch an initiative such as this.”

The Marvel and Comixology apps are understandably slammed at the moment as eager comic fans rush to get the free issues, but keep trying to get your old favorites and take a look at new titles, including the Marvel NOW! titles.

I recommend grabbing Hawkeye #1 or Captain Marvel #1 if you're looking for a new comic to hook you back into the world of Marvel. I'm going to get my first look at the titles All-New X-Men and Young Avengers. What's on your download list?