Comic books are a constantly evolving medium. From the earliest Superman and Batman stories of the 1930s and ‘40s to the Silver Age titles from DC and Marvel, each era developed its own distinct visual style. The ’70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s brought their own shifts, as well. But to many readers, the last two decades may seem relatively stable, with no major changes in how comics look. If that’s true, what exactly are creators updating?
Capes—a series published by Image Comics beginning in 2003—offers a useful case study. Written by Robert Kirkman and illustrated by Mark Englert, it’s set within the Invincible universe and follows a government-funded superhero team operating since the 1960s. The first issue introduces both new and veteran members, along with the team’s leader, Big Brain.
So, what makes a 22-year-old comic notable today? Image has just published a new version of the first issue, which will be followed by the rest of the original six-issue series, as well as a new ongoing. The newly released edition isn’t a facsimile reprint like the ones currently popular at Marvel and DC. It’s the same book—but not quite. Marketed as a “remaster,” it initially looks like a standard re-release. Yet when compared to the original version (which, despite some claims, is still easy to find, including in the first trade paperback available digitally through Hoopla), the changes are substantial. Every page has been modified. Some updates involve new backgrounds; others adjust or expand the dialogue. The entire issue has been relettered and recolored, giving it a more contemporary feel.
What’s most striking about this remaster isn’t the scale of the alterations but how subtle many of them are. Even in just the past five years, comic book production techniques have continued to shift—not necessarily in line art, but in the digital processes that surround it. Digital coloring has been around for over three decades, yet advances in effects tools, specialized brushes, color holds, and evolving palettes keep reshaping the medium. In Capes, these updates make the artwork feel more dynamic and alive.
Keeping up with these trends can be difficult, especially when the changes happen quietly. Capes #1 shows how a comic can be refreshed years after its original release in a way that honors the source material while bringing a modern sensibility to it. Remasters like this highlight how much the medium continues to grow—even when the evolution isn’t immediately visible.
3 out of 4 Stars
Creative Team: Robert Kirkman (writer) and Mark Englert (artist)
Publisher: Image Comics
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