By Casey Muller
Argon Zark is an excellent webcomic. It is well drawn, interesting,
and the subject matter is appealing to the technical audience of the
internet. What makes it an appropriate use of the medium is the pace
at which new comics are put out. The author's stated goal of one page
per week is even unattainable, given the visual quality and his other
commitments.
The visuals are truly impressive. Each page is filled with detail
and
overwhelming washes of bright color. Even better, the author has put
up a detailed list of the software and hardware he uses to create
the
comic.
Another interesting aspect is the site's current revenue model. The
author has compiled his first book of comics into a hardcopy offering,
and moved the archives to an area that only purchasers can access.
At
the same time, he's making his second book available as it progresses,
the same way his first one was. This is a clever way of encouraging
people to buy his book, while holding true to the idea of a
webcomic. A quick search revealed no sites with the first book posted
in a potentially-illegal manner.
The slow release rate of the comic is interesting also because it
must
encourage fans to buy merchandise and otherwise contribute their money
and enthusiasm. On the other hand, it may just alienate readers by
not
allowing the compulsive daily reading so characteristic of online
comics.
All in all though, Argon Zark is an excellent offering. It is fun,
unique, and even possibly profitable. I hope it continues to survive
and grow.