The Truth is in Here: The UK Comics from The X-Files

The article celebrates the unique magic, artistry, and collectability of the 1990s Topps X‑Files comics, reflecting on their unmatched impact and the joy of discovering rare UK magazine editions years later. One of my favorite comics ever was the 1990's Topps The X-Files. Based on the early seasons, the series ran for 41 issues from January 1995 to September 1998. While there were multiple writers and artists throughout the run, the most prolific were the Stefan Petrucha, John Rozen and a pre-Walking Dead Charles Adlard.

Most covers were done magestically by one of our favorite cover artists, Miran Kim. The second issue with the fiery orange and Mulder and Scully is possibly top three favorites of all time.

We don't say that lightly. There was something special, something that I've yet to experience again when rushing to the comic shop in hopes of the latest issue being available. And it wasn't just the monthlies, there were smaller digests, a magazine, specials, a graphic novel, annuals, mini-series, adaption of the first movie and select first season episodes. There were also ashcans and special issues in Wizard and Hero Illustrated magazines and even in TV Guide. And, over the years, I collected them all.

Wildstorm and IDW both followed up with their own X-Files runs over the years, but none have lived up to the newness, the mystery, the art--and yes, even that magic--of the original Topps comics.

And then, several years ago, I discovered that there were larger, magazine style UK versions also available! Like their American counterpart they included the same stories, but often had interviews, TV series news and other matter along with the comic. Released by Titan, I set out to acquire these issues, as well. While I don't have all of them, I have found a few over the years and am more than happy The X-Files has come to my comics collection in a way I hadn't expected--or even knew existed!