DC Comics superheroes conquer the internet; new web sites and revamped AOL service highlight online initiatives

Business Wire, Jan 30, 1996

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 30, 1996--DC Comics, the first major comic book publisher to launch a computer online service, today announced plans to launch a World Wide Web page (http://www.dccomics.com).

The site will showcase DC's comics and licensed publishing, including exclusive excerpts of new Batman stories, new sets of DC trading cards, classic radio programs and original programming. Since July 1994, DC Comics Online, an in-depth information service for fans of pop culture, especially comic books, has been part of America Online, the fastest growing commercial online service. DC Comics Online is one of the most heavily-trafficked parts of the internet, which more than 100,000 individual members visit repeatedly every month.

To keep fun growing faster than a speeding bullet, DC Comics announces plans with two major World Wide Web content providers: DC's Warner Bros. site will feature anything and everything there is to know about Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and other super-hero media stars. Also in February, DC will launch a new trading card set, "Firepower" with every card image available for download. Pathfinder (http://www.pathfinder.com) and Warner Bros. Online (http:///www.warnerbros.com). DC Comics site on Pathfinder will feature all of its comics publishing and related licensed publishing.

Web surfers can now access Superman Audio on Demand. With the click of a button (no waiting), they will hear a 15 minute episode of the classic 1940s Superman radio serial. A new episode will air each week.

In February, there will be a new interface for DC Comics Online on AOL. There will be new welcome and menu screens as well as a new user interface screen for all of DC Comics and MAD Magazine publications. Members will continue to enjoy such regular features as MAD's America One-Liners, Virtual Fiction(TM), interactive press kits, heated online talk shows and debates, all in addition to the entertainingly detailed listings of upcoming DC Comics publications.

In March, for the first time ever, DC will serialize a Batman comic book. A page will be posted on the Web every day, starting one week before the issues are available at comic book specialty stores and newsstands.

Chantal d'Aulnis, DC's vice president -- Licensed Publishing, says, "We've known for some time now how important DC Comics Online would be. Superman, Sandman and Alfred E. Neuman all thrive in this new medium, as they have in other innovations of the 20th century from radio to TV to feature films. They themselves are showing us the way."

Greg Ross, DC's multi-media, editor, says, "As technology grows, the DC Comics Online of tomorrow will resemble the stuff of today's science fiction. As the first comic book publisher to provide a full-featured online service, and with over a year and a half experience in doing it around the clock, DC Comics is ready for the future of the Information Age."

CONTACT: Martha Thomases, 212/636-5450

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