Collectors have a nightmare. It goes like this: You pre-order a limited edition graphic novel. You wait three months. It finally arrives in a thin Amazon paper envelope, folded in half by the mailman.
The corners are dinged. The spine is cracked. It’s no longer a collectible; it’s just a damaged book.
Enter Forbidden Planet.
They are the world's largest retailer of comics, sci-fi, and cult entertainment. They don't just sell "stuff"—they understand that condition is everything. But with shipping costs often higher than Prime's "free" delivery, are they worth it? We placed a massive order for comics, statues, and manga to find out.
Quick Summary
The Verdict: Geek Heaven
If you care about the condition of your books and boxes, Forbidden Planet is non-negotiable. Their "Pre-Order" system is the biggest steal in the hobby, often offering 15-20% off cover prices if you order early.
Browse The Store →What's Worth Buying?
The Shipping Test: Amazon vs. FP
This is the main reason to shop here. Amazon uses algorithms to pack boxes, which often results in a heavy item crushing a light one. Forbidden Planet uses humans who understand collectibles.
The "Gemini" Standard: For single issues and graphic novels, FP uses specialized cardboard mailers (often called Gemini mailers) that have "crumple zones" on the corners. If the package is dropped, the cardboard absorbs the impact, not the book spine.
The "Pre-Order" Steal
Unlike other stores that charge full price, Forbidden Planet offers significant discounts if you order 2-3 months in advance. This is because they order stock based on your demand.
Here is a real example from our cart:
| Item | Retail Price | FP Pre-Order | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham | $6.99 | $4.89 | 30% OFF |
| Marvel Omnibus (Hardcover) | $100.00 | $75.00 | 25% OFF |
| Bluey Action Figure | $15.99 | $13.59 | 15% OFF |
For The Weekly Reader: Subscriptions
If you read monthly comics (like Amazing Spider-Man or X-Men), you can set up a Subscription.
- Never Miss an Issue: They pull the comic and hold it for you.
- Batch Shipping: You can choose to have them ship weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly to save on shipping costs.
- Bagged & Boarded: Unlike buying off the rack, subscription copies usually come untouched by other customers.
The Downsides: It's Not Perfect
Because they pack things carefully, it takes time. An "In Stock" order might take 3-5 days to leave the warehouse. If you need a gift for tomorrow, look elsewhere. If you want it to arrive undamaged, wait for Forbidden Planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they ship to the USA?
Yes! They are UK-based but ship globally. For rare variant covers or signed editions, the shipping cost is absolutely worth it. For heavy statues, check the shipping calculator first as it can get expensive.
Are the signed items legit?
100%. Forbidden Planet is famous for hosting massive signing events in London (Megastore). The authors sit in the store and sign stacks of books. It is the most reputable source for signed sci-fi/fantasy in the world.
What if my item arrives damaged?
Their customer service is generally very good with returns for damaged goods. Because they cater to collectors, they understand that a "bent corner" is a defect, whereas Amazon might argue the book is still readable.
Warning: Browsing their catalog is addictive.
