Should You Read The Walking Dead Comics Before Watching the Show?

Whether to read the The Walking Dead comics before watching the show is a common question among fans. This decision largely depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to get out of the experience.

Story Differences

One of the primary differences between the comics and the television series is the plot, character development, and pacing. The comics provide a deep dive into the original storyline and characters, offering a richer understanding of the events that unfold. However, this additional context might also spoil some of the surprises in the show. Whether these changes are a good or bad thing depends on your taste. If you prefer to feel more surprised and enjoy the unpredictability of the TV show, it might be better to watch the series first.

Character Development

The comics delve into more backstory and provide a deeper exploration of characters. This can significantly enhance your viewing experience, particularly if you enjoy detailed character arcs. For instance, characters like Michonne, Carl, and Carol receive extensive background in the comics, which can provide valuable context when watching the show. However, if you’re more focused on the visual medium and prefer to watch the story unfold without prior knowledge, you might find the comics a distraction.

Art and Style

The artwork in the comics is a crucial aspect of the storytelling. The visual style, character designs, and overall atmosphere of the comics can be incredibly engaging and enjoyable for those who appreciate graphic novels and visual storytelling. While the TV show also has its own unique visual style, the comics can offer a different perspective on the world and characters. If you’re a fan of the visual aspect, reading the comics can enhance your appreciation of the TV show’s visual storytelling.

Viewing Experience

If you prefer to experience the story as it’s presented in the show without any prior knowledge, it might be best to start with the series. The show has diverged significantly from the comics, with changes in character arcs, plot points, and even major character deaths. For example, in the comics, Rick Grimes dies in a later issue, a development that wouldn’t make sense in the context of the show. Similarly, the new leader, Daryl Dixon, who is a significant character in the show, has no direct equivalent in the comics.

Conclusion

Whether you should read the The Walking Dead comics before watching the show is a matter of personal preference. If you’re interested in the original source material and enjoy comic books, reading the comics can provide valuable context and a deeper understanding of the characters and story. However, if you prefer to watch the show at face value and don’t usually read comic books, it’s perfectly fine to start with the TV series.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to what kind of experience you want to have. If you plan to read the comics, start with the first issue and take your time to explore the richer backstory and character development. If you decide to watch the show first, you can always read the comics later for a more complete understanding of the story. Enjoy the journey and immerse yourself in the post-apocalyptic world of The Walking Dead.