Comic books have been known to hold big events. Every year something is happening in the world of comics. Sometimes it may be the return of a character that has been away or maybe a big comic crossover pitting your favorite characters against each other. The year 2012 has already unleashed a few of these on fans. But it’s still early in the year and fans have much to anticipate. The following are just a few of what to expect for throughout the year.

Marvel Comics, in what has become a tradition amongst them and DC Comics, will publish another epic event in 2012. This event, titled Avengers vs. X-Men, will pit both super-teams against each other after the news that the Phoenix Force is heading back to Earth. The early shots of the event have already started in the miniseries Avengers: X-Sanction. The true action doesn’t begin until April however. If you are a fan of both or just one of these teams, or just enjoy large events, you’ll want to make sure you’re aboard for this super slugfest.

One of the biggest events of 2012 is the return of Valiant Comics. The revived publisher, now called Valiant Entertainment, has been very active in promoting their return and the stable of books they’ll be bringing back for readers. They’ve been quite vocal and visible with their impending return by contacting retailers and sparking interest in fans. Their plans to reignite the industry begin with an X-O Manowar book for Free Comic Book Day. I recommend heading to your shop and snagging a copy of this book as it will be in high demand. Then prepare for the ongoing series handled by Robert Venditti and Cary Nord.

Dark Horse Comics is bringing back one of their popular 90’s characters, Ghost, from comic book limbo. At the hands of Kelly Sue DeConnick and Phil Noto, Ghost will be making her return to comics in Dark Horse Presents #13, which will be released in June. I’ll be checking out that series as she’s a character with whom I’ve developed some interest in within recent years.

Image Comics’ standout superhero title Invincible has teased its shake-up some time ago with an image depicting a Black male character in the titular character’s costume. Fans have speculated what this meant since its release and our answers will be coming soon. This is one of the most highly praised indie titles available. I recommend reading up on it as Robert Kirkman and Ryan Ottley are guiding a great book.

As with any year in comics, there are always big events; whether they are crossovers, summer events, revivals of missing characters, or so many other possibilities. The year 2012 promises quite a bit to keep the fangirls and fanboys reading and smiling. This list is far from exhaustive, but it’s just a glimpse of things on the horizon for 2012. Thanks for looking and happy reading.