Challengers may just be the nicest comic book store in Chicago. The store is beautifully kept. The staff are awesome. The selection is great. They even offer an array of events, which I have yet to visit. Really, my only complaint is that the store is nowhere near my neighborhood. Graphic novel selection is a key to attracting new audiences hungry for a wealth of stories. Challengers has the best selection in chicago. For the new comic reader or the would-be comic reader, this is a great store to get started at. Ask the owners what they recommend to check out. read more

I expected much more from this place when I heard and saw all the promotions about it so I went in expecting one of the better comic book shops. It's got its good things but honestly I don't think I am going to return to this place. I went in on free comic book day as it's a good day to get deals at comic book stores. Some stores have big promotional sales. Getting parking was not easy but maybe a block away on the streets. From the outside, they had plenty of life size characters to promote as well as cosplayers outside greetings guests. i thought it was going to be great at this point. Inside, they had a large selection of free comics. The store itself has a nice flow to it as there is the first room you enter in on and then the larger room. They had no sales going on for the event. I'm not sure why you wouldn't take advantage of larger crowds with a good sale but most people I saw there were there for only the free comics and not buying much. They seem like a very professional place, the staff is friendly but for a comic book shop, it reminds me of the difference between walking to Michael's and Black's (sorry for the art reference). It is kinda missing that personality. Now, they do have artists there on occasions and there were two or three there (none I could name but ore independent comics which is cool) but that was the only thing really going on beyond the free comics. The only other thing I could say good is their wall behind the counter is cool, it's got a bunch of drawings from artists but again. Because its behind the counter, it's hard to really enjoy it and see it. There are plenty of better places if you're looking for comics that actually won't always charge you full price and are more reasonable. This is a definite skip in my book! read more

There's a certain romanticism in store (pardon the pun) for the rurally raised comic book nerd in his or her moving to a major metropolitan area for the first time. In a small town setting, you may be lucky to even HAVE a direct market comic book store in your area -- hell, in my case, within 40 miles -- much less have choice and variety between venues. Yet even at that, you damn well better be ready and willing for a strict diet of leather, spandex and shovels full of continuity [no, no Maiden fans, not you -- you beat people like me up], because all you're going to get from these backwoods funny page peddlers are books from The Big Two, not including subsidiary houses such as WildStorm and Vertigo. So I hope I'm not under emphasizing to you the wonderment and staggering array of bliss that I was filled with when I realized that I suddenly gained DOZENS of comic book stores within walking distance upon moving to Chicago...I hope I'm not under emphasizing that fact, as I tell you that Challengers was the first Chicago comic shop I walked into, and it has already become my mainstay. Marvel and DC in the front, their subsidiaries on the same shelf or close by, independents arranged BOTH by company and creator, Chicago artistry on display ending with a local artist shelf in the back, for the love of god, the organization makes COHERENT SENSE. Sold. I am honestly and truly sold on just that simple fact, notwithstanding the customer service, the various artist events, an enormous stock pile of well-priced back-issues, and SEVERAL sitting/reading areas. In store. Beside a wall of comic book artists' doodles. Sold. I may have only lived in Chicago a short time, but I'll be damned if I don't know all of the Challenegers' crew personally within a shorter amount of time. read more

It's right by the blue line. It's big and bold with easily found and clearly identifiable sections, and it has lots of neat and nerdy eye candy all over the place. Dal and Patrick are some great guys to talk comics with. I may not always agree with the opinions they posses, they can articulate how they feel about the stories they like and don't like with remarkable precision. Both of them have an encyclopedic range of sequential art knowledge and no branch of comics is beneath them to talk about with real love. It's by my apartment so it's my local store but it's really the "& conversation" part of challengers that keeps me really happy that those guys happen to own my neighborhood comic shop. and those guys got me challengers christmas card and patrick let me borrow his luchadore mask for halloween shows and his copy of voice of the fire (which i'm still reading) read more

In one word, GORGEOUS! This shop felt so much like a Portland shop, friendly staff, tons of books, sleek look and organized. Could have stayed here for hours. Happened to visit this shop on a snowy afternoon and honestly where else would you want to seek shelter and lose yourself than in a fully loaded comic shop? Located only a few steps away from the Western Ave stop on the blue line and easy to drive to as well. When I visit Chicago, I'm definitely making a stop here! BONUS, they've got an awesome gallery and a great selection of independent and small press titles. Thank you Challengers! read more

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I went to Challengers for the first time this weekend after hearing good things about it & to attend a book signing for Chris Eliopoulos's new book, Okie Dokie Donuts. I admit, I just started reading comics & graphic novels, but coming here made me want to read so many more. While we were perusing, Patrick was asking Chris all sorts of questions about working with his publisher & getting work and it was super-interesting to learn a little about the industry. One thing that really stood out to me is the fact that everything was so clean & organized...in a world where people are probably constantly perusing, I couldn't believe the pristine condition these books & comics were in... Yay for Challengers! read more

These guys are just great. One thing i've learned to look for in any sub-cultural specialty store nowadays is the snob factor and these guys have none of that. They welcome new customers and are happy to recomend different things and talk about why they like it. They also actually know when certain issues are supposed to come out. You would think this would be standard because the information is readily available but i've been to a couple shops where when asked when they would get a certain issue, i get met with a dumbfounded look or get told to sign up for email alerts. Basically, these guys do it right and are the gold standard of what a modern comic book store should be. Take notes guys. read more

Patrick and Dal are the shit and they are open for 30 straight hours right now, so anybody who reads this before Christmas Crisis is over better bring them some cookies and milk! This is my shop, hands down. They make sure I get all the books I forget to ask for in advance, and are helpful in giving me suggestions on where to find stuff they can't get. Not to mention friendly as hell and easy to talk to. They are pretty much the antithesis of Comic Book Guy from the Simpsons. I still miss my old comic shop from the south side, but the existence of this shop makes it sting just that much less. read more

I want to see a show of hands from people who haven't seen Batman Begins or the Dark Knight yet.....Let's see them. Show of hands.....OMG. WTF is wrong with you? those movies were amazzzzzzzzzzzzzingggggggg!!!!! WATCH IT NOWWWWWW. If you haven't guessed already I'm kind of a closet comic book geek. I lovveeee ...I mean looovvvee comic books. But as the years have gone by, I've had to hide my dirty little secret. When I want to get my fix though, I head over to Challengers Comics.It is quite possibly the best comic store in Chicago. The place is huge, its got refreshments, sofas, tables, and plenty of comic books, toys, and shirts. How does this place stand out? It has a large variety of Japanese Anime, and Graphic Novels!!! My suggestion for someone who has never read a comic book before. EASY. The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller. It's probably the best comic book series ever written. Even if you don't like comic books, you will love this book. guaranteed. The service was friendly, professional, and informative. read more

Challengers is by far the best comic store in Chicago. I've only been here a couple times but my recent visit was for their comic art show and I was very impressed. The effort the owners put forth in creating a community for artists and fans is unique and inspiring. They cleverly use all the hippest web technology to their (and our) advantage. There is a book club of which I hope to participate with eventually, artist appearances, gallery shows, and a HUGE selection. I hope these guys are around for a long time! read more

Having been a comic book fan all my life I can honestly say I've seen retail shops that go across the entire spectrum from unclean and hostile to super friendly and pristine. This place falls smack dab into the latter category. The people that work here are super nice and helpful (although they dress a little too stuffy for a comic book store), the books are well organized and easy to find and the selection of trades are mind bogglingly varied. I found some gems here that I would never have known about if it weren't for Challengers (as well as some local artists work)! I don't come here often enough even though I live right across the street and I am still sad that I missed when Amber Benson (of Buffy the Vampire Slayer fame) made an appearance to sign her new book. Regardless, this is my go to funny book spot in the city. Pure awesome! read more

One of the nicest comic shops you will ever go in. Employees are super nice and helpful. Excellent selection and assortment of other items.

Not your typical comic book store. It's bright airy, roomy with a well dressed and courteous staff. They are also very knowledgeable in all things comic book related. Plus there is the added bonus of things you can find there that you never see at other comic book stores, like actual comic book artists working on their latest book at the artist's table, or people sitting in comfortable lounge seats, reading. This is not a typical comic book store, this is a comic book experience. Don't take my word for it, go to: challengerscomics.com and see for yourself. read more

I must admit, I do enjoy the stores piled high with back issues and toys... and I'll still go there for convenience, but this is the only comic book store that my husband will actually go to willingly with me. He likes the stream line look and the organization. Also, I find myself being "stuck in traffic" just so I can get off the highway and get some comic books for the night. It may not be your thing, but for people like me, my friends, and my brothers, we like to talk about comic books and get opinions and take recommendations. This concept is so cool. They have an art gallery with original art for sale. They have an art table you can use, they have (some) art supplies. It's awesome. I remember when they first opened and feeling like they didn't have enough for me to dig through, but now it feels more established. They have things going on and it's clean and room to sit. I still rent comic books at the library, or stop into my neighborhood store on my lunch break, but I thoroughly love going to Challenger's. AND they have a website with a forum you have to go to the store to sign up for. I like that. The only down side being that there are not a lot of ratings on various comics. Dal and Patrick are friendly and know their stuff. Don't believe the comments about it being corporate-y or sterile. It's just clean with friendly professionals. read more

I am not the comic person in the family-- I simply accompany the hubby when he picks up his pulled comics. As an outsider's perspective, I just love how the guy at the shop already knows my husband's pile without asking his name. The workers are always super friendly and attentive. I sometimes wish I had a an addiction to comics. The other reason why I fancy this place is because one time we took the dog along for the trip, and while I waited outside, one of the workers informed me that they were a pet friendly store. My pup and I were super happy that we didn't have to wait out in the cold. So sometimes, the three of us enjoy a nice visit to Challenger's. Oh yea... I also love the signatures on the wall... my cousin is an up in coming comic book artist and hope to one day see his signature up there..then I will give it the five stars :) read more

Great little store that's clean and with an easy to navigate layout makes it easy to find what you're looking for or browse trade paper backs. In my experience the staff has been very casual and easy to ask questions to, and ready and willing to give opinions and make recommendations if you ask for them. As far as I can tell (I'm no expert myself), everyone I've met so far seems more than capable of holding up their end of a conversation. The store actually seems to employ a number (majority?) of women, which personally I think is great and has either helped create or was created by the friendly atmosphere in the store. There's also a designated children's section. Basically, they seem to be doing everything they can to make comics available and welcoming for everyone. I used to get all my comics digitally (and still in large part do), but this store has me looking for reasons to pay it a visit. read more

This place is awesome. Having been an avid fan of comics from ages 5-17 but jumping in and out through adulthood, I always feel somewhat overwhelmed perusing the shelves at comic shops these days. That's not to say, despite their solid methods of organization, that I have any easier of a time at Challengers - but that's also not their fault. TPB selection is outstanding. Had I access to a store of this nature growing up, I would've doubled up on household chores in order to ensure some boost in allowance. Their indie selection is totally dwarfed by the mainstream stuff, but they are discriminating about the titles that they do carry. I would like to see more Fantagraphics stuff, but maybe I'm in the minority (or they figure those who are so inclined can hop on the train down a stop to Quimby's). Above all else, the folks who run it are charming as all hell. At most places I feel this impending dread (not so dissimilar than that at record stores)when I check out. I usually bury my guilty pleasures beneath a couple issues of some critically-acclaimed series in the hopes of not getting that condescending glance from the clerk. I don't feel the need to do this here. The folks that run it seem aware of the pitfalls of most comic shops. The staff is helpful without being intrusive or pushy, and I always leave the place with a little gained info and a big smile. read more

Great owners. They're able to help direct you, or find something rare. If they don't have it they'll order it. Very cool owners who's knowledge of the comic books ok word to me seems limitless. If you stump them they'll find out and get back to you quickly. They also sell action figures and toys read more

Right off the blue line so it's in a super convenient location. Be sure to stop by and check to see if anyone is signing comics that day. read more

Very bold on the colors end. Chatty folks too. Thus the name, I'd assume. Friendly, encouraging staff. Excellent collection: bit cramped in spots, but that's understandable. Great little location. I didn't come into this review entirely excited, but I really can't find a damn thing to complain about here. Good stuff all around. read more

Of all the comic book stores I've perused in Chicago this place just fit my sensibilities. Coming on a friend's recommendation the first thing that pops out is the organization, which is a welcome site for any LCS and the variety of publishers they stock. I appreciate an LCS that has just as many indie publishers as the Marvel/DC/Image books. On top of everything the staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Especially in how they seemed well versed in the lasted event titles to imports like "Blacksad".....The only reason why this place doesn't get 5 stars because it could use some increased retail space, allowing more hardcover/absolute/library editions of books that they didn't have at the time. Still the place is top notch, so I will absolutely be making this a routine stop when around the area. P.S. for podcast listeners, it looks like Around Comics seems to be reviving and recording new shows here. read more

GREAT COMIC SHOP IN CHICAGO!!! Thank you Patrick Brower and Dal for having an alternate shop that I can get my fix of books and thanks for the signings!!! Known Pat since 1992 and been going to his own shop for the past couple of years too! read more

Ok, the comment about this place being about as intimate and comforting as the shopping mall in Dawn of the Dead was right on. Sorry, guys. But it doesn't lose any stars on my board for that, because the guys who run this place are SO awesome. I spend my money based on the people, because when it comes to a store that's laid out in a very easy-to-understand way, has a MASSIVE inventory, and you add these guys on to the top of that, this store is a perfect ten. (((In response to Nikki- if your biggest complaint is that they said hello but didn't ask if there was anything you were looking for, compare that the the other big stores in Chicago: without fail, when you bring your books up the high counter, they act like you're bothering them! (And the kids in those places would NEVER deign to say hello!) ))) These guys have a very different vibe: they want kids to get into the books, they want the adults to find great new things, and they are BY FAR the most well-adjusted comic store staff to ever escape from their parent's basements. Get in there, tell them what titles you enjoy, and you will get some awesome recommendations for things you've never seen! This is what we're missing from stores that are run by hipsters or chains: These guys run a place where they encourage the customers to meet each other and share opinions, and above all else? They REALLY, REALLY CARE about comics and the people who read them. And that absolutely comes though. read more

I absolutely love Challengers. I am not an every-week comics shopper, but every time I go there I have a great experience. Dal and Patrick have an incredible capacity to really listen to their customers and make sound recommendations. And they are willing to talk comics, music, movies, pop culture in general. They even set aside things they think I might like for the next time I come in. What I am trying to say is it is very personal and authentic customer service without ever being pushy. And when my mom from Florida called to order a gift certificate for my husband, she was super impressed with how personable Patrick was, and he went out of his way to tell my mom how much he enjoyed having my husband and me as customers. That is above and beyond! I highly recommend it, the place rocks. read more

A clean, organized store and friendly, helpful staff: These are the things I look for in a good comic shop, and these are what I found at Challengers. Anything I can't find, they'll order for me, and they've been able to answer all of my questions quite handily. Add to that the casual atmosphere and a wide selection of graphic novels, and this place is pretty perfect, in my opinion. Props for the Charles Christopher strip I saw hanging by the counter on the times I've managed to stop by. My only regret is that I don't live closer. Their proximity to the Blue Line is nice, but I like to hit this place while I'm out and about in my car, and parking in this particular area can be a huge hassle at times read more

Never been in the comic book store but my kids wanted to go. Their kid friendly with their own comic room for kids. They greet you at the door and they made the first time experience awesome. The associate was also very helpful . My daughter was looking for a Batgirl , Catwoman and Wonder Woman comic. She explained that the comic books in the other room was a little bit more explicit for her age group. I really really really appreciate that. They even let them draw on the wall. First time walking into comic book store but not our last. read more

Challengers Comics + Conversation - Comic Books Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Stopped in for the first time with #1 son on a frigid Chicago day. Impressive selection and terrific service. Good recommendations for the kid and a laid back vibe guarantee a return visit. Amazon lost some graphic novel business today. read more

I'm not much of a Yelp user, but I want to reinforce how much Challengers Comics + Conversation deserves all the praise on this page. With over 35 years combined experience in comics retailing, co-owners Patrick and Dal have put all of their thought, care, and attention into every detail of their store. Their personal capital has brought in frequent A-list signing events by Dave McKean, Amber Benson, Gene Ha, Brian Azzarello, and James Robinson over the last year, in a comfortable, friendly, and fun environment. Their monthly "Chattengers" Book Club draws awesome and varied local personalities with lots of interesting things to say. Their marketing collateral is always clever, and as well-designed and well-organized as the store itself. I've been a weekly pull subscriber for the last eighteen months, and Challengers has never missed a single book. They've never failed to have something I asked for ready for me on the day it comes out. Over my twenty-two years of weekly comics before that, I'd estimate other stores missed a book every week or two. Their subscription service has been WELL beyond reasonable expectations, I can't overstate how much this has impressed me as a customer. I feel like they're paying attention to their core business. As other reviews mention, there's a LOT of 'conversation' in 'Comics + Conversation', but the actual, physical comics never suffer for it. Patrick and Dal's experience and skill in ordering, and their finesse in navigating a bloated, arguably incompetent, Stalin-esque distribution monopoly is very, very admirable. If you're a regular retail buyer of comics, you know how often managers play the "Blame Diamond" card. Challengers doesn't. As for the 'Conversation', it's easier for me to write about what it's not. It's not a pre-canned monologue about something you've repeatedly said you are not interested in. It's not recycled internet snark. It's not tired old Bucktown or Lakeview hipster cool. It's also not a trivia game where the owners try to outgeek you in an uncomfortable, social outcast, 'parent's basement' kind of way. I guess the difference is that all the employees at Challengers are ACTUALLY LISTENING, and are somehow -impossibly- not completely burned-out on comics. Maybe that's their superpower: the ability to work in comics retail for years and years without burning out. And you'll find they have an original opinion on virtually any topic. If you use the Western Bus (especially the rush hour Express) or the Blue Line, it's painless to get to the store. Street parking around the corner is free and plentiful. It's always worth the trip, and I leave smiling at least, usually outright laughing. It's always a positive experience, and I can't recommend Challengers strongly enough. Why are you still reading this? Please: go there right now. read more

awesome, awesome store! great selection of Marvel & DC and graphic novel section. they carry a few titles that my 10 year old daughter is into and Harley Quinn (for me!) i come in once a week nd always leave very happy. thanks to the great staff! read more

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Awesome selection. My only complaint is that the atmosphere is a little sterile for me. I like cozy worn in comic book stores. Also, I found the staff to be unfriendly. read more

Clean, friendly, and well-organized, Challengers feels more like a futuristic comics library than a 21st century comic store. There's interesting music playing, original art and props line the walls, and I've seen more creators hanging out there shooting the breeze with the owners than any other shop I've patronized. What I really like about Challengers is that they go a step beyond, from the social networking aspects of their excellent website to their special events and parties. What's more, it seems that they're always trying to get better. read more

Too sterile with a corporate feeling. They tried to sell me stuff instead of talk about comics. 99cent back issues are nice. Big selection of trades, seems like they push that more than the monthly books. Nothing is bagged and boarded. I really only go here for the back issues. I prefer Brainstorm which is close by. read more

Excellent! The guy that owns this store is a true lover of comics and it shows in his stores.

Challengers is probably THE best all around comic shop in Chicago. The owners Patrick and Dal are two of the nicest, most well informed comic nerds you will ever meet. (that's a compliment) The store is cleaner than most comic shops, titles are easy to find and they have a massive collection of trades. In the back of the store there also a decent selection of $1.00 comics, art supplies, some toys and giant drawing table. The one thing this store has that most don't, chairs to sit and hang out. This is a very west coast thing and I love it. It's great to finally have a comic shop in the mid west that actually wants their customers to come in, hang out and talk about comics. Kudos to the owners. Everyone should make a point of stopping in this shop at least once. Oh yeah, they have the best comic events in Chicago, hands down. Absolutely amazing! read more

Great store, terrific customer service, and highly recommended for anyone from the Wednesday pull list faithful to folks who are looking for a great comic book related gift. The owners are dedicated to their business and the industry so make sure to stop by and check out their shop! read more

I just love coming in to this place. I've been here twice now (both on special missions to pick something up), and, coming in from the Chicago rain and snow, it feels like a small, warm, friendly haven from everything else going on. Few shops can attain that sort of feel. Thanks for being awesome, guys! read more

These guys take what a Comic Book store used to be. Removed the snarky and elitist workers. Opened it up to promote clean handling and proper reading. Included some cool events and now you have what a Comic Book store SHOULD be. Well played gentlemen! read more

This shop is great and Pat and Dal are not only knowledgeable but articulate too. This is great shop to go to whether you are a long time reader or interested in trying comics. read more

Friendly, knowledgable staff. Great selection. Also, they feature a myriad of talented artists and writers in store. You'll be hard pressed to find a better comic shop... Anywhere, not just Chicago. read more

Best shop in America. Great selection. Great service. Great people. I have been to many stores, Challengers delivers everywhere. Most of all in experience. It is so inviting and bright and lovely. Also, the staff is right on with recommendations. read more