Forbidden Planet NYC

Forbidden Planet is one of the largest retailers of comic books, graphic novels, science fiction, collectibles, toys and associated merchandise on earth. The New York location – an offshoot of the original UK-based retailer – was originally located at 56 East 12th Street and Broadway in Greenwich Village, and opened in the early 1980s. The location carried one of the most extensive selections anywhere of in-print science fiction and fantasy paperbacks, primarily from labels such as Ballantine, Del Rey, Ace, and others, along with small press materials. There were also large and small press magazines, hardcovers, tie-in toys & merchandise, and comics.

In the 1990s Forbidden Planet NYC moved across the street to a much smaller location at 840 Broadway, on the corner of East 13th Street, switching its focus to comic books and graphic novels. The store operated there until July 22, 2012. Two days later the store reopened nearby at 832 Broadway, with a much larger 3,400 square feet of space. I suspect the ability to rent the larger space stems from the growth of events such as New York Comic-Con, which have sparked increased interest in genre publications, comic books & graphic novels and pop culture, broadening their audience and appeal.

Forbidden Planet NYC’s parent company also operates a blog featuring comics, sci-fi and pop culture-related news, along with reviews and interviews with novelists and comics creators, and has recently begun podcasting as well.