It is a comic book store. A rare breed of retail thrice over. For one they deal in books, a dying medium, and then it is niche books, and finally not owned by a giant corporation which let's be frank, you need to be to survive in this world at times. So..... run on sentence out of the way now, Nuclear comics is pretty awesome in case you were still wondering. It is definitely more comics focused, eschewing a hybrid approach of gaming, comics and all things geek under one retail roof. They have a great collection. You walk in and it's shelves stacked! The staff member there was awesome. We chatted a bit, he made some recs, was awesome to my kids (teens) and just generally the kind of person you want at any establishment. A very easy 5 stars from me :) read more

Nuclear Comics - Store - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

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I saw them make comments online on how they don't care about scamming kids because it makes them money. In there own words "Look kiddo, there's NO SET BUY PRICE for anything in the collectors world. As a business owner of 3 DECADES, my job is to purchase anything and everything at the best price FOR ME, to profit and pay my bills to keep the doors open! I don't want to sound too condescending but you're like 10 years old with 5 years life experience so you applying rules to things that have no rules, is childish and myopic! If you're cruising through an antique shop, and you run across something that's worth $1000, but it's marked $3, do you buy it and score something great or do you volunteer your information and not buy the item? With your logic, everyone who buys the the thing for $3 bucks is a scammer, but the deal is fair & square! Perspective, little man!" The video was about a kid getting mislead by another vendor at a card show trying to say his card was worth less than what it actually is. This was the stores comments on the situation read more

Nuclear Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I want to preface by saying I love small niche hobby shops. You don't get too much stuff like this in the OC, so it was fun to come in and check out. That being said, the dude I spoke to over the phone kind of soured the experience. I called ahead to see if he had a particular series in. After I asked he answered, "yes??" Like it was a crazy question to ask. I've never shopped at a comic store before, so I wrote it off. Maybe it was a silly question- like calling Starbucks and asking if they have coffee. Well. I get there and they only have the first comic in the series. Maybe this is normal too, but I was expecting the 6 that had been released. A big bummer because I had called specifically to ask. Maybe I should have been more specific, but the guy on the phone didn't offer to check or clarify with me. It was a very curt conversation. There was a different girl working when I got there, and she was an absolute dream. Just so sweet. She stopped what she was doing and helped me find what I was looking for, and when she was checking me out she told me that she loved the comic I was getting and about some of her other favorites. She was so passionate about them I might just check them out. I felt nervous going into the store at first because of the interaction on the phone, and generally how ladies are talked to in the geeky space, but she made me feel very welcome. Girls supporting girls! read more

There was one man in the store and he was insanely helpful. I went in with my friend who loves comic books and he and the staff member started talking about the different issues and volumes and well as the Absolute series and what they carried. The clerk was very knowledgeable about his comics as well as what the store had to offer. There were also a bunch of boxes in the back with great deals! This place is a hidden gem and I think everyone who loves comics and things alike should stop by! read more

Best place for comics and a quick chat in Lake Forest and the surrounding area hands down! Prices are as fair as can be too! Kenny and Sammy are the best! read more

Guy in the ponytail is rude and unprofessional. But don't take my word for it, just read the other reviews about their customer service or lack thereof. You're better off going literally anywhere else. Don't give this man your business. read more

Owner is an absolutely fantastic guy. Super collection. Wanted some war comics and he had what I was looking for. Will be back!

Nuclear Comics is a small, local comic book shop I've been to many times. There's a great selection of comics and toys for all ages and interests. I've bought many comics for myself and kids comics for my young nephew. They have many of the latest and popular titles as well as older graphic books and graded collector items. They are active on their Instagram account posting their latest inventory and fun events like Free Comic Day, meeting comic industry celebs, and more! Give them a call or contact them on their IG for any comic title you may be interested in finding. I've noticed there are many local customers and collectors that frequent this spot. The staff is friendly and helpful. Happy to support a great local business. I will be back! read more

Nuclear Comics - BRZRKR - Keanu Reeve's new comic series 1st edition! - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

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The staff were super sweet and helpful! I've never bought comics in my life and didn't know where to start. One of the staff members totally helped me out, explained different options, and made me feel excited to start reading comics! The prices were actually cheaper than Barnes and noble and the store was really clean/cute! Highly recommend!! read more

My boyfriend and I were new to comics and decided to visit every comic book shop within a 50mi radius and Nuclear Comics was by far the best in terms of service and friendliness! The shopkeeper is super nice and even gave us recommendations based on what we like so far. Those recs he gave ended up being a favorite of ours! We're two introverts so we don't talk much, but this place is just so warm and great for newcomers, and has a great selection of comics that it makes the drive worth it each week. 1000% recommend! Plus, they always discount new tpbs that get released so great value too! read more

I love this shop. The owner is attentive and helpful. His selection of key issues and back issues is very good. His prices are very fair and reasonable. If you follow them on IG you'll see some of the cool stuff they have going on from events to promos to new collections that come in. If you're in the area its definitely worth a visit. read more

Stopped by the shop, and was blown away by not only the massive inventory, but also the knowledge and consideration of the owner, Kenny. It's been a few decades since I've last visited a comic book store. Kenny took the time to reintroduce me to many of my old favorites, and offered recommendations for future readings. Between the items to purchase in the shop, and the quality of the owner, I overwhelmingly suggest you taking a ride to Nuclear Comics, and enjoy the experience yourself. read more

I will say that the selection of comics is very good. The owner is polite upon arrival but can become a bit arrogant and condescending the longer you are in the store. He does know his stuff though! read more

Now this reminds me of my local comic bookstore when I was growing up. I'd give this place 4.5 to 4.75 stars. I'd even say it's a secret gem in the south OC area. I just wish this place was bigger. Friendly service. Happy to see you and help you find what your looking for. Hard to find issues at a reasonable price. read more

I have an audio recording of the owner threatening me over a bad review I left because he made my friend uncomfortable in his store, she admitted to working at a rival store and he decided to be rude. In my review I simply explained what happened and left a one star, not intending to come back. He had my number because I asked about a series, so he called me and left a voicemail I've saved in which he said "you have no idea what I'm capable of" and clearly threatened me. Go to comic quest, they don't care where you work and will treat you with respect. read more

This is a friendly shop - I'm am not a comic expert - the staff at this shop were very helpful and didn't have an attitude like other comic shops I have visited - The staff took time to ask me what I like and pointed out what they thought fit my preference - Thank you for all the help guys I will always buy from your shop read more

Nuclear Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Friendly and knowledgeable staff. If you start a pull list you will receive a discount. Good stock of back issues and graphic novels. Also a separate section for Juvenile comics and graphic novels. read more

If you are looking for THE BEST comic book store in Orange County, look no further. I have gone to stores like Comics Toon N Toys, Alakazaam comics and JNJ Comics just to name a few but what separates Nuclear Comics from them is the owner Kenny always makes all his customer's feel welcome. Plus, knowing that he has true love and appreciation for comics, and that makes this a real comic shop. Also, there is a great selection of comics. I encourage anybody who who has never been to this shop to go there at least once. You'll see exactly what I'm talking about . read more

My favorite shop. The owner is really nice and the staff is always helpful. The selection is always fantastic. They have new issues, compendiums, and old issues in the bins under the complete stories. The crowd in the store is always the nicest people sharing great stories while indulging their favorite common passion. Best shop in the OC and visiting is always the highlight of my week. read more

Was just at the location today and bought my son some great omnibus collection comics. Staff were very nice and they had the best collection of comics I've seen in southern OC. They had Marv Wolfman as a guest signing comics, which was cool to see. I would definitely recommend. read more

Easily the BEST comic book store I have ever been too. Everyone who works here is extremely friendly, and even better they know what they are talking about and they are not shy to recommend. On top of that, the deals are AMAZING and creative. I have saved so much money while having a blast grabbing all my favorite comics. 10/10 would definitely recommend (and I do to all my friends read more

A couple of months ago, having recently moved to Mission Viejo, I decided to look for a comic shop to take my boys (5 and 7) to buy some of their first comic books. I found Nuclear Conics through Yelp. And we are so glad we did! We have been back a couple of times, and a couple weeks ago we were at the Mission Viejo library and they were having a comic super hero day! It just so happened that Nuclear Comics has a table there and was inviting everyone to Free Conic Book Day, which happened on Cinco De Mayo. Free comics? Awesome! We showed up and they had several tables and tents outside with artists and other vendors. We went straight inside to see what kind of offerings they had. Not only did they have two tables of free comics with bags to fill up with said comics, but they had some pretty killer deals. $1 comics, up to 50% off loads of comics and even toys and other memorabilia. Hey, I love free stuff, so we loaded up... and then shopped around and bought a bunch of extra comics, a few toys and a Deadpool mug for my wife ( he's almost as sarcastic as she is!). I happened upon the comic that caught my eye at the library ( The Infinity Gauntlet, which I had as a kid, but didn't survive my "growing up", and consequently is perfect timing with Infinity War in theaters as I type this). Snatched it up! Anyway, the staff is awesome, the shop is fantastic, and I can't recommend it enough! We are making comic book trips to Nuclear Comics a regular weekend activity! Thanks Nuclear Comics! We'll see you soon!!! Did I mention I got an autographed copy of the Humans from the writer and artist!? Awesome! read more

Nuclear Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

This a great shop! I've been here for Free Comic Book Day, and they give you so many free comic books, plus the wonderful sale. Definitely get there early, and bring water and an umbrella though, because it can be hot outside if you're waiting in line. But the employees are great, and very knowledgeable, as well as friendly! They have a great selection of comics to choose from. Definitely come out and support these guys- especially right now during these hard times. It's a drive for me, but i'm working on my comics list, and I'm gonna definitely head over! read more

this is my boyfriend's local "go to" store. Kenny, the owner, has such a great selection here. the staff and environment is very welcoming and helpful. they always have good recommendations and the sense community here is nice. the store is pretty spacious and has more to offer than just comics. definitely come here! parking is abundant and right off the I-5 freeway right on Alicia Parkway. read more

Nuclear Comics - they open til 9pm! - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I was in the area few weeks ago and i came across this store so i wanted to stop by to see if they had any marvel hobby boxes. When i went into the store, the worker at the counter asked me if i needed help and i asked if they had any marvel cards. Right after i asked he could of just simply said no but he became extremely condescended. He first acted like he didnt know what i was talking about trying to make me feel like a fool when he knew exactly what i was asking for. Then he started lecturing me with an attitude on how i should buy and read comics instead and that no one collects marvel cards since the 90s. I was pretty flabbergasted with his rudeness and i definitely didnt want to argue so i literally said yeah okay thanks and tried to walk out. This guy had the nerve to continue to yell at me as im leaving saying its STUPID TO COLLECT CARDS just to stare at them then to put them away in a binder. When i turned around i see this guy mimicking himself looking at trading cards and continued to insist i buy comic books instead. The thing that bothered me the most was that he had the audcity to lecture me about cards while standing behind a showcase filled with pokemon cards. Overall, one star for the guy who acted narcissistic like he knew it all and his way was the only way. Biased, judgmental and rude. To each its own, there are numerous of varieties of collectable items people have preferences for and you shouldnt force yours onto other especially with a condescending attitude. I know its just a comic book store and yall trying to make some sales but my goodness, professionalism goes a long way and the guy can use some. read more

The owner literally used the number he was given to update my friend about merchandise to call him privately and threaten him for a bad review lmfao that's the creepiest thing I've ever heard - just go somewhere that won't blackmail you with "consequences" if you don't remove reviews wtf read more

UPDATE: This update is in response to the owner's reply. Unfortunately, the book (Sub-Mariner #7) I purchased was not a variant warranting surge pricing. One observation. The older gentleman manning the store is usually very engaging, informative and helpful. The same cannot be said for the younger man, who appears aloof and disinterested in most customer interaction or questions. read more

Service was awful, super rude, spoke down to the customers and was not helpful at all. Also gave dirty looks to people who walked in and made the environment very unpleasant and not welcoming at all. Doesn't deserve even one star for the customer service. read more

Nuclear Comic is my favorite comic book store. Always clean, always a great selection and the employees are always helpful! I know if I need help or suggestions on a great Doctor Strange or Star Wars comic they are there and they are usually right. My suggestion for Nuclear Comic to be even better? Gaming nights. D&D, Magic the Gathering, Pathfinder, etc. Hint hint ;) Thanks for always being awesome and for helping this geek grow her comic collection. read more

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Nice shop--definitely give them your business. Just be warned: staff is unmasked, so take extra precautions. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. If only they wore masks. read more

Best staff kenny is the best highly recommend this store 100/10 lots of cool stuff nuke at nights are always a blast

I've been buying from Nuclear for the better part of 6 months. Let me start by saying, when it comes to LCBS (Local Comic Book Shops) I'm very selective of who I will make my regular comic destination. Kenny (the owner) and his crew are top notch. They have gone through such great lengths to take care of me in every way. And let me tell you, I've had some big requests. Their back issue section doesn't look big, but that's cause they strip out the junk and really only keep relevant books in the back stock. Every time I've taken the time to dig into the back stock I find hidden gems at dynamite prices. I haven't gone through the $1 bin yet but I'm pretty sure there is treasure in there. Be sure to take a look above the new release wall at the key books. Some bangers up there. As a subscriber I'm able to take advantage of 15% off all my store purchases. If I had to make one gripe, it would be the price of the variant prices are a bit higher than online, but to be honest Nuclear is. In line every brick and mortar store on variant prices. So if you're driving down Interstate 5, Nuclear is right off the freeway. Do yourself a favor and visit Kenny and the crew. You won't be disappointed. read more

One of my all-time favorite local comic shops! Nuclear Comics is amazing! Their customer service cannot be beat! Kenny the owner is exceptional! He makes all of his clients feel at home, helps them with finds and even gives them suggestions on things he thinks might interest them after having conversations and seeing what they're already into. Basically, you can't go wrong with Nuclear Comics, so when you're in the area stop by! You won't be disappointed! 'Nuff said. read more

Nuclear Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Fantastic comic shop. I have been to literally every comic shop in L.A., Orange County, the Inland Empire, and most of San Diego, and have never found one more friendly and welcoming. Kenny, the owner, always offers great recommendations. For me, as someone who has been reading comics for 25+ years, it's great to discover new things. They have a massive wall of new comics, a deep selection of back issues (priced appropriately - a very important point that many shops miss) & trades, plus a big 50% off TPB shelf. Their "Free Comic Book Day" event is, without question, the best I've ever been to (but be prepared to wait in line, as any event that great in Southern California inevitably draws big crowds). read more

Great selection of comics. The staff was incredibly kind, upbeat, and helpful. Specific shout out to my boy Sterling. His recommendations were on point and actually got me interested in exploring more titles. read more

Support your local comic book store or soon they'll all be gone! When I first walked in here, the owner Kenny, was helping a regular. I just browsed around and appreciated the toys and books. Then Kenny came over to me asking if I needed anything. He showed me where to find the various books I was looking for, we had a nice chat about some recent comics, and he even gave me 2 comics for free that he felt I would really like. Such a cool dude. They're active on Instagram so you can communicate with them there if you want them to hold some books or check stock. I'm happy to have this store in the area. It's located towards the back of a strip mall right off the 5 freeway so it's easy to get to but can be kind of hard to find at first. You have to go to the far north west corner of the strip mall before you see it. But parking is usually plentiful so that's nice. read more

Well it was my first time at the store, Kenny greeted me and my son very nicely. The store looked good too. But I do feel I got a little ripped off. I brought in a stack of comics to sell, one of which was Deadpool's first appearance in New Mutants. He offered me $10 for the stack. Then when I pointed out the Deadpool issues, he checked it out, gave me a run around about only being able to give me $75 for it because of a few flaws and it wasn't a direct sale. Well 2 hours later, there is my comics on instagram selling for $250. He could have at least offered me $125 for it instead of lowballing it. I won't be selling anything there again. read more

Nuclear is a great place to find a great selection of old and new comics. Trade paperbacks. I would have to say the owner Kenny is awsome. Very nice. Straight up guy. Great prices. Very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this place to start your searching for those comics your looking for. The new shop and location is amazing. Oh. The prices are very fair!!! I have not found one book I felt I overpaid for in the last 3 years I have purchased from them. AMAZING!!!! A TOTAL GEM OF A STORE!!!!! Thank you Kenny. P.S. Thank you for staying late also Eric read more

Nuclear Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I came here to sell a bunch of 90's era books and cards. Right from the start, the owner was welcoming and accommodating. He included me in a conversation with one of his regulars. Over the course of our transaction, I watched him with multiple regulars. It was really impressive how well he knew them and how well he worked with them. I also saw him fairly negotiate with someone who had seen books online. I couldn't have been more impressed with a business. If I was still into collecting, Nuclear Comics would be my go to shop. read more

4.5 Stars Probably the best comic shop around the area. For the past few SDCCs, I have met Kenny and he has always been very friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable - and the sales at the cons have always been great! So after moving around the area, I was ecstatic to find that his comic shops is local, so I decided to check it out. It's a small shop, but pretty well stocked with comics, TPBs, figures, etc. They also have a deal if you have a bunch of monthly titles on your pull (I think the number is 10? Don't quote me on that though...), plus they have probably the best deals on newly released TPBs. However, the deal on the monthly titles is not the absolute best, and Comic Toons and Toys in Tustin will still have my regular business for now. This shop is still really great though! read more