You could probably make a good argument for xkcd, which stands for absolutely nothing at all, being perhaps the geekiest comic on the internet. It makes no attempt to dumb down its humor- whether it’s satirizing things relating to computer technology, math, history, trends or just day to day interactions. Launched in 2005 by former NASA roboticist Randall Munroe, it’s certainly the most versatile gag-a-day strip I’ve seen in a while. Not to mention I think it’s also pretty accessible, despite its themes.
Stick figure is maybe the only art style xkcd should have, since its story arcs are sparse and it only hosts a few recurring characters- and they don’t even have official names (I think the chick is named Megan, and there’s some dude with a hat). But Munroe’s writing style would probably be impeded by flashy visuals, so a minimalist look definitely works better here. As mentioned, the topics can range from algorithms to romance to music to film to social issues, and the strip feels perfectly at ease handling them in sophisticated fashion. There’s also plenty of experimentation, such as the “What If” feature where Munroe answers various questions from readers, and its poignant animated strip “Time”.
It’s the frank and clear approach to its punch lines that makes xkcd run. While it’s not about to talk down to its audience, it has no need to. The author has a way of delivering jokes without having to hammer anything home, and even if one might disagree with the sentiment, the strips never feel hostile. I guess a few new readers could be put off by some of the more unabashedly intellectual comics, but for every one there’s a simpler and more straight forward strip to counter it. It’s not above getting just plain silly here and there, and when it does I pick up a strong Gary Larson vibe.
In the wrong hands, I think xkcd is the sort of comic that could have felt overtly snobbish, and luckily it never falls into that trap. It’s almost like a highbrow comedy show, basically serving as Munroe’s platform for random thoughts, humor and insight. Its devoted following, multiple awards and nominations (including nods from the Hugo Awards and Logo TV’s NewNowNext) and critical acclaim are a good indication as to how sharp his mind is. Recommended, and if you want to experience it follow this link. Its forte is mainly dry, occasionally biting humor with a heavy nerd slant, but it’s got a few unexpected surprises.
And if this particular stick man is the author avatar, please go to his site and support him, because in an ideal world this would be a great way to make money. But it’s not an ideal world.
/p