Oh
good!
Some early recommendations: (The categories I've placed each in were just sort of matched at the spur of the moment, and don't necessarily fit too well in some cases, but I heartily recommend checking out each of these)
I Am A Rocket Builder for Outstanding Environmental Design. It splits one story between four different environments-- very cool. Plus it's pretty funny, and it does some interesting experimentation with Flash.
Here There Be Robots for Outstanding Story Concept. Some friendly aliens and malicious robots accidentally arm a souped-up copy machine that sends them back in time to the days when pirates roamed the high seas. What more could you possibly want?
Norm and Cory for Outstanding Character Art. This guy makes small woodland creatures interesting to look at. Plus the story manages to be very long without getting boring at any one part (possibly also eligible for Best Long Form Comic?).
Panda Express for Outstanding Newcomer. Why this comic is not mind-blowingly famous by now, I have no idea. High-grade art, layered story, memorable characters... this one's got it all, ladies and gentlemen.
Y? for Outstanding Character Writing. Rarely are anthropomorphic characters written with such depth and realism, plus the distinctive art style is easy on the eyes. A definite must-read. (Also possible nominee for Best Anthro Comic?)
Templar, Arizona for Outstanding Environment Design. Who
wouldn't want to live in a city as endearingly off-kilter as Templar?
Toothpaste for Dinner,
Natalie Dee, or
Married to the Sea for Outstanding Single-Panel Comic. This husband-and-wife team keep churning out ridiculous little drawings that, were it not for copyright laws, would be adorning novelty T-shirts in Hot Topics and Kohl's department stores everywhere.
Horribleville for Outstanding Slice-of-Life Comic. KC Green haunts my dreams, he is so good at making comics. Be sure to check out his other comics,
Anger Pauly and
The Daily Droop for more.
Dresden Codak for Outstanding Layout. If you liked
A Lesson Is Learned But The Damage Is Irreversible (and if that doesn't get at least nominated for Outstanding Comic this year, I will weep uncontrollably over the injustice), but wished there was just a skosh more humor in it, viddy this relative newcomer. It's comics... for smart people!
More to come... in the meantime, keep searching for the next big thing, guys!
~IJ