Aside from the basics ( home page, first comic, latest comic, archives) the "extras" that I think are essential are as follows (in order from most important to marginally interesting):
<b>A way to comment:</b> I love it when people comment on my comic and love to be able to comment on other people's. a shoutbox on the main page is good, as is a comment system on the actual comic pages.
<b>A links page:</b> when you need a new comic fix, and have checked all your regulars for updates already today, do you or do you not go to the links page of one of your fave comics and check it through? I know I've gotten some great reads that way! And not having one I find to be a bit anti-social. Small banners and a short description of each seems to work well, with some form of organization and a few "link to me" banners.
<b>A character page:</b> I personally love learning silly little detials about the characters. Stuff you don't really need for the story, maybe a referesher for those readers who are a little confused ("so wait, he's her son? or son in law's second cousin's brother? what?" ). I put a basic "X is Y's son, B's brother, loves K" as well a likes and dislikes ("X likes pretty boys, elves, pale blue, ice, and fresh scallops. X dislikes hunting, the mews, and when his older sisters use him as a dress-up doll." )... I always have the favorite food of the character, because it amuses me. Details, details! ^^
<b>A gallery:</b> A gallery of extra pictures of your comic's characters, settings, design, etc. Readers love behind the scenes stuff, so be sure to include original sketches, early concept work, and little joke comics featuring 4th wall breakage (such as characters talking to their author or artist.)... You can also stick your fanart/fanfiction and retired vote incentives here, under their own headings.
<b> An "About the Author (and/or Artist)" page:</b> people want to know who's doing this thing! A bit about yourself, just to show you have a life beyond being their comic-making slave X times a week. ^^ an amusing self portrait and short bio are the convention here, I think. I ussually read this section last when I'm exploring a site, since it doesn't really involve the characters and story.
I just had way to much fun writing that. I need to sleep now. It may or may not be constructive and coherent... >>
/DarkElf
