* No Central Database: There's no single, comprehensive database that tracks every comic book ever published.
* Different Definitions: What counts as a "comic"? Do we include single issues, graphic novels, magazines, or even independent publications?
* Regional Variations: The number of comics released would vary greatly depending on the region or country.
However, we can say the 1980s was a significant period for comics:
* The Bronze Age: The 1980s are often considered part of the "Bronze Age of Comics," which saw the rise of more mature themes and complex stories.
* Independent Publishers: The rise of independent publishers like Image Comics and Dark Horse Comics challenged the dominance of Marvel and DC.
* Increased Popularity: The 1980s saw a surge in the popularity of comics, fueled by media adaptations like the "Batman" movie and the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" cartoon.
Instead of a number, you can explore resources to get a sense of the era:
* The Grand Comics Database: This online resource provides a massive database of comics, allowing you to search by year, publisher, etc.
* Comic Book Price Guide: This site tracks the value of comics and provides historical data on releases.
* Comic Book History Websites: Many websites dedicated to comic book history provide summaries and analysis of specific eras, including the 1980s.