When DC launched the 52 reboots, it did so by taking the plunge into day and date digital releases simultaneously. It was a huge step, and we’ve all been wondering when Marvel would feel comfortable in doing the same. Turns out the answer is … Soon.

We all knew it was going to happen sooner or later; they’ve been losing market share to DC ever since the DC reboot, but now we know the date. As of March 2012, books from Marvel Comics will be available online the same day they are in store. This will not happen instantly, but will begin on a title-by-title as that title begins a new story arc, so that the readers can start reading fresh stories instead of joining in the middle of one.

Marvel will also be adding a little extra bonus to the readers who still stick to paper comics. Every physical comic will now contain a code that allows you to get a digital copy of it; something that DC is still asking people to pay an extra dollar for.