Five web-based comics generators were reviewed as potential platforms for instructional use, to support digital storytelling as a learning exercise or object. One platform, Chogger, didn’t make the cut because it only uses uploaded pictures or images found via Google search, or items/characters drawn by hand. It could be used by someone artistic enough to generate their own content, but in order to produce the same comic to evaluate the platforms, it was removed from the review.
1. Pixton – http://www.pixton.com
Pixton offered the easiest interface and range of characters and props. The characters can be customized with facial expressions and body poses. The site requires a login, and users can select from a site login, or to login with Facebook or Google credentials. Although downloading and printing are premium features that require payment, users can generate a link URL and an embed code with the free version.
2. ToonDoo – http://www.toondoo.com
ToonDoo has several tools for building customized backgrounds and characters. The interface is simple to use but doesn’t offer as many facial expressions or poses as Pixton. The website requires registration, comics created can be shared publicly or privately, and it supports embedding.
3. MakeBeliefs – http://www.makebeliefscomix.com/Comix/
MakeBeliefs is the least customizable of all the programs, but it does support building comics without site registration. It doesn’t store comics, so users either have to print or email it to themselves in order to keep it.
4. BitStrips – http://www.bitstrips.com
BitStrips’ interface and customizability is on par with Pixton, however, the only way to save comics or share via links or embed codes is to register using Facebook credentials.