What defines a classic comic book font and what are its core characteristics?

Classic comic book fonts are typically characterized by their bold, highly legible letterforms, often sans-serif, designed for maximum clarity and impact within the confined spaces of speech bubbles and captions. They usually feature strong baselines, consistent stroke widths, and can sometimes have a slightly condensed or expanded feel. Many incorporate elements that convey energy, emotion, or a specific genre feel, mimicking a hand-lettered aesthetic to connect with the organic nature of comic art. They are optimized for quick readability, even at smaller sizes.