+1 Original non-licensed themes are actually really difficult - and tend to put a lot of focus on the board layout and ruleset. An original theme would certainly be based on some general theme - billiards, cars, aircraft, some sport, clowns, etc etc etc (unless you take the 80s Gott approach and do knock-offs). Now try and pick a general theme that would be appealing that hasn't been done at least once. Somehow I don't think a basket weaving or water ballet theme would generate a lot of buzz even with original artwork. Licensed themes (in terms of artwork) are much easier to produce as basis of the the artwork are generally available and simply need to be designed into the game. They are likely something of a wash on costs - where the licensed theme has licensing costs (but an expected amount of buzz built in), the time and expense of generating all original artwork is also costly as well as uncertain as to appeal. Licensed themes tend to allow the game play and ruleset to get more attention (read, more of a limited production budget in time and dollars).

Even creepier - Liberace. But imagine the fabulous toys!

While a comic franchise, not really super hero - but a Swamp Thing pin would be cool. Already have plenty of cleavage for the backglass