Since the creation of Superman in the 1930's, superheroes have played in important part in the lives of many. Young children look up to superheroes and channel them in their play. Superheroes also provide entertainment value in the form of comics and movies to people young and old.

From Spiderman to Wonder Woman, superheroes possess many different powers that make them who they are. What young child hasn't tied a towel or a small sheet around his or her neck and pretended to fly like Superman or Supergirl? How many dozens of children dress up like Incredible Hulk for Halloween and parade around pretending to possess his superhuman strength? And who wouldn't love Spiderman's climbing powers or Flashs super-speed?

In addition to the many Superhero Halloween Costumes sold each year, the sale of superhero paraphernalia is big business. Each year, businesses make millions on superhero items like videos, comic books, figurines, bedding, postersand even casino gaming machines proving that superheroes arent just for children.

Some of the most anticipated and highest grossing films are those that are based on superhero comics or stories. Christopher Reeve is best known for playing the role of Superman in "Superman," "Superman II," and "Superman III." Batman has been played by the likes of Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney and Christian Bale. The X-Men series of movies is five strong and is scheduled to continue with the release of the sixth in 2013. Superhero films not only make money on the big screen, but enjoy success on the sales of their DVDs, sometimes offering an online bonus of related comic books.

The X-Men series of films seem to have revived the superhero market. New superhero comics, films and paraphernalia are always in the works. With ever-advancing technology, the internet is also providing new ways for fans to get their superhero fix. From massively multiplayer online role-playing games to superhero casino online games, there is something for every superhero buff.

Superheroes teach young children that good almost always wins out over evil. They provide them with ideas for creative play and give them something to strive for. Superheroes provide adults with and escape from everyday life in the form of comic books like X-men, films like Superman, online games like paddy power mobile and more. It seems that the superhero trend may not be a trend at all, but a permanent staple in the lives of adults and children.