The only hopeful thing I've seen recently is the launch of DC's young readers and young adult line.  I mean, the launch is nice and a move in the right direction, and they're primarily planning on marketing it through normal book stores....

...but what made me hopeful was seeing an excited DC editor say, "This is going to change everything.  We're going to get a whole new generation of readers with different expectations for our product, which will eventually reshape our main line."

Godspeed, DC. 

Excellent point, Mr Sofer.

I've been buying classic Hulk comics via comiXology. Most recent one was HULK #199.

Now, there is an arc of sorts (which is fine). There's a standalone tale in each issue, but the overall arc of Gamma Base pursuing Hulk (along with Samson) is there. I am enjoying them. But because I have a limited budget, and do want to try other things, when the arc ends for good, I will stop buying Hulk comics and perhaps pick up some classic DAREDEVIL or THOR.

Yes, that's not quite like what you described, but has the industry considered jumping-off points? Some may buy out of habit, but if there is a #1, then they may think, 'Okay, time to jump off.' They may not if they are really enjoying the title, but if they only have a mild interest, or seek to buy other titles, these constant relaunches may be an incentive for them to jump off.

It's not quite the same, but it can be like that with films. Although there's an overall arc in SAW I-VII, the first three films are a trilogy (of sorts), and I did know someone who used that as an excuse to jump off. Not quite the same as comics, but just food for thought.