Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 8/14/2024

DC #1

ABSOLUTE POWER: TASK FORCE VII #4

In contrast to the other episodes within this event-driven miniseries, Task Force VII #4 stands alone as the initial installment that offers a self-contained, well-structured narrative with both artistic and writing finesse. Set in Gotham City, the story revolves around Failsafe’s attempt to capture the city’s remaining heroes. Artist Claire Roe excels at portraying Gotham, emphasizing its dark underbelly with intricate shadows, striking lines, and skillfully designed forms that evoke a distinct iconic feel. Writer Pornsak Pichetshote focuses on the central character, Nightwing, whose charming nature serves as a stark contrast to the ruthless Failsafe. Although not crucial for “Absolute Power,” this issue illustrates the kind of conflict that makes this event engaging and satisfies readers with its well-constructed 20 pages, ending in a fittingly bittersweet manner. Despite being a tie-in, it’s an exception worth reading, even for those skipping related issues. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

ACTION COMICS #1068

As I delve into “Superman and the Challenge from the Stars,” it feels like a delightful bridge between the recent major arcs and what’s coming next, but Simone’s touch on Superman is undeniably captivating. The nostalgia of the Bronze Age lingers, yet there’s an exciting, uplifting vibe to how she portrays Superman – a hero who carries the burden of his duty without it extinguishing his optimism. Her depiction of Lois and Superman’s relationship is also heartwarming, adding a fresh, invigorating layer to their dynamic. Overall, this comic is a breath of fresh air. Rowell’s backup story is equally engaging, offering a unique perspective on Lois and Clark’s partnership – something we haven’t seen much before and truly appreciate for its humanity. — Nicole Drum (as a gamer experiencing the comic)

Rating: 4 out of 5

BATMAN AND ROBIN #12

In the #12 issue of Batman and Robin, we see a skillfully woven tale depicting Damian’s character development. This narrative also emphasizes the profound influence Alfred has had on his life, serving as a kind of conclusion to Alfred’s death and its aftermath. However, this well-executed story is marred by an abrupt turn that seems more like a comic book version of steroid rage, which appears to be a plot device intended to end the issue with a cliffhanger. While it does create an intriguing twist and sets up a potential alliance, the sudden change in tone feels incongruous and even somewhat predictable and uneven.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

BATMAN: GOTHAM BY GASLIGHT – THE KRYPTONIAN AGE #3

“Gotham by Gaslight – The Age of Krypton” delves into Diana’s revised past and its connections with the elusive Kryptonian Era. This comic weaves familiar pulp tropes, such as Diana’s Amazon civilization existing within the Earth’s core, and guides beloved characters onto unanticipated journeys. One of the highest compliments I can offer is that this comic reads less like a Batman story and more like a classic pulp adventure with plenty of enigmas yet to be solved. – Christian Hoffer

Rating: 4 out of 5

DC VS. VAMPIRES: WORLD WAR V #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that reading DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1 was not an unpleasant experience, but it certainly left me feeling frustrated. Just like its renowned predecessors, this comic didn’t exactly start off on the wrong foot, but the execution could use some finesse.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

DC #2

FROM THE DC VAULT: DEATH IN THE FAMILY – ROBIN LIVES! #2

I find myself quite enjoying this comic book, but the complex narrative structure in issue #2 leaves me somewhat confused, as the interwoven storylines about Bruce, Jason, and a therapist who seems connected to our protagonist are a bit tricky to follow. Given that we’re at the midpoint of a four-issue series, this issue feels like it slows down the pace a bit. However, there are some powerful scenes and the vintage aesthetic they’ve used to depict an alternate continuity is quite impressive. — Nicole Drum

Rating: 3 out of 5

GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #2

A week after the premiere of “Gotham City Sirens”, Williams and Hillyard swiftly return, delving headlong into an action-packed storyline. In this installment, Selina, Harley, and Ivy are seen trying to thwart Punchline’s latest sinister plot. This sequel doesn’t offer much depth in terms of plot, but the dynamic between Hillyard and Williams shines, with Hillyard’s enthusiasm complementing Williams’ insight into the Sirens and their foes. “Sirens” may not revolutionize the genre, but it’s a thrilling adventure for these anti-heroines who frequent Gotham City. The character development and high-energy action sequences are particularly effective, making this mini-series a worthy addition to the Sirens’ portfolio as we reach its midpoint. – Evan Valentine

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

GREEN LANTERN #14

Absolute Power has been firing on all cylinders, and so have the tie-is, with Green Lantern being one of the most entertaining ones in the bunch. While Jeremy Adams gets you up to speed on what Hal is up to (and as expected, the chaos is thoroughly entertaining), but he also paints a picture of the broader Lantern world and works them into the story in meaningful ways, connecting them in a real way despite not occupying the same space. Carol and Alan’s roles feel as important as Hal’s, even if they affect certain things indirectly, and that’s especially true of Carol, as Adams continues to build her up not as just a character but as a hero. It’s been fun to watch, and that also describes Carol’s interactions with the JSA, sequences brought to life by the talented team of penciller Fernando Pasarin, colorist Romulo Fajardo Jr, and inker Oclair Albert. Hal running through and making do with whatever weapons he finds is hilarious, made all the better with the priceless reactions and daunting sentient Amazo. The back-up story also follows this trend, as Marc Guggenheim and Darick Robertson showcase the Shadow Lanterns from the perspective of one new recruit. Through their internal monologue you get a palpable sense of what the Lanterns used to be and what they are being twisted into, and despite just meeting, it would be quite difficult not walk away affected by Shynt D’Proba’s story of hope, reality, and sacrifice. Just a fantastic issue all around! — Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 5 out of 5

OUTSIDERS #10

In the final stretch of DC’s “Outsiders” saga, this latest edition skillfully weaves together the scattered plotlines into something truly epic. Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing’s script keeps the suspense building, as our three main characters are thrust into a multiverse-altering new battle. Robert Carey’s artwork is monumental in scope – so grand that some visuals overshadow their storytelling role – but there are some stunning artistic decisions at play here. I can’t predict the exact nature of the ending “Outsiders” will bring, but this issue leaves me feeling optimistic about its intrigue and excitement level. — Jenna Anderson, your fellow gamer on this adventure

Rating: 4 out of 5

Marvel #1

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #55

In a standalone issue within Zeb Wells’ run on “Amazing Spider-Man,” each story given its own conclusion, this one focuses on a specific day in Peter Parker’s life as he juggles romance and supervillain chaos. The narrative centers around Peter’s efforts to spend time with Shay while dealing with mayhem from villains. Although the premise is familiar for the series, Wells and artist Emilio Laiso present it in a fresh light. The initial pages follow traditional patterns, but the dialogue between Peter and Shay and his problem-solving approach create a captivating short tale. The issue’s dialogue carries maturity without sacrificing humor or action. Instead of wallowing in self-pity and neglecting his (potential) loved ones, Peter is prompted to find a better resolution, demonstrating the core of Spider-Man’s heroism even in minor incidents. If each remaining issue in Wells’ run maintains this quality, then this final set will be a notable highlight for the series as a whole. – Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

FANTASTIC FOUR #23

In Fantastic Four #23, the narrative unfolds as a captivating two-part scientific enigma, primarily seen through Johnny Storm’s humorous lens. The humor, though robust and sometimes blunt, permeates the issue from start to finish. From shopping sprees in New York City with his relatives to delving into the unknown, Johnny is never short of a witty comeback before taking action.

Rating: 4 out of 5

HELLVERINE #4

Percy and Ohta conclude their journey on one of the latest Spirits of Vengeance, speeding down the highway, offering fans an unexpectedly emotional narrative for a series centered around a mutant with a blazing skull. From the relationship between Logan and Daken to the two power-infused siblings, there’s a lot of emotion here that you might not anticipate. The tale provides ample action and violence, and even sets up an unexpected new situation for Wolverine’s son. The future looks promising for the numerous Spirits of Vengeance traversing backroads, and Hellverine proves to be a surprisingly commendable addition. — Evan Valentine

Rating: 4 out of 5

THE IMMORTAL THOR #14

In issue #14 of “The Eternal Thor,” the collaboration between Thor and Hercules from the last issue continues, with the fight already underway so there’s less dialogue. This isn’t a problem as the artistic team handles the blend of brooding atmosphere and divine combat sequences beautifully, showcasing an intense battle between Thor, Hercules, Zeus, and Nyx. This conflict deepens the ongoing themes in “Immortal Thor” about the passage of time, the cycle of events, and Gaea’s mastery of the game, hinting at her long-standing manipulations. The action-packed issue is successful because it isn’t just a fight but a lesson or test for Hercules and Thor, testing their intelligence as well as their fighting skills. This results in a smart and satisfying reading experience. — Jamie Lovett

Rating: 4 out of 5

IRON FIST 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

For half a century, Danny Rand, also known as The Immortal Iron Fist, has been a staple in Marvel’s expanding roster of characters. To commemorate this significant anniversary, Marvel went all out to honor the Living Weapon. They produced an extra-large one-shot comic specifically for fans who have followed the character closely. This single comic issue contains five tales set across different periods in Marvel Comics history, offering readers a peek into the background details of some of Iron Fist’s most defining moments. — Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4 out of 5

MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN #23

Miles Morales lived through “Blood Hunt”, but his experiences have irrevocably altered him in the upcoming period. Spider-Man must navigate his vampiric instincts alongside his desire to do good and be a hero. It’s exciting to see Miles consulting experts within the superhero community for advice, keeping the guest appearances interesting and hinting at potential larger roles in future installments. I am definitely a fan of Federico Vicentini and Bryan Valenza’s artwork, as their action scenes exude dynamic energy that leaps off the pages. — Tim Adams

Rating: 3 out of 5

THE SENSATIONAL SHE-HULK #10

In the final episode of Sensational She-Hulk, Jen Walters’ struggle with work-life balance takes center stage. Writer Rainbow Rowell and artist Andres Genolet, along with their team, bring the story to a satisfying yet brief conclusion. Rowell skillfully ties up loose ends regarding Jen’s life as a lawyer, Avenger, and individual, while leaving ample opportunities for further exploration in future installments. The art by Genolet is simply enchanting, managing to convey so much emotion and charm even within the simplest of frames. I’m sad to see this run come to an end, but grateful for such a heartwarming, well-crafted finale. – Jenna Anderson

Rating: 5 out of 5

Marvel #2

SPIDER-BOY #10

In a lively twist, “Web-Kid” leaps headlong into the “Spider-verse,” making it an ideal read for fans who appreciate humorous tales set across multiple universes. If you’re one of them, you won’t want to miss “Web-Kid” #10! Dan Slott crafts a series of diverse universe adventures for Bailey, peppered with genuine laugh-out-loud moments along the way. Illustrators Nathan Stockman and Erick Arciniega brilliantly capture each distinctive world, allowing Slott to experiment with the distinct tones and dialogues that each universe brings. The journey is fun as we watch Bailey navigate these diverse interpretations. Although I appreciated the unique scenarios, they seem to linger a bit longer than anticipated, causing the main narrative about Bailey to lose some momentum. However, the issue concludes on a high note, hinting at a new direction for Bailey that promises intriguing storytelling opportunities ahead. In summary, “Web-Kid” #10 is a strong installment, and the ending offers an enticing payoff that leaves me eagerly awaiting what’s to come next. – Matthew Aguilar (Paraphrased by AI)

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

SPIDER-SOCIETY #1

Alex Segura’s dialogue brims with energy, yet the writing style yields numerous lengthy introductions and repeated lines, as acknowledged multiple times within the text. Scott Godlewski’s artwork successfully blends various Spider-Man aesthetics, though some of the battle scenes could be more impactful. Overall, while Spider-Society shows promise, it currently falls short in certain areas. — Jenna Anderson

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

STAR WARS: DARTH VADER #49

In the finale of the current Star Wars: Darth Vader series, the climax remains somewhat disappointing and disorganized, carrying on from the previous issue as Vader faces off against Rebels, internal Empire struggles, and his complex emotions towards Luke Skywalker. Similar to recent issues, it’s challenging to engage with the potential consequences of this narrative path, as we anticipate a significant twist, but the outcome of their relationship is already known. The secondary characters lack excitement, but observing Vader’s anger and apparent self-awakening regarding his son offers some level of intrigue. Despite the final issue potentially failing to generate enthusiasm for the supporting cast, the conclusion to this story arc still manages to hold our interest due to the emotional sendoff. –– Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 3 out of 5

THE ULTIMATES #3

As a devoted fan, I’d rephrase my review like this: In issue #3 of The Ultimates, I was blown away by the twist on Bruce Banner’s origin story. Instead of being an American scientist testing a nuclear bomb, he becomes a tragic figure, born from the real-life victims of American nuclear experiments in the Pacific. Thor, Sif, and Iron Lad journey to an undisclosed Atoll where the locals, plants, and wildlife have all been horrifically changed by these tests. The comic begins with awe-inspiring images of colossal monsters inhabiting this “Monster Island,” but quickly shifts tone to sheer terror as we delve into the devastating consequences of these experiments. The artwork is brilliantly done, and the climax is heart-wrenching, especially when we see the true cost of Banner’s team’s actions laid bare in detailed pages. This issue serves as a stark reminder of the real horrors that inspired Iron Lad’s war against The Maker’s empire in this series. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

ULTRAMAN X AVENGERS #1

As a die-hard fan, I must say Higgins and From effortlessly shoulder the burden in this initial issue, making it look easy. Together with artists Manna and Milla, they establish the foundations of two distinct worlds that seem destined to collide. Given the sci-fi elements, there’s a lot of background information to absorb—almost too much at times—but they manage to maintain a balanced introduction. –– Your Name

Rating: 4 out of 5

VENGEANCE OF THE MOON KNIGHT #8

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share my take on the latest Moon Knight series – Vengeance of the Moon Knight. After a tantalizing appearance in Blood Hunt, this new series truly feels like the grand homecoming celebration we’ve all been yearning for.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Marvel #3

VENOM #36

The “Venom War” crossover, though complex at times, is proving to be intriguing with its innovative concepts. Taking over Venom’s solo series, writer Torunn Gr?nbekk complements Al Ewing as he navigates the larger event book. Like a captivating event tie-in, Gr?nbekk’s storyline raises questions about what transpires outside the main narrative. Dylan Brock’s character, previously lackluster, now resonates strongly with his Kyle Reese-like mission to battle the future. Regrettably, series artist Cafu’s paneling could be more engaging, as it lacks depth even during intense action scenes. Color Artist Frank D’Armata strives to differentiate each era Dylan visits by incorporating distinctive time period markers; this design choice is commendable despite the book appearing overly bold and static. –– Spencer Perry

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

VENOM WAR: SPIDER-MAN #1

Collin Kelly & Jackson Lanzing skillfully maintain the illusion in this Venom War tie-in, weaving it into a larger narrative, while excellently portraying the dynamic between Venom and Peter Parker. Greg Land takes on penciling duties for the tie-in (with Jay Leisten as the inker), and if you pictured a certain style when reading that, you’re right on. The artwork is stiff and frosty, with splash pages that initially appear appealing but ultimately lack staying power. Kudos to color artist Frank D’Armata who infuses energy and depth into the issue, making the otherwise rigid pencil work seem daring. — Spencer Perry

Rating: 3 out of 5

WEREWOLF BY NIGHT #1

Marvel’s Red Band line-up expands with a story titled “Werewolf by Night,” which has loose ties to “Blood Hunt.” Character Elsa Bloodstone reappears alongside Jack Russell, who is attempting to lead a tranquil life. However, as the Werewolf by Night, his peaceful plans are inevitably disrupted. I’m eager to find out how the main antagonist factors into these events, given that he has undergone a power enhancement in another comic series. Despite being a red band issue, the amount of blood and violence is kept somewhat restrained. — Tim Adams

Rating: 3 out of 5

WOLVERINE ANNUAL #1

As a gamer, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the latest adventures of the Infinity Watch, and my excitement continued in the recent Wolverine Annual #1. The clash between Apex, Multitude, and Wolverine was as explosive as expected, but surprisingly, most of the chaos wasn’t from our adamantium-clawed friend. This shift adds a new dimension to the storyline, and once again, Multitude steals the show in this series. Ezra Clayton Daniels masterfully develops Multitude’s complex character, making him a treasure trove of potential storylines. It’s rare for a character to outshine the Infinity Stones themselves, but Multitude manages it brilliantly. Artist Yildiray Cinar and colorist Frank D’Armata blend contemporary flair with classic charm in their artwork, and some of the Wolverine scenes are nothing short of spectacular. While Apex can sometimes feel a bit one-dimensional compared to Multitude, that’s also what makes Wolverine an excellent counterbalance for him. The backup story is also gaining intrigue, so I find myself eagerly anticipating the final outcome of The Infinity Watch saga. — Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

X-FACTOR #1

In the latest issue of X-Factor, there’s a strong sense of nostalgia as they seem to be revisiting the humor-laden concept of a government-funded mutant team, reminiscent of the 1990s era. However, it’s not an exact copy of that time, but rather a blend with modern elements, such as social media influencers instead of celebrity culture. This issue bears striking similarities to Peter Milligan and Mike Allred’s transformation of X-Force into X-Statix in the early 2000s, with the central setup and punchline being nearly identical. Although it’s refreshing for those unfamiliar with these comics, it doesn’t quite reach the sharpness of some of Russell’s other works in this genre. The artwork has a soft, filter-like quality that might reflect the social media lens through which X-Factor’s fans view them, and the cover is fittingly appropriate to the issue’s content. Overall, it’s not a complete disappointment, but it falls short of expectations and feels derivative. – Jamie Lovett

Rating: 3 out of 5

X-MEN #2

The first two issues of the latest X-Men series have an undeniably youthful, almost immature vibe. This is evident in X-Men #2 where Cyclops reminisces about his boyhood dreams revolving around tough women with swords, a theme that seems to be emphasized excessively. The Juggernaut’s appearance from a cannon following Kid Omega’s anime reference momentarily halts the narrative progression. The artwork is cluttered, the plot twist is foreseeable, and the characters are often overshadowed by excessive dialogue that fails to clarify events effectively. It all appears excessively grandiose and empty, like what a great X-Men comic might look like if it were created by a 12-year-old or Michael Bay. I’m unsure of the purpose behind X-Men #2 other than potentially transforming X-Men into a simple power fantasy, and even that aspect seems underdeveloped. — Jamie Lovett

Rating: 2 out of 5

Image #1

THE DOMAIN #2

In its second issue, “The Domain” expands on the proven but slightly predictable setup of its first outing, delivering a more impactful sequel. As each friend receives new cosmic abilities, they use them for various purposes that eventually lead to conflicts with one another. The storyline provides brief glimpses of superhero success, blended with realistic challenges such as personal struggles and incomplete backstories. This mix of chaos adds depth to the characters, making them unique even before introducing the series’ first villains who make a grand entrance with style and wit. It appears that “The Domain” is not only borrowing concepts from the Silver Age (or perhaps even earlier), but also striving to breathe new life into these ideas by incorporating fresh viewpoints and narrative elements, resulting in an enjoyable second issue. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

FALLING IN LOVE ON THE WAY TO HELL #3

In essence, “Path to Hell” seems to have all the odds stacked against it, yet it succeeds marvelously in its execution. The author skillfully blends supernatural elements with a Western noir style reminiscent of Kurosawa, creating a harmonious narrative that explores themes of love, demons, and the hero’s journey. In “Falling in Love on the Way to Hell” #3, we delve deeper into the characters, allowing us, as readers, to gain valuable insights into the story’s central duo. – Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

GEIGER #5

In #5 of Geiger, a solitary battle is set in motion by the culmination of events in #4. The battle’s progression underscores the pitiful condition of its three main characters as they struggle to advance over the hard concrete against the formidable Electrician. Despite the lack of depth in this villain and the heroes who appear to be just embarking on their journey, artist Gary Frank manages to make the fight a compelling spectacle, albeit with a few extravagant splashes that seem unnecessary. The focus on the well-being of a dog may not be subtle, but it establishes clear, if simple, emotional stakes. However, the final pair of pages, which hint at a larger story structure, appear as an appendage, serving as a reminder to purchase more Ghost Machine comics for a complete picture. Nevertheless, the most impressive aspects of this comic are due to Frank’s artistry, not the shared universe concept. – Chase Magnett

Rating: 3 out of 5

NAPALM LULLABY #6

In the sixth installment of “Napalm Lullaby,” there’s an attempt to delve into social commentary concerning religion and cults, yet the narrative structure becomes somewhat confusing. The comic is packed with events, most notably a significant battle between the Janitor and Sarah, but the presentation of captions and dialogue makes it challenging to keep up with who is reflecting and precisely how the story unfolds. This structural confusion diminishes the impact of the philosophical ideas presented and weakens the intended impact of the surprising twist at the end, which should have been more powerful according to the climax of the issues. — Nicole Drum’s Paraphrase

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

PRECIOUS METAL #3

As a gamer, I’ll admit that understanding every detail in #3 of Precious Metal isn’t always crystal clear, but when things got confusing, I let the series’ enigmatic vibe guide me. Despite occasional obscurity, the creators, Darcy Van Poelgeest (writer) and Ian Bertram (artist), have produced something so extraordinary that it’s worth overlooking these rare instances of unclarity.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

RIFTERS #3

Regardless of when the storyline for Rifters appears to take place (though it often seems centered in the 20th century), the consistent tone and perspective remain, making characters from the future seem like they’re still grappling with the same conflicts as those in 2024. Despite incorporating profanity and humor based on bodily functions, the humor isn’t particularly amusing. The sudden appearance of a character resembling Zodiac triggers a critique that feels unexpected, as only actions have consequences, leaving the action itself devoid of suspense or tension. Essentially, an unfunny joke is repeated over several issues in an attempt to support a conspiracy theory that’s still struggling to take shape on the page. — By Chase Magnett

Rating: 2 out of 5

TRANSFORMERS #11

Jorge Corona molds Transformers #11 into an installment brimming with escalation, as even its peace-loving Autobot experiences a significant impact in this action-packed issue filled with striking images that will undoubtedly excite readers. Both the Autobots and Decepticons have grand schemes with high stakes, and nothing remains unchanged in these pages as each action provokes a larger response, hinting at something monumental by the cliffhanger. What’s equally remarkable is how effectively Corona and Johnson portray the humanity within their characters amidst all the commotion. Nods to the first issue and emotional encounters are just as poignant, often underscored by the contrast between human and robot dimensions interacting. It’s another fantastic issue of Transformers that will leave readers craving to follow this diverse cast into the future. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #1

AKOGUN: BRUTALIZER OF THE GODS #3

The “finale of this episode” might have been more powerful if the events leading up to it had been more compelling and well-connected. Unfortunately, they weren’t, and this third installment suffers from the same issue. The characters have a lot of potential, but there’s not enough intrigue tying them together. A clearer narrative or a more complete story could have made Akogun tell a stronger tale across these three issues. – Charlie Ridgely (paraphrased)

Rating: 2 out of 5

BABS #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but associate a myriad of intense adjectives with the comics penned by Garth Ennis and illustrated by Jacen Burrows. Yet, “amusing” or “lighthearted” wouldn’t be terms that fans would typically associate with their work. Be it the harrowing horror tales like Crossed and The Ribbon Queen, or the grim war comics such as Punisher: Soviet and Get Fury, these creators have carved a niche for themselves, offering mature interpretations of genres largely devoid of the vibrant superhero motifs. Therefore, it’s refreshing to find an unexpected twist in their repertoire with Babs – a new fantasy series under Ahoy Comics, where they delve into the realm of swords, dragons, orcs, and other fantastical monsters. This new venture serves as a testament to their versatility as creators, infusing the fantasy genre with a dash of humor, resulting in a debut issue that stands out distinctly from anything they’ve crafted before or currently available on shelves today. — Yours Truly

Rating: 4 out of 5

CRITICAL ROLE: VOX MACHINA – ORIGINS #3

In this installment of Vox Machina, the group is seen battling their exit from the Underdark following an encounter with a formidable, monstrous insect. The ensuing action and chaos are characteristic of Vox Machina’s signature style of violence and mischief, but it’s the second half where things truly sparkle as the team reunites. As the comic delves into areas previously explored in the TV series, anticipation grows on how it will manage the remaining storyline. Readers are well aware of what lies ahead, yet the comic promises to keep things entertaining and creative. (Paraphrased by Christian Hoffer)

Rating: 4 out of 5

FROM THE WORLD OF MINOR THREATS: BARFLY #2

The “Minor Threats” series has a wealth of quality content, but the second issue of “Barfly” might stand out as one of its finest. In the first installment, we were introduced to our main character, and this follow-up delves deep into his struggle to belong in a world that doesn’t understand or appreciate him. Despite being shunned by those who created him, he remains undeterred in his quest to find his place in the universe. This makes him an incredibly empathetic protagonist. Each page is a blend of optimism and sadness as we root for him to finally achieve success. – Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 5 out of 5

GILT FRAME #1

From the get-go, Gilt Frame has me hooked! As a gamer and comic reader, I can vouch that Matt Kindt and his mother Margie have cooked up a real laugh riot with this one. It’s a murder mystery unlike any other, striving to make its mark. The characters are refreshingly relatable, making it hard to put down.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

HEARTPIERCER #4

In a grand battle, Atala’s journey concludes as she faces off against her ex-ally, now known as Howler (formerly Tharn). Despite losing an eye, the colossal werewolf seems victorious over Atala. Yet, a brief glimpse into her past unfolds, providing insight into her origins and hinting at a triumphant comeback. The narrative subtly introduces elements of world-building, leaving room for further exploration. Fans of fantasy and adventure comic books will find this compelling. — Recommended by Tim Adams

Rating: 3 out of 5

INTO THE UNBEING #3

In the comic Into the Unbeing, our heroes and readers alike venture deeper into the unfathomable, never sure of what each new page might bring. The main characters find themselves stuck, seeking an escape, while we as readers are drawn to delve as far as possible into this baffling, terrifying, and unsettling enigma. It’s remarkable how writer Zac Thompson and artist Hayden Sherman manage to keep us both bewildered and captivated with each new issue, all without overwhelming us. Neither the characters nor the readers can predict what lies ahead, but at least we have the comfort of continuing to unravel the mysteries that the creators present. –– Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 4 out of 5

JONNY QUEST #1

In the first installment of Johnny Quest, the story continues from the Free Comic Book Day special, an event that usually doesn’t leave readers confused, but occasionally, writer Joe Casey can be a bit unclear. Similar to the original cartoon, there are instances where explanations are needed instead of still images, yet artist Sebastián Piñera and colorist Lorenzo Scaramella work diligently to maintain an exciting pace that keeps things enjoyable. They heighten this with the issue’s dramatic action scene, which spans multiple panels and ends on a thrilling, if predictable, twist. – Spencer Perry

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #2

KARDAK THE MYSTIC #1

In this week’s issue, Archie’s local fortune-teller crafts an engaging standalone story. Despite its straightforward narrative and setup, the comic manages to keep readers guessing with Kardak’s journey towards self-redeeming actions. For those unfamiliar with him, Kardak is initially portrayed as a hapless magician who encounters an alluring yet questionable offer. Though he falls for it and gets deceived, instead of wallowing in despair, Kardak actively works to rectify his mistake. This tale serves as a valuable reminder for us all about the importance of taking responsibility. — Tim Adams

Rating: 5 out of 5

KILL ALL IMMORTALS #2

In the second installment of “Kill All Immortals,” the initial expository details about immortal Vikings are already addressed, allowing the story to dive headfirst into its violent core. This issue primarily focuses on Frey’s struggle to flee her family, encountering several lethal challenges along the way. From a storytelling standpoint, this second issue doesn’t present anything particularly new, but it more than makes up for it with its thrilling chaos. It’s unclear what the rest of the series will bring, but if it maintains its emphasis on the chaotic aspects of the idea, it’s likely to win over fans, just to witness the clash between Viking combat and modern settings. Despite being somewhat lacking in emotional depth, the brutal depiction of an ax being plunged into faces is undeniably captivating. — Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 3 out of 5

MIDST: ADDRESS UNKNOWN #1

As a devoted fan of Midst, I was absolutely thrilled to witness the inception of Stationary Hill, the pivotal town in this captivating sci-fi/western series. A band of castaways, each unique in their own way, set about constructing a haven on an apparently motionless island, shielded from the terrifying “Un,” a nightmarish state that ensues during the night. The Un is a truly intriguing aspect of Midst and it was chilling to see it manifest so vividly, brimming with peril as the town finds itself in the grip of an unforeseen tremor. If you’re already hooked on Midst, this comic will only deepen your fascination; if you haven’t yet dived into its world, this comic might just be the enticing push you need to take the plunge! — Christian Hoffer

Rating: 4 out of 5

PROFANE #3

In the heart of the novel “Profane“, lies a compelling tale about the protagonist striving tirelessly to transcend his pre-set roles and transform into something beyond his designed identity. Regrettably, despite this story’s intrigue at certain points, the book frequently becomes engulfed in its own complex mechanical aspects. Instead of clarifying these complications related to the real vs. fictional world issues, they often overshadow other important elements of the story. — Paraphrased by AI

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

RICK AND MORTY: FINALS WEEK – CONTESTED CONVENTION #1

During the ongoing series of episodes titled “Finals Week,” we dive headfirst into the realm of politics with an amusing and audacious twist. The script by James Asmus and Jim Festante is a whirlwind of hilarious jokes and intricately designed scenes, resulting in a delightful tale that falls short of revolutionary. Suzi Blake’s artwork brilliantly portrays the show’s world, coming remarkably close to resembling actual screen captures from the series, while maintaining the series’ energetic madness. – Jenna Anderson

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

S.I.R. #1

It only takes two words to sell S.I.R.: motorcycle jousting. That’s also what makes the first issue a disappointment as even when the motorcycle jousts arrive, they lack any context to make sense of them. Much of the issue is devoted to introducing Avery, a new university student exploring a fantasy-influenced campus in a world seemingly resembling our own. There are hints of past trauma and old friendships that lack sufficient substance to land any emotional punches. Rather, it’s a lot of vague exposition for a setting, characters, and conceit that never quite coheres. Motorcycle jousting isn’t even addressed as a concept until it appears like an underground fight club maintained in a highly populated locale’s arena like another mystery. As much fun as the concept and design may be, there’s too little on the page to offer much insight into the sport or its stakes. The end result is a deflation of expectations and little cause to follow on to issue #2. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 2 out of 5

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: NIGHTWATCHER #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

In Nightwatcher #1, it sets a captivating introduction, effectively justifying the book’s presence (Who’s ensuring safety in Mutant Town while the Turtles are absent?). This also offers the enigmatic protagonist an unprecedented chance to make a striking debut. Fans of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and readers alike should eagerly anticipate what Ba and Pe will construct upon this solid foundation. –– Jamie Lovett’s paraphrase

Rating: 4 out of 5

TINY TINA’S WONDERLANDS: LAND OF GIANTS #1

As a longtime Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast with countless hours spent around the table, I was eagerly anticipating Tiny Tina’s adventure. However, I must admit that it fell short of my expectations more often than not. The interplay between the campaign and the game itself failed to establish a consistent rhythm, leaving me feeling disconnected throughout the experience. It’s unfortunate because I believe there are many wonderful ways to tell stories set in the world of D&D, but this one just didn’t quite hit the mark for me.

Rating: 2 out of 5