A story of community, religion, madness and the first planet to succumb to the universe’s biggest paradigm shift. A weary space traveler arrives on a primitive planet lost in the dark ages. The shamanic tribe who resides there are unsettled and uncertain about their future. They rely on hunting and gathering to survive until the charismatic traveler offers a tantalizing and dangerous The Relay. A Monolith designed to spread conformity of ideas, technology and progress across all discovered worlds. Relay is a strange marriage of There Will Be Blood and The Fifth Element set against the deceptive promise of a better future. 

This comic book is an intriguing introduction to a thought-provoking sci-fi series. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a narrative that explores themes of control, belief, and the nature of reality, all wrapped in a visually stunning package.

The story in this comic book introduces us as readers to a universe where a monolithic structure known as the Relay stands as a symbol of order and control. The creators of this comic book weave a narrative that poses deep philosophical questions about faith, autonomy, and the influence of technology. The writing is sharp and engaging, immersing me personally in a world that feels both alien and eerily familiar.

The plot in this comic book centers around the Relay’s impact on society, serving as a focal point for exploration and conflict. The creators of this comic book effectively balance world-building with character development, providing enough intrigue to keep me personally hooked while leaving room for future exploration. The dialogue is crisp, capturing the tension and curiosity that permeate this new world.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book. Because it is bringing the futuristic setting to life with intricate detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations in this comic book are both clean and expressive, capturing the vastness of the universe and the imposing presence of the Relay. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and scale enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually compelling.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to provoke thought and discussion. The narrative invites us as readers to question the role of technology and belief systems in shaping societies, making it both entertaining and intellectually engaging. This thematic richness adds layers to the story, ensuring that it resonates beyond the page.

While this comic book excels in many areas, it occasionally feels dense due to the complexity of the concepts being introduced. Some readers might find themselves needing to pause and reflect on the narrative’s implications, which can disrupt the flow but also enhances the depth of engagement. A slightly more gradual introduction to the series’ central ideas might have smoothed the pacing.

Despite these things, this comic book succeeds in laying a strong foundation for the series. The combination of compelling storytelling, rich themes, and stunning artwork makes it a must-read for fans of science fiction and speculative narratives. The creators of this comic book have crafted a world that is ripe for exploration, and this issue promises exciting developments in future installments.

I Give This Book 4 / 5