This comedy packed collection of Rat Queens Webcomics features art from some of the industry’s top talents, all written by series author Kurtis Wiebe. From Betty tripping out with magical fairies to the Four Daves getting sweaty on the whackball field, get a taste of the adventure, comedy and heart you can expect in the brand new upcoming Rat Queens #1, out March 1st!

This comic book tries to to bring the beloved fantasy series to the webcomic format but falls short. While the original series is known for its vibrant characters and engaging storytelling, this comic book struggles with cohesion and depth.

The narrative in this comic book follows the Rat Queens, a group of fierce and irreverent adventurers, as they embark on new quests. However, the webcomic format which this comic book has seems to hinder the storytelling rather than enhance it. The plot feels fragmented, with abrupt transitions that make it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the story or invest in the characters’ journeys.

The character development, a strength in the original series, is notably lacking in this comic book. The Queens (Hannah, Violet, Dee, and Betty) appear more as caricatures of their former selves. Their personalities and motivations are underexplored, which has left me personally without the strong emotional connection that made the original series compelling. This superficial portrayal diminishes the impact of their interactions and adventures.

The writing in this comic book typically sharp and witty, feels diluted in this format. The dialogue lacks the punch and humor that fans have come to expect, often feeling forced or clichéd. The webcomic format might have been an opportunity to explore the characters in new ways, but instead, it limits the depth and nuance of their personalities and relationships.

The artwork itself in this comic book, visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the chaotic and whimsical nature of the Rat Queens’ world, with dynamic character designs and vibrant settings. However, the art alone isn’t enough to elevate the story, as the absence of strong storytelling and character work undermines the overall impact.

The pacing of this comic book is inconsistent, with scenes that either linger without purpose or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the narrative from building momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of adapting “Rat Queens” into a comic book holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent entries could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 1 / 5