Category: Comic Book Review

Justice aint gonna dispense itself. It’s high noon as McCree takes center stage in Train Hopper, the first in a series of free digital comic shorts that further illuminate the characters and world of Overwatch. Train Hopper follows a day in the life of gunslinging outlaw Jesse McCree, the former Blackwatch operative who metes out his own brand of vigilante justice. In Train Hopper, McCree hitches a ride on a hypertrain to Houston in the hopes of skipping town and laying low for a while. But soon after the engine starts, he realizes his trip is going to be anything but low profile. Written by Blizzards own Robert Brooks and illustrated by Bengal (Adventures of Supergirl), McCree: Train Hopper is now available to read in full! We hope you enjoy it, and stay tuned for more Overwatch digital comics coming soon!

This comic book offers an engaging dive into the expansive universe of Overwatch. At the same time this comic book focuses on the beloved character McCree, capturing the spirit of the game while adding depth to its storytelling.

The narrative in this comic book follows Jesse McCree, a gunslinger with a mysterious past, as he navigates a train heist gone awry. The creators of this comic book creates a story that balances action and character development, providing insights into McCree’s persona and moral compass. The plot is fast-paced and filled with tension, drawing readers into McCree’s world with a gripping setup.

The writing in this comic book excels in portraying McCree as a complex character, blending his rugged exterior with a sense of justice and wit. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting McCree’s charismatic yet rough-around-the-edges nature. This depth adds layers to his character, making his journey both relatable and intriguing.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the action-packed world of Overwatch to life with vibrant and dynamic illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity of the train heist, with fluid motion and detailed character designs that enhance the overall narrative. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book well-executed, maintaining a balance between action sequences and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in McCree’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and fans of the game.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as redemption, morality, and the complexities of justice. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the nuances of heroism and the choices that define a character’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Sun, sand, swimsuits and cool rockin’ tunes – no, it’s not a cinematic ‘beach party’ blast from the past, but a whole new summer splash from Archie and his friends! In this fun-filled free issue, Cheryl and her snooty friends from Pembrooke form an all-girl group to compete head on with the Archies at a summer beach music festival. Will Cheryl’s group be a tuneful treat, or mistaken for bellowing whales?

This comic book offers a nostalgic return to Riverdale, but ultimately falls short. At the same time this comic book aims to capture the lighthearted charm of classic Archie comics, but this cmic book struggles with depth and engagement.

The story in this comic book takes Archie and his friends on a summer adventure filled with beach fun and typical teenage antics. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is breezy and easygoing, staying true to the spirit of Archie’s world. However, the plot lacks substance and originality, relying heavily on well-worn tropes without adding fresh twists or meaningful developments.

The character interactions in this comic book are familiar, featuring the usual dynamics between Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, and the rest of the gang. While the camaraderie and humor are present, the characters feel stagnant, without significant growth or change. This static portrayal reduces the potential for emotional engagement, which has left me personally wanting more depth and evolution in their relationships.

The writing in this comic book captures the lighthearted banter typical of Archie comics, but the dialogue often feels superficial and predictable. The humor, while present, lacks the sharpness needed to elevate the story beyond a simple, nostalgic read. This limits the comic’s appeal to newer audiences who might be looking for more contemporary storytelling.

The artwork itself in this comic book maintains the classic Archie style, with clean lines and bright, cheerful illustrations. The visuals effectively convey the fun and carefree atmosphere of summer in Riverdale, capturing the essence of the iconic characters. However, the artwork alone isn’t enough to compensate for the narrative’s lack of depth and innovation.

The pacing of this cmic book is consistent, but the story unfolds without significant tension or conflict. This results in a narrative that feels flat, lacking the engaging twists or emotional highs that could make it memorable. Key moments pass without impact, which has left me personally without a strong connection to the unfolding events.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does provide a slice of nostalgic enjoyment for longtime fans of Archie comics. The familiar setting and character dynamics offer comfort and familiarity, which may appeal to those seeking a simple, feel-good read.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN, created by TODD McFARLANE. Spawn debuted to the public, selling 1.7 million copies in 1992 and is on track to be the longest running independent comic ever.

This comic book is a landmark comic that introduces the iconic anti-hero Spawn. While this comic book sets the foundation for a groundbreaking series, this comic book has its strengths and weaknesses.

The story in this comic book follows Al Simmons, a former government assassin who is betrayed and killed, only to be resurrected as Spawn, a Hellspawn with supernatural powers. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is rich in dark themes, exploring concepts of vengeance, identity, and redemption. The premise is intriguing, capturing my attention with its blend of horror and superhero elements.

The writing itself in this comic book establishes a strong atmosphere, but the narrative can feel disjointed at times. This comic book introduces multiple plot threads, leaving some readers wanting more clarity and focus. While the backstory of Al Simmons is engaging, the pacing is uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed, making it difficult to fully connect with the character’s emotional journey.

Spawn’s internal conflict is a central theme in this comic book, as he grapples with his lost humanity and the memories of his former life. The creators of this comic book effectively portrays this struggle, laying the groundwork for deeper character development in future comic books in this series. However, the dialogue occasionally lacks nuance, relying on exposition rather than subtlety to convey the story’s themes.

The artwork itself in this comic book is pretty iconic, because it is bringing Spawn to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the intensity and horror of the narrative, with intricate character designs and atmospheric settings. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through his art adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

Despite its strengths, this comic book does have moments where the story feels fragmented, with a narrative structure that has left me personally wanting more cohesion. However, the strong visual style and intriguing premise set the stage for the series’ potential to evolve into something impactful.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

HITMAN: AGENT 47 centers on an elite assassin who was genetically engineered from conception to be the perfect killing machine, and is known only by the last two digits on the barcode tattooed on the back of his neck. He is the culmination of decades of research-and forty-six earlier Agent clones-endowing him with unprecedented strength, speed, stamina and intelligence. His latest target is a mega-corporation that plans to unlock the secret of Agent 47’s past to create an army of killers whose powers surpass even his own. Teaming up with a young woman who may hold the secret to overcoming their powerful and clandestine enemies, 47 confronts stunning revelations about his own origins and squares off in an epic battle with his deadliest foe.

This comic book is an engaging and thrilling introduction to the world of the iconic assassin. At the same time this comic book effectively sets the stage for the film, combining intense action with intriguing character exploration.

The narrative in this comic book follows Agent 47, a genetically engineered assassin, as he embarks on a mission that delves into his origins and the shadowy organization that created him. The creators of this comic book creates a tight, suspenseful storyline that captures the essence of the Hitman franchise. The plot is well-paced, seamlessly transitioning between high-octane action and quieter, introspective moments that reveal the complexities of Agent 47’s character.

The writing in this comic book shines in the portrayal of Agent 47, capturing his cold efficiency and calculating nature while hinting at the deeper emotional conflicts beneath his stoic exterior. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, reflecting the tension and high stakes that define Agent 47’s world. The narrative effectively balances action with character development, ensuring that I personally were invested in both the mission and the man behind it.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty and intense world of “Hitman” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the precision and fluidity of the action sequences, making them both thrilling and visually compelling. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through expressions and body language adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover more about Agent 47’s past and the forces that drive him. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, making the story accessible to both new readers and longtime fans of the franchise.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, control, and free will. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the nature of humanity and the consequences of a life defined by violence, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

ICE CREAM MAN is a genre-defying comic book series featuring disparate “one-shot” tales of sorrow, wonder, and redemption. Each installment features its own cast of strange characters, dealing with their own special sundae of suffering. And on the periphery of all of them, like the twinkly music of his colorful truck, is the Ice Cream Man—a weaver of stories, a purveyor of sweet treats. Friend. Foe. God. Demon. The man who, with a snap of his fingers—lickety split!—can change the course of your life forever.

This comic book presents a unique approach to horror and anthology storytelling but ultimately falls short. While the concept behind this comic book holds potential, the execution struggles with cohesion and depth, which has left me personally with a less than satisfying experience.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a seemingly idyllic town with a sinister undercurrent, as the mysterious Ice Cream Man weaves through various lives, bringing chaos and dread. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that aims to blend unsettling horror with introspective character moments, but the connection between the stories feels weak and disjointed. This lack of cohesion makes it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the overarching theme or find a central narrative thread to follow.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal, with the anthology format providing only brief glimpses into the lives of the individuals affected by the Ice Cream Man. This approach limits the emotional impact, as I personally weren’t given enough time to connect with or care about the characters’ fates. The intriguing premise of a central figure linking these tales of terror is undercut by a lack of exploration into the Ice Cream Man’s motives or backstory.

The artwork itself in this comic book is one of this comic book’s strengths, capturing the eerie and surreal aspects of the story with detailed and expressive illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book effectively conveys the contrast between the mundane and the macabre, adding visual intrigue to the narrative. However, while the visuals enhance the atmosphere, they cannot fully compensate for the narrative’s lack of depth and cohesion.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either drag without building tension or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the narrative from developing 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 exploring horror through an anthology format holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and deeper character exploration, subsequent comic books could better capitalize on the intriguing premise and deliver more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

A mysterious techno-virus has been released on Earth, infecting 600 million people and turning them instantly into violent, monstrous engines of destruction.

This comic book delivers a masterful blend of horror and superhero action. At the same time this comic book sets a high bar for the series with its intense narrative and emotionally charged moments.

The story in this comic book thrusts us as readers into a chilling apocalypse where a techno-organic virus spreads, turning billions into bloodthirsty monsters. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both haunting and exhilarating, exploring themes of fear, loss, and survival in a world turned upside down. The tension is palpable from the first page, as the DC Universe faces an unprecedented threat that challenges even its greatest heroes.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the emotional weight of the situation. Characters are portrayed with depth and vulnerability, making their struggles and sacrifices resonate powerfully. The dialogue is sharp and impactful, reflecting the urgency and desperation of the heroes as they confront their own fears and uncertainties. This strong character work ensures that I personally were deeply invested in the fates of their favorite heroes.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the cataclysmic world of “DCeased” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the chaos and horror of the unfolding events, while also conveying the subtle nuances of character emotions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict both large-scale destruction and intimate character moments enhances the storytelling, making each panel a visual feast.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing fast-paced action with moments of introspection and emotional resonance. The narrative flows seamlessly, maintaining a sense of urgency and suspense throughout. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character arcs, ensuring that the story remains accessible and engaging for both new readers and longtime fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as heroism, sacrifice, and the fragility of civilization. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative with precision, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the true nature of heroism in the face of overwhelming odds, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

Toru, who just became a high school student, ends up going to school and living with Sugako, who is his aunt and is also same age as him. The super-beauty Sugako stirs up all kinds of trouble. What will Toru do…?!

This comic book introduces a story filled with potential for humor and drama but ultimately falls short. While the premise of this comic book suggests engaging family dynamics and comedic elements, the execution struggles with depth and cohesion, resulting in a lackluster experience.

The narrative in this comic book centers around the protagonist’s relationship with their charismatic and unconventional aunt. Although the setup offers opportunities for exploring family interactions and personal growth, the storyline lacks clarity and focus. The plot jumps between scenes without smooth transitions, making it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the characters or the unfolding events.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal, with both the protagonist and the aunt appearing one-dimensional. Their motivations and personalities are not sufficiently explored, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of their dynamics or individual journeys. This lack of depth makes it challenging to connect with the characters on an emotional level, reducing the story’s potential impact.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the energetic and lively nature of the characters, with expressive designs and dynamic compositions. 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 pretty uneven, with scenes that either drag 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 exploring family relationships with a comedic twist holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent chapters could delve deeper into the intricacies of the familial bond and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

12 year old Laura was just a normal girl from Seattle when her mother decided to move to a mysterious town in the mid-west. The moment they arrive in their new home hundreds of frogs rain from the sky. Her quirky new neighbor has a house full of knickknacks and odd tiny creatures beckoning from the shadows, and there’s a terrible curse on the town that makes every summer storm a life threatening event. Welcome to the town of Deluge.

This comic book presents a haunting and atmospheric tale that captivates from the first page. At the same time this comic book effectively combines elements of mystery, horror, and fantasy to create a unique and immersive experience.

The story in this comic book is set in the small town of Marchburg, a place constantly shrouded in rain and mystery. The narrative follows a young girl named Clara, who finds herself caught in the eerie happenings of the town. The creators of this comic book skillfully create a plot that is both engaging and suspenseful, that had drawn me deeper into a world where the rain holds sinister secrets.

The character development is a strong point in this comic book. Clara is depicted with depth and relatability, her curiosity and bravery driving the story forward. Her interactions with the townspeople, each with their own quirks and secrets, add layers to the narrative. The creators of this comic book excels in creating characters that feel genuine and complex, enhancing the emotional resonance of the story.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are well-written, capturing the essence of each character while effectively advancing the plot. Conversations are natural and contribute to the building tension and mystery surrounding the town of Marchburg. This comic book has the a ability to weave in elements of folklore and local legend adds richness to the dialogue, immersing us as readers further into the story.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book. The illustrations are both detailed and atmospheric, perfectly complementing the tone of the narrative. The use of shadow and contrast creates a sense of foreboding that permeates each page, capturing the reader’s imagination. The character designs are expressive, effectively conveying emotion and adding depth to the storytelling.

While this comic book succeeds in many areas, there are a few moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven. Some scenes move quickly, leaving little time for exploration, while others linger a bit longer than necessary. However, these minor issues do not significantly detract from the overall impact of the story.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Introduction for Must Read Greatest Hits #1! Never tried a Valiant comic?! Start reading here – with more than 100 pages of Valiant Comics greatness for just $5.99! Find out why VALIANT is the MUST READ superhero publisher in comics today with a greatest hits collection of can’t-miss moments from across the Valiant Universe! Re-presenting X-O MANOWAR #5, QUANTUM AND WOODY #1, HARBINGER #1, HARBINGER WARS #2, and SHADOWMAN #0, MUST READ GREATEST HITS #1 is the perfect place to find out why IGN is “Nobody is making superhero books like this, which is exactly why you should be paying attention to Valiant Comics.”

This comic book attempts to showcase the best of Valiant Comics, but unfortunately, it falls short of delivering a compelling collection. This comic book is designed to introduce new readers to Valiant’s universe, featuring a selection of stories from various creators. However, the execution lacks the cohesion and depth that would make it truly captivating.

The concept of this comic book is promising. With a rich history of unique characters and storylines, the potential for an engaging introduction is high. However, the selection of stories in this issue feels disjointed and somewhat random, failing to provide a coherent narrative thread or thematic connection. This lack of cohesion makes it difficult for readers to become fully immersed in the Valiant universe.

Each story in this comic book is intended to highlight a different aspect of Valiant’s offerings, from superhero exploits to science fiction adventures. While this variety showcases the range of Valiant’s storytelling, it also contributes to a fragmented reading experience. The transitions between stories are abrupt, which have left me personally with little time to engage with the characters or plotlines before moving on to the next piece.

The character development is another area where this comic book. The brief nature of each story limits the opportunity for meaningful character exploration. As a result, the characters often come across as one-dimensional, lacking the depth and complexity that would make them memorable or relatable. For new readers, this can be particularly challenging, as the anthology does not provide the rich context needed to fully appreciate the characters’ journeys.

The artwork throughout this comic book varies in style and quality, reflecting the diverse range of creators involved. Some illustrations capture the dynamic energy and visual appeal typical of Valiant’s comics, while others feel less polished and more generic. This inconsistency in the artwork further contributes to the anthology’s lack of cohesion.

While this comic book aims to serve as an introduction to Valiant’s universe, it falls short in providing the context and background necessary for new readers. The stories are presented without much explanation or framing, leaving those unfamiliar with Valiant’s history potentially confused or disengaged. More editorial guidance or commentary could have enhanced the anthology, offering insights into the significance of each story within the larger Valiant canon.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Top Shelf celebrates Free Comic Book Day with 32 pages of excerpts from March Book One, Book Two, and Book Three (coming summer 2016). The first graphic novel from a sitting member of Congress, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, and American icon. John Lewis rose from humble beginnings to become a national leader of the civil rights movement. This is his story, from an Alabama farm to the March on Washington and beyond, co-written by Andrew Aydin and brought to astonishing life by Nate Powell in a graphic novel trilogy.

This comic book is a powerful and evocative glimpse into the civil rights movement. At the same time this comic book provides a compelling introduction to the acclaimed “March” trilogy, capturing the essence of Congressman John Lewis’s life and his pivotal role in American history.

The narrative in this comic book is both poignant and inspiring. It offers readers a snapshot of the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement through Lewis’s eyes. The storytelling is direct and impactful, effectively conveying the gravity of the events while maintaining accessibility for readers of all ages. The dialogue is authentic, reflecting the tension and hope of the era.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to distill complex historical events into a format that is engaging and educational. Lewis and Aydin succeed in highlighting key moments and figures in the movement, providing context and clarity without overwhelming us as readers. This approach makes it an excellent resource for those new to this period of history, as well as a valuable supplement for those already familiar with it.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature because it is bringing the narrative to life with expressive and dynamic illustrations. The black-and-white art style is both evocative and powerful, capturing the intensity and emotion of the civil rights struggle. The use of shading and line work enhances the mood, adding depth and texture to each panel. The visual storytelling complements the narrative, making the historical events feel immediate and impactful.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, managing to cover significant ground in a short format while maintaining a cohesive and engaging narrative. Each scene builds on the last, creating a sense of progression and momentum that has kept me personally invested in the story. The balance between text and visuals is expertly handled, ensuring that the narrative flows smoothly and effectively.

While this comic book excels in many areas, its brevity means that some aspects of the story are only briefly touched upon. I personally found myself wanting more detail and exploration of certain events and figures. However, this is a common limitation of the format, and the special succeeds in sparking interest and encouraging further exploration of the “March” trilogy.

I Give This Book 4 / 5