“Overwatch: New Blood #5” By Ray Fawkes & Irene Koh Review

As D.Va and the rest of MEKA Squad watch the Null Sector attack unfolding in Paris, D.Va requests permission to contact Overwatch. Korea has its own omnic threat to worry about though, so her request is denied. But when a new enemy turns the streets of Busan into a battlefield, MEKA Squad find themselves outnumbered . . . and out of time. Will wave after endless wave of omnics prove too much for even D.Va to defeat? Untold stories in the world of Overwatch! Made in close collaboration with the game team at Blizzard! Unveils how popular heroes were recruited to Overwatch!

This comic book wraps up the series with a mix of action and introspection, this concluding issue provides a satisfying, if somewhat predictable, end to an engaging arc.

The narrative in this comic book follows Cole Cassidy as he navigates the complexities of building a new Overwatch team. Fawkes does a commendable job portraying Cassidy’s journey, emphasizing themes of redemption and leadership. The story effectively captures the core of Cassidy’s character, showcasing his growth and determination.

The plot in this comic book balances action with introspection, offering a glimpse into the challenges of reestablishing Overwatch. While the storyline resolves the central conflict, it does so in a way that feels somewhat predictable. The lack of unexpected twists might leave some readers wanting more complexity or surprise in the resolution. Nevertheless, the conclusion is emotionally satisfying, tying up loose ends while leaving room for future adventures.

The artwork in this comic book is easily the highlight of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of Overwatch to life with dynamic illustrations and vibrant colors. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and emotion enhances the narrative, making action scenes feel energetic and personal moments resonate with depth. The visual style remains consistent with the tone of the series, adding to the overall appeal.

The character development of this comic book is a strong point. Cassidy’s interactions with other characters are authentic and engaging, reflecting his struggles and victories. The camaraderie and tension within the emerging team are well-depicted, highlighting the diverse personalities and backgrounds of its members. However, given the limited space, some character arcs feel rushed, leaving certain relationships underexplored.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and effective, capturing the essence of each character. Fawkes infuses the conversations with humor and sincerity, adding depth to the interactions and helping to flesh out the characters’ personalities.

No matter the many good parts of this comic book, it still struggles with the pacing which is pretty uneven here. The need to wrap up the series in a single issue results in a hurried resolution, with certain plot points and character developments feeling compressed. This can detract from the emotional impact and left me wishing for more depth and exploration.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Aizawa-san Multiplies #001” By Seiichi Shiki Review

Shiho Aizawa is known to be an expressionless, mysterious, and fragile beauty. Our protagonist, Souta Mizutani, receives a sudden confession from her. But following this event, another Shino Aizawa appears… Twins…? No…Doppelgangers! See their relationships blossom in this fantasy rom-com!

This comic book offers us a unique and entertaining premise, at the same time this comic book introduces us to a world of unexpected twists and humorous situations, laying the groundwork for a potentially engaging series.

The story in this comic book centers on Aizawa, a high school student who suddenly finds herself able to multiply into numerous versions of herself. This bizarre ability sets the stage for both comedic and introspective moments as Aizawa navigates the complexities of her newfound power.

The main character in this comic book, Aizawa, is portrayed with charm and relatability. Her reactions to the strange circumstances she faces are authentic and endearing, making it easy for readers to connect with her journey. Shiki skillfully balances Aizawa’s internal struggles with the comedic potential of her situation, creating a dynamic and engaging character.

The side characters in this comic book while not deeply explored in this first volume, add flavor to the story. Their reactions to the multiplying Aizawa range from bewilderment to amusement, contributing to the humorous tone of the manga. There is potential for these characters to be developed further in future installments, adding depth to the narrative.

The creators of this comic book do a good job at creating a light-hearted yet intriguing narrative. The concept of multiplication is used cleverly to explore themes of identity and self-discovery. Aizawa’s interactions with her duplicates provide humorous and sometimes poignant insights into her character, highlighting her strengths and insecurities.

The artwork in this comic book complements very well the story’s quirky nature. The illustrations in this comic book capture the chaotic and comedic essence of Aizawa’s predicament, with expressive character designs and dynamic panel layouts. The visual style enhances the humor and energy of the narrative, making the reading experience enjoyable.

Even thou this comic book has some strengths to it, it doesnt help it to not face some challenges which it faces. The plot, while entertaining, can feel somewhat episodic, with a focus on situational comedy rather than a cohesive overarching storyline. While this approach suits the comedic elements, which have left me wanting more depth and progression in the plot.

Additionally, while the concept is intriguing, the manga could benefit from deeper exploration of the implications of Aizawa’s ability. There is room for more introspection and exploration of how her multiplication affects her relationships and sense of self, which could add layers to the story.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Blood Hunt Diaries” By Various Review

Get a sneak peak at the biggest crossover event of the comics industry this year! This promotional comic includes lettered preview pages of BLOOD HUNT #1, interviews with superstar writer JED MACKAY and various tie-in creators, a full title checklist, PLUS a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at the series concept art! Readers can learn about all the BLOOD HUNT tie-ins, and some secrets of the event, starting here!

This comic book is a masterful anthology that delivers a gripping and immersive experience. This comic book seamlessly blends suspense, horror, and intrigue, creating a vivid tapestry that have captivated me personally from start to finish.

This comic book presents a series of interconnected tales centered around a clandestine world of hunters, supernatural creatures, and dark secrets. Each story stands on its own while contributing to the overarching narrative, a testament to the skillful collaboration among the writers. The seamless integration of different writing styles enriches the anthology, offering diverse perspectives and unique storytelling approaches.

The character development in this comic book is a very standout feature of this comic book. Because each protagonist, whether a seasoned hunter or a supernatural being, is portrayed with depth and complexity. The creators of this comic book delve into their motivations, fears, and struggles, making them relatable and compelling. This emotional depth allows us as readers to invest in the characters’ journeys, adding layers of meaning to the thrilling plots.

The world-building aspect of this comic book is amazing. Because the creators of this comic book craft a rich, immersive universe filled with atmospheric settings that enhance the mood of each story. From shadowy forests to bustling urban landscapes, the diverse locations serve as more than just backdrops; they become integral to the narrative, heightening the tension and mystery.

This comic book excels in maintaining a perfect balance between action and introspection. Fast-paced and heart-pounding sequences are interspersed with quieter, more contemplative moments, allowing for a well-rounded reading experience. This dynamic pacing ensures that there is never a dull moment, which have kept me personally engaged and eager to uncover the next twist or revelation.

I need to at here, that this comic book’s greatest strengths is its exploration of themes such as identity, morality, and the nature of good versus evil. The creators of this comic book skillfully weave these themes into the fabric of each story, prompting us as readers to reflect on the complexities of the human (and non-human) condition. This thematic depth elevates the anthology beyond mere entertainment, providing substance and resonance.

The writing itself in this comic book is consistently high-quality, with vivid descriptions and evocative which has hooked me in deeper into this comic book. The creators of this comic book have a huge ability in this comic book to create tension and suspense is commendable, as is their skill in crafting memorable and impactful dialogue. Each story leaves a lasting impression, contributing to the anthology’s overall cohesiveness and impact.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Darkstalkers: The Night Warriors Vol. 1: Introduction” By Ken Siu-Chong & Alvin Lee Review

The ghoulish monsters and sexy seductresses known as the Darkstalkers are back! Morrigan, Demitri, Bishamon, and Donovan are joined by newcomers like Huitzil, Anakaris, Sasquatch, and Q-Bee. It’s man VS demon, robot VS mummy, succubus VS vampire, and more, as the creatures of the night battle for control of the darkness!

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

The story in this preview is set in a universe filled with supernatural creatures and intense battles, offering a premise ripe with potential. However, the narrative struggles to establish a cohesive and engaging storyline. The plot feels disjointed, jumping from one scene to another without adequate transitions or explanations. This lack of narrative flow makes it difficult for readers to become invested in the story or its characters.

The character development in this preview is another area where the volume falters. The Darkstalkers franchise is known for its diverse and intriguing cast, yet the characters here are presented with minimal depth and nuance. Key figures like Morrigan and Demitri are reduced to stereotypical roles, lacking the complexity that fans might expect. This superficial portrayal makes it challenging for me personally to connect with or care about their journeys.

The dialogues in this preview often feels forced and unnatural. Instead of adding depth to the characters or advancing the plot, it frequently serves as little more than exposition. This stilted dialogue detracts from the overall reading experience, failing to capture the vibrant personalities of the original characters.

The artwork in this preview, while visually appealing in certain action sequences, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the essence of the characters and their supernatural abilities, but the lack of consistency in the art style can be distracting. While some panels are detailed and dynamic, others appear rushed and lacking in detail, contributing to the overall disjointed feel of the volume.

The pacing in this preview is another significant issue I had with this preview. The story often rushes through key events, glossing over important plot points and character interactions. This uneven pacing prevents the narrative from building tension or emotional impact, making the stakes feel inconsequential.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“Fake It to Break It! I Faked Amnesia to Break off My Engagement and Now He’s All Lovey-Dovey?! #001” By Kotoko & Esora Amaichi Review

A young woman loses her memories, and her fiancé insists that she was head over heels for him before the accident…but they’re both lying!Viola, the daughter of a viscount, is engaged to Philip Laurenson, the charming and popular heir to a duke. But the two are far from a match, and their silent tea parties do little to help them bond. In a desperate bid to escape the engagement, Viola feigns amnesia after a minor accident. However, Philip’s reaction is not at all what she expected, as he starts telling her how much they used to love each other and how she used to call him…”Phil”? Which is far from the truth! And yet, from the brink of a crumbling engagement, a romance begins to blossom between the inexperienced lord and the oblivious lady.

This comic book offers an intriguing premise but struggles with execution, at the same time this comic book tries to blend romance and comedy, yet it falls short in delivering a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The story in this comic book centers around a protagonist who fakes amnesia to escape an engagement, only to find her fiancé more affectionate than ever. While the setup promises humor and romantic tension, the plot quickly becomes predictable. The initial intrigue of the amnesia ruse fades as the story leans heavily on clichés without offering fresh twists or deeper insights into the characters’ motivations.

The character development in this comic book is a significant area of concern. The protagonist’s motivations are not fully explored, making her actions feel superficial. Her internal conflicts and emotions are underdeveloped, which detracts from the potential complexity of her situation. Similarly, the fiancé’s sudden shift to being “lovey-dovey” lacks depth, reducing him to a one-dimensional figure rather than a nuanced character.

The side characters in this comic book arent any better. They often serving as mere plot devices without substantial backstory or individuality. Their interactions with the main characters lack the emotional weight necessary to create meaningful connections or drive the narrative forward.

The writing style in this comic book is pretty straightforward, but it often lacks the wit and charm needed to elevate the comedic elements of the story. The dialogue tends to be repetitive, missing opportunities for clever banter or insightful exchanges that could enhance character development and engagement.

The artwork in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the characters’ expressions and settings effectively, adding a layer of visual interest to the story. However, the art alone cannot elevate the overall reading experience when the plot and character development are lacking.

At the same time the pacing in this comic book is very uneven. There are some scenes dragging while others rush through potentially significant moments. This inconsistency disrupts the flow of the story, making it challenging to maintain interest or emotional investment in the characters’ journeys.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Miss Fury Digital: Into Hades Part 1 (of 2): Introduction (Miss Fury Digital: Into Hades” By Rob Williams & Fritz Casas Review

Miss Fury is back in time again! Or is she? Will Miss Fury be able to make it home for a nice long bath, or will she forever be transported? Find out now! This collection has all three digital chapters of Miss Fury Digital and features exclusive bonus content!

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

The story in this preview follows Miss Fury, a formidable heroine, as she navigates the underworld in a quest filled with danger and mystery. The concept of blending classic heroics with mythological elements is promising, yet the narrative fails to deliver a cohesive and engaging experience.

One of the main issues I had with this preview was the huge lack of character development. Miss Fury, despite her iconic status, is presented with minimal depth. Her motivations and internal conflicts are inadequately explored, leaving her feeling more like a superficial action figure than a complex protagonist. This lack of depth makes it difficult for readers to connect with or care about her journey.

The side characters in this preview aren’t better. They are Introduced without substantial backstory or context, they serve merely as plot devices rather than adding meaningful dimensions to the story. Their interactions with Miss Fury lack emotional weight, resulting in a narrative that feels flat and uninspired.

The plot-wise aspect of this preview is very bad just as the characters in this preview. the story is plagued by inconsistency and predictability. While the descent into Hades should be filled with tension and suspense, the narrative instead relies on clichéd scenarios and familiar tropes. The lack of originality in the storyline diminishes its impact, making the plot twists feel telegraphed and unexciting.

The pacing in this preview is another significant flaw. The story oscillates between rushed action sequences and prolonged exposition, disrupting the flow and making it challenging to maintain interest. Key moments that should be climactic are glossed over, while other scenes drag without contributing to character development or plot progression.

The artwork in this preview, although visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the dark and eerie atmosphere of the underworld, with a style that complements the supernatural elements of the story. However, even strong visuals are not enough to elevate the overall reading experience.

Additionally, the dialogue often feels stilted and unnatural, further detracting from the story’s potential impact. Rather than enhancing the narrative, the dialogue frequently serves as filler, lacking the wit or insight needed to engage me personally in this preview.

So will I buy and read the full version of this comic book ? I don’t think I will. The main reason behind this is how poorly this preview was very uninteresting for me personally.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“The Amazing Village Creator: Slow Living with the Village Building Cheat Skill #001” By Shichio Kuzu & j1 Kaido Review

Presented with the Gift of Village Building, Luke, the son of a lord, is cast out of his domain in shame. He arrives in a barren land with plans to develop it and live a simple, quiet life. But suddenly, his mysterious Gift activates! Enjoy Luke’s amazing, slow life as his village grows, his Gift levels up, and his village-building capabilities transform. Along with his growth, Luke faces a variety of obstacles, including the quirky personalities of his own villagers!

This comic book gives us a delightful blend of fantasy and slice-of-life elements, as it sets the stage for an engaging story about creativity, community, and the joys of slow living.

The story in this comic book follows our protagonist, who discovers a unique ability to build and develop a village using a special cheat skill. This intriguing premise allows for exploration of themes such as innovation, cooperation, and the satisfaction of building something from the ground up. The setting, a magical world ripe with possibilities, provides a perfect backdrop for the narrative.

The writing style in this comic book effectively captures the protagonist’s enthusiasm and determination. The character is relatable, driven by a desire to create and improve the lives of those around him. This focus on community and collaboration is a refreshing departure from more action-driven narratives, offering a heartwarming perspective on problem-solving and teamwork.

When it comes to the side characters in this comic book, though not deeply developed in this first volume, show potential for growth and depth. Their interactions with the protagonist add color to the story, hinting at future alliances and challenges. The camaraderie and shared goals create a warm and inviting atmosphere, drawing me into the village’s evolving story which I liked a lot in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations capture the charm and whimsy of the village and its inhabitants, with detailed designs that bring the setting to life. The visual style is inviting and enhances the cozy, slice-of-life feel of the story, making the world feel vibrant and accessible.

Despite the charm and good part this comic book has, it still faces quite a few challenges. One of them is the pacing being very slow and nothing really happening in this comic book. While the relaxed pace allows for world-building and character interaction but there isn’t anything more than that which would keep me interested and engaged in this comic book.

Additionally, while the concept of a village-building cheat skill is intriguing, the mechanics and limitations of this ability are not fully explored in this volume. A deeper understanding of the skill’s potential and constraints would add an extra layer of interest and strategy to the narrative.

The dialogues in this comic book are pretty much straightforward and serves to advance the plot and character relationships. However, there are moments where more nuanced conversations could enhance character depth and provide insights into their motivations and backgrounds.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Bloodshot, Vol. 4: H.A.R.D. Corps” By Christos Gage & Joshua Dysart & Emanuela Lupacchino Review

Out of the ashes of Harbinger Wars, Bloodshot is about to join the weaponized men and women of the Harbinger Active Resistance Division – the black budget, technologically-augmented strike force where the powers are dangerously unstable and every mission is a one-way ticket into the meat grinder. With a reluctant leader calling the shots and a new crop of untested rookies manning the frontline, Bloodshot is about to take H.A.R.D. Corps behind enemy lines, and into a gasoline-drenched, synapses-snapping suicide run where no one is safe…and heroes always die trying!

This comic book is an action-packed volume that offers both thrilling moments and some missed opportunities which I of course will tell you all about that in this review so if you are interested in hearing my thoughts about this comic book then keep reading.

The narrative in this comic book kicks off with Bloodshot’s integration into the H.A.R.D. Corps, a group tasked with high-risk missions. This partnership brings a fresh dynamic to the series, as Bloodshot navigates the complexities of teamwork and loyalty. The authors successfully explore the tension between Bloodshot’s independent nature and the structured demands of the Corps, adding an intriguing layer to his character.

The character development in this comic book is a strong suit in this volume. Bloodshot’s internal struggles are well-depicted, illustrating his conflict between his past as a lone warrior and his new role within a team. The authors delve into his psyche, giving readers a glimpse into his motivations and vulnerabilities. However, while Bloodshot is fleshed out, some of the supporting characters in the H.A.R.D. Corps lack depth, which can make them feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.

The plot in this comic book is more or less driven by high-stakes missions and explosive action sequences. The creators of this comic book craft a fast-paced narrative that kept me personally engaged with its adrenaline-pumping moments. The various missions serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of trust, sacrifice, and camaraderie. However, the storyline occasionally leans on familiar tropes, which can make some plot points feel predictable.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of the volume. The dynamic illustrations capture the intensity of the action scenes, while her attention to detail brings the characters and their environments to life. The visual style complements the narrative, enhancing the overall reading experience which I had with this comic book.

Despite all the good things I have said about this comic book so far in this review, I need to say that it also has some shortcomings. 

The pacing can be uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed and others dragging. This inconsistency affects the flow of the story, making it difficult to maintain a consistent level of engagement. Additionally, while the action is exciting, it occasionally overshadows character development and deeper thematic exploration.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Vermeil in Gold: The Failing Student and the Strongest Scourge Plunge Into the World of Magic #000” By Kouta Amana & Youko Umezu Review

Alto, an aspiring magician, is on the verge of repeating a grade when he stumbles upon a mysterious book containing a demon powerful enough to bring about the end of the world—the alluring Vermeil. But Vermeil’s demonic powers are nothing compared to her naughty and mischievous antics! Action, drama, and magical challenges await them, and it all begins with their fateful encounter.

I gotta admit here that this comic book had an intriguing premise but in the end it does struggles with execution. At the same time this comic book had a lot of potential which it didn’t use.

This comic book sets the stage for a magical adventure that doesn’t quite reach its potential as I have said above. 

The story in this comic book follows Alto, a struggling student at a magical academy, who accidentally summons Vermeil, a powerful and enigmatic being.

The setup of the story in this comic book promises a blend of fantasy and humor, exploring themes of growth and unexpected alliances. The dynamic between Alto and Vermeil is central to the narrative, providing opportunities for both comedic and dramatic moments.

The story in this comic book often rushes through key events, sacrificing character development and world-building for the sake of plot progression. This have caused me to have a disjointed reading experience, where the stakes feel less significant and the emotional impact is diminished.

The writing style in this comic book introduces a world filled with magical elements and potential for character development. However, the execution feels rushed, with the plot moving quickly without fully establishing the setting or the rules of the magical world. This lack of depth have left me personally confused and less invested in the story as I wanted to be.

The character development in this comic book is another area where the volume falls short. Alto, as the protagonist, is portrayed as a typical underdog, but the narrative doesn’t delve deeply into his motivations or personal struggles. Vermeil, while intriguing as a character, is not given enough backstory or complexity to fully engage me personally. 

The interactions in this comic book between the two main characters, though occasionally amusing, lack the depth needed to make their relationship compelling.

When it comes to the side characters in this comic book are introduced with minimal context, often serving as stereotypical figures rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. This limits their impact on the story and reduces opportunities for richer character interactions and development.

The artwork in this comic book is a redeeming quality of the volume. The illustrations capture the magical and fantastical elements of the story, with detailed character designs and dynamic action scenes. The visual style adds energy to the narrative and helps convey the whimsical aspects of the magical world.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Wonder Woman: Tempest Tossed Wonder Woman Day Special Edition (2021) #1” By Laurie Halse Anderson Review

Princess Diana of Themyscira believes that her 16th birthday will be one of new beginnings-namely, acceptance into the warrior tribe of the Amazons. But her birthday celebrations are cut short when rafts carrying refugees break through the barrier that separates her island home from the outside world. When Diana defies the Amazons to try to bring the outsiders to safety, she finds herself swept away by the stormy sea. Cut off from everything she’s ever known, Diana herself becomes a refugee in an unfamiliar land.

I gotta admit here that this comic book is a very captivating and thought-provoking addition to the Wonder Woman canon. I had very little expectations for this comic book but after reading it I gotta admit that it was one of the better comic books I have read all year.

The story in this comic book introduces us to a young Diana, navigating the challenges of adolescence on the idyllic island of Themyscira. The creators of this comic book masterfully portrays Diana as a curious and empathetic teenager, eager to explore the world beyond her home. This portrayal adds depth to the iconic character, showing a side of Wonder Woman that is both relatable and inspiring.

From the start of this comic book, the narrative of this comic book was immediately grab my attention and immerse me into a world of wonder and complexity.

The writing style in this comic book is both lyrical and accessible, capturing the beauty of Themyscira while also highlighting the island’s isolation. This setting serves as a backdrop for Diana’s journey of self-discovery, providing a nuanced exploration of identity and belonging.

The plot here takes a dramatic turn when Diana is swept away from her home, thrust into the chaos of the outside world. The creators of this comic book uses this transition to explore themes of displacement, justice, and empowerment. Diana’s encounters with the challenges faced by those in less privileged circumstances serve as a powerful commentary on real-world issues, making the story both relevant and impactful.

The character development in this comic book is exceptional. Diana’s growth from a sheltered teenager to a compassionate hero is portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity. Her interactions with the diverse cast of characters she meets are rich with emotion and insight, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the importance of empathy and understanding.

The supporting characters in this comic book are equally well-developed, each contributing to Diana’s journey in meaningful ways. Through these interactions this comic book delves into themes of community, solidarity, and resilience, underscoring the idea that true strength lies in standing together.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations capture the vibrancy and dynamism of Diana’s world, with expressive character designs and vivid scenes that bring the story to life. The visual storytelling enhances the emotional resonance of the narrative, which had drawn me deeper into Diana’s journey.

I Give This Book 5 / 5