Tag: Comic Book Reviews

DOUBLE-SIZED FOR SINGLE PRICE! THEIR MAGIC IS CHANNELED THROUGH THEIR TATTOOS! The Marked may look like cool young influencers, but beneath the designer clothes, their bodies are tattooed with the magical glyphs of an ancient order that secretly protects the world against evil forces. With no new occult threats, The Marked use their tattooed powers solely for the pursuit of pleasure until a young woman called Liza creates a dangerous new form of Hybrid Sorcery. The party is over for The Marked. You’ll believe in magic—terrifying, soul-destroying magic.

This comic book embarks on a journey into a world where magic and tattoos intertwine. Unfortunately, this comic book falls short of its intriguing premise. Despite the potential this comic book had, the story struggles with execution and fails to deliver a captivating introduction.

The narrative in this comic book introduces a secret society called The Marked, whose members use magical tattoos to protect the world from dark forces. While the concept is promising, the storytelling feels disjointed and lacks depth. The plot attempts to weave together themes of magic, power, and secrecy, but it often gets bogged down in exposition without offering meaningful character development or engaging dialogue.

The characters in this comic book are introduced rapidly, making it difficult to connect with them or understand their motivations. While there’s an attempt to establish a diverse cast, their personalities and backstories remain superficial. This lack of character depth leaves readers with little reason to invest in their journeys or care about their fates.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while technically proficient, struggles to bring the narrative to life. The illustrations are detailed, particularly in the depiction of the intricate tattoos that are central to the story. However, the overall visual storytelling feels static, lacking the dynamic energy needed to complement a tale about magic and adventure. The panel layouts are often cluttered, detracting from the clarity of the action and contributing to the disjointed feel of the narrative.

One of the main issues I had with this comic book is its pacing. The story rushes through key plot points without allowing sufficient time for the world-building or character development necessary to fully immerse myself in the story. Instead of gradually unveiling the mysteries of the magical society, the narrative relies heavily on exposition, which can feel overwhelming and disengaging.

Despite these shortcomings, the concept behind this comic book holds potential. The idea of using tattoos as a source of magical power is intriguing and could serve as a foundation for a compelling series if developed with more care and attention to detail. With stronger character arcs and a more coherent narrative structure, future comic books in this series might better explore the unique aspects of this world.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

THE WICKED + THE DIVINE writer KIERON GILLEN teams up with artist supernova STEPHANIE HANS (THE WICKED + THE DIVINE 1831, Journey Into Mystery) for her first ongoing comic! DIE is a pitch-black fantasy where a group of forty-something adults have to deal with the returning unearthly horror they barely survived as teenage role-players. If Kieron’s in a rush, he describes it as “Goth Jumanji.” That only captures a sliver of what you’ll find in oversized debut issue—where fantasy gets all too real.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a compelling and dark fantasy world where role-playing games become dangerously real. At the same time this comic book presents a fascinating premise that captures the imagination, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and depth.

The narrative in this comic book begins with a group of teenagers who, in 1991, are mysteriously transported into a fantastical world through a role-playing game. The story then jumps to the present, where the now-adult characters are drawn back into the game’s dark realm. The writing itself in this comic book is atmospheric and layered, exploring themes of escapism, nostalgia, and the consequences of past actions.

The premise of this comic book is pretty intriguing, offering a unique twist on the concept of role-playing games. The idea of a game world that becomes real and the impact it has on its players is a fresh take, inviting us as readers to ponder the boundaries between fantasy and reality. However, while the setup is engaging, this comic book sometimes feels rushed, particularly in its transition between past and present. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully connect with the characters and their shared history.

The characters themselves are diverse, each bringing their own baggage and complexities to the story. The creators of this comic book hints at their individual struggles and the ways the game has affected them, but the limited space in this first comic book leaves some of these aspects underexplored. As a result, while the characters are intriguing, they lack the depth needed to fully engage me personally from the outset.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book, because it is creating a visually stunning and atmospheric experience. The artwork in this comic book has a rich and moody vibe to it that reflect the dark and mysterious nature of the story. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and tension through her art enhances the narrative, which had drawn me personally into the eerie and fantastical world of “Die.”

The character designs we get in this comic book are distinctive and memorable, capturing the essence of each character both in the real world and within the game. The combination of the atmospheric backgrounds and character work results in a visually cohesive and striking comic.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally struggles with pacing. The rapid shifts between timelines and the introduction of numerous characters and concepts can feel overwhelming, which has left me personally with more questions than answers. This can hinder full immersion into the story, though it also sets the stage for deeper exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

When an accident gives Mitchell Hundred amazing powers, he becomes America’s first living super-hero. Eventually tiring of risking his life merely to help maintain the status quo, he retires from crime-fighting and runs for Mayor of NYC, winning by a landslide. And that’s where his adventure begins.

This comic book is an intriguing beginning to a series that combines the superhero genre with political drama. At the same time this comic book delivers a complex narrative that is both ambitious and thought-provoking, though it occasionally struggles with pacing.

The creators of this comic book introduces us as readers to Mitchell Hundred, a former superhero known as “The Great Machine,” who has transitioned into a political career as the mayor of New York City. The premise itself is unique, exploring the intersection of extraordinary abilities and public service. The writing itself in this comic book is intelligent and layered, delving into themes of power, responsibility, and the complexities of governance.

The narrative structure in this comic book is non-linear, moving between Mitchell’s past exploits as a superhero and his current political challenges. This approach effectively highlights the contrasts and parallels between his two lives, though it can be slightly disorienting at times. While the back-and-forth adds depth to the story, the transitions occasionally disrupt the flow, making it harder for me personally to immerse myself in the narrative of this comic book.

Mitchell Hundred is a compelling protagonist, characterized by his moral ambiguity and struggle to reconcile his past and present roles. The creators of this comic book skillfully develops his character, presenting him as a flawed yet relatable figure. The supporting cast, including political aides and other city officials, adds richness to the story, though they remain somewhat underdeveloped in this initial issue.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing a realistic and detailed aesthetic to the comic. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the gritty atmosphere of New York City, providing a grounded backdrop for the story’s fantastical elements. The artwork in this comic book excels in depicting the emotional nuances of the characters, enhancing the narrative’s impact.

While this comic book excels in concept and visual execution, it occasionally falls short in maintaining narrative momentum. This comic book sets up multiple plot threads and themes, but the pacing can feel uneven, with some scenes dragging while others rush by too quickly. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully engage with the story’s intricacies.

Despite these challenges, this comic book lays a strong foundation for future exploration. The blend of superhero elements with political intrigue offers a fresh perspective on both genres, and the moral complexity of the protagonist adds layers to the narrative.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

SteamPunk Originals Presents: The Steam Engines of Oz FCBD. Get a special sneak peek at the upcoming re-imagining of Oz through a SteamPunk lens. Find out what happens 100 years AFTER the witch is dead. In an Oz ruled by a once revered hero, salvation comes from the unlikely wrench of Victoria Wright, who dares to question status quo and sparks a rebellion. This FCBD Edition will give you an exciting extended preview of the upcoming graphic novel AND a look at what else Arcana’s SteamPunk Originals line has in store for readers!

This comic book offers a captivating reimagining of the beloved world of Oz, blending steampunk elements with the magic of L. Frank Baum’s classic. At the same time this comic book is presenting a unique narrative that breathes new life into familiar characters and settings.

The story in this comic book unfolds in a world where the fantastical meets the industrial, introducing us as readers to Victoria Wright, a young engineer living in the Emerald City’s mechanical underbelly. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that seamlessly intertwines the whimsical charm of Oz with the gritty aesthetics of steampunk. The result is a fresh and imaginative setting that captures my attention and interest from the first page of this comic book.

Victoria is a compelling protagonist, defined by her curiosity and ingenuity. Her journey through this transformed Oz is both a personal quest and a broader adventure, as she navigates the challenges posed by a world caught between magic and machinery. The creators of this comic book effectively develop her character, making her relatable and engaging.

The narrative is well-paced, balancing action, exploration, and character development. As Victoria encounters both new and familiar faces, each interaction adds depth to the world and advances the plot. The inclusion of classic characters with a steampunk twist (such as the Tin Man, now a formidable machine) adds layers of intrigue and nostalgia.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book. The illustrations we get in this comic book are detailed and vibrant, capturing the essence of both the magical and mechanical aspects of this reimagined Oz. The steampunk elements are intricately designed, creating a visually rich environment that enhances the narrative’s impact.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its accessibility. While it offers plenty of nods to the original Oz tales, it stands on its own as a fresh and engaging adventure. The combination of familiar themes with innovative twists ensures that both longtime fans and new readers will find something to enjoy.

However, this comic book does have moments where the narrative could benefit from more depth and detail, particularly in the world-building. Some aspects of the steampunk setting and its impact on Oz’s magic are touched upon but not fully explored. This leaves room for further development in future comic books in this series, which could enrich the story even more.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

A first look at upcoming storylines! DC Comics: Divergence features three 8-page previews for the June releases of Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s Batman, as well as Geoff Johns and Jason Fabok’s launch of the “Darkseid War” within Justice League featuring the biggest villains in the DCU – Darkseid and the Anti-Monitor, and Gene Luen Yang’s DC Comics debut with celebrated artist John Romita, Jr on Superman.

This comic book is a masterful entry point into the next era of DC storytelling. At the same time this comic book is offering a captivating blend of intriguing plotlines and dynamic artwork that sets the stage for exciting developments in the DC Universe.

The creators of this comic book kicks off this comic book with a compelling Superman story that delves into the complexities of Clark Kent’s dual identity. The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and introspective, exploring the challenges Superman faces as he grapples with revelations that could change everything. The narrative is both personal and epic, capturing the essence of Superman’s enduring struggle for truth and justice.

Scott Snyder’s contribution focuses on Batman, delivering a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. Snyder’s ability to weave intricate plots with rich character development shines through, as he introduces a new and unexpected twist to Bruce Wayne’s journey. The dialogue is crisp and engaging, reflecting the dark and intense atmosphere that surrounds Gotham’s protector.

Gene Luen Yang brings a fresh perspective to this comic book with his introduction of new elements that promise to expand the DC Universe in exciting ways. Yang’s storytelling is innovative and engaging, seamlessly blending action with deeper themes of identity and morality. His narrative adds a layer of complexity and intrigue, inviting us as readers to ponder the implications of the unfolding events.

The artwork throughout this comic book is stunning, with each story benefiting from the unique style of its respective artists. The illustrations are detailed and dynamic, capturing both the grandeur and nuance of the DC Universe. The action sequences are particularly well-executed, providing a sense of movement and excitement that enhances the overall impact of the stories.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. This comic book effectively sets up new story arcs while honoring the rich history of the characters, providing a perfect balance of familiarity and innovation. The themes explored are universal, touching on concepts of identity, power, and responsibility that resonate with a wide audience.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

The Gold Hoarders are known to all pirates throughout the Sea of Thieves for their gilded flesh and gluttonous desire for treasure. Discover the story of one would-be pirate, Humphrey, and his journey into joining one of the greatest band of traders the Sea of Thieves has ever known.

This comic book offers us as readers a thrilling dive into the pirate-filled world of the popular video game. At the same time this comic book is delivering an engaging blend of adventure, intrigue, and vibrant artwork.

The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that captures the adventurous spirit of the “Sea of Thieves” universe. The story follows a group of pirates as they embark on a quest for treasure, driven by the promise of gold and glory.

The writing itself in this comic book is dynamic and fun, with a focus on camaraderie and the unpredictable nature of life on the high seas. The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists, which has kept me personally on my toes as they navigate the treacherous waters alongside the crew.

The characters in this comic book are well-developed, each with distinct personalities that add depth to the narrative. The creators of this comic book excels at creating compelling interactions, highlighting the bonds and rivalries that define pirate life. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the humor and tension inherent in a world where loyalty and betrayal are two sides of the same coin.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the vibrant and chaotic world of “Sea of Thieves” to life. The illustrations we get in this comic book are detailed and dynamic, capturing the energy and excitement of pirate adventures. The character designs in this comic book are expressive and memorable, enhancing the storytelling by visually conveying each character’s unique traits and emotions.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its accessibility. While fans of the game will appreciate the nods to the original material, new readers can easily jump into the story and enjoy the swashbuckling adventure. This comic book effectively captures the essence of what makes “Sea of Thieves” a beloved universe, combining elements of exploration, mystery, and humor.

While this comic book excels in many areas, it occasionally leans heavily on familiar pirate tropes. However, the engaging characters and vibrant storytelling keep the narrative fresh and exciting. This minor drawback does little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the comic.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Welcome to Craw County, Alabama, home of Boss BBQ, the state champion Runnin’ Rebs football team…and more bastards than you’ve ever seen. When you’re an angry old man like Earl Tubb, the only way to survive a place like this…is to carry a really big stick. From the acclaimed team of JASON AARON and JASON LATOUR, the same bastards who brought you Scalped and Japan’s Most Wanted, comes a southern fried crime series that’s like the Dukes of Hazzard meets the Coen Brothers…on meth.

This comic book sets the stage for a tale steeped in Southern grit and small-town tension. At the same time this comic book is offering us as readers a strong sense of place and atmosphere, though it leaves room for further character development and narrative exploration.

The writing itself in this comic book introduces us as readers to Craw County, Alabama, a place where football reigns supreme and secrets linger beneath the surface. The story follows Earl Tubb, a man returning to his hometown after many years. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is rich in local color and tension, capturing the feel of a Southern Gothic tale. The dialogue is authentic, with a raw edge that reflects the hardened lives of the characters.

The central theme of this comic book (confronting the past while dealing with present challenges) is pretty compelling in my opinion. Earl’s return to Craw County is fraught with unresolved issues and a community that hasn’t changed much since he left. The creators of this comic book effectively sets up these conflicts, hinting at deeper tensions that promise to unravel in future comic books in this series.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book, because it is capturing the rugged and gritty essence of the setting. The illustrations we get in this comic book bring Craw County to life with a stark, almost oppressive atmosphere that complements the narrative’s tone. The character designs are distinctive, reflecting their tough, weathered personalities. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and intensity through the art enhances the storytelling, which had drawn me personally into the world he and this comic book has created.

While this comic book excels in setting and mood, it falls short in character development. Earl Tubb, though intriguing, is not fully fleshed out in this initial comic book. We as readers are given glimpses of his history and motivations, but these elements remain largely unexplored. This lack of depth makes it challenging to form a strong emotional connection with the protagonist from the outset.

Despite these limitations, this comic book hints at a rich tapestry of stories waiting to unfold. The blend of personal conflict, community dynamics, and Southern culture provides a fertile ground for future exploration. The potential for character growth and deeper narrative threads is evident, suggesting that subsequent comic books in this series may delve into these areas more fully.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Eisner-winning writer GREG RUCKA (LAZARUS, BLACK MAGICK, Wonder Woman) and critically acclaimed artist LEANDRO FERNÁNDEZ (THE DISCIPLINE, Deadpool, Punisher: MAX) team up together to introduce THE OLD GUARD, the story of old soldiers who never die…and yet cannot seem to fade away. Trapped in an immortality without explanation, Andromache of Scythia—“Andy”—and her comrades ply their trade for those who can find—and aff ord—their services. But in the 21st century, immortality is a hard secret to keep, and when you live long enough, you learn that there are many fates worse than death.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a world where immortality comes with its own set of challenges. At the same time this comic book is presenting an intriguing concept that captivates but leaves room for further development.

This comic book sets the stage for a story about a group of immortal mercenaries led by the enigmatic Andy. The premise is fascinating: soldiers who have fought through centuries, grappling with both the burden and benefit of eternal life. The writing in this comic book effectively establishes the core concept and provides a glimpse into the weary existence of these ageless warriors.

The narrative in this comic book had quickly immersed me personally in action, showcasing the team’s combat prowess and hinting at their complex histories. However, while the action sequences are engaging, the pacing feels uneven. The story moves swiftly through key plot points, leaving limited space for deep character exploration. As a result, I found myself wanting to know more about the individual backstories and motivations of the immortals.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this cocky book, because it is bringing the gritty and intense world of “The Old Guard” to life. The bold linework and dynamic compositions capture the raw energy of battle, while his distinctive style adds a unique flair to the visuals. The character designs we get in this comic book effectively convey the wear and tear of centuries, reflecting the characters’ experiences and emotions.

While this comic book excels in concept and visual execution, it falls short in character development. The immortals’ internal struggles and dynamics are only briefly touched upon, which has left me personally eager for more insight into their relationships and histories. This lack of depth can make it challenging to fully invest in the characters’ journeys from the outset.

Despite these shortcomings, this comic book sets up intriguing narrative threads that promise further exploration in future comic books in this series. The blend of action, immortality, and the philosophical questions surrounding eternal life provides a solid foundation for a potentially compelling series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

In the BOOM! Studios 2016 Summer Blast, read all-new, original short stories of David Petersen’s Mouse Guard and Jim Henson’s Labyrinth. Plus, get sneak peeks of the upcoming new Adventure Time: Comics series, the Lumberjanes: Don’t Axe, Don’t Tale special, and this summer’s highly anticipated original graphic novel from Archaia, The Cloud. As a bonus, we’ve included preview pages from Goldie Vance, our newest BOOM! Box debut. There’s something in this Free Comic Book Day issue for everyone!

This comic book offers a collection of stories that showcase a variety of styles and genres. At the same time this comic book provides an enjoyable but uneven reading experience.

The anthology format in this comic book begins with Box Brown’s contribution, which is characterized by his distinctive, minimalist art style. Brown’s story is engaging and humorous, capturing the essence of his quirky approach. However, the narrative feels somewhat brief, which has left me personally wanting more development and depth. Brown’s ability to deliver humor and charm in a compact format is commendable, but the story’s impact is limited by its brevity.

David Petersen’s piece stands out with its rich artwork and detailed world-building. Known for his work on “Mouse Guard,” Petersen brings a level of craftsmanship that is visually striking. His story, set in a fantastical realm, is immersive and captivating. The characters are well-developed, and the narrative offers a satisfying blend of adventure and emotion. However, the complexity of the world may feel overwhelming in such a short format, which has left me personally wishing for more context and exploration.

Cory Godbey’s contribution rounds out the anthology with a whimsical and beautifully illustrated tale. Godbey’s art is lush and expressive, perfectly complementing the enchanting nature of his story. The narrative is simple yet evocative, capturing a sense of wonder and magic. While the artwork is a highlight, the story itself might feel too light for readers seeking more substantial content.

The anthology’s strength lies in its diversity, offering a range of genres and artistic styles that appeal to different tastes. Each story brings something unique to the table, showcasing the versatility of the creators and the potential of the medium. However, this variety also contributes to the issue’s unevenness. Some stories resonate more deeply than others, and the overall impact varies depending on individual reader preferences.

This comic book succeeds in providing a snapshot of the creative talent within the BOOM! Studios lineup. It’s an excellent way for new readers to sample different series and styles, potentially discovering new favorites. For longtime fans, this comic book offers a chance to revisit familiar creators and enjoy new material.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Saturday Originals dives into the thrilling world of Chase and Catch Ultra Crime Detectives, a captivating sci-fi story created by animation and video games industry veterans ANDRÉ LAVOIE, FRED FAUBERT, LOUIS-SIMON MÉNARD and GUY HARVEY. Chase and Catch will take you on a ride to a futuristic cyber-world filled with action, technology, and mystery!

This comic book dives into the world of sci-fi with an ambitious premise. Unfortunately, this issue comic book falls short of its potential. While the concept is intriguing, the execution lacks the clarity and depth needed to captivate me personally.

The narrative in this comic book sets the stage for a high-stakes adventure involving the pursuit of a mysterious “Quantum Diamond.” The story promises action and intrigue, but the plot feels disjointed and underdeveloped. Key elements and character motivations are introduced without sufficient detail or context, which has left me personally puzzled rather than engaged.

The characters, though varied, lack the depth necessary to make them memorable or relatable. Their interactions often feel forced, and their development is minimal, making it difficult for me personally to connect with their individual journeys. The dialogue, while occasionally sharp, frequently fails to advance the plot in a meaningful way, resulting in a narrative that feels static rather than dynamic.

The artwork itself in this comic book attempts to bring the futuristic setting to life, but the visuals are inconsistent. Some panels effectively capture the grandeur of the sci-fi environment, while others lack detail and clarity. The potential for visually stunning depictions of advanced technology and expansive landscapes is only partially realized, leaving much to be desired.

Despite these shortcomings, the core concept of this comic book holds promise. The idea of a futuristic heist involving a powerful artifact is compelling and could serve as the foundation for an engaging series. With more focused storytelling and character development, future comic books in this series might deliver on this potential.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its attempt to blend elements of science fiction and adventure. The premise offers numerous opportunities for exciting plot twists and character arcs. However, to achieve this, the narrative needs to establish a clearer direction and invest in deeper world-building.

I Give This Book 2 / 5