Tag: Comic Book Reviews

At the height of the Cold War, the Soviet Union – determined to win the Space Race at any cost – green lit a dangerously advanced mission. They sent a man farther into the cosmos than anyone has gone before or since. Lost in the stars, he encountered something unknown. Something that…changed him. Long thought lost and erased from the history books, he has suddenly returned, crash-landing in the Australian Outback. The few that have been able to reach him believe him to be a deity – one who turned the scorched desert into a lush oasis. They say he can bend matter, space, and even time to his will. Now the rest of the world’s powers must decide for themselves – will the enigmatic Divinity offer his hand in friendship, or will Earth’s heroes find themselves helpless against the wrath of the divine?

This comic book is pretty captivating and it delves into the complexities of power, identity, and human nature. The story in this comic book blends science fiction with deep philosophical questions, creating an intriguing narrative that resonates with me and possibly with other readers long after the final page.

The plot in this comic book follows Abram Adams, a cosmonaut sent on a Soviet mission to the far reaches of space during the Cold War. After disappearing for decades, Abram returns to Earth with god-like powers, challenging humanity’s understanding of reality and divinity.

The creator of this comic book creates a narrative that skillfully balances cosmic exploration with intimate character moments, that have drawn me into a world where the boundaries between man and god blur.

The character development is a standout aspect of this comic book. Abram Adams is portrayed with depth and nuance, his transformation into a near-divine being explored with sensitivity and insight.

The creators of this comic book delves into Abram’s internal struggles, examining how his new abilities affect his perception of himself and the world around him. This exploration of identity and purpose adds layers to the narrative, making Abram’s journey both compelling and relatable.

The side characters in this comic book, though not as deeply explored, serve to highlight the impact of Abram’s return on society. Their varied reactions (from awe to fear) reflect the broader societal implications of encountering a being with unlimited power. This dynamic creates tension and conflict, driving the narrative forward and prompting readers to consider the ethical and moral dilemmas posed by such power.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations capture the vastness of space and the surreal nature of Abram’s powers with stunning detail and imagination. The use of color and composition enhances the otherworldly atmosphere, immersing readers in a visually striking experience that underscores the story’s themes.

The writing style in this comic book is both thought-provoking and accessible, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of the narrative without sacrificing pacing or engagement. The dialogue is sharp and reflective, capturing the essence of the characters and the weight of the situations they face. This balance of action and introspection ensures that the story remains both exciting and intellectually stimulating.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Introduction to Street Fighter II Turbo Vol. 1: A new tournament begins! The fighters begin to gather as Chun-Li, Ryu and Ken receive invitations to the fight, while Shadaloo gathers their forces, teaming up Bison, Sagat, Vega and Balrog in an action-packed series!

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.

This preview attempts to capture the excitement of the iconic video game series but falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. Despite the rich source material, the volume struggles with character development, plot cohesion, and overall engagement.

The story in this preview aims to bring the intense battles and diverse characters of Street Fighter to life. However, the plot lacks focus and direction, feeling more like a collection of loosely connected fights rather than a cohesive storyline. This lack of narrative structure makes it difficult for me personally to become invested in the characters or their journeys.

The character development is notably weak in this preview. The beloved fighters from the Street Fighter universe are presented with minimal depth and personality. Iconic characters like Ryu, Chun-Li, and Ken are given little backstory or motivation, reducing them to mere caricatures of their video game counterparts. Without meaningful exploration of their personalities or goals, the characters fail to resonate with me and possibly with other readers like myself who are very picky readers.

The writing style in this preview introduces numerous characters and battles, but the dialogue often feels stilted and lacks the emotional weight needed to elevate the stakes. Conversations serve more as exposition than genuine interactions, leaving the characters feeling flat and unengaging. The potential for exploring the rich dynamics between fighters is largely missed.

The artwork in this preview, while capturing the action and style of the games, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations depict the characters and their signature moves with accuracy, but the visual storytelling does little to enhance the plot or character arcs. The lack of dynamic and detailed backgrounds also detracts from the overall visual appeal.

The pacing is another significant issue which this preview faces. The story rushes through key events without providing sufficient context or buildup, making the transitions between scenes feel abrupt and disjointed. This inconsistency disrupts the flow, making it challenging for me to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression.

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

10-Page Preview! Pulled out of exile from a dark corner of the world, renowned-surgeon-turned-fringe medicine-eccentric Doctor Randal Horne must return to New York City to investigate a tragic research lab accident that’s left one man dead, and inexplicably headless. Now with the help of a distrusting NYPD detective and a team of doctors from the CDC, Horne must diagnose this and other seemingly unexplainable medical phenomenon in a world where the line between medical science and science fiction is blurry at best.

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.

This preview offers a compelling blend of mystery and medical drama. At the same time this preview sets up an intriguing premise, though it left me personally wanting more depth and development.

The story in this preview centers around Dr. Randal Horne, a disgraced doctor who is drawn into a series of bizarre medical cases. The creators of this preview create a narrative that mixes elements of science fiction and detective work, creating a unique atmosphere that captures the imagination.

The character development is a mixed bag in this preview. Dr. Horne is presented as a flawed yet intriguing protagonist. His past failures and determination to redeem himself add layers to his character, making him relatable and compelling. However, the supporting characters are not as well-developed, often serving as plot devices rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. This lack of depth limits their impact on the story.

The dialogues throughout the preview is engaging and effectively conveys the tension and urgency of the medical mysteries. The creators of this preview uses conversations to reveal character motivations and advance the plot, though some exchanges could benefit from more emotional depth to enhance character relationships.

The artwork in this preview complements the story with its clean and dynamic style. The illustrations capture the intensity of the medical cases and the eerie atmosphere surrounding them. The use of color and shading enhances the mood, had drawn me into the story’s world. However, while the visuals are strong, they sometimes lack the detail needed to fully convey the complexity of the medical scenarios.

The pacing of this preview is generally well-managed, balancing action with moments of introspection. The narrative moves swiftly, maintaining reader interest, but occasionally feels rushed. A more measured approach could allow for deeper exploration of the medical mysteries and character dynamics.

The thematic exploration redemption, ethics, and the intersection of medicine and mystery is intriguing, though not deeply explored in this preview. These themes provide a solid foundation for the full version of this comic book offering potential for further development and reflection.

Despite its strengths, this preview leaves some questions unanswered, typical for an preview. While this builds anticipation for future volumes, it also left me personally wanting more immediate clarity and resolution. Expanding on certain plot points and character backstories could enhance the overall engagement and depth of the series.

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Introduction to Street Fighter Chun-Li Vol. 2: She’s been nicknamed “The Strongest Woman in the World,” but before Chun-Li was a no-nonsense Interpol officer she was a fresh recruit in the Hong Kong Police. Street Fighter Chun-Li explores Street Fighter history and the young Chun-Li’s first encounter with the criminal Shadaloo organization. With her partner Po-Lin and her father (and superior officer) Dorai by her side, expect this trio to get into car chases, shoot outs, and plenty of fisticuffs as they fight their way to the truth about Shadaloo’s latest scheme. Plus appearances by Dan, Gen, Fei Long, Sagat, and more Street Fighter favorites!

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.

This preview struggles to capture the excitement and depth fans expect from the beloved franchise. Despite the potential of focusing on one of Street Fighter’s iconic characters, this preview fails to deliver a compelling narrative or meaningful character development.

The story in this preview aims to delve deeper into Chun-Li’s backstory, exploring her motivations and challenges. However, the plot is thin and lacks direction, making it difficult for readers to engage with the narrative. The storyline feels more like a series of disconnected events rather than a cohesive arc, which have left me unsatisfied and disconnected from the character’s journey.

The character development is a significant weakness in this preview. Chun-Li, a character known for her strength and complexity, is presented here with little depth. Her motivations are unexplored, and her interactions with other characters lack the emotional weight needed to make them impactful. This superficial treatment of such a central character is disappointing and undermines the potential for a rich, character-driven story.

The side characters in this preview also suffers from minimal development. Characters are introduced without much context or backstory, making them feel like mere plot devices rather than integral parts of the narrative. This lack of depth in both the protagonist and supporting characters results in a story that feels flat and uninspired.

While the artwork in this preview is visually pleasing, it cannot fully compensate for the shortcomings in the narrative. The illustrations capture the energy and style of the Street Fighter universe, with dynamic action sequences and vibrant character designs. However, even strong visuals cannot elevate the overall reading experience when the story lacks substance and cohesion.

The pacing of this preview is another issue this preview has to face. Because with  scenes that either drag without adding value or rush through potentially significant moments. This inconsistency disrupts the flow of the narrative, making it challenging for me personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression.

The dialogues throughout this preview tends to be stilted and lacks the sharpness needed to bring the characters to life. Conversations often serve as exposition rather than meaningful exchanges, further detracting from the potential for character development and engagement.

Despite its shortcomings of this preview, the concept of focusing on Chun-Li’s story holds potential for the full version of this comic book. With a more focused narrative and deeper exploration of character motivations, the series could better capture the essence of the Street Fighter universe and offer a more rewarding experience for fans.

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

Read the First Issue for FREE! Deepak Chopra brings the Buddha back to life in this stunning graphic novel adaptation of the New York Times Bestselling novel about a young prince who abandons his inheritance to discover his true calling. His iconic journey changed the world forever, and the truths revealed continue to influence every corner of the globe today. A young man in line for the throne is trapped in his father’s kingdom and yearns for the outside world. Betrayed by those closest to him, Siddhartha abandons his palace and princely title. 

This comic book offers a thoughtful retelling of the life of Siddhartha Gautama. At the same time this comic book explores the early stages of Buddha’s journey with a blend of spiritual insight and artistic expression.

The narrative of this comic book focuses on Siddhartha’s life before his transformation into the Buddha, capturing the essence of his inner turmoil and quest for meaning.

The creators of this comic book create a story that delves into the philosophical and spiritual questions that drive Siddhartha’s journey. The plot is rich with introspection, inviting us as readers to reflect on themes of identity, purpose, and enlightenment.

The character development is a key component of this comic book. Siddhartha is portrayed with depth and complexity, making his struggles and aspirations relatable to me. His interactions with other characters, such as his family and mentors, are thoughtfully depicted, adding layers to his journey. These relationships provide insight into the societal and personal influences that shape his path.

The artwork in this comic book enhances the narrative with its vibrant and evocative style. The illustrations capture both the grandeur of ancient India and the intimate moments of Siddhartha’s life. The use of details in the artwork of this comic book brings the story to life, creating an immersive experience that complements the spiritual themes.

Despite its strengths, the pacing of this comic book can feel uneven at times. The narrative oscillates between moments of deep introspection and more straightforward storytelling, which can disrupt the flow. Some readers like myself might find the transitions between these elements abrupt, impacting the overall cohesion of the story.

The dialogues in this comic book effectively conveys the philosophical undertones of the narrative, though it occasionally leans towards being overly didactic. While the spiritual insights are valuable, a subtler approach might enhance the storytelling by allowing us as readers to draw our own conclusions from Siddhartha’s experiences.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of universal themes such as suffering, desire, and the search for truth. The creators of this comic book weave these themes into the fabric of the narrative, providing depth and resonance. This thematic richness invites us as readers to engage with the story on a personal level, considering our own journeys and beliefs.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

In “Uprising,” we witness a flashpoint in the conflict between humans and omnics. On the eve of the groundbreaking for England’s new home for omnics, London is attacked by Null Sector, an extremist faction of robots fighting for equal rights no matter the cost. With Overwatch blocked from interfering, Strike Commander Jack Morrison must decide whether to disobey orders or stand by while thousands of lives are in peril.

This comic book offers an engaging glimpse into the storied past of the Overwatch universe. At the same time this comic book successfully combines action, character depth, and rich lore, providing fans with an exciting narrative that sheds light on pivotal moments in Overwatch history.

This comic book is set during a critical period of conflict and it explores the early days of Overwatch and its response to the Omnic Crisis in London.

The writing style in this comic book excels in creating a narrative that is both action-packed and emotionally resonant. The storyline weaves together intense battles with moments of introspection, highlighting the complexities of leadership and the moral dilemmas faced by the team.

The character development is a standout feature of this comic book. The creators of this comic book delves into the motivations and struggles of key characters like Jack Morrison, Ana Amari, and Reinhardt. Their interactions reveal the tensions and camaraderie within the team, offering insights into their personalities and the burdens they carry. This depth adds layers to the story, making the characters more relatable and their choices more impactful.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully, capturing the intensity and scale of the conflict with dynamic illustrations. The action sequences are rendered with clarity and energy, while the character expressions convey the emotional weight of the story. The creators of this comic book use of composition enhances the mood, immersing us as readers in the world of Overwatch and its high-stakes battles.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and character-driven moments. Chu skillfully builds tension throughout the issue, keeping us as readers engaged as the plot unfolds. This careful pacing ensures that the story remains compelling from start to finish.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of war. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, prompting readers to reflect on the ethical challenges faced by the characters. This thematic depth elevates the issue beyond a simple action tale, providing substance and resonance that linger long after the final page.

Despite its strengths, this comic book does leave some threads unresolved, typical for a comic that is part of a larger series. While this approach maintains anticipation for future developments, some readers like myself may desire more immediate closure on certain plot points.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

The Ultimate Edition – Twenty years ago they murdered her – and now she’s back to even the score, as Helen, a falling Angel returns to the town she died in to extract revenge on the four men who killed her – while discovering an Angelic conspiracy that dates back to Jesus Christ. Will God allow her to gain vengeance? Or is the Angel Michael right about her true purpose? Hope Falls: The Ultimate Edition collects the Eagle Award-nominated five-part series by New York Times Best Selling List author Tony Lee and his MTV Comics collaborator Dan Boultwood, in a brand new format. 

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.

This preview delivers a captivating introduction to a tale of mystery and supernatural intrigue. This preview gives us a glimpse into the full version of this comic book sets the stage for a compelling narrative that combines elements of suspense and emotional depth.

This preview is set in the seemingly tranquil town of Hope Falls, the story centers around a mysterious return that stirs up long-buried secrets. The creators of this preview create a narrative that expertly balances tension and character-driven storytelling. The plot is intriguing from the outset, which have drawn me in with its blend of small-town charm and underlying menace.

The character development in this preview is noteworthy. The creators of this preview introduces a protagonist with a complex past, immediately engaging us as readers with the enigmatic presence. At the same time the creators of this comic book hint at unresolved conflicts and hidden motives. This depth of character is complemented by well-crafted interactions with the town’s residents, each adding layers to the unfolding mystery.

The artwork in this preview enhances the narrative with its distinct and expressive style. The illustrations capture the dual nature of Hope Falls, juxtaposing its serene facade with darker undertones. Boultwood’s use of shadow and light effectively conveys the mood, creating an immersive atmosphere that had drawn me into the story’s world.

The dialogues throughout the preview are sharp and authentic, reflecting the nuanced relationships between characters. The writing style in this preview captures the essence of small-town dynamics, where every word can carry weight and history. This attention to detail enriches the narrative, adding depth to character interactions and building tension.

The pacing of this preview is well-executed, maintaining a steady rhythm that balances suspense with moments of introspection. The creators of this preview skillfully weaves together past and present, gradually revealing key elements of the plot while keeping me personally eager for more. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging and dynamic.

One of the strengths of this preview is its thematic exploration. The creators of this preview delves into themes of redemption, justice, and the impact of past actions. These themes are thoughtfully integrated into the narrative, providing substance beyond the surface-level mystery. This depth adds resonance to the story, inviting us as readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and morality.

Despite its strengths, the preview does leave some questions unanswered, as is typical for an preview like this one. While this serves to heighten anticipation for future installments it had left me wanting more immediate clarity.

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Series Finale! Upon returning from South Africa, Detective Mel Stone was put on medical leave after he was found almost dead on the cargo ship he was on with no explanation and almost no memory of what happened to him. All the questions are answered.

This comic book is a thrilling continuation of the supernatural detective series. At the same time this comic book delves deeper into the dark and mysterious world of Styx and Stone, providing us as readers with a captivating blend of horror, mystery, and character development.

The creators of this comic book have created a narrative that skillfully balances suspense and intrigue. The story follows Jacob Stone, a detective with unique abilities, as he navigates a world filled with supernatural threats. In this comic book the stakes are higher than ever, with new layers of mystery unfolding and tensions rising. 

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and engaging, pulling us as readers into a world where danger lurks at every corner.

The plot in this comic book is well-paced, maintaining a steady flow of action and suspense while allowing for moments of character introspection. The narrative intricately weaves together various plot threads, revealing new dimensions to the characters and their relationships. This depth adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it more than just a simple detective tale.

The character development in this comic book is particularly noteworthy. Jacob Stone is portrayed with depth and nuance, showcasing both his strengths and vulnerabilities. The writers delve into his psyche, exploring the impact of his abilities on his personal life and moral compass. Supporting characters are also given more prominence, each adding their own unique perspectives and enhancing the story’s richness.

The artwork is a standout feature in this comic book because it is bringing the eerie and atmospheric world of “Styx & Stone” to life. The illustrations we get in this comic book are are both gritty and expressive, capturing the tension and otherworldly elements of the narrative. The use of shadows and light in this comic book effectively enhances the mood, creating a visual experience that complements the story’s dark themes.

One of the strengths of this comic book its ability to evoke a sense of unease and anticipation. The creators of this comic book work seamlessly together to build a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the secrets that lie ahead. The combination of compelling storytelling and striking visuals makes this comic book a standout in this series.

While this comic book excels in many areas, some plot points could benefit from further exploration. Certain elements are introduced that intrigue but are not fully developed, which has left me personally with questions that may be addressed in future installments. This minor shortcoming, however, does not detract significantly from the overall impact and enjoyment of the story.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

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

Check out all the amazing new releases for September 2023!

This comic book provides a varied glimpse into the upcoming slate of Marvel Comics. At the same time this comic book successfully showcases a range of titles, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a taste of what’s to come, though it occasionally struggles with depth and cohesion.

This comic book is packed with a diverse array of stories spanning multiple genres, from superhero epics to cosmic adventures and everything in between. This diversity is one of its strengths, reflecting Marvel’s commitment to broadening its storytelling horizons. Each section offers a brief synopsis and tantalizing artwork, designed to pique interest and encourage us as readers to explore further.

One of the standout features of this comic book is the inclusion of new story arcs for popular characters like Spider-Man, the X-Men, and the Avengers. These entries are sure to excite fans eager to see their favorite heroes face fresh challenges. Additionally, the preview introduces several new series and characters, hinting at bold directions and innovative narratives that promise to expand the Marvel Universe.

However, while the variety is commendable, this comic book occasionally feels overwhelming due to its sheer volume of content. With so many titles crammed into a limited space, individual stories often receive only a cursory introduction. This can make it difficult for me personally to form a clear understanding of the new series or arcs being presented. A bit more focus on a select few standout titles might have provided a more coherent and impactful reading experience.

The artwork throughout this comic book is consistently impressive, highlighting the talent and creativity of Marvel’s artists. Each page is filled with dynamic and vibrant illustrations that capture the essence of the characters and settings. The visual appeal is a significant draw, showcasing the high standard of artistry that fans have come to expect from Marvel.

The writing in the various previews in this comic book provided do a decent job of conveying the tone and direction of each story. However, the brevity of these teasers means that the narrative depth and character development, which are often Marvel’s strengths, are not fully realized in this format. I personally found myself intrigued but left wanting more substantial content.

Despite these limitations, this comic book succeeds in generating excitement and anticipation for upcoming releases. It serves as a valuable resource for fans looking to stay informed about new developments in the Marvel Universe. The preview also offers glimpses of potential surprises and innovative storytelling that could redefine certain characters and series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5