“Overwatch #10” By Michael Chu & Miki Montlló Review

The holidays have arrived at Overwatch, and everybody is heading home to spend time with the ones closest to them. Meanwhile, a massive snowstorm has turned King’s Row into a winter wonderland, catching Tracer in the middle of an important mission, while at Watchpoint: Gibraltar, Winston contemplates the past year and the one to come.

This comic book delivers a mix of action and character exploration and it continues to expand the lore of the Overwatch universe, focusing on character dynamics and the complexities of their world.

The narrative of this comic book centers around a mission that brings together a diverse group of heroes, each contributing their unique skills and personalities.

The writing style in this comic book effectively captures the spirit of the Overwatch team, highlighting the camaraderie and tension that arise within such a diverse group. 

The interactions between characters are a standout feature in this comic book, showcasing their individual traits and histories.

The character development in this comic book is a key aspect of this issue. This comic book delves into the backgrounds and motivations of several team members, providing insights into their pasts and how those experiences shape their current roles. This exploration adds depth to the characters, making them more relatable and multidimensional.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative with vibrant and dynamic illustrations. The action sequences are particularly well-rendered, capturing the energy and intensity of the characters’ abilities. Montlló’s style adds a layer of visual excitement to the story, making the battles feel engaging and immersive.

However despite these strengths this comic book has it still faces some challenges like the plot can feel somewhat predictable. The mission follows a familiar trajectory, with few surprises or unexpected twists. While the focus on character interactions is engaging, the overall storyline lacks the complexity and innovation that might elevate the issue to a higher standard.

The pacing in this comic book is another area where the issue encounters challenges. Certain scenes unfold at a rapid pace, while others linger without significant development. This inconsistency can disrupt the flow of the narrative, making it difficult for me personally to maintain a steady level of engagement and interested in this comic book.

The dialogues throughout this comic book is well-crafted, capturing the essence of each character’s voice. There is humor and sincerity infused into the conversations, enhancing the character dynamics and providing moments of levity amidst the action. However, some exchanges could benefit from more depth, particularly in terms of exploring the emotional stakes of the mission.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Bruce Wayne – The Road Home: Sample” By Various Review

Everything has been leading to this! Bruce Wayne made his long journey back through time in RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE. Now it’s finally time for him to reunite with the characters closest to him. Don’t miss these 3-page previews of the 8 issues connecting Bruce Wayne’s past to Batman’s exciting future!

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 us a masterful glimpse into the intricate world of Gotham and its iconic hero. This preview provides a rich, multi-faceted exploration of Bruce Wayne’s journey back to the mantle of Batman, capturing the essence of his character and the legacy he’s built.

The narrative of this preview is structured around Bruce Wayne’s return to Gotham after a long absence, during which his allies have struggled to maintain order in his stead. Each story within the sample is penned by a different author, offering unique perspectives on the impact of Bruce’s absence and his return. This varied approach enriches the narrative, providing depth and nuance to the overarching storyline.

The strength of this preview is in the character-driven storytelling. Each segment delves into the psyche of a different member of the Bat-family or an ally, exploring their relationships with Bruce and how his return affects them. This focus on character development is compelling, allowing readers to see familiar characters in new lights and deepening their understanding of the complex dynamics within the group.

The writing across this whole preview is exceptional, with each author capturing the distinct voice and personality of their characters. Dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting the history and emotions between characters. The narrative skillfully balances action with introspection, ensuring that the plot progresses while allowing space for character growth and reflection.

The artwork in this preview complements the storytelling beautifully. Each story features a distinct artistic style that reflects its tone and themes, enhancing the overall reading experience. The visuals are dynamic and detailed, capturing the dark and gritty atmosphere of Gotham while highlighting the emotional beats of the story.

The most standout aspect of this preview is its exploration of legacy and identity. Bruce Wayne’s journey is not just about reclaiming the role of Batman, but also about understanding the impact of his absence and the changes it has wrought. This theme resonates throughout the stories, providing a thoughtful examination of what it means to be a hero and a leader.

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 5 / 5

“Beast Tamer #001” By Suzu Miyama & Moto Shigemura Review

Rein, a beast tamer who fights with the help of animals, has been a member of the hero’s party for the longest time. However, unbeknownst to him, he was dragging down his teammates because he had no other abilities.

This comic book offers us an engaging introduction to a world of fantasy and adventure. This comic book sets the stage for a story about courage, friendship, and the bond between humans and magical creatures.

The narrative of this comic book follows Rein, a beast tamer who finds himself dismissed from his hero party for being perceived as weak. This initial setup creates a sympathetic protagonist whose journey of self-discovery and redemption becomes the heart of the story. Rein’s character is relatable, as his determination to prove his worth resonates with anyone who has felt underestimated.

The plot in this comic book, while enjoyable, follows a somewhat familiar trajectory of an underdog protagonist rising to the occasion. While this theme is universally appealing, adding unexpected twists or unique challenges could elevate the narrative and keep me and other readers on their toes.

The writing style in this comic book effectively captures Rein’s emotional journey, balancing moments of introspection with action and humor. The plot introduces a diverse world filled with magical creatures, each with unique abilities and characteristics. This variety enriches the narrative, offering endless possibilities for creative storytelling and character interactions.

The artwork in this comic book is the highlight. The illustrations bring the fantasy world to life with vibrant designs and dynamic action sequences. The character designs are particularly noteworthy, capturing the personalities of both humans and beasts with detail and creativity. The visual style enhances the overall reading experience, drawing readers into the magical world.

The side characters in this comic book while not deeply explored in this volume, show potential for development. Rein’s interactions with the creatures he encounters add depth to his character and hint at future alliances. These relationships are central to the story’s themes of friendship and cooperation, offering opportunities for growth and exploration in subsequent installments.

Despite the strengths of this comic book it still faces some challenges. Like the pacing in this comic book being pretty uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others linger without significant progression. This can disrupt the flow of the narrative, affecting the overall engagement.

Additionally, while the concept of a beast tamer is intriguing, this comic book could delve deeper into the mechanics and limitations of Rein’s abilities. A more comprehensive exploration of the taming process and its challenges would add depth to the story and heighten the stakes.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“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