Wow. Despite refusing to use the name, Didio hamfistedly rams the Stranger's identity down the throats of the reader so no other conclusion can possibly be drawn. And here I thought Michael Bay was unsubtle. The comic also (almost as an afterthought) gives us an emotionally empty retelling of Jim Corrigan and the Spectre's origin that, like nearly everything else in the New 52, will make you nostalgic for the original. Pass.

When images of the new "Captain K'rot" started hitting the Internet months ago I prayed it was some elaborate hoax. Sadly, this wasn't the case. Seeing yet another beloved character from my childhood debased for a quick buck didn't fill me with anger or surprise. After a year and a half of being desensitized to how DC Comics has chosen to do business, I honestly wouldn't be surprised by any new low the New 52 will eventually sink to. And this is pretty damn low. And I fucking love Keith Giffen! Pass.

If the story is crap the visuals aren't that much better. Although I don't have an issue with John Barber's nostalgic throwback-style art of some of my favorite characters from both franchisees, I was very much distracted by the attempt to make the comic look like faded newsprint of an 80s comic on glossy current comic stock. The attempt to make the comic feel vintage actually makes it look incredibly cheap and (even more) half-assed. Pass.

Aside from being extremely violent, unnecessarily gritty, and all around unenjoyable, this first issue is also rather pointless as we don't really spend any time getting to know any of these versions of classic Marvel characters. Maybe they're saving that for the next nine issues. God help us all. Pass.

This is a clusterfuck of a first issue that makes less sense the more you read it. Pass.

We also see Superman‘s first meeting with an out-of-control Power Girl who he is determined to help whether she wants his help or not (or whether such efforts could endanger himself). I'm curious to see where this storyline will go. Worth a look.

So, let me get this straight, we get crappy redesigns for Deadshot and Red Robin, Stephanie Brown, Catman and the rest of the Secret Six are still in limbo, but Halo and Morrison's fetish creations get to run free in the New 52. Fuck you for this DC. This issue, which is in the running for the worst Batman comic I've ever read, is the kind of shit that makes me want to stop reading comics all together. Pass.

There's much speculation about who will fill the shoes the shoes of Robin whether it be Tim Drake, Helena, or even Stephanie Brown (who has yet to appear in the new DCU). Whatever the case, Damian's death wasn't necessary to accomplish the goal of replacing him as Robin, nor does his death serve any long term purpose in terms of Batman stories going forward (once DC moves past the obligatory couple months of characters grieving his death). This is a mistake and, as many of Morrison's stories are, a badly written one. Pass.

Or I could just say this: Grant Morrison has been planning the death of Damian Wayne for years, and if this is the best he can do with this amount of planning I don't know why anyone would want hire him to write a Batman comic ever again. Pass.

After giving us the birth of the blue-skinned baby Thanos in a world filled with bland suburban Caucasians, the story follows the outcast finally making friends and to learn his first lessons about death. None of which is of any interest. Pass.

[Dynamite Entertainment, $3.99]

The first comic certainly teases big, epic-size adventures to come, with what looks like may be a rotating roster of reserves. Far less talky than Brian Michael Bendis‘ take on the characters, I've got to admit I kinda want my money back for how little Jonathan Hickman delivers, compared to the epicness which is promised in the first few pages. And I'm sure as hell not going to spend $4 more in just two weeks to see where he goes from here. Pass.

It also doesn't help that Convergence: Batgirl #1 might be the worst drawn mainstream super-hero comic I've ever read. The characters are ill-defined looking more lack slap-dashed artist sketches than a finished product, and the inking and coloring is haphazard resulting in numerous panels that appear out of focus. What the hell, DC? Pass.

Although I'm not sure I'm ready to see the Flash take on the Flashpoint version of Wonder Woman next issue, I am excited to see Wally and Fastback team-up. Unlike Convergence: Batgirl #1 this issue gets the feel of its characters right. (Plus I'm all in favor of throwing the Zoo Crew as much love as possible.) Worth a look.

I'm a big fan of the character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. In fact, when written well, he's my favorite X-Men character. Sadly, in terms of talent, Chaykin is a far cry from either of Magneto's creators. This Magneto is roguish, boorish, and less than a pale shadow of the man who would come to torment the X-Men for years to come. Best forgotten, leave this one on the shelf where it belongs.

With Miles, Peter, Gwen, Ben, Kaine, and countless other web-heroes swinging around New York does Marvel really need another Spider-Man? No, and even if it did I doubt this is the one fans would ask for. Pass.

If you've always wanted Hawkman to be more like Witchblade then this is your comic. For everyone else, however, it's a huge disappointment. Pass.

Throw in the fact that there's no way this group of killers, crazy people, and the kind of characters who would usually get scrubbed when you reboot an entire universe, could possibly act like, or be marketed as. a team, and an elaborate money grab by DC putting out variant issues for all 50 states and you've got the beginnings of a trainwreck of epic proportions. Pass.

Issue #2 does have some fun moments, my favorite being the sequence involving Vibe and Hawkman meeting for the first time. Although it's pretty forced, I also liked the idea of setting up a relationship between Trevor and Catwoman. Hit-and-Miss.

One issue in it's unclear whether, like Frank Miller's All-Star Batman volume, the series is supposed to exist in its own continuity or not. One thing is clear, seams are the new pouches in terms of overused comic cliches. Seriously DC, I don't need to see every damn seam highlighted in every super-hero's costume. Pass.

The entire issue is prelude to who and what Amber Blake may become. There's a kernel of a good (but hardly original) idea, but without at least a tease about where the tragic events may lead her, the first issue feels hollow. Pass.

This first issue isn't awful, but it's pretty disappointing. Season Nine, the first full comic season with all the characters under one publisher's banner, begins not with a bang but a whimper. Hit-and-Miss.

Very much a mixed bag, Batman vs. Robin #1 takes characters backwards in their developments instead of forwards. I'm also not too pleased with the gruesome depicted of the lynched Zatanna who Batman and Alfred come to find while searching for answers as to just what is going on. Alfred may be back, and Batman is certainly pleased with that, but what kind of death will a magically-fueled Robin bring to bear in what's to come?

While fighting a fake Darkseid, Adam (and later Teth) are infected with some kind of malady that the power of SHAZAM! cannot fix so the anti-hero decides to transfer his powers to a random descendant (despite the wizard being the only one who can bestow such power). This has the Ron Marz lets randomly give one hero's powers to some dude stink all over it.

Those who kept reading this one every couple of weeks have stronger constitutions than I do. However you feel about it, Swamp Thing is back and it seems like the beginning of reincorporating Vertigo properties back into DC proper has officially begun, especially considering the tease of a certain Hellblazer we're given as well.

While nowhere near as interesting or nuanced as the first Civil War, there's at least an interesting idea at the center of the comic (although I'm not sure it's strong enough to rip the entire Marvel Universe in half). However, how that idea is implemented, including having the biggest battle of the comic (so big it takes the lives of not one but two Avengers) take place entirely off-panel feels like a slap in the face to fans (not to mention the death sentence to the characters chosen to thin the herd – each of whom deserved better). Pass.

Two issues into the event, the sides are slowly being drawn but the issue of what exactly they are fighting over still feels ill-defined (especially compared to Marvel's first Civil War) or what Tony risks a super-powered war for here. And since apparently none of the Avengers have ever read or watched science fiction they are completely unprepared for the concept of a self-fulfilling prophecy as Ulysses' latest vision suggest the Hulk will destroy the Avengers. But by sending Danvers after him has Ulysses just caused the events to occur (where no intervention on the heroes' part might have let Marvel Comics' big green brute slumber)? Hit-and-Miss.

How dumb is Shadowland? The ridiculousness of Foggy Nelson getting through the riots, the cops, the ninja and into the belly of the beast (so to speak) doesn't even rank on the most absurd moments of this storyline. For a Shadowland comic this one's not bad, but then again that's a pretty low standard. Here where given a Daredevil comic where Daredevil (even a demon-infested one) makes only a token appearance.

While there is certainly chaos left behind in the wake of the absence of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the others, Dark Crisis doesn't feel like much of a Crisis event so far. As for Beast Boy, poor Gar deserved better than to get sacrificed to raise the stakes of an event that's already killed off nearly a dozen heroes before it got started. In terms of the Darkness, we also do get some foreshadowing of Pariah's mad plans which both the heroes and villains seem oblivious to. Oh, and who the hell is dressing up as Batman in Gotham City?

The most interesting aspect of the story isn't Carrie play-acting as Batman and beating up cops (for apparently no reason whatsoever) but the small story of Lara bringing Ray Palmer the bottled city of Kandor. The ramifications of that pairing are truly intriguing and so rich they belong in an entirely different comic. To bad the rest is mostly filler. Hit-and-Miss.

My other real complaint with The Flash: Rebirth #1 is the art by Carmine Di Giandomenico whose style doesn't flatter the character. While I'm still hopeful Rebirth can let some necessary light into to the DCU, The Flash: Rebirth #1 reminds me that the shadows of the New 52 are still looming. Pass.

This is a comic abot a telepathic talking gorilla. It should be fun. But when the only excitement you get is one gorilla ripping off another's head for no purpose other than to showcase what a bad ass he is, you know you're in trouble. Pass.

It's too bad that story isn't real, because once Kid Flash is pulled into the real world (and starts disappearing) things get even worse. And that's hard to do when you've got an impressive super-villain base filled with killer robots. Of course it's made infinitely easier if you just steal your plot from The Matrix. Pass.

Set after the events of IDW's big Revolution crossover, this is pretty damn crazy. Personally, I like my G.I. JOE a bit more grounded (where Snake Eyes is one of more unique aspects of the story). I've also got to say the art by Giannis Milonogiannis doesn't do much for me at all. After one issue I've learned this new JOE may not be for me. And you know what they say, learning is half the battle. Pass.

G.I. JOE #1 offers a couple of new characters, neither of them that interesting. Frontier looks to be a Flint rip-off (who himself was already a Duke rip-off), and Tiger (who most of the comic is centered around) doesn't present any real skills of note (other than disrupting Joe operations and getting himself in trouble). If the future of the Joes is in there hands, my money is on Cobra. Pass.

Had the entire issue been more lighthearted and campy this new path for our hero may have been easier to swallow. Instead the series seems to be stubbornly stuck on the path laid down for the character in the best-forgotten (and never, ever, mentioned again) Cry for Justice mini-series. I can't help wonder if writer J.T. Krul is having a good laugh at all of our expense.

The Third Army itself, a zombie-like Borg race that assimilates and converts others into its ranks, doesn't really interest me. And removing my favorite GL (and Sinestro, whose arc back in the Corps has been pretty good) before the real battle even starts sure doesn't instill me with much confidence. Hit-and-Miss.

While mostly a waste, the comic does end on a fun note with rivals Betty and Veronica heading to a costume party as Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy while the real villains decide to show up in their classic costumes. It's probably not enough to get me to come back for another issue, but at least it comic finds the fun in its last few pages. Pass.

I just wish the story was as well thought out as the art. After the explanations are over there's still plenty of head-scratching to be done over the questionable logic involved in Ross becoming the Red Hulk, Betty becoming the Red She Hulk, and all the rest of the nonsense we've had to put up with for months. Even with its “revelations” it's certainly nowhere near good enough to justify the $5 price-tag. Hit-and-Miss.

Guess who's back? This entire World War Hulks storyline has been ridiculous but the latest issue does mark the return of one big, green, and very angry Marvel icon. It's just about the only good thing about this issue, but the event which leads to his return is fairly well done. Hit-and-Miss.

I have no connection to or knowledge of the ludicrously-garbed Lady Rawhide and her motivations, and Dynamite still hasn't sold me on Lady Zorro as anything more than a somewhat ridiculous supporting character. Fans of either, or both, of these women are likely to enjoy the issue more than I did. Pass.

Marvel Legacy #1 is the first issue of a wide-sweeping arc promising to bring a bit of the classic Marvel back to the fold. I'll believe it when I see it. As for the first issue, I'll stick with my comparison of Final Crisis – it's an awfully ambitious clusterfuck. Hit-and-Miss.

Although there are interesting ideas here to explore, including the pairing of Phantom Lady and Doll Man (another character with a long history but who comes off here as a dimmer, less interesting version of Ray Palmer) the story doesn't quite work. The art of Cat Staggs is fine, but is completely overshadowed by the cover art by Amanda Conner and Paul Mounts. The comic might improve over the next few months, but until it does there's simply not enough here for me to stick around. Hit-and-Miss.

Despite decent art by Andy Kubert, the one-shot does nothing to sell me on a story whose outcome I actually want to see (just not further drawn out over many more months). Given my dislike for the New 52 version of Apokolips I'm not looking forward to see those characters get more attention, either. I want Damian back, but that doesn't mean I have to stick around and read the awkward lengthy rebirth DC has planned. Pass.

Also troubling is the fact the series takes at the beginning but Jedi already have lightsabers? And there are Sith (who look like generic Vader wannabes)? The Force is not strong with this one. Pass.

But it's the middle story, guest-starring a young Dick Grayson as Robin, that works best. There are some fun moments including Superman trying to save Dick from Bruce's wrath by quickly doing his homework and the Batman's message to Clark in the epilogue. Worth a look.

The only reason to pick up this issue is to marvel at the ridiculousness of every single panel. At a price tag of $4, trust me, it's not worth it.

None of the characters are important enough to be given names here (let alone backstories or any stand-out characteristics), including our main character who steadfastly denies she belongs amongst a group of sociopaths that begins killing each other off to thin the herd down to three victors. I'm guessing she'll be one to survive, although I doubt that I can to stick around long enough to find out the outcome.

While I'm guessing not all the issues will be dinner's at the Kent farmhouse, this issue works well and sets up the series to explore the relationships between DC's big three. Worth a look.

Odds are we'll be seeing Bullesye again. Even if it's another bait-and-switch the storyline of pushing Murdock down the dark path seems to be in full swing. And if it's real"well, that's a hell of a hard first step down a path of no redemption for the hero of Hell Kitchen to take in the first issue of this five month long event. Either way it should be an interesting few months for Daredevil readers.

Sure, this Hand demon gives our heroes a big bad villain to fight, but it also undercuts the only real dramatic thread the mini-series had going for it. Nice to see Elektra finally show up, though. Hit-and-Miss.

Other than the Avengers getting their butts handed to them by DD and the magic ninjas (well, what would you call them?) there's really not much here. But at least we're one step closer to finally ending this once promising but poorly executed mini-event. That's something, right?

While I think the pairing of this trio could work under the right circumstances, it doesn't work for me here. Nor, based on what we see here, is there any reason to expect that this trio would stick together after their common goals have been met. Pass.

The second issue works slightly better than the first, although the group is still far from the team it will need to properly earn the name Birds of Prey. There are rumors that another DC character will be joining the Birds in the coming months. Here's hoping it's someone like Zinda Blake who can add some lighthearted ass-kicking fun to the proceedings. Hit-and-Miss.

The art by Cezar Rezak isn't bad but certainly doesn't do much to make a story that's focused mostly on explaining the basics of the classic storyline for new readers all that interesting. And despite the absurdity of time missiles, the plot to this first issue by co-writers Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning feels sluggish and even, at times, uninspired. As much as I'd like to give this title time, there's not much here to prompt me to pick up next month's issue. Pass.

Alternate dimensions, weird timelines, and plenty of classic Cylons, may be enough for me to stick around a little longer to see how this plays out. For fans.

I thought I taw a puddy tat. I did! I did tee a puddy tat! There's a new Red Lantern in town and he's a cat. Okay, that's kinda cool. I think I'll name him Fluffy. Yeah, Fluffy the Red Lantern. Bask in the awesomeness of Fluffy the Red Lantern! Sadly we also need to discuss the story… The mystery of the white lantern deepens as we are shown images of other entities like Parallax and Ion. Great, there are more of them? I think I feel a migraine coming on. So to recap: Red Lantern Fluffy – awesome, more multi-colored space symbiotes – not so much. Hit-and-Miss.

I'm not sure whether anything can save the supremely disappointing Brightest Day, but the involvement of Krona is at least something new that I don't hate about the the event. However, even Krona's involement doesn't make this badly thought-out issue any easier to swallow.

There's so much wrong with this issue I don't know where to begin. The story is just gawdaful. Hal's refusal of help makes no sense for a guy who's known to use whatever advantage and leverage he can get over the years. Nor does his protection of Atrocitus given his most recent murderous offenses on Earth. I've also got to complain about the inconsistency of Doug Mahnke's artwork over the issue " he can't even get Batman's costume right (he puts Bruce into Dick Grayson's costume).

We'll have to see how both of these events play out in the DC reboot, but I'm betting Jordan won't be without a ring for very long. Worth a look.

Scott Lobdell's writing aside (which is clunky and has a couple of huge plot holes) the story works for the most part up until Drake puts his family in danger by stealing from the Penguin. Yes, this earns him his face-to-face with Batman, but it's hardly the work of the genius the book espouses him to be. The comic also doesn't explain how Tim is able to continue being Tim, and live publicly with Bruce Wayne, with his parents in witness protection and the Penguin still after him. For fans.

Teen Titans #1 isn't an awful first issue (the opening of Kid Flash aside), but for someone who was never a big Titans fan to begin with there's very little here to bring me back for a second issue. Hit-and-Miss.

Although Batgirl proves less than helpful (as she tells them, as nicely as possible, to fuck off and deal with their own issues), the team does run into Arsenal and Starfire, seeking out their own member of the Bat Family, as the issue catches up with the final page of Red Hood and the Outlaws #15. I'm so ready for this crossover to end. Hit and Miss.

The back-up story features Pandora, meaning it's all but totally forgettable, but it does introduce The Question (complete with trenchcoat and fedora). Although the character's street-level crimefighting and conspiracy theories seem to have been kept, this newer version is something much different than just a former investigative journalist. Pass.

The end of the issue gives us the first appearance of Superman, who aside from looking far too young, is saddled with one of the more questionable costume alterations of the new DCU. Story wise this first issue, set in a world where people are afraid and uncertain of super-heroes, works well. I'm still not sold on the character designs, but it's good enough to bring me back for another issue. Worth a look.

Was it worth the wait? No, not really. Is it a disappointing follow-up to a promising first issue? Yes. Is it overpriced at $4 without giving us any extra pages of action? You bet your ass. Hit-and-Miss.

There are quite a few casual references scattered throughout (including Professor Ivo and T.O. Morrow) longtime fans of DC Comics should catch, and new fans should note. And in my favorite panel, Johns gives us a great reaction when the Flash realizes that Batman doesn't actually have any powers. Must-Read.

The humor and character interactions that worked well in previous issues are missing (except for Green Lantern‘s comment about Batman‘s reaction to GL touching Wonder Woman‘s lasso of truth). Darkseid is imposing, but I'm not really sure we needed a centerfold of the character, and the layout of the sequence is bizarre as the League is starring at the villain emerging from a Boom Tube yet, in close-ups, the Boom Tube is to the back of every character. How is this possible? Pass.

Seroiously DC, WTF? I know Geoff Johns is capable of writing better dialogue and stories than this. However, I'm growing less and less sure that “artist” Jim Lee (and I use that term loosely) is capable of putting a panel of the Justice League together that doesn't look completely half-assed and photoshopped. An early contender for worst comic of the year – Pass.

Also worth of note is the short back-up story involving Pandora which, despite what DC says publicly, continues to hedge the company's bets by further opening the door that not everyone is happy with the New 52 – including the Spectre and the Phantom Stranger. Next month – Captain Marvel. Hit-and-Miss.

We also get a preview of Shazam's (that's right, the won't be calling him Captain Marvel) supremely awful new costume which was leaked online a couple weeks back as well as the first look of the revamped buffer Dr. Sivana who basically looks like Hugo Strange without the facial hair. Why do you keep fucking with the childhood DC? What perverse glee are you getting from yet another truly awful New 52 revamp of a classic character? Pass.

The main story has some nice one-liners from Batman and Green Lantern, and an intriguing offer by Steve Trevor for Ollie, but it's pretty forgettable. The only saving grace in the Shazam story is the introduction of Mary's pet rabbit and slightest glimmer of hope that someday we just might see Hoppy the Marvel Bunny. Hit-and-Miss.

The return of artist Jim Lee means the overall quality of the art improves, but once again we get odd group shots where characters are presented and posturing at odd angles while in battle or attempting to communicate with each other. The back-up story gives us Billy standing up for his foster siblings (but still being a jerk), and Sivana unearthing a mystical tomb. It's certainly not great, but for JL fans it is worth a look.

The back-up story of Shazam continues as Billy visits Mr. Tawny in the zoo and Dr. Sivana uses a single magic word to free Black Adam (who gets the same headed redesign Captain Marvel, I mean Shazam, will receive) and return magic to the world. Hit-and-Miss.

The Shazam back-up story continues as the teenage brat version of Billy Batson finally finds himself on the most important subway ride of his life and Dr. Sivana tries to make a deal with the recently released Black Adam. Hit-and-Miss.

The rest of the story has to deal with the team taking down Graves by believing in Christmas (or some such nonsense – this isn't the strongest part of the comic). What's important to note, however, are the big changes following the battle and the public's shaken faith in the team. Hal Jordan quits, Steve Trevor is fired, and we're teased with the introduction of a new Justice League of America which will premiere next year (and Captain Marvel beating the emo out of The Big Blue Boy Scout). Worth a look.

It's not a great story, but it's certainly better than some issues the comic has delivered over the past year and gives several characters their own moments to shine. We do get some talk behind the scenes discussing the shakeup of the team as well as a back-up story involving Steve Trevor and Green Arrow as a lead-in to the upcoming series Justice League of America. For fans.

The Shazam! back-up story works a little better than usual as it is focused on Black Adam journeying out into the world with Dr. Sivana rather than the truly awful (not to mention unrecognizable) version of Captain Marvel that DC has presented us with as part of the New 52. Seriously, this character in already in serious need of a reboot. For fans.

Unless you're a huge Aquaman fan anxiously anticipating this new event (i.e. your name is Geoff Johns) there's almost nothing here for you. No Flash. No Green Lantern. Batman saved by Aquaman. The art's not bad, and we get a little more of Superman and Wonder Woman together on a date, but that's about it. Pass.

The back-up story continues Billy Batson acting like a spineless prick and his continued unwillingness to be a hero despite the power granted to him and Black Adam‘s rampage and gathering of the Seven Deadly Enemies of Man to his side to unleash his evil on the wizard and his new champion. Hit-and-Miss.

Fans of the new direction of the character, devoid of all his original charm and magic or a character that no matter how dark or cynical the world got around him never lost sense of responsibility and his antiquated notion of right and wrong, might enjoy this one as there is plenty of action – even if the unnecessarily rushed ending is totally cribbed from old Captain Marvel adventures (and not all that well). At least Mary Shazam (God, that's a stupid name) gets to kick a little ass, although the panels we get are much more focused on characters preening about to jump into battle, not actually in action (or as I like to call it Jim Lee inspired-art). Hit-and-Miss.

More of a curiosity than anything else, this first issue is really nothing more than a mediocre What If"? story. It's not bad, the tale simply doesn't engage the reader and there's nothing here to make someone like me come back for four straight weeks to see if the other X-Men characters fare any better. Hit-and-Miss.

The rest of the comic features Superman battling giant robots (for reasons that don't make a lot of sense), Lex Luthor keeping his shrink locked up for an accurate diagnosis of him as a megalomanical psychopath, and a weird hallucinatory moment where Superman thinks one of the soldiers piloting the robots is Jimmy Olsen (which, also, makes very little sense). Hit-and-Miss.

As to the storyline, the Ghosts of Cyclops aren't that interesting and the increased hatred of mutants outside Austin, Texas where Iceman finds some new friends paints a bleak world view I don't have interest in returning to month after month. Hit-and-Miss.

Although the story follows events from Night of Owls, the recent crossover isn't directly addressed here. And at $5 it's a little pricey for a story that simply makes the character a little less interesting to me once again, but I'm willing to give Snyder a chance to play with the character's new history and motivations (as long as he keeps the flashbacks of Victor as a child to himself – ugh!). Hit-and-Miss.

Had this story been told the way a normal human being might tell it, this might be fairly enjoyable. Sadly, Morisson's reluctance to let the plot stand alone and instead rely on cheap theatrics and convoluted storytelling works against him here. But then again, Grant Morrison really pisses me off. Those who like his increasingly maddening style of writing may find more here than I did. Hit-and-Miss.

It's not a bad collection, but the most notable story is very hit-and-miss, and the backup stories aren't are all that memorable, with the Stormwatch story missing some key characters to sell me on the team instead using the issue to recreate the concept of StormWatch yet again.

At least the cover is kinda cool.

With a hefty $10 price-tag, the story is at best hit-and-miss as even the villains (who get a prominent role on the cover) are largely forgettable.

Those expecting to see Black Canary kick ass will be disappointed as most of comic deals with the behind-the-scenes of a traveling band (which may be interesting but isn't really why you pick up a comic titled Black Canary). I'm happy to see Dinah get her own title but at the same time I disappointed that it had to be this one. Hit-and-Miss.

The new setting along with the return of Natasha's more brutal assassin instincts makes her something of a commodity in Madripoor. The forshadowing of some truly heinous actions in the near-lawless country continue to foreshadow a darker turn for the character that while different, may not necessarily be better. Hit-and-Miss.

There's some dark humor in the comic's early narration, but that fades away with zombie princess stumbling through the woods. Eventually her humanity returns only to see her captured by slavers. This is decidedly not a Disney story. While an interesting idea, the zombie disappears too soon as does the wit at the beginning of the tale as the comic fails to sell me on this version of Briar Rose or the setting she finds herself in.

Although I don't hate the art, I'm not sure John Romita Jr. is the right choice for the comic if, as Remender states in the afterward, the point is to take the series into the weird sci-fi stories the character enjoyed under Jack Kirby‘s run in the 1970′s. Hit-and-Miss.

I was a bit surprised there weren't more stories here, expecting to see various other classic Archie characters. In “Living On, Part Time” Archie takes a job as a security guard at the Riverdale Arcade which turns out to be full of monsters in what's hard not to see rip-off of Willy's Wonderland. And in “Midnight Shack” the overeating Jughead is eaten by the leftovers he brought home.

Neither friends nor enemies, at least for this issue, the two groups work together to prevent the slaughter of mutants. With Magneto back in his more familiar role as the leader of a more extreme group of mutants, the question left at the end of this issue is what happens now that one of Marvel's most powerful characters has become aware of an Inhuman with the ability to tell the future? Likely nothing good. Oh, and Cyclops? Still dead. Sigh. Hit-and-Miss.

It's far from great, but this issue is well told from the perspective of Conan's companion Olivia as they journey through the jungle. Conan faces off against a “Great Ape” (and slices off its arm in true Skywalker fashion) before taking possession of a pirate ship and its crew. So.. the next comic is going to be Conan the Pirate? Now that I think about it, maybe I've given Conan just the right amount of attention. What can I say, I prefer my barbarians to have Mok sidekicks and fabulous Sun-Swords. Hit-and-Miss.

After reading Convergence #0 I have more doubt about the event and whether the number of writers and artists tasked can get the right feel for the various characters. I have no doubt there will be gems to be discovered over the course of multiple months but after this incredibly overpriced $5 kick-off issue I'm less sure about the overall event. Hit-and-Miss.

With no courtroom, no Foggy, and no Daredevil, there's something off here. Sure, writer Chip Zdarsky and Lalit Kumar Sharma present a readable story to kick off a new arc, but the Devil of Hell's Kitchen isn't the only thing that feels missing. Hit-and-Miss.

At $7, its oddness isn't quite enough to sell me on the new chapter of Matt Murdock's life.

I understand the appeal of a character who can do anything at the drop of a hat, but it seems a bit odd to me that of all the characters from Dark Reign it's Daken who is getting to keep his own book. It would be as if DC gave the Joker his own comic (wait, they did that). Hit-and-Miss.

The comic isn't quite as wacky as the flavor I prefer in my Deadpool stories, nor bloody, but it is weird and bizarre story with the time of Deadpool's contract ticking down while he's being turned into a living petri dish. There's enough to keep my interest, but not necessarily enough to bring me back for issue #2.

We also get Doc Ock and Harrower causing mayhem at a bar and later the zoo and various other interludes of people talking about how they want Deadpool dead. It's certainly weird Deadpool storytelling, including various Harrower mutated creations along with all of the symbiote stuff, but there's not enough here to keep my interest or any reason to stick around to see how any of this eventually pays off.

Given the number of super-beings on the planet it should be easy to prove Doom's innocence, set-up as a patsy for whatever reason, but I'm guessing his surrender here will do anything but make him look more guilty and eventually push Doom into investigating the truth of the matter on his own. Hit-and-Miss.

It's not a bad read, I was just hoping with all the insanity at his disposal Giffen would knock the second-half of this one out of the park. Hit-and-Miss.

For a genre outside my wheelhouse, I don't think there's enough here to bring me back to see where Rion's tale takes him, but for fans of the genre it might be worth a look.

The first two stories are largely forgettable (even with Sue's unexpected coronation as Queen of the Mer-People), but the third delivers a small glimmer of what the Fantastic Four should be – exciting, tragic, adventurous, and deeply personal. It also dramatically kills off one of the main characters to save the rest of the family. And that story is worth a look. Too bad the rest is little more than filler.

At $8 and spending several pages to feature stories involving the Reed children and Black Bolt and Medusa issue #600 is far from a fantastic. Hit-and-Miss.

For a $1 it's an interesting, and more than a little bizarre, introduction. However, at $4 a pop (which will be the regular monthly price of all future issues) it's far less tantalizing. I'm also very mixed on the art by Daniel Indro which feels muddy and rushed in several panels. Worth a look (but only for this price).

More of a novelty than anything else, this issue does give us Abin Sur knocking the snot out of his dear friend Sinestro. Sadly it also gives as an update that this reality is still stuck in the dark days of Blackest Night. Ugh, and I thought Emperor Aquaman was bad. Hit-and-Miss.

There's quite a few problems with this issue including very inconsistent art (four different artists were used on various pages), Queen's lack of prowess with a bow, and a level of preachiness that doesn't come off well on the page. That said, here's a Flashpoint character I'd like to see more of, so why is this title only a one-shot – especially when it seems to just be hitting its stride as the comic comes to a close? Hit-and-Miss.

Despite the title, G'nort's Swimsuit Edition is not a collection of G'nort in swimwear (although the Green Lantern from the planet G'newt is the centerfold for the issue). The one-shot is made up of mostly art from various artists giving us a wide assortment of DC heroes and villains in beach and swimsuit poses. Attempting to add a bit more substances, two short stories are thrown in as well.

Confusing at times, by purposefully not explaining events and dropping breadcrumbs like Amanda Waller's hand in whatever is going on, the new Team Arrow book feels a bit overcrowded, but with Lian's abduction I'll be curious to see where the focus goes from here (although I'd guess we'll get continuing storylines from both Earth and Ollie and Lian on the alien world).

The second issue doesn't attempt to make sense or shed light on events of the first issue. However, we do see what Oliver Queen has been up to since being stranded on an alien world (his basic street-level heroics taking on space mobsters and the like) and Cheshire Cat joins in on his latest run-in with a paid enforcer to take Ollie down.

The only thing that works in the issue is a separate interaction between Roy Harper and Peacemaker testing their skills (although the actual competition takes place mostly off-panel). Yeesh.

And, surprise surprise, it seems the Red Lantern isn't to be trusted. Really? Wow, thanks Peter J. Tomasi for spelling that out for me in multiple panels! Yes, it does give you plenty of Guy Gardner in all his glory but the rest…meh. Hit-and-Miss.

Since it's creation this comic has been hit-and-miss for me from month to month. The last issue works well-enough (even if its somewhat hamfisted), but if you don't have nostalgia for JLI I'm not sure the story is going to hold up on its own. Hit-and-Miss.

The setting in deep space and the unusual method of death (as I don't doubt murder was the cause) proves an interesting backdrop for the mystery. However, I'm not quite sold on the art of Rod Reis or the foundation laid by co-writers Kyle Higgins and Alec Siegel which isn't strong enough to guarantee I'll stick around. Hit-and-Miss.

Given the odd make-up of the team, which appears to be throwing a group of currently unused characters together in a single book (whether they belong together or not), it's hard not to compare it the flawed Suicide Squad film. The first mission for these new Justice Leaguers will be stopping the Extremists, a group of super-villains from a parallel Earth looking for a new planet to conquer after killing off all of its world's heroes. Can Batman pull this ragtag band together? Well, he is Batman. Hit-and-Miss.

Despite my love for Magneto, I'm not a big X-Men fan as I find the rabbit hole of its niche subverse of the Marvel Universe an interesting place to visit from time to time but far too cluttered with characters I care nothing about. Speaking of those characters, here are the New Mutants who take up (in my opinion) way too much time for a comic book titled Magneto. I'm also not a fan of attempting to shave down such a rich and complex history of a character for the sole purpose to make him fit better in current continuity. Oh well, Marvel will no doubt give him a brand new title in the next 8-12 months.

Midnight Suns #1 (obviously inspired by the game of the same name) is a fine, if not particularly interesting, first issue setting the stage. I will admit to being distracted by Magik‘s look (a sort of half-gold armor that doesn't match the cover or much resemble the version fans and cosplayers have come to love over the years). Other characters include Blade, Wolverine, and the Spirit Rider. But perhaps the most interesting thing about events is the attention it draws from a certain super-villain.

Fans of Campbell, or of the film this story borrows liberally from, might want to give this one a try, but it's more of a curiosity (and a bit of an expensive one at $3.50) than anything else. Those waiting for the film can check it out in limited release on Halloween day.

The comic's not bad, but certainly nothing special. And with a $4 price tag, it probably will appeal to only longtime fans of the character. Hit-and-Miss.

A whiny blank slate Jason Todd is about as bland as it sounds, and although Chesire's appearance works the issue has a hard time determining just how many powers this new version of the character actually has (she can phase, now?). Hit-and-Miss.

In "The Dance of Fire" Sonja sets out after a pair of thieves and killers known as the Gallows Brothers only to stumble across an odd ritual in the woods as a wizard forces Sonja to dance around a fire with the other maidens, offering their lives to the gods for a plentiful harvest. Despite forcing Sonja to dance all night, things don't turn out as the wizard had hoped.

It's not a great read, and I'm not thrilled with the art of Daniel Sampere, but fans of the character should enjoy themselves. And, despite being tied to an earlier adventure, there's little here a casual reader should need to follow the tale. Hit-and-Miss.

I like the Robins all together, and I'm happy to see that Stephanie Brown‘s stint as Robin has been confirmed as part of current continuity (even if her time as Batgirl still hasn't, sigh). That said, the group discussion in Dick‘s apartment feels a bit awkward and staged with the characters racing through what could be an intriguing discussion. I'm also far from sold on this weird new (old?) Robin.

The art of Patric Reynolds doesn't help either. The ships look fine, but the characters looked rush, blurred, and half-assed. A comic with a strong story can sometimes overcome bad art (and vice-versa), but when they both are unremarkable you end up with a turd like this. Oswalt is a funny guy and should stick to what he knows. We have enough mediocre comic book writers.

The arc, which will move through various Batman titles before finishing up in Shadow War: Omega #1, will focus on solving the motives and identity of the killer. But to have any chance at the truth, first Batman will have to save Deathstroke from the army descending on him (which probably won't earn him any points with his son).

Other than the "shock of the villain revealed, and Deathstoke's death being immediately redacted thanks to a dip in the Lazarus Pit, there's not much here. Although, we do get Damian being less of a prick than usual and a nice moment between father and son (right before, you know, all of the Justice League gets killed in an event that isn't referenced here except being name-dropped in the epilogue).

Part of the current Shadow War crossover, Shadow War Zone #1 is an overpriced issue will filler back-up stories in an attempt to justify its $6 cover price. They don't.

If you haven't been reading it there's no reason to pick it up. If you have you probably enjoy the character of Lyra more than me (or at least care enough to remember who she is). Or maybe I'm just Hulked out from all the Hulksanity that's been running wild over the Marvel Universe the past few months (years?). Hit-and-Miss.

Sheena #8 is pretty standard stuff, while pretty light on the action. Although the final panel does suggest that things are about to pick up. Hit-and-Miss.

It's certainly weird, and I don't think all the pieces work, but I will say the oversized comic isn't boring.

Fans of Sinister may have some fun here with all the villain's monologuing but I'll admit to being a bit lost (and not caring all that much to try and figure out what the point of this ultimately might be). Although the crossover promises an epic story spanning a thousand years, none of the comics cross over outside of the X-Men comics into the wider Marvel Universe to any major titles. So despite the appearance of some Avengers here, I'd guess the entire episode will be largely ignored by the rest of the Marvel Universe.

Despite my love for the character, and the strong possibility that Storm Shadow will be involved as the mini-series continues, I can't see myself staying with this comic for very long.

The comic ends with Snake Eyes captured and at the mercy of Kirigun who has yet to be impressed by his would-be adversary. We also get a cameo from the character I've been waiting for as Storm Shadow shows up. I'm not sure if he'll bring any answers to tie Snake Eyes' past and the Arashikage back to current events, but at least he can look cool in this crazy ass comic, or at least as cool as Liefeld can draw him.

Looking forward, it appears the series will be an interlocked number of What If…? style stories eventually rolled into one. Spider-Gwen: Gwenverse #1 offers a wonky set-up to allow Tim Seeley and Jodi Nishijima to play with any version of Gwen they can think up while Gwen is forced to fight and work with aspects of her own personality writ large. Is it worth $5 a pop? Maybe, eventually, for die-hard Gwen fans.

Interesting idea mixing classic Spidey villains and cloning themes in a new way, with mixed results and that odd tonal shift which distracts from the narrative.

While I enjoyed the first few panels, the rest of the comic isn't my cup of tea. From that point on the comic devolves into a frightened Peter running for his life searching for answers after getting a mysterious text only leading him into more trouble.

This new series from writer Scott Allie and artist Mahmud Asrar will focus on Qui-Gon Jinn's years working on the Outer Rim long before he would take on a padawan named Obi-Wan Kenobi. The first issue sets up the characters and situations which will play an integral part in the first five-issue story arc, but it doesn't do much more than that. I also found Asrar's art a bit sloppy in places. The close-ups of each character are very detailed and you can tell why he was chosen for the project, but the larger shots seem rushed and a little blurry. Hit-and-Miss.

There may be fertile ground for stories like this to fill in the adventures of these characters but neither Charles Soule nor artist Marco Checchetto present anything to make this adventure stand-out in any way. That said, the variant cover from Skottie Young is pretty cool. Hit-and-Miss.

In what seems to be the plan for each of these Opening Moves issues, Saki and Kitsune enter the mind of one of their enemies looking for knowledge and weakness which will help in the struggle to come. In this issue that is General Krang, and I'll admit that's where my interest in the comic waned as I've never been the biggest fan of the more intergalactic tales in the TMNT universe. Still, the pair gain some knowledge and will continue their search in the next issue.

All that said, too much of the issue centers around periphery characters which I doubt will play that big of a role in the rest of the series. As first issues go, especially for a five-issue mini-series, this one needs to deliver more up front. Hit-and-Miss.

While the structure works for a single issue, The Shadow #1 fails to sell me on a new series set far after the glory days of the man who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men. Hit-and-Miss.

With this issue it appears Marvel is following DC's lead in over-cluttering their universe with extras heroes, whether their needed or not (and charging an extra buck an issue for their pleasure). Hit-and-Miss.

The story by writer Ed Brisson and Carlos Gomez ties in a flashback to a scientist crucial for Cable to bring Cyclops back (and printing it in old-school comic-style was a nice touch). As we've seen elsewhere, the new Cable is a bit of a dick forcing Cyclops to choose between helping the X-Men or saving the innocent man who resurrected him. Rebranding the character firmly back in the hero column, the real question is where does Cyclops go from here in his steps to rebuild the X-Men? Worth a look.

The former goddess, now cursed bloodthirsty immortal, blames Vampirella for not stopping her descent into madness and apparently is willing to take out centuries of aggression on her former friend including throwing the vampire and her bae into gladiatorial combat. Let's just say things don't go so well for our heroine. If you aren't already a fan there's not much here to grab your interest (other than Joanie's cover). For fans.

I'll admit to being more than a little lost (not great for the first issue of a comic) as the series gets off to a slow start which no doubt will eventually focus more on the two characters once the story gets rolling.

While Waller's team takes down Power Ring and then Owlman, Ultraman is distracted by the sex games of Owlman and Superwoman providing the Squad with just the opening they need and Waller time to make her pitch to the world's most dangerous man. Aside from the seedy Owlman / Superwoman / Ultraman stuff, ick, there is plenty of action (although nowhere near $6 worth) and Waller does have a plan which her team executes leading to a new status quo. The war has begun. Hmm, okay?

There's also quite a bit of time spent on the politics of the Great Ring, the ruling council of the planet which Storm oversees, and conflicting interests over war or peace. I'll admit, this (and the weird Storm vs. Storm segment) is where the comic lost me. I assume these pieces will fit together eventually, but I don't know that I'll stick around long enough to see what that looks like.

The comic ends with a discussion between the Phantom Stranger and Madame Xanadu. Xanadu congratulates the Stranger on the success of his plan but reminds him Robin wasn't Batman's only partner. Best of the week.

I know the title is geared towards younger readers, and this is a holiday issue, but it has done a pretty good job not talking down to them and spoon feeding them issues (religious or otherwise), which we get more than our fill of here. Hit-and-Miss.

Bat-Mite manages to take the rejection rather well, and finds a new target for his amorous advances. It's not a bad end to the series but with the show already off the air and the rest of the New 52 Bat-titles firmly entrenched in a far less stories there certainly seems like there's a market to keep this title around. I'm going to be sad to see it go. Worth a look.

Even when Volume 2 of the series struggled (like whenever Hawk was in a panel) it still had Gail Simone's passion and wicked sense of humor. Sadly this one does not. I might give this another issue or two to see how the introduction of other members changes the dynamic of the comic, but more out of respect for characters Simone helped nurture and make wildly popular than any real hope for improvement. Hit-and-Miss.

This isn't a bad issue, and the art by Jesus Saiz is more consistant this time around, but this team of Birds is getting farther away from the team Gail Simone made popular (Poison Ivy, really?). Aside from Black Canary these aren't characters I really want to spend time with every month (especially for $3 a pop). Hit-and-Miss.

The real interesting tidbit is the news that Batgirl won't just be guest-starring over the next couple of issues but will become a permanent member of the team beginning next issue. Babs inclusion could be just what this book needs. Hit-and-Miss.

The good news is Batgirl works well here, especially with Black Canary. It's good to see the Babs/Dinah team back together. Now if we can just figure out a way to get Zinda Blake and the Huntress to replace Poison Ivy and Katana we might, might have something. Hit-and-Miss.

The finally few pages really seem to drop the ball on what was a very fun, engaging story filled with ample amounts of action and internal monologue. It's still worth a look but ends on a rather disappointing note.

The story's climax is more convoluted than I'd like, but I actually like this pair together. It's also nice to see the screwed-up but still noble side of Catman that's been missing since before the storyline involving the kidnapping his son. I also quite enjoyed the final conversation between Catman and Deadshot. Their friendship (something else I've been missing from Secret Six lately), definitely deserves more page time. Worth a look.

Cage's war on the Thunderbolts provides of the issue's back-up stories as he calls on the help of Spectrum to attack one of their warehouses. Cage is also prominently featured in the other back-up story as the new Mayor of New York steps in front of the divided city for his press conference. Both lay groundwork for what is to come, much like Daredevil's main tale, but there's nothing here that can't be missed.

While there is some early humor with our hero fucking with the inmates, the comic's main purpose is to focus on Moon Knight's brutality (something which his current surroundings only heighten). This isn't my favorite version of the character, but the bloody story does work. And, we discover he has a reason for allowing his capture in seeking out one particular thug and making sure he never leave prison to trouble his wife and daughter again. Now that the job is finished, what's next for Moon Knight? And is the world ready for what has been reawoken in him in prison?

Devil's Reign: Spider-Man #1 is your typical tie-in issue. While not bad, if you choose to skip the issue there's nothing here of major interest and you also won't miss anything in terms of the larger Devil's Reign story. The other half of the comment focuses on the Rose, and the character's obsession with proving himself by capturing Spider-Man for his father. Unfortunately, while his minions are able to momentarily get the upper-hand, things don't turn out so well in the end. It seems if you want a job done right…

For a comic that ties all these threads together Batman #0 should feel more than a mixed success (at best), but too many of these pieces don't fit together and the overall narrative feels far too forced. Hit-and-Miss.

This one's an easy recommendation, and a solid read (even if the final panel is an obvious red herring). Worth a look.

I'm also impressed with Snyder's ability to capture Bruce Wayne's arrogance while still being able to present a likable character. Even if he villain isn't a great one Snyder's story about the guardians of Gotham and Capullo's art elevate the issue into one of the best of the week.

As to the Court of Owls, the uncovering of the mystery works well enough, but the conspiracy and super-secret organization full of people dressed up as owls hiding in the homes of Gotham's most wealthy doesn't come off any better than it sounds. Issue #3 isn't a good as I'd like but it's still the best of the Bat-titles. Worth a look.

The art by Greg Capullo looks great, and the comic ends with a panel that suggests things will pick up in the next issue. Worth a look.

Although I don't think it's a great Batman story, it is well-told, with some strong artwork by Greg Capullo, and begins and ends with a couple of really nice moments such as the opening pages featuring Batman's friends wondering what has become of their hero and the comic's final panels which (finally) give us a glimpse that Damian may be more than the rebooted spoiled little shit we've seen so far. Worth a look.

There was no real reason to tweak Dick's to include the Court of Owls (which is further explored in this week's Nightwing #7), but it's how Batman informs him (by backhanding him so hard he looses a tooth and nearly conciousness) that I found troubling. Like much of this story arc, the latest issue of Batman is a mixed success with many more Court of Owls stories on the way. Worth a look.

The structure of the book is a little odd as the first half is written by Snyder with art by regular Greg Capullo. However, the second-half of the story, drawn by Rafael Albuquerque, has a completely different look (which still works, although not quite as well). Worth a look.

I wish the last few pages had dealt with the Night of Owls other than a mostly forgetable back-up story. I'm also not thrilled with writer Scott Snyder's attempt to rope Alfred's family into the seemingly all-encompassing Court of Owls arc. Worth a look

However, Batman learns the truth as he discovers Lincoln March is alive and responsible… and claims he is Bruce Wayne's brother?? And, given the back-up story (which appears to support his claim) it might even be true. Stop the merry-go-round, I want to get off. Snyder better have one hell of a twist up his sleeve to try and salvage what, apparently, this whole arc was leading up to. Pass.

Not surprisingly, the issue ends with Batman knowing that March was likely lying but unable to prove for certain. We also get scene between Bruce and Dick to smooth over the whole Batman cold cocking him thing and another chapter in the truly awful back-up story involving Alfred‘s father. Pass.

It may not be as good as Snyder's pre-New 52 work, and it certainly drags in places with the sheer amount of Harper's narration, but it's refreshing to read something new after the prolonged Court of Owls arc. Whether meaning to or not Harper certainly reminds me of Carrie Kelly and from the final panels, despite Batman's orders for her to stop trying to help him, I have a feeling we may see her again. Worth a look.

The main story ends with a twist as the Joker chooses his first victim, but the issue's back-up story between the Joker and Harley Quinn (whose appearance helps sell how brutal the Joker has become in his time away from Gotham) takes their perverted relationship to disturbing levels I don't need to see. Worth a look.

Snyder is careful by giving us an alternative explanation for the Joker's abduction of Alfred as well as the Joker never naming names when he “reveals” he knows Batman's secret identity. I'm hoping for a huge bait-and-switch. But seeing how the New 52 has given me very little of what I actually want, I'm not too hopeful. Hit-and-Miss.

Don't get me wrong, I think Arkham Asylum is a hell of a video game – but it's story, design, and logic kinda sucks. I certainly didn't need a comic, yet alone the entire Batman Family across all of the DCU, redesigned in it's image. The comic isn't a total waste as it does deliver an okay back-up story between the Joker and the Riddler, but that's hardly enough from me to recommend spending $4 for this one. Pass.

The Death of the Family issues dealing directly with the Joker have only gotten worse as the months have dragged on, finally hitting rock bottom here in this NC-17 horror fetish fantasy that's so far removed from classic Batman stories it's nearly unrecognizable. For those who enjoy it I'm leaving it to you. Mr. Snyder thanks for the memories, but I'm getting off this particular roller coaster with this issue. Pass.

You know DC must have plans to unveil a new Robin before too long, and this issue certainly makes Harper the front-runner. Anointing a character whose entire comic history is less than the time between dental appointments, in my opinion, would be a huge mistake another reason to read far less Bat-titles. Hit-and-Miss.

Looking optimistically, as Stephanie Brown would do, I will say Snyder and artist Dustin Nguyen succeed with this initial tease by highlighting her new Spoiler costume with traits that suggest her Batgirl run and revealing her to be far more than just another vigilante working in Gotham. Even if the comic doesn't allow the character to speak, to find out if her voice has survived the transition into the New 52, there's the tiniest glimmer of hope in this one panel that the Stephanie of old may get a shot to live again. Of course that could all go down the shitter in record time if she opens her mouth and comes off bastardized like the re-branded Billy Batson. For fans.

As to the storyline concerning the fall of Gotham (again) by a completely forgettable villain, honestly there wasn't anything here that made me regret giving the title such a wide berth for so long. Hit-and-Miss.

I don't know what Rebirth has in store for Batman going forward (other than adding a splash more blue to the Dark Knight's new costume), but I'm glad to close the book on the run that offered the Court of Owls, the Face-Off Joker, and Jim Batman as its most noteworthy accomplishments. Pass.

Anyway, bad shit is coming. Time to assemble, or something. Just do it without me. I'm out. Excelsior this ain't. Pass.

Following the will of Khonshu it's unclear just what the endgame of Moon Knight or his God is, but it's obvious he's only getting started. He's unable to draw power from Black Panther, but there are plenty of other mystical forces in the Marvel Universe to draw from.

It's hard to separate the tone-deaf Black Panther scenes from the rest of the story, which is a serviceable middle-issue to the larger arc foreshadowing more trouble to come and a larger threat still yet to be identified.

Elsewhere, Captain America, Blade, and She-Hulk rescue some of their captured allies aboard the Moon Train. But it's the Avenger left behind that shows up to confront the Khonshu heading into the next issue.

While the tale felt wrapped up, there were plenty of loose ends left dangling and Larry Hama gets a change to continue expanding this world. Our heroes make it out, although not without casualties and loosing Cobra Commander who manages to make his escape. The larger question is what becomes of the mutated core characters of Cobra at ground zero in the explosion of the Mutant Virus Bomb? At how do events play into the long teased plans of Revanche?

Although they refer to themselves as mutants, call we all just admit this feels an awful lot like G.I JOE ZOMBIES?

Although the set-up is a bit weird, the god is actually a Sonja too (or is she just a tool for the god)?, the idea should provide plenty of action for the series and Red Sonja will battle doppelgangers of herself from across time and dimensions. First up is Orange Sonja, part of a technological future armed with a gun and spending days battling cyber creatures. We also see glimpses of Green Sonja and Purple Sonja and mention of a Pantheon. However, we've entered the tale midway through, and Orange Sonja discovers killing the She-Devil with a Sword is easier said than done – even for a Sonja.

Sonjaversal #2 ends with several Sonjas, including Red Sonja, all walking through a portal to the same location which seems to suggest a battle royal is just around the corner (even if answers are not).

The first issue does a fair job of reintroducing the characters into their new setting. Sadly, the comic is weighed down by some pretty awful art by Miguel Angel Sepulveda (his version of the Midnighter alone should get him fired from the title). It show's promise, but the book's look needs to be addressed if DC wants to keep this title around for more than a couple of months. Worth a look.

The second issue works well (even with the unsubtle entendres between Apollo and Midnighter). Worth a look.

Even if we accept all of this, how does this stop someone with superhuman senses, like say Superman, or someone with a space ring that warns of just such issues, like say the three Green Lanterns on the planet, from noticing the Earth is under attack? And, an even bigger question, even if they could stop them from finding out about such a danger why would they? As we see in this issue they could use all the help they can get. Hit-and-Miss.

When introduced this Stormwatch appeared to be a group that would take on shadowy threats far more covertly than we've seen so far. That might work. Fighting giant aliens very, very publicly (while keeping it hidden from the rest of the DCU) is far more problematic. Hit-and-Miss.

Stormwatch isn't a great comic but, at least for one more month, it's done just enough to get me coming back to see where it's headed. I want to see more of the Engineer, see Jenny Quantum grow into her role, and find out how the comic plans to use the Martian Manhunter. Despite some dreadful writing in spots (and some spotty art here and there) the final page cliffhanger will bring me back for issue #6. Worth a look.

However, we also getJack Hawksmoortalking to the city soul of the ship which is as awkward as it is stupid, I don't need yet another speech by the Martian Manhunteras to why the Justice League is stupid, andMidnighter andApollo‘s relationship is being handled with all the care of Twilight fan fiction. Hit-and-Miss.

In places it seems like the new creative team might be able to make something of the title, but right around the corner are more groans and examples of questionable content and/or execution that have plagued the title since its launch. Hit-and-Miss.

The comic's still rough in a several areas, but I like how Jenkins used the characters over the past two issues (with exception of another decidedly insipid Jack Hawksmoor subplot). Worth a look.

There's not a big enough draw here for me to return anytime soon, although fans of more recent versions of Task Force X may find enough here to keep their interest. That said, I did enjoy Zebra Man's inclusion here, and Harley's questions about his gimmick. Hit-and-Miss.

There are two big takeaways here. First, the crew appears to be setting out on their own. Second, we discover the man behind the curtain pulling Lok's strings is… Ted Kord? Well, that's certainly surprising (and pretty out of character for the former Blue Beetle). The motives of the very Maxwell Lord-ish Ted are going to take some explaining.

Presenting a future where The Shadow's work in New York has done little to stop the flow of crime, and even force Cranston to consider retirement, the first issue is a bit depressing while weaving into the blackmail of a London scientist who I'd expect we'll see tied to the shrink-ray in the next issue. For fans.

The first two issues represent one-third of Howard Chaykin's tale, the point of which (other than Cranston leaving New York) is still murky at best. The idea of an older Shadow's adventure in London is interesting, but two issues in Chaykin hasn't sold me on that story that's already cost me $8. That's a problem. Hit-and-Miss.

There's certainly plenty of action to be had, but first issue doesn't sell me on either the storyline by Cullen Bunn nor the art from Greg Land. Hit-and-Miss.

I've been in and out of the series since it was relaunched. Because of this I'm a bit confused as the exact nature of the Corporation the team is up against (or what their ultimate plans for mutants is). Better understanding this might sell Hellfire Club as allies the X-Men could use, but in the end I'm much like Psylocke questioning whether or not this is the best the X-Men can do. For fans.

It's a pretty bleak future which Cyclopes has returned to. Most mutants are in hiding, the X-Men are gone, and humanity has found a “cure” for the mutation they fear. As for Scott and Logan, the wait for the reunion feels a bit too strung out (although that's nothing new in comics). And, other than seeing Cable put Logan in Scott's path, I'm not sure you get much from either back-up story to justify the extra pages here (or the the absurd cover price). For fans.

The rescue offers some welcome faces in Magik and Havok (whose fate at the end of this issue is far more murky than I'd like) and a few others I'm not so sure of. Either way, the rebuilding of the X-Men gets going in short order here. There are obviously other mutants out there, both old friends and enemies, and I'll be curious to see how many of them may show up in the next few issues as potential new members (or potential new problems). Worth a look.

While certainly memorable, I have very mixed feelings on Marvel taking one of Cyclops eyes (in the design of his Age of Apocalypse alternate version). Hope, who Scott sacrificed everything to save, taking the shot certainly resonates with the characters as the X-Men attempt to prevent the Mutant Liberation Front from killing everyone's favorite anti-mutant politician. But did we really need a literal one-eyed Cyclops? Hrm… unless of course there's a mutant out there with eye-restoration powers? For fans.

The comic will likely be remembered for Wolverine in a suit, the end of Cyclops and Wolverine's short bromance, and the flashback of Wolfsbane's assault and murder by a pretentious douchebag group whose unwanted advances scare her into showing her mutant abilities and whose mutant abilities push the bigots into horrific violence. The entire scene is seedy, and Wolverine's eye-for-eye justice certainly doesn't seem to sit well with the legacy of the main X-Men title. Having it interrupted, and take place entirely outside of the events shown, comes off as cheap and gutless as well by a creative team that isn't willing to own all the questionable decisions made here. Pass.

The issue, like the series, has it's up and down moments. Although I'm hardly his biggest fan, Havok likely deserved better (along with many mutants who met their end over the course of the series). Ending with a stronger united team deciding hatred and bigotry are better than hiding and anonymity, the X-Men appear ready to write their next chapter. For fans.

Is it worth picking up? For big-time Bat-fans, yes. For everyone else, probably not. The time mystery isn't that interesting and of all the stories here only the current version of Batman and Robin is told all that well. Hit-and-Miss.

There are also a couple of really good lines describing Superman, his abilities, and his larger world, from Batman's point of view. Better late than never, and worth a look.

There are some nice moments between Dick and Damian (especially towards the end of the story), but nothing that would make anyone other than hardcore Bat-fans pick this issue up. Nice cover, though. For fans.

The story itself works pretty well as the various stories hint without giving too much away. Filled with action, this actually is a mystery story (in several different ways) for Batman to solve. It's also nice to see Grayson's detective skills highlighted.

I've read some bad Batman comics in my day, but this issue is such a clusterfuck it's baffling to behold. Here's hoping the title makes some swift changes and gets back on track as soon as possible.

Some might find it a little schmaltzy, but I thought this story worked well as a Coda for the series and a nice send off for this version of Batman and Robin. I also enjoyed art recreating the various looks of Batman over the years and the outline of the big moments in Batman's history. There's also a nice splash page of the Bat-Family. It may not have been my first choice for the Caped Crusader's final issue, but it's a solid one. Worth a look.

Deadpool, Secret Avenger. Hmmm…

As an idea, this one works fine for a single issue, although I'm not sure we need to see it continue for another month. Still, there's fun and plenty of insanity to be had here. And isn't that what you want from a Deadpool comic?

The rest of the comic about Evil Deadpool taking a job to kill a kid, and regular Deadpool (using his weird-ass logic) deciding to kidnap a totally different kid at gunpoint to draw out both his evil twin and Captain America, is certainly bizarre, but isn't anywhere near as much fun. Hit-and-Miss.

Most troubling of all is the back-up story presented by the Joker (the super-genius Christopher Nolan version who relies on impossibly complex plans) where he states he is completely responsible for Todd's history. It's best ignored and forgotten. Hit-and-Miss.

It's not a great first issue but it's solid all around and provides far better versions of all three characters than we were getting before the DC Reboot. It's well-paced and doesn't have to stop the action in order to spend time re-introducing the characters (who feel far more lived in than many so far in the DC Reboot). I'll also admit the inclusion of Starfire works better than I thought it would. These characters, each damaged in their own way, and each with their own view of the world, have a story to tell. Now let's find out if it's worth telling. Worth a look.

I was a bit confused given the rewriting which allows Roy Harper and Starfire to accompany the Red Hood on his journey (it's obvious he left for the quest alone at the end of the first issue). It's a litle confusing. However, those who were up in arms over the first issue's deception of Starfire should be a bit molified that she's been toned down in this issue. Worth a look.

Even though I've stopped reading many of the New 52 titles I'm going to stay with Red Hood and the Outlaws for at least awhile longer. It's never quite what I expect, and its not the direction I would take the characters, but I'm still intrigued by what Lobdell has planned for this motley crew he's assembled. Worth a look.

The issue is also memorable for giving us a flashback of Todd as the snotty Boy Wonder and a New 52 tweaked design of the old Nightwing costume. I'll admit I like the costume (although the flashback itself is far too much a hamfisted reminder of why Todd was killed off in the comics so long ago). Worth a look.

And the second is a small scene between Todd and Tim Drake that suggests the pair have an interesting relationship that may not be sanctioned, or known about, by the Dark Knight Detective. Worth a look.

Although I'm not thrilled with the redesign of Freeze or the conclusion of the Red Hood's battle with Talon there are several nice moments here including Kory's reaction to being attacked by Mr. Freeze, Todd's inner struggle and walk down memory lane, and his confrontation with Batgirl in the comic's final pages. Worth a look.

Although it has some fun moments (including Jason's date), the latest issue is by far the weakest of the series so far. Hit-and-Miss.

We also get the continuation of the back-up story featuring Essence hunting down the Untitled (which can't finish quickly enough for me). Pass.

The logic of Arsenal getting himself captured, tortured, and telling his captors all about his days in space not withstanding, the story utilizes the comic's offbeat sense of humor well. I'm pretty sure I'm going to hate whatever the hell the “Thirteen” is which is ominously mentioned at one point, but, at least the comic has gotten back on its feet after a horrible mis-step last month. I'm also happy to see Timothy Green II has taken over as artist for the title (even if some of the art here looks a little rushed). Worth a look.

Although I enjoyed the final two issues of the arc I'm happy to see it come to and end and return Starfire, Arsenal and Red Hood back to Earth where they belong. Next week should begin “The Death of the Family” crossovers and we should, hopeful, see a confrotation between Jason Todd and the Joker looming before too long. Red Hood and the Outlaws #14 also promises an appearance by Superman. Worth a look.

Given Jason Todd's personal experience with the Joker it should have been the easiest thing in the world to tie the comic to the ongoing Bat-title crossover. However, what we are given here is awkward beyond belief reinforcing the idea that the Joker is responsible for Todd being chosen as Robin in moves that make the impossibly complicated plans of Heath Ledger's Joker look amateurish by comparison. Hit-and-Miss.

The comic finally gives us a confrontation between the Joker and the Red Hood. Even if it's not as good as I hoped, at least the crossover feels legitimately underway. For fans.

Logic problems aside and despite missing its leading man for the entire issue, Red Hood and the Outlaws #16 is, for the most part, fun. Dumb fun to be sure, but there's certainly enough for fans of the characters and it feels more like an old-school Joker story and far less unseemly that many of the increasingly gritty and awful Death of the Family issues have been. For fans.

Red Hood has been a complicated character well before the New 52 in finding the right balance with the character's deadly intentions and still honoring his past as Robin. For this issue writer Scott Lobdell gets it right which makes the comic's twist all the more surprising as the Joker left our protagonist one final present which may have lasting effects on the Red Hood's role going forward. Worth a look.

We're told there will be no lasting physical damage from the Joker's trap and it seems Todd's mental state isn't impaired either, so the entire episode feels a little pointless unless the goal is to use this experience to transform the Red Hood from anti-hero to hero and bring Jason back into the Bat-Family. One further note, Red Hood and the Outlaws #18 also brings Jason and Bruce a little closer (possibly foreshadowing his return as Robin?). For fans.

The issue also has an odd appearance by Essence who attempts to influence Arsenal through his dreams. The point of this subplot isn't very clear (or interesting), but it's arguably better than the beyond bland blank slate of Jason Todd we're left with as the issue closes. The consequences to this issue might be interesting, but this issue is a mixed bag.

Whether or not it's good for the character, or for the New 52, we'll have to wait and see, but my initial reaction is this is an easy choice for DC Comics to give the character a completely new direction while thumbing their noses a decades of history. Well, this is the New 52. Pass.

After acquiring Jason Todd, the assassins take him back to ‘Eht Alth'Eban, the home of the League of Assassins, where the inform the Hood they don't want him dead. What they actually want is the guy with no memory of how to assassinate anyone (or the hatred which drove him into that life) to become their new leader. Um… okay. I guess intelligence isn't a prerequsite to join the League of Assassins. Hit-and-Miss.

The issue ends with the Red Hood and the Outlaws doing a pretty good job of holding their own against the League including the Red Hood fighting Bronze Tiger to a standstill. But should Todd be victorious (which seems likely as the comic has solicitations for the next several months) I'd like to see the character given a chance to spread his wings without the baggage of the All-Caste or the Outlaws to weigh him down. For fans.

The best part of the issue is that it brings an end to the odd, and often awkward and confusing, storyline allowing Todd to play hero and put an end to this chapter of his life. Hopefully this means the comic will move forward with less poorly-defined mysticism and on to more of Todd's journey of redemption. Hit-and-Miss.

Far less convoluted than several issues of the series, the straightforward storytelling works well and provides plenty of action while introducing a new enemy in Midas and the Army of the Golden Hand. Stephen Segovia steps in to do an okay job with the art this month although his Starfire is a little off and some of the wideshots are less detailed than I'd like (a common complaint about much of the New 52). Worth a look.

Although I've liked individual stories in The Gauntlet, the story behind the scenes, which comes to the forefront here, has done more to weary me than our hero. Why am I supposed to care about forgotten Spider-Women, Madame Web (a character I've never liked), Ezekiel, Kaine, or Kraven's wacky family? Hopefully Marvel can get through the "Grim Hunt" and on to better things for the wallcrawler as fast as possible. Pass.

The issue also includes a short Scorpion story tacked onto the end of the issue. I'm okay with Mac Gargan taking back the name, but I'm not sure I like the HYDRA looking design of the new suit, and I'm sure I hate the issues final couple of pages where the new Scorpion army is revealed. Ugh.

There's also a nice moment at the end where the family sits down to watch the message Johnny left for Peter. It may not be as good as the one from FF #1, but it's still a nice moment. Worth a look.

I have to say the amount of whining Spidey does in this issue troubles me a little. It looks like the decision is to make Peter far more kid-like than we've seen him in recent years in an attempt to better the team dynamic (which I think is a really, really bad idea). We also get the first rumblings of a major problem with Peter and Carlie's relationship which could lead to a big confrontation in the next issue. Worth a look.

Meanwhile, back in New York, Carlie makes a decision that just might earn her the title of worst girlfriend ever by getting a tattoo of the Green Goblin to spite Peter for lying to her about his plans. So to teach him a lesson she permanently marks herself with the image of the man responsible for killing Peter Parker's first love. Yeah, that should go over real well. I think it's time to dump this chick Spidey and spend some more time with Ms. Marvel. Worth a look.

And, finally, the Carlie Cooper tattoo fiasco in a switcheroo that makes no sense whatsoever and yet is still better than what was shown in last issue with her brilliant idea of branding her body with the image of the man who threw Peter Parker's first love off a bridge. Worth a look.

I haven't been keeping up with Amazing Spider-Man lately given my lack of interest in Spider-Island and sheer the number of issues the title puts out every month. However, I have to say I love what Waid does with the ol' Web-Head here and I'm eagerly anticipating the conclusion of the arc this week. Best of the week.

I'm sure there will be some who will be looking forward to the fresh take on the new “Superior” Spider-Man, but, following the example laid down in the Ultimate Universe, Peter Parker is dead and replaced (this wasn't even an original idea). Sure, Marvel is likely to return Peter Parker to the living (perhaps within a year if fan outrage hits critical mass and sales drop), but, to put it bluntly, I honestly don't care what happens from here on. He was inarguably the heart and soul of Marvel Comics, and the Marvel Universe is going to miss him far more than they know. Pass.

I think there's going to be plenty of bad stories in this crossover as both the Atlantis and Amazon series gear up over the weeks and months to come, but as setups go this first issue is actually better than I expected. It doesn't hurt that this one also has an interesting version of Captain Marvel who I hope to see more of (since I don't get any of him in the current DCU). Worth a look.

It's not a bad second issue, although the glimpses we get of both Aquaman and Wonder Woman make me cringe at the thought of either of them being the center of future issues. And the consequence of Barry Allen's experiment does have an unintentionally funny ring to it. (And it's certainly better than the other off-shoot mini-series which also hit shelves this week.) Worth a look.

It's not a bad third issue, but by the end of the #3 we should be more than halfway through Flashpoint and there seems like quite a bit yet to be decided. The appearance of Grifter also makes my original theory of Flashpoint being the catalyst the DC reboot (which Grifter and other WildStorm characters are to be a part of) look that much more likely. Hit-and-Miss.

Trouble is, even in the Flashpoint universe DC Comics seems intent on limiting the number of pages Captain Marvel can appear. The team is betrayed and Billy Batson is killed. But at least I'll get to see him in the new DC Reboot, right? Oh, Captain Marvel isn't part of that either? Sigh. Hit-and-Miss.

As wrap-ups go this final issue does what it needs to, and does it better than I expected. Is the final moment between Barry and Batman a little too schmaltzy? Sure. Does the look of the rebooted DCU still make me a little queasy? Oh yeah, but this issue works (and gives us a glimmer of hope we haven't seen the last of the classic DCU). Worth a look.

One thing I thought worked well from both a story and artistic level was how the comic incorporated Dick's athleticism, acrobatics and circus moves throughout the entire issue without ever making it seem forced. I'm a little scared that the story I liked least is the one that's going to carry over to the next issue but that's not going to stop me from picking it up. Worth a look.

The issue works well but I'll be interested to see how big a part Haly's Circus plays in the everyday life of Dick Grayson. I'm also more than a little tired of seemingly every new bad guy introduced in the Bat-titles knowing their true identities. The Bat-Family might want to work on that. Worth a look.

The part of the story that does work is the effect Babs arrival has on Dick and Raya‘s burgeoning relationship. Even when trying to put things right at the end, Babs causes even more harm. Women. Hit-and-Miss.

The comic ends with a reveal I won't spoil here about the true motives of one of the comic's supporting characters. I'm not sure if its meant to be shocking, but it doesn't come off as well as I'm sure writer Kyle Higgins planned. There's simply no shock value turning a character so soon after they have been introduced. Worth a look.

There are some nice moments including Raya wavering on her part of Raymond's plan and an uncoonected scene involving a cops retreiving one of Nightwing's batons from a murder scene. Whether this is frame job is part of Raymond's plan, or something else, we'll just have to wait and see. Worth a look.

We also get the same sequence of Batman knocking Dick's tooth out to prove a point as we did in Batman #7. It doesn't work any better here (in fact it works less because Saiko has already given him some of the information he seems shocked to hear from the Dark Knight Detective). Hit-and-Miss.

For an issue where Dick Grayson's voice is largely absent the story still works, although I'm not sure we needed this much of Cobb's backstory. I'm more surprised, however, by the continued level of smart aleck banter from the zombie-ish Talons. Who knew the undead were so talkative? Worth a look.

The Court of Owls storyline, which started in Batman, is working far better in than title than most of other Bat-titles it's spread to this month. In terms of “Night of the Owls” this tie-in certainly isn't a must-read to keep up with the main story, but for fans of Nightwing the action may, may be enough to still warrant picking it up. Hit-and-Miss.

The issue finally fills in some information about the corrupt cop Detective Nie who tried to pin a murder wrap on Batman by planting evidence looks to be the man behind Nightwing's stick showing up at a recent murder as well. This story works better for me than Paragon (although I'm betting the two are related). This was a make-or-break issue for Nightwing for me, and although it's not great there's enough here to bring me back for another month. Worth a look.

Paragon cleans house of the disloyal soldiers before looking for a new ally to take down one of Gotham's self-appointed saviors. The story continues, but doesn't really advance that much (even Nightwing's eureka moment is kept from readers) so aside from the developments in the subplot with Sonia you could probably skip this one and not miss a beat. Hit-and-Miss.

I'm always a bit hesitant to accept a brand-new character like Eve as hugely important to someone like the Surfer and unsure about the dynamic between the two (especially as they haven't even met yet). It appears as if the comic may be setting up Doctor/Companion-style relationship (which, again, would be an entirely new place to take the character). Worth a look.

Speaking of wishes, Dawn's wish is underscored for the second straight issue as it both saves the Surfer from the Never Queen's wrath and further links them going forward. I'm far from sold on Dawn, but so far I'm enjoying Slott's take on the character – except for his bizarre misconception that the Surfer is human under the adamantium skin which he can remove at will (seriously WTF?). Worth a look.

Hopefully Slott will pull back a bit on the oversell of Dawn and simply allow her to accompany and enjoy the adventures the Surfer can provide while providing a character to explain various parts of the Surfer's existence such as the Power Cosmic. For fans.

And on attempting to leave our hero finds himself trapped inside the barrier long since removed by Galactus meaning the most interesting aspect not toyed with in Slott's version of the character (his limitless ability to travel across all of space) has been removed along with his dignity and nobility. Kill me now.

The triple-obstacles of Matt Murdock's injury, the blizzard, and his amnesia (which also effects his acrobatic stunts) is a little much. I prefer Weeks art to the story, but there are enough nice touches here to not let me dismiss it out-of-hand. The first issue doesn't do enough to sell me on the new limited series, but it doesn't turn me off either. Depending on what else hits newsstands that week, I would consider picking up issue #2. Hit-and-Miss.

That said, Lee Weeks art is once again solid but his writing is only slightly improved over the first issue although it's still clunky and hamfisted at times (especially involving danger or hope). For fans.

After a mostly fun lighthearted affair I was a little sad to see the comic take such a dark turn on the final page. Although I'd recommend this issue, I'm not sure I like where the story is headed. Worth a look.

Although the end is far too tidy (and convenient) for my tastes, and the second issue isn't as fun as the first, the mini-series second arc kept my interest all the way through the end (which is more than I can say for the first arc). For fans.

I always enjoy Daredevil's various flirtations with a host of female and criminals who can't get enough of Daredevil (seriously, blind lawyer is like catnip for the super-hero/villain set). The sexual tension between the pair is obvious, and entertaining, as is the art by Thony Silas. Worth a look.

There are some fun moments here, but the issue is really used to set-up the various conflicts in next month's finale. Although it hasn't been as good as Mark Waid‘s run on the regular title, I've enjoyed seeing other writers and artists play with the character over the past few months in these isolated tales. For fans.

Daredevil: Dark Nights may not have delivered great stories over its eight-issue run, but the adventures of Matt Murdock had their moments and I'm sorry to see the series coming to an end as Marvel gears up to a big February relaunch of several of their core titles (including Daredevil). For fans.

We also get Catwoman going up against Clayface in "Born to Kiln," escaping a trap by the Taxidermist in "Save the Cat," and dealing with a crooked rent-a-cop in "Now You See Me," And, as with the other collections we've seen, the story included from the current timeline, "Addicted to Trouble," featuring Catwoman on the road proves to be one of the lesser entries.

Guy Gardner and Kilowog are given a tale with a fun twist, Sinestro tortures a Green Lantern in his story, and Jessica Cruz and Simon Baz overcome fear and hatred respectively in their solo tales. Like similar recent one-shots from DC, this one's mostly for fans.

The other Robins also get tales, my favorite of which features the Red Hood completing a task he started during his time as Robin in “More Time.” Tim Drake gets a pair of stories in “Extra Credit” and “Boy Wonders” both touching on themes of growing up and learning to grow into his own Robin. Stephanie Brown struggles with becoming the new Robin in “Fitting In” in a nice story featuring the shortest tenured Robin of them all. Damian is seen in “My Best Friend” centering around his friendship with Jonathan Kent and “Bat and Mouse” which ties into current storylines (and is the least interesting of all the tales). For fans.

The second story, although not nearly as entertaining, also features two heroes winding up at a poker game as the Yancy Street friends of Ben Grimm invite Gambit, over for the weekly poker game. There's some okay back-and-forth between the characters and late twist, but it's the less interesting of the two stories. Worth a look.

Although I've never been a big fan of Hawkeye, I really enjoyed Deadpool Team-Up and the idea of Deadpool driving any Avenger crazy for half an issue appealed to me. Despite having some nice moments as well, the story isn't nearly as zany or outrageous as I was hoping. Hit-and-Miss.

The issue wraps up the storyline in explosive fashion (heh), with a host of cameos late foreshadowing new stories to come involving Silver Sable, Taskmaster and Black Ant, Kindred, Doctor Octopus, Kraven, and Electro.

At least he's still got the suit and can do a little wall-crawling which leads into the other thread of the Rose making a play for Tombstone‘s territory. For some reason Tombstone blames Spider-Man, instead of the guy who blew up his home, and threatens to destroy his life (if he only knew). At least Peter is going to have somewhere to put his pent-up aggression.

The second-half of a two-part story by Joe Kelly and Terry Dodson doesn't make a lick of sense, but it does offer some fun moments between Black Cat and Spidey beating the wannabes.

The reimagined Buffyverse continues in a new series for Angel who is now a TV detective with Cordelia while his friends continue to fight monsters and things that go bump in the night in his absence.

Our baddies seem to be multiverse versions of other characters, although (after skipping several issues of this title) I'll admit to being a bit lost about the point of the story or their reasons for attacking in such public places. I'd guess their shared trouble should bring Angel home, but we'll have to wait and see.

Although we don't see much in terms of a larger threat for a character, the series does present the idea of a looming threat just beyond the horizon that she alone may be able to deal with. Honestly, I'm not sure that there is enough here to keep me around long enough to find those answers, but Aphrodite V #1 works as a single issue. For fans.

While I don't think you needed an over-sized issue to tell this tale, the comic does what it sets out to (with quite a bit of exposition in the middle with a literally deus ex machina spelling things out for us including suggesting the roles for all three woman going forward amongst the Amazons) and returns not just Artemis to the Amazons but Freya and her daughter as well.

The comic is tied into Marvel's larger event (Infinity Wars) but because so much of the writing is cribbed from other sources its pretty easy to follow. Issue #1 is really memorable only for the unusual makeup of the team (involving villains and magical frogs) who may be able to save the day if they can stop themselves from destroying the universe. For fans.

That's not to say I didn't enjoy the issue, I did. The final few pages present several new opportunities should Kirkman and Howard ever decide ever decide to return to the character. And just the thought that they've unleashed an army of werewolf covert opps into the Image universe, answerable only to their new leader, does make me smile.

I've always had a soft spot for Bat-Mite who I remember fondly co-starring on The New Adventures of Batman when I was younger (a show that hasn't aged as well as I'd like). I have no problem with the character getting his own mini-series but this toned down version without his abilities feels like a shadow of his former self. For fans.

It's an unusual team-up to be sure (especially since the New 52 seems fine with writing Booster out of its current continuity). Still, the two unlikely heroes make a fun pair (even if neither is clad in their traditional costumes). Eventually Booster and Bat-Mite learn to work together to stop a villain stuck in the past (and stop him from collecting vintage comics?). Oh well, even if Gridlock's crimes aren't exactly world-shattering, it's still fun to see Booster back in action (whatever he's wearing). Worth a look.

The storyline of Barbara reconnecting with her former partner involves a new hacker using her old moniker. When their paths cross with the vengeful former Spyral agent events are set for the comic's opening issue. For fans.

The choice to the tease from the very first panel to the last of who the main villain of the series might be (which I won't spoil it here) works very well. For fans of the show it's definitely worth picking up, but even if you never saw an episode it's still worth a look.

Although I'm still not sure about this new Catwoman, this issue does give me the one thing I always wanted from Batman Beyond – Dick Grayson. And that's enough for me…as long as they don't screw it up. Worth a look.

And then there's the final panel… Yeah. Um, yeah. I won't ruin for it for in case you plan to pick this one up, but lets just say the final panel flushes the promise of the previous pages right down the toilet. Sigh. I doesn't work, whether it's real or simply yet another twist (this comic has more than a Shyamalan marathon). We'll have to see if the series can rebound, but I have my doubts.

We also lean the new Catwoman's identity and Bruce and Terry have a nice bonding moment. It's not a great issue, and some of the clone's super-villain banter is way too forced, but for all-encompassing Bat-fans it might still be worth a look. Hit-and-Miss.

One thing the issue does well is show-off it's main star, letting those unfamiliar with him get to know Terry McGinnis. The issue also includes an appearance by the future version of the Justice League. It will be interesting to see how big a role they play in the new series.

Fans of the show should enjoy this, but there's not much new here to explore (as with most Rebirth issues the main goal is to set the stage for what is to come). Batman Beyond: Rebirth #1 is mainly concerned with resetting the world with McGinnis back in the Bat-suit (mostly ignoring Tim Drake‘s New 52 run) and reintroducing readers to the series' core characters including teasing the possible return of Batman's most dangerous enemy. For fans.

Is it worth a look? Maybe. There one or two moments, although there's little here for those who have already read Morrison's story. For fans.

As first issue's go this one struggles at times but it's the first time when seen father and son paired up as Batman and Robin since Bruce's return from the grave. I'm going to give it a few issue to try and find a balance between the pair, but the most pressing challenge seems to be where to find the fun that should be inherent in a title called “Batman and Robin.” Hit-and-Miss.

One a postive note the issue also includes an appearnce by Ace the Bat-Hound (sadly, out of costume). I'm all for finding ways to layer in various aspects of Batman's history into this New 52 version. Now let's see that giant penny, and Bat-Mite, and oh so much more! Worth a look.

I'm less thrilled with Nobody and his connection with Henri Ducard. Although he does offer Damian a tempataion, we know, despite all his flaws, Damian isn't likely to give into his baser desires this early in the New 52. This means despite being handled with some skill (although the opening diatribe in the drive-in is pretty awful) this arc ultimately has nowhere to go. Worth a look.

Patrick Gleason's art has gotten better as he's gotten more comfortable with the characters, but writer Peter J. Tomasi struggles with Batman's epiphany about his behavior to his son. It feels far too forced for the version of Batman we've seen so far. Worth a look.

Damian's turning on Nobody is hardly surprising, but I'm thankful writer Peter J. Tomasi didn't milk the story for another issue or two. It's also good to see Damian standing up for something other than himself for a change (even if there's no one else to witness it). The final panels, suggesting some serious injury to the boy, should lead to a brutal confrontation between Batman and Nobody in next month's conclusion of the arc. Worth a look.

I like the simple dialogue and reaction shots between Damian and Bruce once the battle has ended. I'm far less pleased with the comic's final choice. I certainly understand it, and the story arc certainly gives the “justification” needed for that choice, but just as the pair were coming together the results of Damian's deadly action are likely to tear Batman and Robin apart, again. Worth a look.

The issue doesn't ignore Damian's actions from last issue, but it also doesn't condemn him for it (as I expected it to do, further driving a wedge between the two). Instead Bruce uses the opportunity as a lesson for his son to move both of them forward. By the end of the issue we're given a Batman and Robin I really want to see more of, and that's really all you can ask. Worth a look.

If you're only picking this up as a “Night of Owls” tie-in you could probably give it a pass. If, however, you're a fan of Damian (even the New 52 version) there's enough here to keep your interest, at least for awhile. For fans.

The comic's other storyline introduces a new villain named Terminus who prepares to kill the Batman before his own demise. Nothing special here, and Terminus is certainly overshadowed by all the Robins appearing in the same panel together for the first time in the New 52 (although we still haven't gotten Batman and Red Hood together, yet). Worth a look.

As to Damian, who appears to be back in full on spoiled little-shit mode despite the tease that he might grow up a bit after the failure with Nobody, it's an interesting choice for him to view Todd (the Robin he's most like) with such contempt. I'll be interested to see what action the Red Hood might take in retaliation. Although the crowbar sequence is in bad taste, it certainly fits this version of the character. Hit-and-Miss.

I like seeing the Robins together in this issue and if DC is looking for another Bat-title to replace one of the underperforming New 52 books may I suggest something along the lines of Robin Team-Up (featuring Robins current and past teaming up for short arcs – which would allow for the inclusion of Stephanie Brown, too). Worth a look.

At the same time we see the more dangerous version of the character as his dispatches another assassin sent by his mother and the recklessness of his youth which leads him into danger in the stories final pages as he's caught in a mob of zombies. Honestly, I could have done without the zombies, but the rest of this issue works well. Worth a look.

Aside from Damain actually doing some justice to the Robin name (and not being the complete tool the New 52 has been so focused on delivering month after month) there's almost nothing worthy of notice. The story is completely forgettable and the mix of both Patrick Gleason and Toms Giorello's art makes the comic look and feel uneven at best. Pass.

I like Damian, and I certainly like how he stands up for himself against the psychopath, but there's nothing of note, and certain nothing enjoyable delivered here that makes this one worth picking up. Sadly, this seems to be an all to familiar trend with the Bat-books recently. Pass.

There's plenty of gruesome action here. And the comic has one highlight where the far too dim Damian makes a concious effort not to kill the man he believes is his father. Sadly it's too little, too late. Pass.

On one hand, the issue puts Damian's loss at the forefront and showcases the toll it's taking on Batman. On the other hand it's still a bit of a cheat as the hard but necessary conversations after such an event have still yet to take place. However, the set-up certainly makes the only words we do see, Damian's final message to his father, certainly have a greater impact. Worth a look.

Red Robin gets the short-end of the stick here. Despite his name in the title, Tim is relegated to little more than a cameo in which he has no more luck talking sense into his mentor than the partially dissected Frankenstein's monster. It will be interesting to see, given the mixed reaction DC has gotten to Grant Morrison killing off Damian, how long the Bat-books might play with the idea of bringing the character back, in one form or another. Worth a look.

Although I think Todd overreacts to Batman's grief, the result is to push yet another member of the Bat-Family further from the Dark Knight Detective. Batman and Red Hood #20 also offers another appearance by Carrie Kelley looking for Damian, teasing that she's not going away anytime soon. Pass.

The confrontation between Batgirl and Batman in the cave is interesting, but isn't hardly the tact someone as smart as Barbara would use. I do like her offer of wearing the Robin costume, but its stuck in the middle of an out-of-control argument that has no hope of reaching Batman. Hit-and-Miss.

Catwoman helps break Batman out of his funk as does Carrie Kelley whose continued perseverance at talking to Damian forces Batman to go to extreme lengths to continue the pretense that his son is still alive. I'm not sure where Carrie will eventually fit in, but any comic with her instead of Harper Row has to be counted as a win. Worth a look.

Although the final former side-kick issue is done, the comic will continue the Batman and… with villains such as Two-Face and Killer Croc leading into Batman and Carrie Kelly #25 which may, or may not, begin a new direction for the title. Worth a look.

By the end of the episode the luck of Gotham City (which is far less covered in vegetation that the Poison Ivy comic would suggest) has finally run out as the flip of the coin leads Two-Face back to his more destructive ways. For fans.

Writer James Tynion IV and Jeremy Haun deliver a solid retelling of the various aspects behind the character even if he's decidedly lacking in the kind of crazed evil malice that has defined Ra's al Ghul since his creation. It's far from a great Ra's al Ghul story, but for those needing a primer on the character it's sufficient. Worth a look.

All that said, even the changes can't ruin one of Batman‘s most interesting villains. As the beginning of a true origin for the character it's flawed, but fans may still enjoy the issue.

On the plus-side we do get an appearance by Matches (which means the character, and Batman's use of his identity, is part of the New 52). Despite the promise the issue will have big revelations about Carrie Kelley (which I believe I've already guessed) the character fails to make even a cameo here. Given the false advertising and confusing storytelling this one is very much Hit-and-Miss.

Although the comic has some nice moments, especially in the early scenes between Bruce and Erin, the flashbacks are so unbelievably dumb it wouldn't surprise me if everyone who read this issue lost a couple of IQ points. Pass.

We also get an odd grouping of some of Batman's more monstrous enemies in Croc, Man-Bat, and others, as well as a general foreboding of yet another (likely less joyful) crossover. I'd like a little more normalcy for Bruce and Damian before jumping into the next big arc but there's enough here to pique my interest. Not everything is sunshine and roses, however, as the comic foreshadows a high school arc for Damian which would be the quickest way to make me run away from this comic as fast as possible.

We also get Catwoman playing various roles from thief to enforcer to helpless bait while also rescuing a shot Riddler and flashbacks to Bruce Wayne training with Ra's al Ghul as the comic tiptoes around just what prize is in the small box that is worth all of this trouble and connects the current storyline with all of the flashbacks.

That said, I did enjoy the art of Batman: The Audio Adventures #1 and the comic has a nice nod to Batman: The Animated Series‘ odd pairing of Killer Croc and Baby-Dollalthough that didn't play into the somewhat unfocused story so far. The comic is far from a must-read, and there's not a lot to sell me on a larger storyline but fans may still get some enjoyment out of the issue.

Finch does a good job of jumping Bruce back into the saddle of Batman but still showing some rust (such as his confrontation with Killer Croc in the dark alley). I don't know that I'm ready for the “terrible ramifications” this story is meant to have on Batman's life, but it's a strong beginning. Worth a look.

The focus is all wrong, the character teased on the cover isn't here (I was looking forward to a Bruce/Tim team-up), and there's just not enough here to justify picking up unless you simply want to grab all of the Night of the Owls issues. Hit-and-Miss.

The plot behind the mysterious assassin deepens as the Birds find themselves on the run from a foe who knows their secrets, is at least two-steps ahead, and is able to make everyone dance to the song they have decided to play. I have faith in writer Gail Simone, but I'm a little concerned with where the story is heading, the near omniscience of their opponent, and the long list of repercussions the book will have to deal with (perhaps for years) unless Oracle and her crew mount a comeback, quickly. Although I wasn't a big fan of either Savant or Creote they deserve a better fate than they're given here. Hit-and-Miss.

Next month's conclusion of this first story arc should be a doozy. Worth a look.

As the issue comes to a close it gives us an intriguing turn as it elevates Huntress to the role of field commander of the team. It's hard to argue against Oracle's decision as Helena really has earned the position. To steal a line from Virginia Slims, she's come a long way baby. Sadly, it looks like she's only going to get to keep it for a couple of more issues. Worth a look.

That said, the issue is an improvement over part one and does have some nice moments between Zinda Blake and the Phantom Lady. I also thought Manhunter worked pretty well with the team. Is it a great finale? No, not really, but for a comic that has struggled to live up to its own legacy (and struggles here without its trademark writer) it's about what I expected. Hit-and-Miss.

While the comic is entertaining, it feels a bit too much like reshuffled greatest hits of the Buffyverse with the focus on Giles rather than a high school Giles rather than Buffy this time around. For fans.

There are some interesting pieces here, but I don't think this is the comic to pull me back into reading Buffy on a regular basis.

While I'm not sure I'll stick around for all four issues of the mini-series, Calamity Kate #1 is a fun read bouncing between Kate monster hunting and her less successful human interactions. Worth a look. For fans.

Other than Cap and Bucky taking down some throwaway villains and the tease of a new threat, there's not much here. What we do know is that America appears to be in bad shape and that Cap's good name isn't doing much better. As to how both of these will get rectified (and just how large a role both Agent 13 and Bucky will have in the comic going forward), there's still quite a few questions left unanswered. For fans.

It's fine, but there's nothing here which is a must-read or feels like I need to pick up the next issue to see where this story goes (especially at $6 an issue).

For $4 it's definitely not a must-read, but fans of the character or of Marvel's various What If…? stories may want to give it a look.

While I'm not wild about the art by Soo Lee, and the first issue takes its sweet time in getting our characters together, there's enough here to likely appeal to most fans.

That said, there's plenty of action here, and Snake Eyes and his team to take center stage for the first few pages. We also get Rattlers! Rattlers!! Okay, it's certainly not a must-read but fans of the characters should get their money's worth here. And it even has a Snake Eyes variant cover. For fans.

The structure of the story, not centered around an entire year without powers as so many of the Convergence tie-ins have been, is a nice change but the comic does loose points for blatantly refusing to give us a recognizable pre-New 52 Booster in all his glory. On the plus side Booster's jumping willy-nilly gets the New 52 version beat up by the Legion of Super-Heroes and reunites the other Booster with an old friend. For fans.

Convergence: Harley Quinn #2 teases a dangerosly dark New 52-ish twist, but thankfully Pugh and Winslade know their audience and allow the issue not to end on a dark note but with Harley and the Captain sharing a moment of camaraderie together that's as strange as every other piece of this issue. Worth a look.

I'm not sure that I'l stick with the mini-series until the end (especially as the final couple of panels suggest the story taking a bizarre left-turn as soon as the beginning of issue #2), but for fans of the character the first-quarter of Kubert's story is an interesting read. Worth a look.

The confusion aside, the comic does give us Damian donning the costume for the “first” time, but the moment lacks any real gravitas (although I liked the “nice coat” comment the new Batman gets while jumping into action chasing a sighting of the Joker later in the issue). Andy Kubert delivers some moments, but the entire issue feels like a train wreck. Hit-and-Miss.

I'm not sure it's worth $5 (in fact I'm pretty sure it's not), but given the struggle of the last couple of issues of Daredevil it's nice to see a different take on the character by a new writer. The highlight of the issue, at least for me, is the art of Mark Farmer who knows exactly how to draw the hero in action. For fans.

The rest of the issue, including Daredevil being interviewed by someone else in the near (far?) future and Elektra kicking Stick‘s ass for fun, sets up the challenges of taking the devil out of Hell's Kitchen. Oh, and also an old acquaintance of Matt's appears with bizarre unexplained powers and a knowledge of his secret, so, um. yeah, there's that too.

Despite the tease of her death, Kristen McDuffie turns out to have been spared Goldy's actions leaving us with a relieved Matt Murdock who still has plenty of questions about Goldy's insane actions and what is really driving him.

When he doesn't go looking for The Hand, The Hand comes for Daredevil who is attacked by Elektra‘s old friend Aka who our hero has trouble locating. Toying with Daredevil, it appears Aka is a true believer in The Hand and its prophecies which suggest whatever comes next will not be a pleasant experience for the Devil of Hell's Kitchen (but also maybe, just maybe, our story can finally get started).

The comic is filled with Daredevil's uncertainty of his actions, and where they will lead him, but none of that changes his plans.

Aside from Elektra's antics, the rest of the comic picks up with Daredevil‘s attempts to rehabilitate the super-powered convicts he broke out of prison in the last issue. Let's just say it's a work in progress, and despite all his words of help he hasn't yet told a single one about the war he needs them for as canon fodder. As Daredevil's plans get off to a shaky start, they have at least caught the attention of his adversary.

3.5 Razors, Daredevil, Elektra

Fine for what it is, but you won't miss anything skipping the title for a month.

Oh, Daredevil. You've jumped the shark.

Is Dead of Winter: Good Good Dog a comic I'm likely to stick with? No, not really. However, for a single issue I was entertained. For fans.

It's not for everyone, but Deadpool fans should get exactly (no more, no less) what they expect. Worth a look.

The logic of a good Daredevil story has never been as important and the humor and wackiness, and this issue has both in spades. I particularly like the instance where Daredevil calls out Matt Murdock on labeling anyone else crazy based on Daredevil's own questionable decisions. Worth a look.

As a first issue of The Defenders works well by introducing us to the various members and providing a threat reasonable (if admittedly kind of dumb) enough to force them together. Still, it's got some funny bits and the Silver Surfer, which should be enough to get me to buy the next issue or two. However, unless the threat of the month, the art, (or preferably both) improve in the next couple of months, I'm not sure how long I'll stay with this version of The Defenders.

The second issue is still worth picking up on a very slow week in comics, but despite being my only chance to get a Silver Surfer comic every month (don't even get me started on Matt Fraction‘s version of the character in The Mighty Thor) this month's issue does nothing to convince me that this comic will be worth picking up every single month. Only two issues in, The Defenders feels much more like an occasional read. Hit-and-Miss.

We don't get into what the threat is large enough to call on the Defenders as the first issue is mainly about the reluctant characters (all except for Loki) being forced together into action by events well outside of their control.

The idea of villains using politics to attack heroes isn't a new one (most notably with DC's Lex Luthor becoming President). By the end of the issue, Fisk has the heroes on the run as even to help pull New Yorkers out of burning buildings makes them a target for Fisk's goon squad. The team's solution… Tony Stark for Mayor? Um, okay?

This is your typical middle issue to a series laying foundation for conflict around the corner, suggesting Otto has his own plans for the technology offered him by the Baxter Building, and giving one hero a brutal ass-kicking. While Spidey is out, I don't see Beyond or other heroes leaving him out to dry (as his identity would likely compromise others). So, who might show up for a save?

The opening issue which introduces a talking cat along with hinting of plenty of old magic and mythology which suggests Doctor Fate may could struggle to find its own peculiar corner of the DCU. I'm curious to see if he flourishes or flounders. For fans.

Two issues in I'm still on the fence about Nassour as Fate. There's certainly plenty of room for Nassour to grow into the role, and I like the character, but Doctor Fate has always been one of the most powerful magic users of the DCU and it looks like some time before Nassour will ever truly command that much knowledge or power. I also have to wonder about previous Fates. Did they exist in the DCU after the New 52 relaunch? If so, are they living or dead, and might we see someone like Kent Nelson show up as potential ally or rival? Given how shabily DC relaunched its characters without answering basic questions about their backstories I have to wonder if they've even considered these questions. Until they do, and until Nassour truly grows into his role as the new Dr. Fate (complete with costume, please), I'm likely to stay a bit wary of this title. For fans.

In a classic Peter Parker set-up, several of the comic's issues deal with Khalid's absence (he is in Egypt after all) and how his new responsibilities are hurting both his family life and school. Even after he gets himself free from the embassy our hero still has plenty of challenges to face. Worth a look.

For those like me who haven't been keeping up with the events of Earth-2, the annual does a fairly good job of getting you up to speed and teasing you with reasons to think about picking up the title. Given it's emphasis on Pratt's story I'm not sure it's worth picking up on its own but it has me considering paying a little more attention to what is happening in the monthly title. Hit-and-Miss.

Definitely a niche comic for those wanting all the Spidey-related content they can get their hands on, but far from a must-read.

As with most Aspen comics, effort is taken to get the character into various levels of undress on multiple occasions (and get her naked feet oddly highlighted in a couple of random panels which seems to really be playing to a select clientele). While not that memorable, the comic does its job of setting up its core character and world, although longtime fans are likely to enjoy this one more than first-time readers. For fans.

Reprinting an issue of an arc from a couple of years ago works to make people aware of the comic, although it ends on a cliffhanger and makes finding out the end of the story more trouble than its probably worth for most casual readers. For fans.

Even if they aren't together yet, it does appear that the family is ready for a reunion.

In somewhat of an odd way to launch a new title, Fantastic Four #1 only gives us one member of the team and sticks him in a time loop for the entire issue.

I liked this first issue more than I thought it would, especially the Sin storyline, but I'm far from convinced this isn't going to get worse before it gets better. Hit-and-Miss.

After returning the character to the comics for the first time in decades and actually finding a way to make me care about Captain America's former sidekick, Ed Brubaker isn't even on hand when Marvel Comics and writer Matt Fraction decide to kill him at the hands of the Red Skull's daughter. Sigh. It may be worth a look, but don't expect it to be a pleasant one.