Hopsgeeknews Comic Reviews

Taking us back to the beloved Japanese-style paranormal stories that we fell in love with, A Haunted Girl gives us a tale full of mystery and intrigue. There is a layer of depth yet to be unfolded with Cleo and her story which leaves us gripping each page. If issue 1 is any indication of the monsters we will be faced with then fans are sure to be in for a treat.

I love it when we see C-tier characters shine; in these, we get some like Bat-Mite and Kadabra make appearances. This is a fun comic that I think folks should pick up because the art is insanely wonderful with the various methods, the writing delivers various depths of emotions, and all in all it's a lighthearted story with real stakes.

Christian Ward profoundly loves and understands the world of Gotham City. It's evident in this story and the copious amount of rogues we get from the Ventriloquist, which showcases Wesker's human side. And then even making Harvey Dent the hero almost amongst his duality hidden in his mind. never thought we'd see Two-Face being the one to warn Batman to save Gotham, yet he's done it. Batman City of Madness is a must-read horrifying yet beautiful love letter to the history of Batman. Do yourselves a favor and make this the number one comic you read this year.

Batman City of Madness will be a top 3 Batman tale. It is a surprisingly emotional tale that hits all of the right beats through the art, writing, and fundamental telling of Gotham City and those that inhabit it. I will be re-reading this one for a long time.

I enjoyed this blast from the past take on Batman. The team was able to give us an intriguing take on the Caped Crusader that feels different and new. This is a comic worth picking up monthly and following along.

Going deep inside the mind of Batman/Bruce Wayne is also an instant win for me as a reader. This is Batman's first big battle, and flashing forward to see how he is no longer the giant figure of Gotham he once was as we revisit his past is a gripping tale. The story also leaves us a bit of a cliffhanger in regards to a familiar faces origin story which I quite enjoyed.

Getting these Batman period pieces are a lot of fun, and the team explodes onto the scene by showcasing a heart-pounding heist and a breathtaking entry into the Batman lore. Starting with almost a cliffhanger in the opening pages has me excited to see how everybody will tie together in the coming issues.

Everyone works so well together in the creation of this fun story. Issue 5 peels back the curtain behind why Sin is under attack and delivers heartfelt and emotional moments, primarily with Harley, who brings so much heart. We are creeping closer to an epic battle that looms on the horizon, and this issue perfectly sets the scene for what's to come.

A strong entry into the Blood hunt series as our most noble hero is now fighting with himself and time as he is looking for answers. This first issue is bloody and heroic all the same and seeing Blade in this light is a refreshing departure from his usual character.

The underlying sense of horror and dread works well for this story. It really brings a crisis of faith and meaning of life which isnt something I expected yet I enjoyed.

Issue 2 continues to bring the reader deeper into the new world of Buffy. There is a compelling story and complimentary artwork that sucks the reader in from the jump. Fans of Buffy should be picking this up each month as it delivers the characters we love with a fun and mysterious new tale.

Marvel has another hit on their hands with Capwolf. From the team led by Phillips understanding that Captain America to his core will die fighting the forces of evil to the shining moment Dugan and the Commando's truly buy into Cap as the leader they did not know they had. This series is shaping up to be loaded with intense action and suspenseful and horror filled moments. I never knew I needed to see Captain America as a werewolf do battle against a legion of Nazi werewolves but here I am. Every full moon make sure you grab your blanket, lock your doors, and grab Capwolf and the Howling Commandos.

Capwolf is a thrilling and suspenseful addition into the lore of Captain America and the Howling Commandos. It adds a horror element that just fits nicely into a team that is willing to do anything and face anyone. It's honestly a really refreshing take on Captain America and showcases how brutal he can be in combat . This run is emerging as a favorite story of mine and you really need to be reading this run.

A fresh new idea for a familiar character had to go hard in a big way and the team brings to life a terrifying new version of Carnage.

DC Power #1 is a celebration, a block party. It's a stunning melting pot of heroic stories that bring out emotion and strength and tell a powerful story. We all wish we grew up with superpowers or abilities, and this issue shows that heroes can be anybody. I hope this is a comic that every kid grabs regardless of skin color because we can all learn from it. I loved this collection, and I loved how we visited heroes that don't shine nearly enough.

As a profound lover of romantic comedies, I had so much unapologetic fun with this story. Getting to spend time with some of my favorite characters, such as Barry Allen, and taking a peak behind their bravery to show that, hey, they are people..and robots too, was so refreshing. The lesson to take from The Flash's story, which we could all use in our lives, is to stop trying to be perfect, be who you are, and the rest will come.

Speedsters are at their best when faced off against one another. Simon and his crew hint towards something much darker on the horizon despite this visually stunning issue.

I overall enjoyed this Flash Annual. Between the beautiful colors and well-written story, there is a lot to be immersed in while also not giving us too much at once. This is a must-grab issue this week!

This universe and world the Ghost Machine crew are building felt a little larger in this issue. Issue #3 of Geiger brings us to a slower pace, yet, the little details and backstories give us so much more. Geiger is well on the path to becoming a household name and you should be on this train from the start.

Giant-Size Daredevil #1 paints a bloody tale of revenge and rage as Fisk is out for blood and willing to hold nothing back to achieve his goals. Though setting up a bigger story we still become invested through Fisk's eyes and I can tell you I will be picking up the follow up issue!

Sometimes, all you need in a comic is a good old-fashioned battle, which this issue brings to us happily. It's a quick read and advances Hulk leading into The Incredible Hulk.

Howard the Duck is not a serious character and this comic sheds light on that while making it a lot of fun. Fans should make it a point to dive into the various stories told by some of the best in the business and take a ride through the multiverse.

The entire team is having fun on every page across this issue. We get to see every hero have their moment to shine while also getting those "jump for joy moments when Godzilla swoops in to do battle in a way only Godzilla knows how to do. The colors are stunning, the letterers seamlessly fit into the art and the panels, and the writing shows that this team is a well-oiled machine, making us feel like kids with our toys again. I truly thought this mash-up was only something I would get in my room as a child with my action figures, and seeing it brought to life in such a well-done way has been so much fun.

This issue is much like reaching the top of the rollercoaster and then hitting that first drop. On every page, we are met with something that brings pure joy and delight. The Lantern Corp showing up, the Titans, Grodd with a Kryptonite horn, and much more. It's truly the gift that continues to give, and making the Justice League of all teams feel desperation and have their backs to the wall is not easy. The fact Lex Luthor is now suited up as Mechagodzilla alone makes this story an instant classic.

This story is what makes comics so amazing. In this story, it has everything you would want between titans battling our heroes, heroes against villains and other heroes, and so much heart. This run and this issue have been so much fun and remind me why I have gotten into comics in the first place. I'm certainly not ready for the run to end but, #6 sets up our conclusion perfectly. READ THIS AND TELL YOUR FRIENDS!

8 year old me is in heaven with this issue. The entire team deserves all of the praise as they hit every stride and every moment in this epic final issue. This may have jolted itself to one of my favorite issues of the year as we get it all. When is the animated film coming out?

Kill Your Darlings is a story not to be slept on. It's an original tale of magic, wonder, and horror all blended into one twist and turn after another. There are only two issues but, it's both fun and haunting in the tragic story they tell with Rose.

This story does a great job of hitting us hard with scenes such as a baby being eaten but, then also making us feel as though we are kids filled to the brim with imaginative adventures. The vibrant colors and the sense of adventure everyone is taking us on brings me into the story and in an odd way gets me feeling like a kid again. (no babies were harmed in my childhood.)

Kill Your Darlings is proving to be the total package. We were first taken on a lighthearted yet troubled adventure, but in issue 4, thrust into the dark and troubled mind of a girl struggling to internalize the imagination she has brought to life.

Kill Your Darlings continues to be a heavyweight for Image Comics. The grief-stricken story weighs on us in a tale of sadness on this particular issue and lets us feel a connection to these characters in a way most comics fail to do.

Issue 7 sets us up for a fantastic conclusion to this story of Rose and the world she has crafted within her mind. Answering some of our questions, such as who really is she and why is Rose so important to the land and world she's turned into reality. The writing, lettering, and imagery come together crafting some of the best story I have read in a limited run. Rose is not going down without a fight and I am readying my sword as though I am going to battle with her, that is how immersive this tale is.

I am sad to see our journey with Rose Elliott and Wallace come to an end, at least for now. It was an extremely joyous and often thrilling ride. The art and words on every page and every panel had an immense amount of love poured into them, which shows.

If you are a fan of franchises such as Pacific Rim, Godzilla, Gundam Wing, and more then this first issue will pique your interest right away. A tale of a young group of heroes that were forced to grow up fast during a surprise alien invasion is always a fun read in my opinion.

Issue 2 is a very strong issue in this run. The art and writing talent are on full display which encaptures our imagination instantly.

All in all this issue is setting up a daring rescue that could make or break our cadets and it builds upon the suspense of not knowing how it will turn out.

This issue kicks off the 12-issue arc we are now entering with Darkest Hour and it serves its purpose and then some. This run arc is going to make fans happy and welcome new fans immediately. Make sure this is on your pull list going forward!

This book is a love letter to the rich and heroic history of the Power Rangers. Every page, every panel, every word you could feel the love this team had for this book. Power Rangers is making a comeback in pop culture not that it ever truly left and this is a book for lifetime fans and new fans.

This issue takes us to a different planet where we see a familiar X-Men foe if you have been watching the '97 series lately. Iman and Sabir are given the liberty to do what they please with these characters, and the amount of love for the material is shown in the writing. Kamala is on an adventurous tale to find herself and there isn't anyone better to write her tale.

This issue leads us down a mysterious and ominous path as we face the inside of Bruce's mind, which is often more terrifying than anything Gotham could throw at us. The varying characteristics of both Kate and Batman that are showcased throughout the issue show that everyone working on this book has a true and loving understanding of the characters they get to play with in this world. This is a run that should not be slept on lest you, too, are visited by the ghosts of Bruce Wayne's past.

This is a severely underrated comic book run to which more people should pay attention. The characters shine a new light on some of the bat-family while getting fresh and new ideas. The art, along with the writing, blend, delivering a mysteriously exciting adventure.

Outsiders continue to be a sleeper hit for DC as it is continuously trippy and unique, keeping the reader highly engaged and hanging on the hook. This has become a standout for me and more people should be adding this to their pull list!

Power Rangers Unlimited: Hyperforce #1 by Flores and Camarena does an excellent job of inviting old fans and new fans alike into a gripping futuristic take on the Power Rangers.

The team assembled for this run is working in one solid fluid unit. The story has action and thriller aspects to it with some really deep cuts character wise. The shocking revelation in the end brings the whole world of Joe crashing down and invokes emotion and sympathy from the reader. The action is top notch, and I love the teases we get for the next issue like a Saturday morning cartoon.

This issue settles this story into its groove as the characters get more profound and more fleshed out. They have found something great inside the artwork to match precisely what David is laying down, as this could be a championship-caliber team for Marvel.

Ghost Machine is here. Simon's long-awaited debut did not disappoint. He's immortal, he's endearing, and he is an idiot. This tale has it all so far and certainly will have something for comic lovers from across the board.

This issue left me continuously wanting more as I was glued to every panel on every page. Everyone puts their heart and soul into their stories at Ghost Machine, and Rook is no exception. It quenches my thirst for action and adventure while making us think of the possibilities within the Wardens and creatures inhabiting this planet.

Rook Exodus #3 builds upon the anticipation the first two issues began as new players enter the board the team is hammering home how desperate our "heroes are. The blend of art and colors creates a peaceful calm while the letters and character-building draft up the feeling of unease. Issue 4 cannot come fast enough!

There is a reason why Tynion won an Eisner for the work he is doing on this series. In this issue, he does an amazing job of creating tension and holding it throughout the issue while also bringing you feelings of sympathy for these characters.

The suspense this issue continues to build is very well executed and you can feel the tension growing within yourself as the story builds and it creates an impatience of dying to know how it all ends. There is a reason that Boom! Studios should be mentioned with the heavyweights of publishing and this run is a prime example.

This story is fun. Just plain old-fashioned fun. It makes me feel like a kid again who would look at the stars and imagine a limitless story and adventure. Beneath the energy, the team underlies Ghost's tragic backstory, reminding us that no hero is without pain within. Space Ghost is absolutely dynamite and should be at the top of everyone's read pile!

Spectregraph #2 is a roller coaster of dreadful horror that leaves us gasping for air by the end of the issue. We are left with a bond between Jane and Vesper, and my only complaint is that it ended so soon. This story is an instant top of the pile read.

Issue #1 is often the most important issue as it is what captures and brings us into the world we will be playing in. The team succeeds in sucking us in immediately and really takes me back to my teenage days. The story is full of adventure, the colors and art appease our eyes, and overall it's a really fun issue.

This run is when you take a break from playing the main story in a video game to power up and do side quests. It's fun and exciting, and this issue showcases Vader reaching a new level within his force abilities, making him even more frightening. This issue has Vader using force, cutting down droids with his saber, and outwitting his opponent, all of which make him terrifying. I really enjoyed this issue.

This is a visually stunning masterpiece as we get to witness Jedi vs. one of the most feared Bounty Hunters in all of the Star Wars lore. Familiar names appear leading us to have our "pop moments while introducing fun and goofy cannon fodder for the Jedi to destroy. All in all a very fun read.

The team assembled has me excited for this run. This story has a lot of potential and exciting places we can go on this adventure. The Clone Wars era is my favorite, so I will gladly take any tale set during it, and bonus points for it being Mace Windu. I'm going to be adding this to my monthly pull list.

This issue is a light and easy read. It is perfect if you are looking to escape from the real world and go to a faraway galaxy. It captures the Star Wars spirit and simultaneously brings up real issues with the characters within this expansive universe.

This is a simple yet beautiful and tragic tale between two Sith doing one final lesson in the ways of the force. It is well drawn, and the simple yet effective use of limited words works well throughout this tale.

This story is a lot of fun and brings together two heartfelt and exciting worlds. Make sure you pick this up to read as it will be impossible to be in a bad mood afterward.

The third entry in this limited series was by far the strongest entry yet. The entire team brings their absolute best and it shows in this issue. We continue to build up to an epic finale and all of the characters are shining brighter than ever across both franchises and this story just makes so much sense.

The entire team really sticks the landing in this finale. We see our heroes come out on top with some exciting and fun standout moments. Fans of Stranger Things and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will be turning every page in excitement. The story was filled with comedy and suspense, and we even meet new aliens adding to the mythos for each franchise. As it finishes I can't help but recommend this short run to readers everywhere. Grab a slice of pizza, don your weapon, and pull this comic at your LCS!

This is a great issue that sets up our arc and allows us to once again play in a fun galaxy. Boom! Studios has continuously proven themselves a mainstay in the industry and The Armory Wars further proves why!

It is refreshing, dark, yet there are funny moments such as Batman hiding his face from Commissioner Gordon. I am excited to see where the mini series takes us and to explore the grotesque creatures in Gotham's underbelly.

This issue is brutal, sometimes gory, and will suck you into its shadows without hesitation. Batman The First Knight is a must-grab for fans of Batman and even newcomers alike. Exploring a Bruce Wayne who is learning and on his own helps us appreciate the man even more and this team is nailing the tone they have set out to establish in book 1.

This issue is bloody and violent, as a Western tale should be. The story is laid out perfectly, and the artwork compliments this tale. I am fully on board and cannot wait for issue #2 as this story has a lot of potential to it. Make sure you add it to your list!

This is a fun comic that appeals to all ages. It is a classic third-party telling of a character I don't feel we dive into enough with Damian. Diving into the weight he carries as the son of Bruce Wayne and what that means to him on his search to prove himself can also serve to teach us about our place in life.

The Boy Wonder is a tale told through a child's looking glass, showing us a different perspective of Gotham, specifically those who help fight Batman's war. It's a story that has plenty of action, intense dialogue, and meaning that we can all look and use deep within ourselves.

This issue is bursting with things to love. We see the battle of wits between two strong characters, an insane amount of detail within the art, and elements of old school thrillers and shows. As far as original stories go The Devil That Wears My Face is a standout in the horror genre. Make sure to continue picking this book up as its full steam ahead to a sure fire epic battle and conclusion.

We began telling a horror story and have transformed genres, which is a testament to Alex and David's ability at storytelling. Mad Cave has a banger on its hands, and once more people discover this tale, it won't be long until we watch this on the big screen. Every month, this story should be on your pull list. It's Indiana Jones meets Tom Hanks in Davinci Code meets The Exorcist. What more can you want?

One of my favorite things as a kid was sitting down next to my grandfather and watching an old Western tale. The days of Clint Eastwood or John Wayne always running on his tv and the old good vs evil battle raging on in the middle of nowhere towns.

If issue 1 had you on the fence then issue 2 will pull you head first into the deep end. This duo is at the top of their game in this issue putting on a clinic of storytelling.

This story took a fun and emotionally gripping turn that added depth to a straightforward story. The duo brings this story to life and really does it justice. I think there is room for Westerns to make their comeback and we can point to this run as the starting point.

If you continue to sleep on this mini series I feel bad because, it is perhaps Image Comics strongest run currently on going. The duo are bringing back the desire for a great Western tale while making us feel real emotions for everyone involved.

If there is one way to bring someone into a new world it is how the team does it with issue #1. A mix of violence and intrigue leaves you in awe wondering just what comes next in the story. An alien species invading Earth alone is enough to bring me into this world but, when you add explosive action and the threat of a spy thriller then if you aren't picking this up you are sorely missing out. Be warned this issue is not for those with a weak stomach, Avigail is here and she is not playing around. 4.5/5 Cigars.

Magma Comix is here in a big way with this dark, bloodthirsty tale that will leave you both queezy and wanting more. I think the team assembled here is the perfect team-up as the art is so inviting that we cannot look away. Meanwhile, the writing has us guessing at every page what exactly is going on. This is going to be a comic to pull monthly and a publisher to keep your eyes out for. Do not miss out!

Magma Comix has a certified hit on their hands. It has been a while since a horror based entity has drawn me in and taken my breath away. Lanzing, Kelly, Winkle, and Lee are building a foundation and setting the standard for this genre of comic books going forward. The Principles of Necromancy #3 is gruesome, shocking, and showcases the hypocrisy of those deemed smarter or wrought with power leaving the reader with no idea what they might find as they turn the page.

The Schlub is a homerun from Image Comics and this creative team. It's a funny take full of action, adventure, and as-of-yet unexplored mythos. Comic fans should be ensuring this makes their monthly pull list.

The return of a fresh new Thunderbolts story is finding its footing with our prime lead, Bucky, who shines like a star in this one. We get to see a powerful Wilson Fisk impose fear while Natasha, who has a symbiote embedded within her, kicks serious butt. It gives Marvel fans so much to cheer for. A Natasha and Bucky romance was not on my bingo cards for top romance of 2024, yet here I am. The Hivemind, undoubtedly, has the Midas touch when it comes to fun, outlandish, and exciting stories to tell.

I love a classic Kaiju tale. I thought this issue was fun in every aspect and that the team has hit a groove that makes me sad this is only a four-issue arc. Getting to see players work together that I never in a million years could have imagined has also been a surprise and a delight for me. There is a reason Jackson and Collin are in high demand across many properties and it's evident here but, also the absolute glorious work with the lettering, colors, and art make this an unstoppable team.

Four issues was not enough with this version of Thunderbolts. The way they came together as a team and the mixture of intense action sequences and beautiful, emotional beats fills us with an immense amount of joy. I sincerely hope we can get more from this squad in the future as many tales are yet to be told.

Titans Beast World Tour Star City #1 is an adventurous and ambitious tale of finding our inner hero and saving the day at all costs. We see funny and goofy things, such as Green Lantern turning into a frog swallowing Star Girl, a sentence I didn't think I would ever type! I love a good team-up; this story is fun and well-crafted.

Boom! does a really great job bringing us back to our childhoods and delivering action-packed fantasy adventures. Uncanny Valley is no exception as it takes us to an innocent time when we were a kid and then changes tones seamlessly. This will be a run to watch as I think it will be a pleasant surprise for all. Add this into your rotation as soon as possible!

This story is finding its groove and knows what it wants to be. It walks a fine line between grave danger and leaning into the tropes of our childhood favorites. It feels like a clever and unique story that pays homage simultaneously. Uncanny Valley hits the beats and is a fun escape from reality, making an adventurous addition to any pull list.

Uncanny Valley is building a universe full of wonder and adventure, leaning into the outrageous idea of cartoons coming to life and blending in an exciting story of action and adventure. Every kid dreams of fighting alongside their favorite cartoons, and Uncanny Valley allows us to let our imaginations run loose.

This is a strong entry issue as we expand our Universal Monsters universe. The artwork and writing go hand in hand, and they craft a cinematic experience within the pages. They did a great job not giving us too much in the first issue. The creators are slowly building up their story which I believe is a strength to the comic. I am very excited to see where this goes. It will be an absolute pull each month!

Issue #2 is another strong entry building upon the lore of The Creature From the Black Lagoon. The pacing is just right the team is not shying away from showcasing the creature in any manner, even giving him some memorable moments as he rips apart those that cross him.

All in all I am really enjoying this story the two creators have seemingly fused into one mind as this is one of the most flawless first two issues to drop this year for a debut story.

We are left with uneasiness and dread by the end of this issue. The blending of art and air of a slow burn the story is serving us works extraordinarily well. Skybound has a hit on its hands, which is going to carry into a strong campaign for the early 2024 comic of the year front-runner. There is a love letter to the Dracula lore being painted throughout which gives me excitement along with the creepy feeling and goosebumps I get with every page.

Skybound has entered the world of Universal Monsters, delivering a frightening tale of its most beloved monster. The team assembled for this task hit a home run with issue #4 and this entire series. The finale delivers an air of suspense, compassion, and anguish as we see the demise of Dracula and Renfield.

I love a good thriller/mystery and this has the early signs of a great addition to these genres. As the issue ends just as we the reader, become fully immersed and need the second issue right away. DSTLRY has assembled an all-star cast and this book needs to find it's way into the monthly rotations.

This issue perfectly sets up a fast-paced conclusion to this mini-arc. You can sense Hank's desperation as he is willing to do whatever it takes to showcase he is still on the side of X-Force while also showcasing the brutal leader Logan has inside of him, ready to do the same. Another strong outing from the team that people should be reaching for immediately!

I am a big fan of Zatanna, and it is a joy to see her brought back into a different light. Zatanna Bring Down the House takes us away from potential world-ending events and delivers us a potential small-scale story with big ramifications for her character.