Im bowled over by both the organic fleshed out art and the humanising touches to the synths. This is shaping up to be a great stage two in Marvel's Alien lore.

In the words of editor Sarah Brunstead Even in an era of X-Men that is famously and belovedly soapy, these core relationships stood out; no other book was doing it that way. Great insights all and also every word struck a chord to all of us that have been through their journey with them all these years as well as those who came aboard more recently. In my humble opinion it is true that in the recent age of Krakoa this book has had more heart and depth, with or without the superhero battles than many of the others. And this issue proved it.

The somewhat jaded side of me worries this is just a tag on to the computer game, but given the team line-up is not that similar I have hopes that it has less in common with that. As such I am prepared to go along for the ride. Lets hope this time Marvel give it more of an effort and really pull out the stops to give us some dark magic and horror in time for Halloween and the return of the Academy for their Finals.

I was not as enthralled as I was last issue and Im hoping for so much more next time to ensure the pacing is ramped back up to the quality of the previous instalment.

A surprisingly deep character analysis of what can sometimes be two very difficult characters to relate to. So much so I barely noticed the lack of Honey B...Scout. All of which makes me see this was the team up I never asked for and didnt expect to love as much as I did.

And so finally we have a hope that Clea can do what she has set her mind to from the start and bring Stephen Strange back from the dead. All she has to do is wrest control of him from the cold grip of Death herself. Easy...right? This is going to be FUNNNN!!!

An act in three parts with some major bright spots shining through. But I wanted more and felt a bit like I only got half the story.

A worthy entry into Predator lore, this story is defining itself as being the rightful heir to the yarns that have gone before it and giving us a relatable and believable protagonist. It just needs to keep the pace up in the next five instalments.

All the pieces are coming into play in an organic way, with little bits of information also being drip fed to allow us to consider the positives and negatives of the decision Magik has come to and the possible consequences of her actions.

Some twisty turns and self reflection is just what our girl needed. But the battle has just begun. The first round goes to Illyana(s) but I want more. MUCH more!! Once again the whole creative team have pulled it off. Did I say I want more??

Overall Im not as drawn in as Id like to be this issue, compared to the previous ones. Im hoping the curve ball thrown at the end will be something dramatic enough to hook me into the resolution next issue. Clearly it will need to be something special to answer all the questions raised, which is something slow building so far. It has been a long set up for a quick trip to Siancong, and I hope it finishes in a satisfactory way.

Overall story wise this issue holds its own as well as the previous two. The pacing is solid and the balance between peril and humor worked well. Especially in the offhand scene where Clea is cooking in the kitchen with Wong and gets a message from Mommy Dearest. And as a counterpoint the background threat of the Cartel also sets up more foreboding times ahead. This run is beginning to seem like a memorable start for the new Sorcerer Supreme and the irreverent way that it deals with the threats. Which is something that Strange himself has not done for several years. It just needs the art to up its game to match the storytelling.

All in all a great action packed finish to the next chapter. With crisp, clean art and well defined pacing and plot. I cant wait to see what comes next.

All in all this issue delivered some prime melodrama and characterisation, with enough to keep me guessing as to what will be the outcome and yet still not know who to root for.

All in all there is so much to reward those who read this book and have been waiting for so many loose ends to be resolved and so many past indiscretions to be answered for, not to mention the art that carried a lot of the emotional baggage.

The exciting events that unfolded this issue and insightful dialogue really made me feel in no uncertain terms this is one of the best X-books in terms of well balanced plot, characterisation and dramatic artistic interpretation. To be drawn into a psychotropic reality such as this is no easy task. And to do it in such an individual and imaginative way is never an easy feat to pull off.

I am really glad that Jed MacKay is on this book, as he keeps the pace perfectly pitched while still allowing the backstory to fill in the gaps. Meanwhile the art pops in the right places to allow the right scenes to draw the eye.

All in all I have to say this book is the gift that keeps on giving. Just as I think we are coming to the end of the drama the next stage is set and events step up a gear to keep me guessing as to what the final outcome will be.

As always the synergy is seen not only in the kids fighting style but in the creative team and the way they gel so perfectly to keep the story moving in an organic and believable way. Also on a personal note Vita...thank you for saving Gabby.

Such a low key cliffhanger, compared to last issue, but it holds the suspense perfectly and makes me excited to see the confrontation of Rahne, where Im sure all the things hiding in the shadows will be brought to light...and then Gabbys fate will be resolved...I hope

The more things change the more they stay the same. Different artist and colorist make the change smooth and not at all painful. They make the book feel exactly as it should, like Im meeting very old friends that Ive known for many years for a get together. And they all made it effortless to follow and gave me everything I needed.

Overall this issue had some strong visual keys as well as a compelling narrative that worked well together to put across the two main characters struggle and fed the story perfectly. All while still leaving questions unanswered, making me hanker for next issue. And with the truly psychedelic cover from Christian Ward, showing the grim determination of Shan, it is the perfect companion to the previous one with Dani in a similar setting.

Im loving the body politic points being raised here. This dissatisfaction of the kids is beginning to be a familiar refrain in this title and it has a lot of potential, I just hope it doesnt become too belabored. But Im really keen to find out what Shadow King is playing at. Keep it coming gang, this is one of my favorite X-titles of late.

This is not the Alien I was expecting from Marvel, I was prepared for something far mare subdued and diluted. This is a total surprise to me. Something akin to excitement is stirring deep inside my chest.at least I hope thats what it is!

More plot building than actual events this issue and the suspense is killing me. But its bubbling along nicely, with three different angles playing out together.

Despite the hodge podge of narrative text the overall story was, as Sunspot said, well overdue. I just felt the art let it down, where normally it is the stronger and more dynamic tool in the creative field in this title.

Did I think I had time for another space epic in my life? No. Was I wrong? Hells yeah!!

The sheer volume of fan favourites alone made up for the use of the name Scout and Rahnes re-emerging pack power. And the action packed training sequence was topped only by the tease of what Shadow King is up to. This is definitely keeping me on the edge of my seat.

What could have been just a basic smash and grab rescue mission managed to encompass so much more, by way of allowing us to read the thoughts of Kurt and the Red Queen. And alluding to the fate of Kate, even without seeing her. And we see both the Red and White Bishops in action. But where the hell was LOCKHEED?

Though the light hearted banter between team mates masked the lack of any true action, that hadnt already been covered last issue, I still felt this was a valid issue and gave some insight into the growing chemistry between this rag tag team. With art suited to the story and cover mirroring it all perfectly.

A cathartic and satisfying distraction from all the recent events that hint at some more game changing moves behind the scenes. I am impatient for the resolution of Shaws comeuppance but this is a resoundingly fun way to put that on the back burner for now.

Once again the story involves the kids going on a mercy mission to gather more stranded mutants, which is beginning to seem like their theme and I quite like it. Who better to look for those who are just coming into their powers amidst the fear of the outside world than those who are more relatable to them and relatively closer to them in age?

A decent sidestep, with some interesting dynamics. Welcome back Magma, dont leave us again.

The way we are finally let into the truth is actually tragically perfect, just as its perfectly tragic. Which is how death often hits. It isnt always immediate but sometimes creeps up on you and surprises you, right when you think you have a handle on it. As such the writing and art skilfully match each other to handle the tricky and often covered subject of death, one that has in the past been a revolving door in the world of the superhero.

Overall I have to say for me the risqu nature of the delivery this issue was genius. Though the humour could have seemed heavy handed and not in keeping, it was a delightful change from all the nation building drama and death going on, necessary as it is. This sweet sappy dessert is the perfect antidote to the heavy meal served up in the other Dawn of X titles.

The true magic is that Duggan and his team manage to keep the focus diverted from the end of last issue without even hinting at the outcome. And yet still manage to tell a compelling story with many other intriguing threads.

Consequences abound with some interesting questions raised. Not only the thorny issue of the mutant memory, but also the unforgiving perception of the wider world. Welcome back to the X-Men Beak....oh you know the rest.

Things are taking a turn for the worst from every conceivable angle and its getting hard to see where there will be any respite. The writing and art are the most in tune theyve been the whole series so far. Which is great news for readers.

A fine ending to a fine first year in the new home of Boom! Studios. Keep it coming guys, youre doing great.

Another full on action packed issue matched perfectly with the drama and dialogue. The hits keep coming.

Overall this was a solid start to what promises to be a necessary chapter in a strong continuing narrative, and not just an afterthought for the hell of it.

Another clever gear change, which adds the new pervasive threat to the story and amps up the drama level perfectly. Dark foreboding times are ahead.

Out of this world fun romp with the kids as they go toe to toe with some heavy hitters.

Going right for the jugular this issue. Full on offensive on all fronts, with some signposting of future planning and I couldnt be happier.

An insightful look at two complicated and essentially flawed characters, which offers a glimmer of hope that both have the chance of redemption, while also remembering that both have the potential for great heights of betterment as much as horrific tragedy and doom.

More questions raised while still not having answers to existing ones, but overall even despite denying me enough of Storm a fun issue. With some intriguing possibilities and satisfying confrontations.

As the story changes so soon after relaunch it proves once again that the New Mutants are always at the forefront when it comes to not letting the grass grow under our feet and manage to keep us guessing and not get complacent with a good old bait-and-switch.

This one surprises me in terms of how well characterised and drawn it is. One of the more upbeat and genuine of the Dawn of X titles, true to the ethos of the namesake as well as perfectly in keeping with the new era. Oh and just one request...more Lila please??

Some smart talkin, some fightin, and some backstabbin. Yeah this was Firefly alright!

Bold moves and even bolder colours. An incisive way to reveal what we already knew was a foregone conclusion and still make it intriguing.

Despite the huge cast of characters in the main story, its the secondary back up tale that is more intriguing . A rare occasion in an annual. As such it deserves the most kudos.

Two generations of X-Kids working in tandem at last? This is everything to me!!!

For fans of Laura Moon this one comes with built in satisfaction guaranteed. And is a true testament to how a great novel can successfully transform itself in to another form.

While the story kept me guessing as to what was going on the art made a great impact itself, making the scenery come alive. Shiny!

A slow start but delivered a satisfyingly explosive ending, which held true to the ethos of the overall franchise. Despite the introduction of the forgettable male lead.

The pace is matched to perfection by the humour and drama. And the art only adds to the feel of the energy within the story.

Once again this book continues to enthral without throwing the familiar trappings or tropes at us. As such it deserves my respect and admiration.

Perfect finish and opener to the next chapter. The way forward has been cleared as things begin to take on a definite momentum.

A great start to a new adventure for a team that has strong potential within for so many reasons. Let's go pirating.

The action kicks in just as I was falling asleep, like Hicks on a dropship transport.

A decent reflective account of Stranges progress since first encountering Kanna and his knowledge of the merging of science and magic.

As we get closer to the finale this adaptation ensures I am discovering a whole new side to the story. And my need to once again read the book is seizing me with new vigour.

Once again the art does the heavy lifting in a story that really could have been a total car crash.

Back in familiar territory at last with a story more suited to Strange and his personality. With some up close and personal interaction and mild threat of a breach in the dimensional barriers thrown in. As well as a bit of cosmic plumbing for good measure.

Feet firmly rooted in the real world and still there is a compelling story to tell. Even in the everyday humdrum family life, with no glamorous distractions, there are deeper dilemmas and heavier implications.

A bewitching experience and an enlightened alternate look at a well known and well worn story.

A bit of a let down in terms of follow on from Resistance. I only hope the next couple of issues pick up the pace in terms of plotting and characterisation.

So this is the way the universe ends. Not with a bang but a whimper.

I was sceptical upon hearing this title had changed homes, but there is nothing lost at all in tone or quality. In fact its almost like the continuation of the TV series we never got. Shiny!

I dont think Ive enjoyed a Gaiman novel adaptation this much since Neverwhere. For me this even surpasses the television show in many ways.

A touching if all too brief return to the eyewitness viewpoint in the world we all know and love, with fresh insight and another nostalgic look back at the varied history of the Marvel universe.

An unexpected twist on top of an already eventful tale. This was a treat of an issue with much to digest.

Another epic instalment that deserves to be given more of a sprawl of an arena than the restrictive format of one title alone. Despite this injustice it still manages to make a large impact.

An intriguing idea that just doesnt seem to follow through on its potential. The magical tip of an iceberg that could have rocked the boat for all wielders of science and magic. If only it were given the stage it deserved.

Without even seeing the eponymous villain of the story we have opened with a compelling enough reason to return. This series is looking to be just as dynamic and interesting as the last. No small feat.

As diversions from the main character go, this was very well written and engaging.

A bit of a mixed bag of a finale. Some disturbing elements with very contradictory consequences. To say its been a challenge is putting it mildly. But for those who dont like it easy its been a fun ride.

A Vision Quest that leads us to the next important stage in the story, as well as giving a key piece of knowledge to inform the whole purpose of the existence of Shadow.

The end is in sight and I for one am enjoying the car crash. Whatever he has planned I am in it until the bitter end. Buckle up kids, we are in for a bumpy ride.

Its all over, and as Remy would say...I dont love it. And though I wish this could go on forever, this was a fitting finale. Lets see what Hickman will bring us. Though if he undoes all of Kellys great work I wont be best pleased.

A wonderfully insightful look into the way Hellboy is seen by the Everyman, that gives credence to the phrase never judge a book by its cover.

As the final act kicks in we are heading for a memorable conclusion, regardless of what else is to come after the dust settles.

Things are finally falling into place. And although my hopes of Rahnes death being faked are looking less likely, this is still rounding out to a solid finale.

Another fine example of how adaptations can truly open up the story, by adding a new perspective and including the reader in events. This continued collaboration is making for a seamless follow on to the unfolding story in a perfectly harmonious way. To say I'm low key loving this is an understatement.

This title is going from strength to strength. Each titbit of information is keeping me intrigued as to how it will be resolved and each dilemma has me guessing as to how it will progress. This is a sure sign of great storytelling.

This story is becoming a fast favorite for me, not least because we get to see the return of the wonderful Clea, but because Mark Waid has taken what could have been a completely banal plot point and made it intriguing.

With an ending that I hadnt expected, that still delivered a satisfying conclusion, yet offers so much more still to come. Bravo gang.

Some amazing art that sadly falls apart without the solid foundation of actual written narrative.

Great way to segue the Merry Married Mutants back into the larger plot and the hero biz.

A fitting return to classic style with a narrative that suits the traditional Doctor we all know and love.

Not the best issue overall in the arc. Rosenbergs writing is at least consistent but the art was distracting and not in a good way.

A lot to take in and some considerable bending of characters, though not impossible maybe a little improbable.

Magic comes home and witnesses the dark things that live there.

A stunning end to the final arc that kept the two linchpin X-Men cut off from both Cyclops and his new Uncanny team and also the Age Of X-Man event. And the closing of this story lands them back on Earth with a bump.

All in all I have to say this adaptation reassuringly remains in safe hands and I cant think of anyone better to take us through the trials ahead than this team.

This one got me right in the feels. The takedown of two characters, at least one of them well loved, will not be an easy pill to swallow. Denial sounds like Danielle.

Hard to come up to the standard of last issue but this did so admirably. And we barely get to catch a breath before we are off again. P.S. Many humble thanks for the shout out to Comicwatch on the cover.

Maybe Ripley shouldnt have taken a break on this one after all? The guys did well, but theres no replacing the bugbuster supreme.

Keep on keeping on. This book has been pulling in the numbers and keeping people guessing from the inclusion of Team Cyke. I for one look forward to every single issue so far. Each one has delivered plenty of new and exciting twists each time out the gate. Not many titles can say that.

This is a great title for showcasing this couple alone and without being drowned out by the larger family and I am definitely enjoying their alone time. But I also want them back in the bigger picture soon.

This story is so far distinctly by the numbers. The art did little here to mask the tomfoolery with the new character, who did nothing to engage me but instead alienated me further.

Some resoundingly satisfying payback against enemies of the past. As well as touching base with familiar faces and resolving some old issues. Not even one single complaint here.

One step closer to perfection and a version of the Uncanny X-Men I believe in wholeheartedly.

All in all my favorite issue so far. Cannot wait for the next instalment.whats that you say? Next week? Dreams really DO come true.

Some interesting sidestepping of action for the sake of development. But one key aspect is missing, the sheer will and determination of the women we know can do better. While they wool gather we can at least take in the spectacular scenery.

Was there a big delay between issues? Yes. Did it matter? Not really, no. Still managed to not only engage me, but also get me hooked all over again.

In what has so far been a tale grounded within the real world, we now take an inventive and refreshingly cooling dip in the pool that is Dream and a delightful divergent trip it is too.

The daughter of xeno hunter extraordinaire, coupled with an ex marine with a survival instinct. Both with a score to settle. Say it with me gang..."OORAH!!"

Short and not so sweet tale with tragic consequences. But still giving a glimmer of hope for the future, with the rescue of some lost loved ones, friends and team mates.

A tidy finish with some resolution in the status of the supporting cast as well as peace made between Kanna and Strange. Perfect set up for the next stage in the drama.

Anarchic, alarming adrenalin rush. The klaxon sounds. The shadows come alive. The breathing becomes labored. The heart rate quickens. The screaming begins. Pack up the damn cat and run. For all that is holy...RUN!!!

A standout Gambit issue as finally the focus isnt all about Rogue. Look out Longshot, theres a new star in town. LONG AIR GAMBIT will be the cry after that exit scene. I know Im rooting for the guy.

With four tales and one pin up from some of the most iconic artists of the title, all gathered from the past and present of Doctor Strange, the result is a fitting celebration of 400 issues of Doctor Strange in 40 pages. Multi faceted snapshots of the man who became the magical protector of the Marvel universe.

A solid issue that has much bubbling under the surface, boiling over at the finale to remind us all that magic can happen when we least expect it.

A well oiled machine that delivers hope despite the hopelessness, the peril of a species and the very real pathos and tragedy of one poor individual who has seen too much. All in the same journey. I trust the vehicle itself and believe in the journey we are on. Maybe with the return of the two stalwart and trustworthy torch bearers of the dream things can get back on track. With Logan at the wheel and Cyclops in charge of the map. Drive on guys, lets see where this takes us.

The halfway point and finally things are beginning to move. I feel my patience has been rewarded at last, though there is some anxiety about how it will all resolve itself. But isnt that the true sign of a great drama?

All in all a fitting end.but IS it the end? As with the last series, much is left open without any actual loose ends.

Diversity encourages betterment and vastly enriches our own life experience. Faced with a world without X-Men... where do we go from here?

Putting aside the McGuffin Cage and Bables blurred lines of logic and motivation, I have to say this is the turning point of the Uncanny X-Men right here. Everything else was preamble and now that Slim is back we have some definitive direction coming our way. Welcome back Summers, weve missed you.

Some underscore of foreboding with hints of hidden plot points to follow. Things are getting intriguing and I can almost hear the ominous music as Tim follows the road to his destiny.

Now in the form of Welles and Fox we can see the horror of what humanity does to its own. And while the introduction of the human enemy is made clear, we havent even gotten to the main event yet.

Some definitive action and solid plot follow through, despite some glitches. Lots to resolve but its still a wild ride.

A fitting follow on from the last arc and the thrills keep coming. With some familiar faces and new spins on old favorites this is a title that keeps on winning.

A great mix of good old moustache twirling villainy, with some light hearted humor and outrageous campy fun to boot. THWOOOORP!!!

Back on track at last with some pretty demonstrative points raised and a return to what the X-Men are all about.

We all know how weddings and social events can be overshadowed by the action and this was skilfully avoided here to ensure the narrative was the main star.

I had been greatly anticipating seeing what had occurred to this world since we last saw it. No grim and dark X-Termination here, or even the Bachalo 10th Anniversary look. Just a fiery ruin of a supposedly empty world. And that is the feeling I was left with reading this story.

A great insight into the motives of Strange and the delightful way he is perceived by those around him.

By far the weakest chapter of the story, but just manages to be saved in the nick of time at the end.

Some truly contentious arguments are raised and with catastrophic results as mankind is set between a rock and a hard place as the pawns in the battle of might vs right.

The dilemma is getting more and more intriguing and its reassuring not to have the story go straight to the event but actually have some foreboding, as well as some truly thought provoking arguments from within their own numbers.

Without the inner monologue of the previous run and the Loki scenario, there is no real way to tell just what Strange himself is thinking, Although the writing does show more insight into other characters. Mordo for instance has impersonated Strange himself in the past, so it was natural he had Casey do the same. And also he is shown as being somewhat hypocritical as he berates Stephen about the cost of magic, while using Casey as a weapon.

As the threats make themselves known, both in Tim himself and from external sources, this series is continuing to intrigue as well as charm with both characterisation and plotting, without rushing too fast to appease the quick fix and is true to the original vision of its creator.

With all the hallmark drama of a well rounded epic X-Men adventure, the inclusion of a new iterations of familiar characters turning up at the door to threaten the X-Mens very existence has the tried and tested feel of a truly grand saga.

The battle of the previous issue as seen through the eyes of Rogue and Xandra. With a new wrinkle in the status quo of a linchpin X-Man, a heart warming conclusion and segue into the future of the happy couple

This isnt Mojo Worldwide story, which was just homage fodder with no longer lasting implications. This is refocusing and redefining the X-Men. A mammoth undertaking that is already shaping up to create ripples that will have far reaching implications for the future. Ten weeks is a long time to wait, but its beginning to become worth it.

Having once taken part in the Alien War Experience in the Trocadero Centre in London back in the 90s, here I could almost once again feel that claustrophobia and adrenalin rush. Sadly as it was removed in 96 there is no chance of a return. So I always love an opportunity to revisit that memory and this is as close as I will ever get. Bravo gang.

As the big 400 looms what better nemesis to return than Stephens oldest adversary. A solid issue with Casey being the unsuspecting weapon wielded by a bigger threat, looming like a shadow over Strange.

Already an epic sprawl with the first issue raising so many more questions than it answers. Im so glad this is weekly as the suspense waiting for a month could have been killer. Full steam ahead I say.

Some fun, irreverent off the cuff humor and a good old fashioned team up with the spotlight firmly on our hero Iceman, which is where it belongs

Kat Howard and company succeed in pulling a completely different rabbit out of the hat. A highly promising start, with a seeming reboot or the telling of another version of Tim in a refreshing new light.

Great mix of drama, action, suspense, angst, and inner turmoil. I cant wait for the next installment of this wonderful saga.

A visually stunning feast, with no actual ingredients. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder there is something to be said of substance. And there was none of that here.

Overall a solid characterization, although a little short on interplay between Emma and Bobby, with an ambiguous outcome for the Frost family.

A safe return back on home ground, in what could have been a challenging transition, with the artistic talent making for a truly smooth landing.

The diminutive lone warrior has again taken on the big guns and is winning where it counts. Defiant to the last, no fate but what we make.

Overall a great mix of creative talent, with everyone getting an equal share of the spoils and delivering a view of Domino in their own definitive voice. All of whom manage to seamlessly blend the larger story into one grand piece, without the narrative or art coming off jarring. A major achievement considering the vastly different cast of Unusual Suspects on hand.

Stunning finale to the first arc with some truly spectacular visuals, which might have overshadowed the writing a little, but not much.

This title started off well and is going full steam ahead. With a supporting cast of stellar proportions, it can only go one way. To the stars.

A tale that includes all the hallmarks of what the X-Men is all about, without any hint of the heart and soul that gave previous incarnations of the team the life and energy we love. For the first time ever I am relieved to see the end of an X-title, which saddens me greatly.

Too many cooks spoil the broth. A hodgepodge rushed fill in issue with distracting art that was far too disjointed compared to the smooth and satisfying work of the previous two issues, with a story that didn't cover all the bases and so the game was lost on me.

Averyunsatisfying finale to a disjointed and clumsy arc, with no forethought or feel for the characters, hero or villain. Its as though Marc Guggenheim has decided as its ending he doesnt need to even bother.

A perfect marriage of humor and drama with just the right touch of ridicule to keep Remy in check, with the right ensemble characters. After all, the bride had to shine and she clearly took center stage here. Go get 'em Rogue.

As a finale to the series, this is becoming sadly lacking. There was some improvement in recent months in this title for Storm, but this is not the woman we know. The penultimate issue coming next and Guggenheim is really going to have his work cut out for him to dig himself out of the hole hes created.

Until Wolvie goes this team will always suffer a little from being unrelatable. Though it has improved with Khan gone and even Iron Lad isnt as vapid and boring as before. Maybe with the return of the original Exiles, things can improve and the team can really get off the ground?

Has Lucy got what it takes to survive the night against an unstoppable enemy? So far she is giving him a real workout. The city of New York is almost a character in its own right here as with the movie. Let's see who's side it will be on, I think Lucy has the home team advantage so far, but the Terminator already makes it clear not everyone is on her side.

The only thing missing was Bats. With the end reveal of the last issue that he is still active in Bleecker Street and has possibly gained news of what could be behind Stephens dilemma this was an omission that was less frustrating than the chopping and changing of narrative this issue and Im sure he will turn up with the answers we need. Similarly the cliffhanger of issue #2 and the mysterious individual aware of Stranges goings on while goings-on off the Gryndan homeworld is also conspicuous by his absence, but Im positive this is going to come to light soon and they are also keeping score.

A severe disappointment and not how I thought this would pan out when I began reviewing the title. And Im talking artistically not historically.

Storm must battle a mysterious figure from her past! But with the true nature of Stormcaster revealed, can Storm trust her powers any more?

Storm must battle a mysterious figure from her past! But with the true nature of Stormcaster revealed, can she trust her powers any more?

Mr & Mrs X #2: Love & Marriage Part 2. Technet, Deadpool, Shiar Imperial Guard.What could possibly go wrong?

Hunt For Wolverine: Mystery In Madripoor #4. Past and present clash in a final battle on an island of secrets and sin! What darkness lies within Sapphire Styx? Can a ghost from the past save Psylocke from oblivion?

Storm goes back to the Kenyan village where she was once revered as a Goddess…except now it's true…isn't it? What IS the deal with Stormcaster? Find out next issue.

Exiles #6. The Exiles land in the Old West! A dusty town of innocents is under the thrall of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, The Toad, Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver and their sharpshooting leader, Magneto! But this town aint big enough for all those mutants, and the Exiles arent about to let the Brotherhood get their way. Saddle up for a wild ride with guest artist Rod Reis! On Sale 8th August 2018!

Follow www.idwpublishing.com to find out when The Crow will return, as it surely must!

If this were being made into a movie this would be the part where you'd take a comfort break.

Well Bats is back and so all is right with the world once more.

Will Rachel be the villain or merely the pawn in the events to come?

Bring on round 2 and the pitched battle to come when Magneto regains consciousness and Storm gets her turn for revenge. It's going to be electric I'm sure.

It all looks very shiny and full of spacey goodness but we need to know who the big bad is and SOON so I forget to focus on plot holes.

The shock value aside this had some deeply emotional scenes that deserve to be explored in more depth. And now Wolvie is back, will he take Kitty to a bar and set her up to fight with Juggernaut and make her pay for hurting Pete?

Still not my Exiles. Hurry back Kevin and Talia!

Xerxes has risen. We need now only to see the man who will rival him, in the form of Alexander.

Now the dust has settled we can all breathe and relax, ready for the real drama ahead. The day thats been nearly thirty-eight years in the making, let the Wedding March begin.

Taking us into space, a not too familiar ground for Doctor Strange, Mark and Jess have cleverly wiped the slate clean ready to give us a totally different take on the world of magic. Lets see where the journey takes us.

With the finale to come will Raphael feel he deserves such retribution or will he deny Davids will in the belief that he is righteous and David is an abomination of his God?

A fun and furry finale to a furiously fiendish fable.

As the finale of this arc looms next issue and the wedding due in the one after, not to mention the set up for Rachels new status, its full steam ahead.

Cates gives us an outstanding finale that returns Strange to his roots.

A heart-warming farewell to Kitty from BOTH of her fathers.

With the weird action and characters this issue Im sensing someone is trying to channel Chris Claremont's much loved Cross-Time Caper arc from Excalibur. This must stop, NOW!

Given the end result of the battle in space, which WAS epic and decisive, could it not have been amply covered already…in Poison X?

We now know the reason for Xerxes thirst for vengeance and death and his ire of the Grecian warriors. All that is needed now is the rise of a champion to stave off the bloody battle he brings to the shores of Greece.

A nice twist to the hero/damsel in distress trope as Kitty comes to the rescue of the Knight in Shining organic steel.

Added points for the Amazing Fantasy Spider-Man homage cover by David Nakayama, complete with onlooking Black Bolt & Medusa. A fine touch that fed into the bizarre world perfectly.

A return to form and puts The Crow back on the road to its true origin set out by James OBarr almost thirty years ago.

Too many Symbiotes, not enough Sympathy. Must dig deeper!

The art itself is stunning, from the battle lines being set up in the dawning sun to the bloody fighting itself.

This whole epic was worthy of Sin City, with high stakes and huge gambles taken and people risk everything for the biggest prize of all. Their very souls.

Nothing like a friendly meal with the ex to sort out your priorities.

The whole addition of the cartoon element was a letdown, in what would have otherwise been a vast improvement on the last issue, sorry to say.

Arif Prianto's colors are again perfect and suit the new artist style admirably. And yes, of course, the artist changed again this issue and though I really loved the art last issue, Michele offers something new as the atmosphere is starkly different from the last few issues and the battles the team have faced.

The constant repetition of the impending threat, though necessary to inform each new character is a little dull and reminds me of the dad in Silent Hill who CONSTANTLY describes his daughter to NPC's he meets in the game and this drags the pace down somewhat. Though we only have two to go so hopefully next issue this will pick up.

Even in his darkest hour Strange can rely on his friends to rally round, whether its a dust-up in a Necrotic Realm or a much needed mental slap round the chops from Bats.

The art here really showcases the talents of Sequiera and Luiz on pencils, Smith and Olazaba on inks and also last but not least Prianto, Tartaglia, and Fernandez with some dazzling colors. This whole team seems to really get their teeth into the action.

Not long to go now until the grand finale and its all to play for as we enter the final round. Does the House always win? Lets hope not…for all our sakes!

Trial by fire pays off for the newbies. Pyro and Magma are on fire without even using flames.

Champagne for my real friends and real pain for my sham friends. Who can you trust in Hell if you cant trust a witch and the God of Lies?

With so many changes from last issue it could have been a struggle to keep things ticking but an admirable job was done by all concerned from artist to writing team. Keep it up, guys.

As prison stories go this is looking to be an interesting one and Im sure Storm will be taking her familiar fighting stance very soon. Put em up Cal, you could be in for a rough ride!

Cates never fails to deliver the gold standard in tongue in cheek humor while keeping the seriousness of the plot ticking, which is no small feat.

Another fight the X-Men lose in short order with no logical reason but to move them to the next drama in prison. Lets see how that one goes and if some character insight comes of it. Maybe some support and sympathy from other incarcerated mutants?

As quick as the introduction to this latest crossover is, it delivers a grand opening and the overture is unmistakable. The deck is shuffled. All the pieces are on the board. Let the games begin.

Magic, Muscle and Mischief join forces in a truly spectacular battle royale to get the dark genie back in the bottle.

The team has yet another short order status shuffle but it has done them little good here. Someone's heart just isnt in it maybe?

The finale of this arc is going to have to pull out all the stops here and I don't think it will disappoint. I do wonder if the balance of humor may suffer when the final confrontation is played out. I hope not as its been a roller-coaster so far and perfectly balanced. Like a carefully crafted spell, it has all the right ingredients to keep us in its thrall.

Despite the big reveal at the end Storm is the runaway winner, in my opinion, this issue and it's been a long time coming. Whether it be in a powerless duel for leadership against Cyclops or for the lives of her teammates against Callisto she rises to the occasion unbeaten"EVERY single time.

The back up story with Storm was equally heart-warming, very well scripted by Nero and the blind adoration of the girl, though maybe a little overly saccharine sweet, IS the way any child would idolise their hero and given the negative assertion from all around her (even her own aunt) it was nice to see a child who's innocent opinion could not be swayed by their supposed betters.

The change of artist and colorist is not at all jarring here as the team of Lashley and Prianto hand over to Bernard and Sotomayor who perform admirably mid-arc to keep things smooth. The colors are a little brighter but it doesn't distract from the story at all and are in fact its saving grace, which is a shame as, though the plot is a solid one, the pacing and dialogue suffered compared to last issue.

The image of Strange giving up the body of Bats as an offering to the World Tree is tragic and somehow apt given it was Loki who caused the death in the first place. Strange may well have taken the bull by the horns here as he grapples with magic he has barely reckoned with and I wonder if the solution is worse than the problem. Magic this big must surely come at a cost.as we have already been warned.

Guggenheim has waxed lyrical for so long now about wanting to do a space saga story and I think it isnt living up to the hype despite a great start the last two issues. It almost seems as though hes distracted here and trying to sneak in some foreboding for Rachels fate while NOT dealing with the drama at hand.

As comebacks go this one has just come out of left field. Logan seems to have left the door wide open when he returned and now not only Xavier, Jean, Adam Warlock and Bruce are returning but they will be joined by another Marvel powerhouse. And with this one having a track record of being a God-killer Loki had better watch out.

As confused as I was by our heroes decisions this and last issue it is reassuring to see its clear now that Kologoth is the true enemy here and not the ruling party. Not only has he killed his own parents for abandoning him as a child but seemingly the only recourse his soldiers have for failure is their immediate death at their own hands. Clearly, he is a force to be reckoned with.

Casting Ritchie as the villain unable to 'move with the times' makes me wonder if there is a hidden message in there for fans from Ewing. Recent criticism for ignoring past continuity, characters origins and making established characters come out were all used to great effect here. Could this be a tongue-in-cheek way of them telling us to 'get with the times' and not be so down on changes? If so it was very cleverly done, in what could be the final issue of a fun series and a great mix of characters.

Mignola and iZombie co-creator Roberston have teamed up before on Hellboy projects and it is clear that they work as comfortably as hand in glove together. With the art of Mitten, illustrator on Rise of the Black Flame, as team-ups go its as illustrious as those of the likes of Depp, Burton, and Elfman. You know what you are getting and it doesnt fail to deliver. The score here is an unmistakeably recognizable refrain. If you listen closely you can almost hear it can't you? The approach… of Hellboy!

We didn't get to see Ink or the uniforms as hinted on the cover but all good things come to those who wait. I am also much preferring the name Kologoth to that of Kleevus originally mentioned in pre solicit listings for issue #12. Bullet dodged there I feel. Speculation was rife on some news media sites as to it being the name of another alien from previous Fantastic Four stories or just an Ike Perlmutter pet name. It could also have been a derivation of the Albanian name Klevis. Whatever the reason, I for one am glad its gone. To quote Marc Guggenheim I just came up with a name I liked better. He aint wrong.

Following on in the format of all Legacy initial issues we also have a great little recounting of the origin of Doctor Strange. Written by Robbie Thompson with art by Nico Henrichon its a fitting swan song for the artist of the last few issues who will be sorely missed. However, the title is in good hands as the colors of Jordie Bellaire are a good match for Gabriel Hernandez Waltas art. Similarly the writing talents of Donny Cates transition so smoothly it feels good to see the team is warming to the task, especially given the arc is a complete role change for everyone concerned, artist, writer, colorist, Dog Whispering Doctor and God of Lies alike.

The use of matching scenery at the end of the last segment with Magneto and the start of the main teams final battle of this issue shows genius foreshadowing, almost pointing us to the reunion that will surely follow in the final instalment over in X-Men Blue as Magneto is forced to reveal he is still alive. All going toward wrapping up in time for the two teams next separate adventures with Blue in The Cross Time Capers and Gold in The Negative Zone War AKA The Dartayus Odyssey.

Whereas before this series has been focussed on the rest of the team during Secret Empire its finally coming to light what has befallen Cannonball in a story that is centered around him and the Cannonball Run is a welcome change of pace. Its not only a shout out to current TV show Riverdale and the heady days of Archie and Jughead comics but also a tongue in cheek reference to Fantastic Four #91 involving Skrulls when Ben Grimm was sold into slavery on Kral IV, a planet where the inhabitants are obsessed with mob culture. Also the Star Trek episode A Piece Of The Action of the same era when the crew of the Starship Enterprise met up with a culture obsessed with prohibition era gangsters.

The art of Bachalo while missed has been successfully and adequately replaced here by Nowlan (did I mention it's been a long time coming for him to be given more than the odd cover to do?) giving me the feeling things are in good hands and the way forward will be as demanding and challenging for Stephen Strange as ever before. The Doctor is most definitely in. Bring in the mischief I say.

While the previous instalments have treated us to such delights as Spider-Man and the Champions tackling the barrier trapping the X-Men, Kitty telling Rachel they WILL have a discussion about her and Kurt, Jimmy calling Old Man Logan "pops", Rachel and Scott similarly discussing what she should call him (apparently dad is actually acceptable compared to adolescent dad, tyke dad or little dad) this issue hasn't given us too much to go on in the way of plot development and team interaction with Nightcrawler, Colossus and Beast in particular taking much of a back seat. While this is a common hazard with ensemble cast and the fact it's three separate teams it may just be too much to juggle story wise.