Part One: "Darien"-JC De La Torre, author of the critically acclaimed novel Ancient Rising, gives us a new fusion of Science Fiction and Magic in Star Mage. In issue one, Darien Connors discovers he's not from Earth, has strange magical powers and is the key in an ancient war between two alien races of necromancers. Like Harry Potter meets the Last Starfighter, Star Mage offers wizard battles with a side of spaceship warfare, alien worlds and weird creatures.
Both the writing and art are great in this debut issue. Even though we weren't introduced to a lot of characters, they're already all memorable and have their own voice which is obviously very important to portray in a comic book. I feel myself pulling for Darien since he is an outcast and has been dealt a cruel hand in life. The art does a really good job of portraying his (and everyone else's for that matter) emotions which made me even more invested in the book. I would recommend this to anyone who likes comics regardless of genre or preconceived notions like I had. I honestly can't think of anything negative to say about this first issue and I hope the second issue keeps this momentum up. Read Full Review
The comparisons with Harry Potter are obvious but Darien even has the poster on his bedroom wall. Its refreshing to see a story aimed directly at the younger generation. This could be a lot of fun. Read Full Review
Thanks to a great premise, fantastic art and tonnes of heart, Star Mage #1 is a great book with tonnes of promise. Read Full Review
This may be one to keep on your radar, folks. Read Full Review
Definitely pick up Star Mage for the world building if nothing else. The world is incredible and Im excited to learn about the magic, the war, and where this story is going. Darien has a lot of upside and now that the exposition and world is set up, Im eagerly anticipating learning who Darien is, how hell interact with the responsibilities hes inherited, and just nuanced a young wizard can be. Just saying, I think Im going to like him as a character better than Harry Potter. Read Full Review
Star Mage #1, is, by no stretch of the imagination, an amazing comic. That said, it is a pretty good comic. It does have a few problems, namely its over-reliance on tropes and the fact that parts are over written. But at the end of the day, it has a very likeable, relatable protagonist, and for now, that, coupled with the awesome plot development are enough to keep this book enjoyable. Read Full Review
Star Mage #1 is a promising comic for young readers out there looking for something along the lines of Harry Potter. At this point though, it really hasn't taken off or gotten going, leaving us with a rather typical and average opening. Once the story begins, however, I suspect we will start seeing things shine. Read Full Review
The art in this issue is well done and the story telling is interesting, if the subject matter is a little stale. I'm curious as to the villainous face of the father's killer, and how exactly this Arylos will be training the young Darien in the use of his talents. All in all, a nice solid read with the potential to become more. Read Full Review
Star Mage has put forth a decent debut and laid down some main story and plot points for the series to explore in future issues. Sure, they might not be breaking any barriers or reinventing the comic but it is a fun story that is easy to follow. Its hard to judge a story like Star Mage based solely on the first issue but there was enough in this first issue to make me interested to read more before delivering a verdict on this series. If you enjoy magic or sci-fi stories like Harry Potter or The Last Star Fighter or just want a fun adventurous story to read, then give Star Mage a shot because it might be the kind of story you are looking for. Read Full Review
Good story, good start, and a fresh change of pace from what has become the norm. This is one to watch for both old and young geeks alike. Read Full Review
If you have kids, they might enjoy this, but they'd be better off reading the series this book enjoys referencing so much. Read Full Review
All in all, this release failed to impress. As stated above, the plot, characterization, and world building were rushed. The art was of varying levels of quality. The main character is a likable sort, but would have benefited from much more development and attention to detail. The overall concept is interesting, at first, but ends up traveling a well worn road. A rather average release, with a good amount of potential, but it falls short in the end. Read Full Review
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