Sam Alexander has led a busy life as NOVA, but after all of his intergalactic gallivanting, is it time to hang up the helmet?
Rated T
It's a real shame that this is the final issue of Nova. Though only 11 issues long, this has been an enjoyable series, and this finale shows us that the team of Ryan and Smith are capable of incredible things. Read Full Review
If you've only gleaned a bit of Sam as a supporting character from the Avengers or on the Spider-Man cartoon, you owe it to yourself to learn a little bit more about one of the most relatable characters in the modern Marvel Universe. So do yourself a favor, go Nova, and pick up this issue. It's probably the most fun Marvel Universe history lesson you'll get for some time to come. Read Full Review
The one thing I won't spoil is the very last page of the book; as it sets up the future of where this Nova book is headed, but what I will say is that the book ends in a very gratifying way. With my favorite character slowly coming back onto the scene, having been one of the longest dead cult favorite heroes in Marvel history, I'm excited for the future of the Nova character(s). Sam is slowly evolving into the hero that he's supposed to be, and the whole Marvel Universe is going to be affected by the events that began in this issue. Read Full Review
Nova #11 is a great sendoff from this creative team and an important chapter in the character's history. Read Full Review
Really, there's not all that much to say about Nova #11. It's pretty much just a fun, dialogue driven issue that gives decent insights into the characters. It's not breaking any new ground for superhero comics, but it's definitely an above average one of them. It's a nice little reminder that there are books that exist just to have fun with. Read Full Review
You'll be left wanting to learn more about the Nova force and how it works. Clearly Marvel is laying the groundwork for a deeper, almost spiritual explanation for the Nova Corps, and this issue explains the almost cosmic force of the Worldmind in an interesting way. Read Full Review
This one is definitely one for Nova fans, especially classic Nova… Read Full Review
But at the end of the day, it’s unclear who Nova #11 is trying to target with this story. It’s too insular and slow-moving to draw in any latecomers. It’s too shallow and unquestioning for long-time fans. It hardly even feels like a bookend for an entire run - it feels less like a triumphant last hurrah with Sam Alexander, and more of just sedately washing hands of the character. I’m sure that we’ll see a more dynamic and effective use of Sam Alexander in the upcoming Champions series, but it's a shame that he couldn't be treated with the same enthusiasm and skill in his own book. Read Full Review
The Nova series has been all about learning to be a hero. Sam has had many mentors like the Hulk, Ironman, and Captain America. He has also had plenty of doubts about the path of a hero. Both come together in a nice way in this issue when Sam meets a new mentor in Richard Rider. Talking to the former Nova, Sam tries to make the choice of staying the hero or going back to a basic life. The story is very touching, and still feels old school. Much like the art. There is also a look at the new direction the title will be taking.