First off I have to say that I loved the misdirection that is delivered with the opening line of this series, as it not only sets us up to believe that El Guapo is a real player, and that his girlfriend is perfectly fine with the idea of his fooling around, but it also cleverly hints at the idea that his skateboard is alive, without spoiling the surprise. Now this issue is all about how membership in the X-Statix would seem to actively discourage a healthy lifestyle, as there's nothing that kills the illusion of a handsome bad boy than the idea that he's in a loving relationship with a steady girlfriend, and as such we see steps were taken to destroy this image tarnishing bit of normalcy. The book also plays up the idea that there is far more to Doop than meets the eye, as much like the backup story where he killed a mutant deemed unfit for membership in X-Statix, this issue shows us that Doop plays a very active role in keeping the members of this group under lock & key, so to speak, Read Full Review

The fact that this comic still has a letters page says it all. Even the letters are intelligent for the most part. If youve not been keeping up with the series, this is a good point at which to step in. It has everything Ive come to expect from X-Statix ever since Milligan and Allred took over the storytelling. Plus, its the beginning of a brand new character arc. If you HAVE been keeping up, then tell me please, where can I get some of those sober-up pills? Read Full Review

Allred has outdone himself this issue. His inks are light and detailed, leaving a lot of room for Laura Allred's bright colors. The result is more fluid and expressive storytelling than his usual more static compositions. Robbie's passion, his fear and his navet all come through clearly along his instant learning curve. It's a powerful issue, the X-Static world in capsule form, and a perfect jumping on point. Read Full Review