A bit of slower issue compared to the excitement from the debut, but the reveal of the new Batmobile might have been worth the cover price alone!

A beautiful finale to one of the best new comics of 2024.

Peach Momoko's Ultimate X-Men #9 builds upon the tension that has been growing over recent issues, expertly blending mutant action, cultural elements, and character-driven storytelling. Momoko weaves together multiple storylines that she’s been juggling since the debut issue, culminating in a thrilling showdown between Maystorm and Surge that takes up nearly a third of the issue.

As usual, Momoko’s artwork is stunning throughout the book, but this big showdown is definitely the highlight. With dynamic displays of power and evocative facial reactions that reflect each character's personality, Momoko shows that she’s not just someone who can draw static characters. Her action sequences can be just as meticulous and gorgeous.

Her distinct horror abilities also shine in a chilling scene where Shinobu/Shadow King) discovers this universe's Akihiro/Wolverine, revealing the sinister plot of the Children of the Atom. The cult's harvesting of Akihiro's genes to create mutant children raises the stakes, underscoring how far they are willing to go and the dire consequences of their actions. We also see that Surge is fully aware of what’s been done to her by the Maester and the other cult leaders. Instead of being angry about being experimented on, she believes it’s been the best thing that has ever happened to it. It’s a scary reflection on how much a cult can manipulate it’s members.

One of my favorite aspects of this series is Momoko's thoughtful inclusion of cultural Easter eggs throughout her stories and then providing context via additional backup notes. This issue included students preparing for the Bunka-sai festival at Irodori High School and offered a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culture. As someone with an appreciation for Japanese culture, these touches are a delightful bonus. I’m so glad Momoko has chosen to share these parts of the life she’s lived with us. more

Skybound's meticulous reintroduction of G.I. Joe IP into the Energon Universe reaches its culmination with Joshua Williamson and Tom Reilly's electrifying debut issue. Building upon the foundations laid by recent miniseries Duke, Cobra Commander, Scarlett, and Destro, G.I. Joe #1 masterfully weaves together plot threads that have been expertly laid out on the chessboard over the past year, propelling the franchise forward with exciting momentum.

Williamson establishes Duke as the leader he was destined to become, showcasing growth from his titular miniseries and a new sense of hesitation when faced with the daunting reality of leading a team against Cobra Commander’s formidable alliance of villains. The lineup of his newly formed team is revealed, boasting an intriguing mix of fan favorite characters and the inclusion of someone longtime G.I. Joe fans wouldn’t expect to be working with the good guys. Duke's doubts about their readiness to face Cobra's threat create an immediate sense of tension for what’s in store for this team when they taste battle. Williamson's writing shines, conveying the weight of responsibility on Duke's shoulders and the new threat posed by Cobra.And boy is Cobra looking like a formidable foe! We see just how far he and Destro have advanced in their mastery of Energon. This new reality establishes extremely high stakes for Duke’s mission and the series as a whole.

Overall, the issue is very well paced, building momentum that crescendos with a climactic first skirmish between the two sides. Williamson even adds references to what's been happening in the shared Energon Universe with nods to recent events in the Transformers series. He nailed every job he had to do with this first issue and then some.

I’m so glad to have Tom Reilly back for another Joe book. I loved what he brought to the Duke mini and he didn’t disappoint. His distinct character designs prevent the large cast from blending together and his dynamic action sequences are equally impressive, injecting even more energy into the narrative. Jordie Bellaire's colors complement Reilly's art, adding depth and atmosphere to the visuals. Some of the more experimental color choices are reminiscent of Bellaire’s recent work on DC's Birds of Prey series, which made the book feel a bit less special in some regards. However, the creative duo, combined with Rus Wooton’s lettering, give us a very visually pleasing reading experience from start to finish.

G.I. Joe #1 is a resounding success, delivering on its promise to unite the disparate plot threads from previous miniseries. Williamson's character-driven writing and the captivating art make this issue a must-read. With nods to other Energon Universe titles, this debut sets the stage for an explosive, action-packed ride. The stakes are higher than ever before, the creative team's enthusiasm is infectious, and the sky appears to be the limit in terms of who may show up down the road. Hop on now before you’re left behind! more

NYX #5 brings the first arc to a satisfying close, delivering a poignant exploration of camaraderie, identity and resistance. At its core, this issue is a testament to the transformative power of friendship and found family, exemplified by Sophie Cuckoo's journey.

Sophie's decision to turn against the Quiet Council marks a pivotal moment in her character development. Her bond with Ms. Marvel, forged through mutual respect and the emotional backbone to this entire series so far, awakened a sense of purpose and belonging that she never felt even as part of the Stepford collective. Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing skillfully peel back Sophie's stoic exterior, revealing a complex, vulnerable individual grappling with self-doubt and emotional scars who puts everything on the line in an attempt to make amends for her recent actions. Her resulting loss of powers underscores the tragedy of her arc.

Kelly and Lanzing's grasp of the X-Men's core themes is impressive and no better representation of it was doubling-down on Kamala's eternal optimism and unwavering push for positive change. They distill the original essence of the franchise: a community of "others" uniting against oppression of any/all kind, fueled by hope and determination. This narrative thread is expertly woven throughout the issue, echoing the real-world struggles of marginalized groups throughout our own history. This may feel tone-deaf in a time when the majority of the American electorate recently chose hate over hope, NYX #5 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, organizing, and supporting one another.

If there's a criticism to be made, it's in the pacing which feels somewhat rushed. The plot leaps forward from the previous issue, and the characters' accomplishments within a 24-hour timeframe are a stretch. A more gradual build-up over another issue or two would have enhanced the narrative's impact and given the characters even more time to shine.

Francesco Mortarino's return to art duties this issue and is joined by newcomer Elisabetta D'Amico on inks. The duo complement the stories' deep context with expertly illustrated facial expressions that convey a wide-range of emotions for every character. Raúl Angulo's colors were also impressive, with no better example than the final panel which pulls back the scope to beautifully reveal the grand scale of Prodigy's street art.

NYX #5 is a triumphant conclusion to the first arc, with Kelly and Lanzing delivering a poignant, empowering narrative. While pacing issues were somewhat limiting in allowing the payoff to feel completely earned, the creative team's passion and understanding of the X-Men's core themes shine through in spades.
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The good news is that Vincenzo Carratù absolutely nailed the action sequence art in Psylocke #1!

Unfortunately, the art was the start and the end of the highlights for me. Alyssa Wong’s script wasn’t bad by any means, it just didn’t make me think this series had a reason for existing (other than lining Marvels pockets). The issue begins with Cyclops sidelining Kwannon from joining their next team mission because of her recent behavior. Had she really done anything in Jed MacKay’s X-Men that warranted this decision? This sets up what Marvel promised for this series — Kwannon using her assassin training to take on missions that are “too dirty” for the X-Men. Sounds interesting, but that’s the basically the plot of any Wolverine solo.

Beyond this setup, the character beats felt like standard storylines writers have been giving Kwannon ever since she took back the Psylocke mantle. Are her identity issues a new problem that can sustain a solo series? I love Kwannon so I’m hoping Wong introduces new wrinkles to the character.

As Marvel announced more and more solo X-titles, I began to worry they were going for quantity over quality and so far they haven’t done much to assuage my fears — especially for the female-led titles. Storm has been one of the few bright spots, but that has only had one issue to date and for some reason Marvel has taken nearly two months to release the second issue. Phoenix has had it’s ups and downs, but has been plagued with behind-the-scenes issues related to allegations that the series artist was tracing designs from past Marvel works. I know this was a negative review, but I’m rooting for Psylocke. I really am. more

Jeff Lemire's debut on the Justice Society of America marks a new chapter for the team, but unfortunately, it stumbles out of the gate. Picking up after DC’s Absolute Power event, Lemire dives headfirst into the team’s internal conflicts. While Lemire's intentions are clear, the conflict feels manufactured, lacking organic tension unless you have an encyclopedic memory.

The debut issue’s biggest misstep is its inaccessibility to new readers. Without prior knowledge of the large cast of characters and their relationships, the dramatic scenes fall flat. Lemire's writing assumes a level of familiarity that may not exist for many readers. The reliance on prior storylines from Absolute Power and its tie-ins, as well as the JSA’s decades-long history, creates a barrier for the average reader. Editor's notes would have made navigating the multitude of interpersonal relationships that drive the issue’s drama a lot easier.

Diego Olortegui's artwork, paired with Luis Guerrero's colors and Steve Wands' lettering, yields mixed results. Some panels shine, while others feel average. Character designs and action sequences are decent, but the overall visual tone was underwhelming. more

"But the world doesn't wait for us to ask before it inflicts horrors upon us. All we can do is spite it by surviving or die. What will it be, Cyclops?"

Sure did pick a day to drop that line.

Green Lantern Dark #1 presents an Elseworld tale set in a world devoid of heroes and hope. Amidst the darkness, Rina Mori, a reluctant Green Lantern, wanders across cities and towns to keep evil entities away from innocent civilians.

Brombal's script sets the stage for this new world, introducing a desolate landscape devoid of heroes. While the premise isn't overly complex to establish in a first issue, it provides a solid foundation for the story. The world-building is subtle yet effective, conveying the dire circumstances and desperation of its inhabitants.

Additional characters, such as Lunette, a young tween who steadfastly believes in the Green Lantern, and her family, are introduced. Lunette's unwavering faith serves as a catalyst, while her brother’s skepticism provides contrast. Although they verge on being one-dimensional, fitting into standard character tropes that drive the plot, their interactions serve as a microcosm for the friction amongst the masses.

Regrettably, Werther Dell'Edera's artwork and Giovanna Niro's colors didn’t standout for me. The visual style felt too reminiscent of Dell’Edera’s work in the Slaughterverse. I couldn’t help thinking I was reading a House of Green Lantern or Something is Killing the Green Lanterns book. Additionally, some scenes, like Rina's introduction in a crowded diner, suffer from disjointed visual storytelling, disrupting the flow and limiting the impact.

Despite artistic missteps, Green Lantern Dark #1 still provides a worthy enough exploration of hope in darkness. As the world grapples with uncertainty, this issue's themes feel eerily relevant. With a pivotal US election looming, Brombal's narrative serves as a timely reminder of hope's importance in the face of grilling despair. more

G. Willow Wilson and Chris Wildgoose continue to expand a rich world, delving deeper into characters and conflicts in this week’s The Hunger and The Dusk Book Two #3. The issue heightens the current tension and anticipation as we watch the Last Men Standing attempt to survive without their leader, Cal, who is on a trek to reunite with Tara.

The Last Men's struggles are the focus on the issue and we see them facing the harsh realities of an ever-changing climate while they’re holed up in a cave to avoid new torrential downpours that replaced extreme heat and fires. Wildgoose's artwork shines in these scenes, capturing the group's camaraderie and desperation. His visual representation of their cramped, makeshift shelter effectively conveys their vulnerability and a world closing in around them.

Through their story, Wilson also fleshes out the world's complexities, showcasing the harsh realities of survival, struggles for resources and the ever-present threat of the Vangol army. The world's rapid decline is mirrored in the characters' desperation, making their struggles feel authentic and relatable. It was also great to see the Red Screamers, another band of human warriors who have been mentioned in previous issues. They reminded me of the “Tailies” from LOST, who we always heard about but didn’t see for quite some time. It would be great to get future one-shots that reveal how other groups of humans and/or orcs have been surviving.

On the flip side, Cal's scenes may be the “B” side of the issue but Wilson explores his struggles, showcasing a mix of personal loyalty and desperation that weighs him down. What he observes on his journey serves as a microcosm for the world's dire state, highlighting the fragile peace between humans and orcs hanging precariously in the balance as the world crumbles around them. It’s a sad reminder of our own society’s fragility as it hangs on the precipice in our current political climate.

Wildgoose's artwork remains a particular highlight, especially in action sequences. His detailed backgrounds have always helped to world-build and that continues in this issue. His visual style remains immersive, drawing readers into the world and providing small clues to the state of the world in details as minute as clothing. M.Sassy.K’s colors help bring these designs to life in vivid detail.

So far each issue in Book Two has explored the dynamics of different characters while pushing the larger story's scope to the background. The Vangol army's plans haven’t been visited in some time and the threat Wilson built towards the end of Book One doesn’t feel as high as it once did. I don’t doubt Wilson's pacing is deliberate, building tension and anticipation, but there are only so many issues left and I’d hate to see things rushed at the end.

Overall, The Hunger and The Dusk Book Two #3 is another exceptional installment in this high fantasy series. Wilson's storytelling and Wildgoose's art combine to create an engaging world, expertly balanced with character development and action.
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This was great issue, though it was my least favorite of the first three so far for me. Perhaps I had too high of hopes for it as Leonardo is my favorite turtle as we get our third background story from writer Jason Aaron who is joined by Cliff Chiang on art duties.

I love to see how much Aaron seems to get the individual turtles. Raphael’s sense of isolation while being a loner in prison was spot on. Mikey being an over-stimulated action-star in Japan was true to the character. On paper, Leo isolating himself completely to focus on finding his inner self through meditation also makes perfect sense. Except I was anticipating a slightly different set up than what we got. The fact his story takes place alongside soft-shell turtles who feast on the dead was a bit too on the nose And yes, the Indian government actually did release turtles to try and clean up human remains in the Ganges. Aaron wasn’t completely making up this plot point. Either way, I was anticipating Leo’s journey venturing deeper into mysticism or the supernatural.

With the story he chose, Aaron's narration really got us into Leo's head. Those who read the previous IDW series know how how much baggage he's carrying due to the various traumas he suffered. Aaron doesn’t bog the issue down with overhanded recaps, but provides new readers enough context to understand how much weight Leo has put on his own shoulders. The solitude he now seeks comes from elements he can control on his own — his training and meditation — all while he can’t escape a connection to the family currently torn apart.

Chiang's art is just beautiful. You won't forget this is a Cliff Chiang book as it's seeped in the typical style that’s made him a fan-favorite for years, but he makes it work perfectly for TMNT. It’s moody with thick ink lines yet vibrant with simple, bold colors, which makes for a perfect contrast and complements Aaron’s story well. Any artist on a TMNT title needs to be able to nail ninja action and Chiang's action sequences are animated and energetic.

While this may not have been my favorite issue, I’m still very excited for the direction Aaron is taking us. I can’t wait to see what’s in story for Donnie in the next issue and then where Aaron decides to take things once the turtles reunite. more

This series continues to carve its own path, for better or for worse, standing out as one of the most thematically isolated titles in the From the Ashes lineup. While this distinctiveness isn’t inherently bad, the story’s execution falls short.

Mark Russell’s usual satirical social commentary feels forced so far & his characters feel removed from their established histories. Frenzy, Cecilia Reyes, and Pyro exhibit no semblance of their recent character developments, making it challenging to invest in their actions. However, Granny Smite does shine as a delightful, scene-stealing presence, providing much-needed comic relief. I don’t think her gimmick has a long shelf life, but at least she’s a bright spot here.

Bob Quinn’s artwork is more fun than actual story, with some great facial designs helping to convey emotions. For a book with the actual Greg Land doing covers, Quinn’s style makes me think he’s satirizing Land to complement the hollow plot. more

X-Men #6 presents a thought-provoking question: what factors should heroes consider when deciding whether to rescue someone? Idie and Magik face this dilemma when encountering a young mutant amidst a horde of protestors outside their Alaskan HQ. Jed MacKay has these two characters explore the complexities of this decision, showcasing the differing perspectives that can unfortunately arise when deciding on when to help others amidst a tense altercation.

Magik's levity in all situations remains a highlight, but MacKay is getting close to using her as a one-note character. Despite this balancing act, her interactions with Idie are engaging, and their situation keeps the issue’s main story interesting. MacKay's pacing is well-balanced, moving the plot forward while introducing new elements, such as the young mutant's connection to the inoperable Sentinel that stands guard over the town.

One of MacKay's strengths during this series has been his ability to keep multiple backstories relevant in each issue. References to Magik's chess game, Cassandra Nova's appearance, and Beast's research into Magneto's cure keep characters and plot points top of mind even when they aren’t front and center. (Except Xorn. Did anyone else forget Xorn was here??)

Netho Diaz's second guest artist stint impresses again, emulating Stegman's style while injecting his own unique elements. His line work, particularly in character designs and facial expressions, adds a layer of human emotion to the narrative's heavier moments. Sean Parsons' inks enhance the intensity of key scenes, while Marte Gracia and Fer Sifuentes-Sujo's colors effectively associate distinct hues with specific characters for a great visual experience.

This issue feels like a setup episode in a TV series, reminding readers of the various plot threads before the story accelerates. With the "Raid on Graymalkin" crossover event approaching, I hope these smaller plot points begin to pay off. While X-Men #6 is a solid, if unspectacular issue, MacKay's storytelling and the art team's excellent work are keeping me invested in the series. more

Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by writer Kelly Thompson, artist Hayden Sherman, colorist Jordie Bellaire, and letter Becca Carey is a resounding success, building on the momentum of Absolute Batman with a fresh, exciting take on another iconic character. Thompson and Sherman seamlessly weave Greek mythology into Wonder Woman's lore, introducing a new version of Diana that's both familiar and innovative in story and visuals, none more apparent than the titular character’s imposing new design.

In this bold reimagining, Diana is now the last Amazon, raised as the princess of Hell by her initially reluctant adoptive mother, Circe. Thompson masterfully explores the complexities of their relationship, crafting a narrative that's emotionally resonant and offers plenty of moments where character development is front and center. Sherman's visual storytelling is brilliant, particularly in a stunning 12-panel sequence that chronicles the family’s life from Diana’s infancy to young adulthood.

Sherman's unconventional paneling techniques and diverse layouts elevate the entire book, accentuating quieter moments and amplifying the intensity of action sequences. Jordie Bellaire's colors perfectly complement Sherman's artwork, adding an extra layer of depth and vibrancy to the visuals that give it an ever greater “wow” feeling. And with Becca Carey’s lettering, the art team creates a distinct aesthetic that sets Absolute Wonder Woman apart in splendid fashion.

Thompson's characterization of Diana is equally impressive, shrouding the Amazons' fate in mystery. The revelation that Diana is the only person who can utter the word "Amazon" in years is a powerful reminder of the story's missing pieces and vast potential. Knowing Darkseid's involvement in the creation of this universe in conjunction with the reveal that Zeus is attempting to punish the Amazons for an unknown offense against the Gods, Thompson could seemingly go in any number of exciting directions to fill in the gaps and push this book forward.

Absolute Wonder Woman #1 is a must-read for fans of the character and newcomers alike. Thompson, Sherman, and the entire team have created something truly special – a thrilling, emotionally charged narrative that honors Wonder Woman's legacy while forging a new path for a new generation. more

There’s been SO much talk about this book that I struggled to put my thoughts together. Scott Snyder, Nick Dragotta, Frank Martin, & Clayton Cowles delivered what will likely go down as one of the biggest, most consequential Batman #1s in the character’s storied history. What was left to say? Instead of trying to one-up the platitudes, I figured I’d talk about a few of the aspects that struck me most.

First off, this retelling isn’t a gimmick. Sure there are exaggerated aspects, look no further than our boy’s thiqq new physique, but these pieces aren’t WHY the story is being told. They’re just insanely awesome details that add to the experience. What Snyder does so brilliantly is strip Bruce down to the core ethos that has motivated him for decades — revenge. There is a singular moment in his life that shapes his worldview & defines his life’s mission. This is on full display in this first issue & now Bruce must find new means of achieving his goals without the unlimited resources of a rich playboy. There’s a rawness here that hasn’t existed in any Elseworld/Black Label/alternate universe retelling of Batman so far.

And holy crap the art! Dragotta’s use of unconventional paneling is so ingenious, so effective, & keeps readers disoriented ever so slightly as we’re discovering what this new world is all about. It’s a masterclass in visual storytelling that only exists when a writer & artist are fully aligned & trust each other completely. While I love the Chonky Knight’s look, I may love the design for his cape & its abilities even more. Its such a smart way to capture bat-like motion & reveals that where Bruce lacks in financial resources, his ingenuity & smarts are off the charts.

There are so many other things I loved about this book that I could fill several posts’ character limits with. But I’ll end with something I’ve heard say a few times. My favorite thing about this book is that it is a comic story. It can only exist in comic form. And THAT is why I read comics. more

This book just won’t stop being amazing. Ultimate Hawkeye may be my favorite Ultimate yet! It was awesome character introduction by Deniz Camp. They’re confident, snarky, political, & a total bad@$$. LOVE THEM.

Given their worldview, I thought it was insanely smart to juxtapose their introduction vis-à-vis a showdown with Captain America. While Cap stands for so much that is good, he is still a symbol of America itself, which has an awful history as it relates to the treatment of country’s indigenous people. It could have become an exaggerated pontification, but Camp’s dialogue was smart to highlight just enough of the injustices committed which shaped Hawkeye’s views of the world.

The book also looked stunning thanks to Juan Frigeri’s art, Federico Blee’s colors, and Travis Lanham’s lettering. Ultimate Hawkeye’s designs were the main event, while the action sequences showcased both Hawkeye & Cap’s abilities with fluid motion and palpable intensity. Lanham paired various onomatopoeia with Frigeri’s designs to bring Hawkeye’s various arrows to life with great effect.

If there is anything missing from this series after the past few issues, it’s that I wish we got to see more team ups happening. We’ve seen the recruitment of exciting new characters, but we haven’t spent much time with them after their introductions. We’re five issues in and I really want to see what they can all do together! However, the issue’s cliffhanger makes me think that’s thankfully not too far off. more

I'm completely hooked on Exceptional X-Men, and issue #2 only solidifies my love for this series! Eve L. Ewing and Carmen Carnero are crafting a captivating, street-level X-Men story that's quickly becoming one of my favorite “From the Ashes” titles.

At the heart of this series is Kate Pryde, who Ewing expertly writes as a complex and deeply human character struggling to come to terms with the traumas she experienced throughout Krakoa. Her begrudging attitude toward mentoring is a sad reminder of the scars she’s carrying after everything we went through. Ewing conveys Kate's inner turmoil, but ultimately lets her natural inclination to help those in need shine thought. I also loved the additional story beat featuring Kate’s date and frustration with getting a parking ticket. It's a beautiful portrayal of a character who's flawed and resilient.

But Kate's not the only star of the show – the introduction of Axo and Melee, and the continued presence of Bronze is absolute perfection! Their interactions later in the book are adorable, and their unique personalities shine through in when they start discussing their connections. I'm thrilled to see this generation of new mutants getting the spotlight, and I'm convinced they'll have a long and exciting shelf life. Between this trio and the Outliers in Gail Simone's Uncanny X-Men, the future for new mutants X-Men universe is looking more promising than ever!

Carmen Carnero's artwork is a huge part of what makes this series so special. Her facial designs and body language bring the characters' emotions to life, adding even more depth and nuance to Ewing’s story. The details in every panel are meticulously crafted, from the characters' appearances to the environments they inhabit.

Overall, Exceptional X-Men #2 is a delightful, character-driven issue that continues to set the stage for a new group dynamic. With its focus on slice-of-life storytelling and its cast of lovable, complex characters, this series is becoming a must-read. The final page brings Emma’s role in the series even closer to the forefront and the early previews for the next issue indicate we’re about to see the dramatic events of Kate and Emma’s reunion. more

I was a tad apprehensive when this title was first announced. It was probably the furthest from what I expected an early X-Men series to be about. I really didn’t know what to expect going into this issue but after reading this a few times now, I can confidently say @alexpaknadel has produced one of the smartest stories of this young era.

The beauty is in how he subverts the typical mutant story structure & introduces new POVs outside our usual X-Men crew that allow for unique narrative opportunities. Similar to X-Force #1, we quickly realize just how expendable our main characters are, but Paknadel dives further into the impact this realization has on the psyche of individuals who realize they’re just a number within a military industrial complex. The series is set up to answer several intriguing questions regarding self-autonomy & if it’s possible to truly be in control of your own existence. Due to the brilliant writing, I had a deep sense of feeling sorry for the main characters by the end of the book, as they’re just as much victims themselves even though we know they’re carrying out heinous acts against mutants.

Beyond the philosophical aspects, Paknadel gave us a well-paced & balanced debut issue that included everything from a suspenseful, action-packed opening scene to world-building that provided backstory on the Sentinel program to character backgrounds that imbued a level of humanity & emotional resonance.

Justin Mason matches the tone perfectly with a 90s-style artistic grittiness that is equal parts harsh and beautiful. The sentinel suits look great & the action panels are detailed without being gratuitous. Federico Blee’s colors& Travis Lanham’s lettering are both clean but understated & let the story thrive naturally.

Overall, the level of nuance executed in this book across all aspects is impeccable. You could easily walk away from this book thinking it’s just a war story and asking “why should I care about random soldiers?” But I’d urge anyone who came away with that to give this a re-read & look beyond the surface. I’d also recommend Paknadel’s From The Ashes Infinity comic to provide additional backstory.
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Storm #1 excels in character-driven storytelling, delivering a debut issue that does justice to Ororo's rich history & elevates her to even new heights. Ayodele's writing is a love letter to the iconic X-Men, Avengers, and Wakandan queen, distilling the essence of her past titles into a narrative that's deeply human.

Murewa Ayodele's script is a thoughtful exploration of that very aspect, peeling back the layers that reveal a vulnerable, empathetic person beneath w/o sacrificing her strengths. He acknowledges her impressive résumé, but never loses sight of her emotional core. This is the X-Men at their best – a celebration of mutant powers and human frailties, reminding us that even the strongest mutant is still a person. Ayodele's use of third-party narration sets the stage, while his use of dialogue gives Storm ample opportunities to showcase why she’s achieved her current status.

As outstanding as Ayodele's writing is, Lucas Werneck's art is the true star of the issue. His designs bring Ororo to life in breathtaking fashion, radiating an otherworldly energy that's simply captivating. Every panel is a testament to Werneck's skill, as he effortlessly captures Storm's regal presence, her fierce determination, and her quiet vulnerability. As promised, the multiple outfit changes throughout the issue are a delightful bonus, each one a stunning showcase of her beauty & Werneck's attention to dramatic detail. Beyond her outfits, even subtle body movement conveyed Storm’s gravitas. Colors by Alex Guimares & Fer Sifuentes-Sijo add extra vibrancy to the artwork, imbuing pages w/ a celestial energy that's nothing short of mesmerizing.

In short, Storm #1 is not only the best solo title launch of this new era but also a landmark issue that cements Storm's position as a singular superhero. Building on the foundations laid by Al Ewing's X-Men Red, Ayodele & the creative team gave us everything you could want in a debut issue, especially one for a goddess. more

Jed MacKay’s run keeps on chugging along w/ a great issue focused on Psylocke & Kid Omega’s TK journey into the psyche of the mutant the team saved in issue #2. I was definitely uneasy about this series when it debuted, but so far I’m totally bought in & really enjoying it!

I loved how MacKay wrote the (friendly?) rivalry between these two while depicting them as a formidable duo on their mission. I know Psylocme likely isn’t long for this series given her upcoming solo, but I’m glad we got to see her & Quentin in action together as they’ve probably been the two characters in this series w/ the least storyline so far. I also loved seeing John Greycrow as he’ll be playing a big part in Psylocke’s solo, so it was a nice touch to see those two together now.

My mind was blown at MacKay’s reveal of who’s behind the new X-gene activations! I may or may not have let out an audible gasp haha. Really interested to see how this plays out, who Cassandra may be working with, & hopefully a climactic showdown between the two sides!

Ryan Stegman was back on art this issue & I can’t believe how quickly I’ve now associated this run w/ his art. I loved what Netho Diaz did on the last issue, but seeing Stegman’s art brought back after even just one issue gave the story an immediate feeling of familiarity. He gave us some really neat designs for the psychic journey & the visuals depicting 3K’s experiments were truly horrifying. The additional inking by JP Mayer & Livesay gave Stegman’s designs depth, especially during Cassandra’s reveal & Marte Gracia’s colors elevated it all to another level. Loved his use of pinks & greens! Clayton Cowles’ lettering approach to the psychic comms was really cool & I couldn’t remember seeing it down this way similarly. Extra snaps for creativity! more