10 new comic book picks of the week (September 18)

As a seasoned comic book enthusiast with over three decades of reading under my belt, I find myself intrigued by this week’s releases. The bar-raiser, if you will, is the enigmatic figure who demands to be God, reunite his family from the past, and craves a sandwich – quite an unusual trio of wishes! The return of Jenny Sparks, our beloved Captain Atom casualty, adds an exciting twist to the mix. Will she be the savior or the catalyst for chaos? Only time will tell.

This week has been quite eventful in the comics realm, offering a diverse range of reads for every taste. From the ongoing adventures of Superman and Wonder Woman to the long-awaited comeback in the Jenny Sparks series, as well as an issue of Deadpool that could alter its course significantly.

There’s also a bit of diversity in this selection, as it draws connections to DC Comics’ “Absolute Power” and Marvel’s “X-Men: From the Ashes,” but the standout choice is from Image Comics and it has no connection to the Energon Universe.

Let’s get right into it.

The Power Fantasy No. 2 (pick of the week)

Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Caspar Wijngaard

In this fictional universe, six individuals possess extraordinary abilities, and fortunately, they’ve chosen to maintain harmony rather than seize control of the world. However, the truce might have been shattered at the culmination of issue No. 1 as governments attempt to subdue superpowers. It becomes clear that they are in over their heads. Yet, we’ve witnessed instances where these superpowers regulate themselves. Issue 2 promises to explore how these superpowers respond when their ‘kin’ disregards the rules.

10 new comic book picks of the week (September 18)

Wonder Woman No. 13

Writer: Tom King
Artist: Tony Salvador Daniel

In the last issue of “Wonder Woman”, Diana (Wonder Woman) and Robin (Damian Wayne) discovered where Amanda Waller had been keeping individuals with powers. During the sixth installment of “Absolute Power: Task Force VII”, Steve Trevor encounters both Wonder Woman and Robin while attempting to flee, hinting at a classic prison break scenario that seems imminent. This could be just the right twist as “Absolute Power” starts to draw to a close.

X-Men No. 4

Writer: Jed MacKay
Artist: Netho Diaz

In Marvel’s X-Men, Trevor Fitzroy and his group, The Upstarts, are broadcasting gruesome mutant killings for public viewing. Fortunately, the X-Men are on hand to intervene.

The main focus lies on how Cyclops will manage situations, as the closing scenes of X-Men Issue 3 reveal an anxiety attack. Is this a potential hindrance for him in the field? Are the other X-Men privy to his struggles? Will he be able to conquer them?

10 new comic book picks of the week (September 18)

Superman No. 18

Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist: Jamal Campbell

Writer note: The events of this issue happened before Absolute Power No. 3 was released.

Superman and Zatanna discovered the enigmatic Dark Routes, gaining the ability to traverse anywhere. Yet, one cannot ignore the question: What was the toll they paid for this power? Neron claims he can assist, but his help often comes at a steep price. Did our heroes sacrifice something significant in their bid to save the world?

Absolute Power: Super Son No. 1

Writers: Sina Grace and Nicole Maines
Artists: John Timms and Travis Mercer

After several days or weeks under the command of Brainiac Queen and Amanda Waller, Jon Kent (Superman) regains control of his own body. Fortunately, though shaken, he’s willing to join the fight. But, one must wonder about the consequences of having the Brainiac Queen within him and being manipulated by her.

10 new comic book picks of the week (September 18)

Jenny Sparks No. 2

Writer: Tom King
Artist: Jeff Spokes

In a bar, Captain Atom is holding hostages and has presented three unusual requests: He aims to become divine, wishes for his family to be brought back from the past, and desires a sandwich. Before negotiations can start with the police, Jenny Sparks reappears, who was previously killed by Captain Atom in issue 1. Will this revived hero either rescue the day or potentially complicate matters further?

Deadpool No. 6

Writer: Cody Ziglar
Artist: Roge Antonio

This scenario suggests that Wade Wilson, aka Deadpool, could meet his end in this particular situation. Following the attack by Death Grip using fragments of the Muramasa Blade (as depicted in Deadpool issues 4 and 5), such an outcome seems plausible. It raises questions about how his daughter Ellie will cope with her father’s passing, given their recent reunion.

Dazzler No. 1

Writer: Jason Loo
Artist: Terry Dodson

It’s high time for Dazzler to have a standalone series, and Marvel has chosen the perfect moment for its launch! Alison Blaire, also known as Dazzler herself, is embarking on another tour and she’s got Domino, Strong Guy, and Multiple Man in tow. With this dynamic trio, it’s hard to imagine anything could possibly go awry, isn’t it? Or so one might think…!

X-Factor No. 2

Writer: Mark Russell
Artist: Bob Quinn

In this comic book, Havok yearns for something greater than being just an X-Man, and he gets his chance. Tragically, Angel’s squad suffers heavy casualties during their debut mission, leaving Alex in control of X-Factor. This issue explores whether Havok’s struggles with feeling overshadowed by Cyclops lead to even more losses. If so, it could boost ratings for his superior.

Destro No. 4

Writer: Dan Watters
Artists: Andrei Bressan and Adriano Lucas

The main summary for Destro No. 4 outlines the title character’s targeted enemies, promising an exciting read. It’s anticipated to be packed with stylish weaponry designed by some of the finest comic book artists. Moreover, this issue serves as second to last in the Destro series. The events unfolding here will significantly influence the future direction of the Energon Universe.

Void Rival No. 1 (classic pick)

Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artists: Matheus Lopes and Lorenzo De Felici

With the completion of the initial twelve episodes of Void Rivals, we’re now ready to embark on the genesis of the Energon Universe! So far, some events have mirrored happenings on Earth, but revisiting the origin might uncover details that were previously overlooked during our initial encounters.

2024-09-20 14:31