Here are our picks for the TOP 5 Hot New Comic Books coming out on 8/14/2024

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Action Comics #1068: A Cosmic Clash with Familiar Faces

Action Comics #1068 throws Superman into a galactic battle that could decide the fate of Earth. With a creative team boasting the likes of Gail Simone and Rainbow Rowell, expectations are high, and this issue delivers a mix of cosmic spectacle and intimate character drama.

What I Liked

• Epic Scale: The story immediately grabs your attention with its colossal stakes. The idea of Superman as a galactic peacekeeper is a thrilling concept that's executed with visual flair.

• Star-Studded Cast: The promise of unexpected guest stars is enticing, and the issue delivers on that promise with a few nostalgic surprises. It's a treat for long-time DC fans.

• Lois Lane Focus: The backup story exploring Lois Lane's career as editor-in-chief adds depth to the Superman mythos. It's refreshing to see her take center stage and showcase her own strengths.

What Could Be Improved

• Pacing Issues: While the action sequences are exciting, the overall pacing feels a bit rushed. More time could have been spent developing the cosmic conflict and the motivations of the alien empires.

• Reliance on Nostalgia: While the guest appearances are fun, the issue relies too heavily on nostalgia. Introducing new and compelling threats could elevate the story.

• Lack of Character Depth: Superman himself feels somewhat one-dimensional in this issue. The focus on the cosmic conflict overshadows the opportunity to explore his character in a more meaningful way.

Overall, Action Comics #1068 is an entertaining read with plenty of eye-catching moments. The creative team has laid the groundwork for a potentially epic storyline. Are you adding this to your pull list?

Writer: Gail Simone

Artist: Eddy Barrows

Cover: Eddy Barrows

From the DC Vault: Death in the Family - Robin Lives #2: A Troubled Second Chapter

From the DC Vault: Death in the Family - Robin Lives #2 picks up where the intriguing first issue left off, exploring the aftermath of Jason Todd's survival and the subsequent strain on the Batman and Robin dynamic. While the premise remains fascinating, this installment struggles to capitalize on its potential.

What I Liked

• Intriguing Premise: The concept of a world where Jason Todd lives is still a captivating one. There's a unique opportunity to delve into the psychological impact of such a drastic change on both characters.

• Nostalgia Factor: For long-time DC fans, revisiting this era of Batman and Robin is a nostalgic trip. The art style and tone capture the essence of the time period.

• Potential for Character Growth: The exploration of Jason's trauma and Batman's internal conflict about their partnership offers the potential for rich character development.

What Could Be Improved

• Lack of Focus: The issue jumps around between multiple plot threads, making it difficult to invest in any particular storyline. A more streamlined approach would strengthen the narrative.

• Uninspired Villainy: The inclusion of Scarecrow and Copperhead feels like a generic choice. More compelling antagonists could elevate the story.

• Pacing Issues: The pacing is uneven, with some sections dragging while others feel rushed. A better balance would improve the overall reading experience.

Overall, From the DC Vault: Death in the Family - Robin Lives #2 is a missed opportunity. While the core concept is promising, the execution falls short. The series has the potential to be a thought-provoking exploration of trauma and identity, but it needs to tighten its focus and develop its characters more fully to reach its full potential.

Writer: J. M. DeMatteis

Artist: Rick Leonardi

Cover: Rick Leonardi

Geiger #5: A Bittersweet Conclusion

Geiger #5 delivers a climactic showdown between Geiger and The Electrician, but it's a conclusion that leaves a somewhat hollow feeling. The issue promises a high-stakes battle, but the outcome feels rushed and anticlimactic.

What I Liked

• Building to the Climax: The series has effectively built tension and anticipation for the final confrontation, and this issue delivers on that promise. The stakes are high, and the characters are pushed to their limits.

• Emotional Impact: The fate of Barney, the two-headed mutant wolf, adds an unexpected emotional layer to the story. It's a poignant moment that highlights the human cost of the conflict.

• Visuals: The art continues to be a strong point of the series, with dynamic action sequences and expressive character designs.

What Could Be Improved

• Rushed Conclusion: The final confrontation between Geiger and The Electrician feels abrupt and unsatisfying. The buildup to the climax is strong, but the payoff is underwhelming.

• Lack of Character Development: While the series has hinted at complex character arcs, this final issue doesn't fully explore the emotional depth of the characters.

• Unresolved Plot Threads: Some plot points are left dangling, leaving readers with a sense of incompleteness. A more satisfying conclusion would have tied up loose ends.

Overall, Geiger #5 is a bittersweet ending to an otherwise promising series. The issue delivers on the promise of a climactic showdown, but it falls short in terms of character development and narrative satisfaction. While the series was fun, this final chapter leaves readers wanting a little more.

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Gary Frank

Cover: Gary Frank

Venom War: Spider-Man #1 - A Shocking Return to Black

Venom War: Spider-Man #1 is a blast from the past that hits you like a symbiote-powered punch. The idea of Peter Parker donning the black suit again is a tantalizing prospect, and this issue delivers on that promise with a healthy dose of nostalgia and intrigue.

What I Loved

• Nostalgia Factor: Seeing Spider-Man in the black suit is a major win for long-time fans. The issue effectively taps into the excitement and mystery surrounding that iconic era.

• Unexpected Twist: The revelation that Peter might be the ultimate Venom host is a game-changer. It adds a new layer of complexity to the Venom mythos and raises intriguing questions about the symbiote's true nature.

• High Stakes: The Venom War is shaping up to be an epic showdown, and this issue effectively establishes the stakes. The potential for chaos and destruction is palpable.

Areas for Improvement

• Pacing Issues: While the premise is exciting, the issue's pacing feels a bit rushed. More time could have been spent exploring Peter's internal conflict about reuniting with the symbiote.

• Lack of Character Depth: Beyond the core concept, the supporting characters and their motivations are underdeveloped. Deeper exploration of their roles in the story would add more weight to the narrative.

• Art Consistency: The art style is inconsistent throughout the issue, which can be jarring. A more cohesive visual style would enhance the overall reading experience.

Overall, Venom War: Spider-Man #1 is a solid start to an event that has the potential to be truly epic. The return of the black suit is a thrilling development, and the cliffhanger ending leaves readers eager for the next issue. However, the series needs to focus on character development and pacing to reach its full potential.

Writer: Jackson Lanzing/Collin Kelly

Artist: Greg Land

Cover: Greg Land

X-Factor #1: A Flashy Start with Room to Grow

X-Factor #1 hits the ground running with a high-octane premise: mutants as marketable commodities! It's a bold, attention-grabbing concept that immediately sets this series apart from the pack. The idea of a mutant arms race is intriguing, and the promise of a team of patriotic mutant heroes is a classic Marvel formula with potential for a fresh spin.

What I Liked

• High-Energy Pace: The issue doesn't waste any time diving into the action. From the opening pages, you're bombarded with fast-paced sequences and shocking reveals. It's a thrilling ride for fans who crave adrenaline-fueled storytelling.

• Classic Characters: The lineup of Angel, Havok, Frenzy, Feral, and Pyro is a nostalgic treat for long-time X-Men fans. It's exciting to see these characters back in the spotlight and given a chance to shine.

• Potential for Drama: The hint of romantic tension and the question of who will "sell out" add layers of complexity to the team dynamic. This could lead to some compelling character development in future issues.

What Could Be Improved

• Lack of Depth: While the action is intense, the characters and their motivations feel somewhat superficial in this first issue. We get glimpses of their personalities, but there's a need for more substantial character development to make them truly resonate with readers.

• Overreliance on Clichés: The "fame, fortune, and mutants" angle feels a bit too familiar. It's a well-worn trope that needs to be subverted or elevated to stand out.

• Art Style: While the art is competent, it doesn't quite capture the energy and excitement of the story. A more dynamic and expressive style could enhance the overall reading experience.

Overall, X-Factor #1 is a promising start with a lot of potential. The creative team has laid a solid foundation for a series that could be both entertaining and thought-provoking. However, to truly soar, the book needs to delve deeper into its characters and explore the complexities of its premise.

Writer: Mark Russell

Artist: Bob Quinn

Cover: Greg Land