All posts by Noob of All Trades

Shawn Lucas is the self identified "Noob of All Trades". He is married and the father of three boys, two of whom help with their own podcast every couple of months. Raised on Atari, Nintendo, and Sega, he enjoys all games and will play all of them to the best of his ability, which is often average at best. Currently, he is most interested in Magic, Heroclix, and other games that he can play with Chris and his sons.
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Rat City December 2024

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Introduction

If I wondered about their ability to support multiple titles in the TMNT universe, then you know I had questions about Uncle Todd’s plan to release 4 more titles in the Extended Spawniverse. When he first launched the main Spawn titles like Gunslinger, The Scorched, and King Spawn, they suffered from awful editing and severely inconsistent quality overall. Even so, anytime I see the Spawn logo on something, I come running to purchase that thing. So, in an attempt to keep the page active and relevant, I review two issues for Rat City December 2024.

Rat City 7 and 8

Writer: Erica Schulz, Artist: Ze Carlos

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: They’re still world building in this title. It makes sense since they are only 8 issues in. Issue 7 starts with an encounter between Peter and the denizens of Hell. He spends the rest of the issue dealing with that and how his change is affecting Quinlan, who offers to try to make some armor and supplies from the tech they have lying around. Issue 8 spends all of its time setting up a show down between Peter and one of the baddies. During the story, they establish that Peter doesn’t exactly have control of his suit.

While I thought the first couple of issues moved too slowly, I no longer think that. Both of these issues went quick and entertained me. The writer and artist both hit their strides over the last few issues and now I might like this book as much as The Scorched. We have to see if the quality continues. For now, I’m sold. My verdict: Good.

The Verdict

I’m impressed so far with the title and Rat City December 2024 pleasantly surprised me. If all of the other books are able to take this slow approach to world building and story telling, then I have nothing to worry about. Also, I just took a look again at the names on the titles, and I definitely have nothing to worry about.

Images taken from the mothership.

Digital Playground

2024 Look Back on Mobile

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Introduction

As I started to implement the theme months over the last couple of years on the page, they evolved and changed. Not always for the best, as we saw with Frightober this year. But, always trying to make thing better around here, I tweaked the format slightly again this year. Two years ago, I simply announced my games of the year. Last year, I announced the contenders and then wrote an article about the winner. This year, I went more with a nostalgic look back before I talk about how my experience with gaming changed this year. This is my 2024 look back on mobile gaming.

Out of the three gaming genres that I play most (PC/Console, Mobile, and Tabletop), this one changed the most. I went from playing several games daily to only a few and then finally logging into two games on a semi regular basis every month. That’s my phone usage. Let me explain what changed.

A Gift to Myself

Because I am an adult male with adult motivations, I put together a reward system for myself to keep from calling into work last year. In addition to the stressful teaching duties, I took on two classes and department coordinator responsibilities. My very adult plan to keep myself going to work included ice cream for every full week, a Lego set for every month, and a Nintendo Switch for making it the entire second semester without taking a “mental health day”.

While I just treated the reward system with snark and some condescension, it worked. I made it through the second semester and bought myself a yellow Nintendo Switch like the one in the picture up above. I wanted a Switch of my own for a few years now and this finally gave me a reason to go through with the purchase.

Initially, I used it to play more Hades, probably my favorite game of the last few years. Then, more recently, I started up Pikmin 3. Initially, I wanted to include it in my puzzle games posts on Instagram. Then, I remembered how much I enjoyed the game. So, I kept playing. I plan to get deeper into both games over Christmas break.

The Real Reason

I don’t remember when or how I learned about the Retroid pocket. But, I quickly became obsessed with the idea of having all of my former games in handheld form. I ended up buying this first as a way to scratch the Switch itch. Initially, it worked. I transferred all of my Atari games to it and then built out my GBA library. Eventually, I expanded out to Sega Genesis and NES and SNES.

More recently, I discovered that it emulated PS1 and PS2 games faithfully. Of course, I started playing GTA3 and Fatal Frame as a result. The big news, though, for my family, is that it also works for Gamecube games. After I played Super Mario Sunshine (Chris guess that was the first game I got for it), I found Luigi’s Mansion. Liam discovered that and he’s been playing it ever since. I don’t think I’m ever going to see it again.

The Verdict

The 2024 look back on mobile initially started out as a lamentation of the fact that I no longer use my phone for gaming. However, it quickly establishes that’s because I branched out into other forms of mobile gaming. With the Switch and Retroid Pocket, I foresee a coming year of many different games.

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TMNT December 2024

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Introduction

I thought I signed up for three or four of the new TMNT titles. Perhaps wishful thinking. Last month, I only received the main title and this month, I got that main title plus Nightwatcher. So, while less than anticipated, I received two books for TMNT December 2024. And, now, for the good stuff.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 4

Writer: Jason Aaron, Artist: Chris Brunham

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: On his way to New York, Donne gets distracted by some voices at a service station. This leads him to a truck full of mutants. He wakes up in a cell at the mutant zoo. They starve and beat him to the brink of insanity. When a rat comes into his cage, he recognizes it as the “reincarnated” Splinter. This allows him to overcome his oppressors and meet with the other turtles. They see him for the broken man that he is and vow to unite to fight the foot clan. A foot clan that is being led by a familiar face.

Leonardo was always my favorite turtle. Donatello came in a close second. I like how Aaron gave him a reuniting journey worthy of his character. He saves the mutants, but also suffers both physically and mentally. Obviously, I don’t like that he suffers, but that’s his lot in life. I know I keep saying it, but it bears repeating. I love the direction that Aaron is taking the turtles so far. My verdict: Great.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Nightwatcher 3

Writer: Juni Ba, Artist: Fero Pe

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: A favored daughter turns into a “monster”. She comes across the Nightwatcher. They fight and she continues on her “rampage” through the town. Eventually, the Nightwatcher meets up with her again. The second meeting goes much more smoothly. The Nightwatcher talks her down and convinces her that she might be better off if she finds others like her that can welcome her as a friend or family member.

I missed the first two issues of this book. So, I’m a little bit behind on who the Nightwatcher is and where he comes from. As I gather, that hasn’t been revealed yet. But, I may have missed some clues in those issues that would help. I need to head on down to That’s Entertainment to pick them up sometime over the Christmas break. Then, I might have a better idea of what is happening in this book. My verdict: Good.

The Verdict

When I ordered all the books (or did I?) for TMNT December 2024, I wondered if there would be enough material for multiple books in the universe. I needn’t have worried. They gave me two good books this time. If the others exist, I hope they give me much of the same.

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X Books November 2024

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Introduction

I started this trend last month, I think. I missed almost all of the Krakoa era books other than a few random issues and the very end. I tried to make up for it by ordering as many books as possible this time around. Due to less free time and the usual down tick in motivation around this time of year brings the misnamed X Books November 2024. But, hey, you’re used to that kind of thing around here.

Exceptional X-Men 2

Writer: Eve Ewing, Artist: Carmen Carnero

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Last issue saw Kitty Pryde trying, in vain, to put recent events behind her and live a life as normal as possible given her situation. She ran into a young mutant and that complicated her plans. Further complications arrived in the form of Emma Frost. This issue continues that story with Kitty meeting up with other mutants and coming closer to a team. That is until Emma arrives at the end to ensure they’ll be in good hands with her.

The great thing about so many different books after the fall of Krakoa is that we get many different versions of how everyone deals with that fall and the aftermath. I especially like this story because it puts Kitty in the Charles role with Emma Frost as her Magneto. I expect stories similar to She-Hulk with Rowell and that makes me happy to have that vibe again monthly. My verdict: Good.

Phoenix 4

Writer: Stephanie Phillips, Artist: Alessandro Miracolo

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Jean and Carol take some time to celebrate after the events of the last issue. Jean remains ever vigilant, but Carol implores her to just enjoy herself. That vigilance proves prescient as the council plans some way to reign in the Phoenix before she destroys all. Gorr the God Butcher answers that call and kills Jean after a brief fight. Fear not, True Believers, as the Phoenix rises from that death more powerful.

I couldn’t get into the previous story. I think that might have been because I missed the set up. I often don’t like the universe spanning stories and prefer things to be more personal. This one takes the good from both of those storytelling methods to bring a personal touch to a godlike power that can destroy everything. My verdict: Decent.

The Uncanny X-Men 3 and 4 (Legacy 703 and 704)

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: David Marquez

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Rogue takes the lead in this book. She and Logan bicker about their roles in the team as Logan threatens constantly to go back to “lone wolf” mode any minute. While he broods in the wild, Sarah Gaunt attacks the team, taking out Kurt. She then makes her way to Logan and leaves him bloodied. Rogue faces off against Gaunt while the rest of the team deals with the army she sent to kill them. Logan gets back on his feet, ready to fight, on the last panel.

You all know by now that Gail Simone is one of my favorite writers ever. She wasted no time in sending an existential threat to kill Rogue’s fledgling team. Remember when I said that the books allow for different types of storytelling? Well, this one goes straight for the jugular and leaves you breathless by the end of it all. This might be my favorite of the X Books November 2024. My verdict: Great.

X-Force 4 (Legacy 294)

Writer: Geoffrey Thorne, Artist: Marcus To.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Forge’s team rises from their defeat at the end of the previous issue, dust themselves off, and go back at defeating Nuklo. They need to lead him away from civilization. That takes them into the realm of Man-Thing, who offers his assistance in the fight. Nuklo falls and the Avengers also arrive on the scene to help deal with the aftermath, shocking Forge with Storm’s presence.

They sold this issue as a Man-Thing story and then he only showed up in 4 or 5 pages towards the end. Then, the Avengers show up? Kind of random. I like this iteration of X-Force. It’s just that this story was all over the place. Maybe they’ll find their footing in the next one. My verdict: Decent.

X-Men 5 and 6 (Legacy 305 and 306)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Ryan Stegman

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Psylocke and Kid Omega go on a “psychic mission”. While there, they learn that someone is activating the x-gene in order to create new mutants. One of the mutants that has been reborn is Cassandra Nova. Then, as the team trains, Magik and Temper search for a mutant girl. There, they find out that the feral sentinel is hunting her down. Feels like both of these things are connected and will collide sooner rather than later.

The MacKay takeover of X-Men hasn’t quite lived up to the previous era so far. I like the stories that he’s telling and he’s making the group into something that I can enjoy. But, I just think that Gail Simone is dealing with things much better right now. MacKay’s irreverence works with the Avengers, but it doesn’t quite fit right now with the X-Men. Like X-Force, I hope the title finds it’s voice soon. My verdict: Decent.

The Verdict

In the wake of the end of such a massive story, X Books November 2024 are still finding their voice and footing. While the books overall are good, I just don’t think that things are coming together as well as maybe they could. I know in a few months, I will probably be eating these words once everything does finally work. For now, though, I stand by my assessment.

Images taken from Marvel.com

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Marvel Comics November 2024

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Introduction

Still running behind on the web page. I thought it might work out because I missed an order on DCBS. So, fill in with this round of comics and the X-Books next week. Then, I got the shipping notification from them, so I missed an order, just not this one. Oh well, I’ll figure it out eventually. We always do here. Anyway, with the uptick of X-Books and the cancelling of many of my favorites, I only have 5 books to review for Marvel Comics November 2024. And, I’m not going to review one of them. Well, six if you count Amazing Spider-Man. But, I’m not until they find a new writer.

The Avengers 19 (Legacy 785)

Writer: Jed McKay, Artist: Farid Karami

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Avengers, minus Black Panther who takes on a recon mission into the Tesseract Diadem, relax on the Impossible City and welcome Storm into their ranks. Doom calls upon them and meets them in a desert in Afghanistan. He poses a question to them. Why, with all of your power, have you not united the world to create it in your image? They refuse his premise and he leaves. In the aftermath, they muse about the purpose of the exercise. Eventually, they come to the conclusion that the offer was real and since they didn’t take him up on it, he intends to do what they wouldn’t.

An interesting lead in to what will eventually become World War Doom or whatever they’re calling the next event. Not an overly action packed issue necessarily, it still made me think. Is there some benefit to having a unified force for the betterment of society? Humans, by and large, haven’t exactly done a great job of it historically. Food for thought. The art is passable, but nothing extraordinary. Fine for what the issue entails. My verdict: Good.

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Ivan Fiorelli

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Another story driven issue. Reed and Johnny work excavating a basement. They hit a boulder that Johnny incinerates and it releases a bunch of ghosts. After thinking they sealed the “ghostmouth” as Johnny calls it, the ghosts again escape. They spend the rest of the issue trying to figure out what’s causing it, eventually saving the day. They tell the story to the rest of the crew and because some of the furniture got demolished, Johnny takes the kids to camp in the yard for Halloween.

When I say this is one of the best books out there, this is what I mean. North takes a completely stand alone approach to many of these stories. It harkens back to the older comic books where a story wrapped up in 22 pages. No need for six issue arcs or massive crossovers. Just two characters getting into minor mischief and solving it. This also shows the advantage of keeping teams together. The art fits so well with North’s story and vision and matches the characters perfectly. My verdict: Great.

The Immortal Thor 16 (Legacy 777)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: A fight between Thor and Radioactive Man becomes and ambush by The Cobra and Mr. Hyde. Finally, Grey Gargoyle turns him to stone. All except for his belt. Even so, they take advantage and decapitate Stone Thor.

Ewing obviously went on a deep dive in the Marvel wikis. He pulled from the C, D, and F lists on this one. But, he tells a compelling story with these characters and makes a highly unlikely outcome feel like a foregone conclusion. I came into this book expecting the Hulk treatment. Instead, he made a goofy left turn and brought everyone with him. While simplistic, the art gives enough detail during the important panels to not distract from the story. My verdict: Good.

The Incredible Hulk 18 (Legacy 799)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artists: Danny Earl, Nic Klein

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: One last issue of set up before the big 800. Hulk reckons with Banner’s betrayal and Charlie teams with members of the cult to try to escape. Or, she may end up trapped forever.

I love this iteration of Hulk. And, while it took some time, the art has grown on me and it doesn’t distract as much from the story. It’s just there’s been a lot of set up recently. I hope that PKJ can pull off the eventual showdown and make it worth the wait. My verdict: Good.

Not Reviewed: Venom. Can we just move on, please?

The Verdict (Marvel Comics November 2024)

Marvel Comics November 2024 gives us mostly story building without a ton of action. That’s fine, though, because all of the stories are good and worth reading. It feels empty with so few books, but maybe I will build the stable up again in the future. Come back next week to see what the X-Books bring.

Images taken from Marvel.com

Digital Playground

Thank You Nintendo and Sega

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Introduction

The last day of Thanksgiving brings an article that I’ve been planning and crafting for almost the entire month. I hope that it lives up to that hype and doesn’t disappoint. When I came up with the “Thankful for….” series, I knew I wanted to say thank you Nintendo and Sega. Like other gamers my age, both played a huge role in my teenage and early adult life.

Those who come back to the page often know this story. But, I told it again texting my brothers for Thanksgiving. We owned an Atari 2600 forever. My parents fought against buying us and NES, but finally broke one year and got it for Christmas. It came years too late and I then got a job and rendered it obsolete by buying an SNES. But, it still remains a good memory and one that gave my brothers and I a smile in the face of the death of our mother.

Nintendo vs. Sega: A Battle for the Ages

Nintendo took a side character from Donkey Kong and gave him (and his brother suddenly?!) their own title. This title went on to spawn a genre that persists to this day, the side scroller. If you told me at the time that this game would bring literally thousands of clones and also birth other genres, like Metroidvanias, I’d never have believed you. Yes, we all know that I’m not the most visionary among us, so that’s no surprise. But, seriously, the games involved running sideways and jumping to avoid things. And, yet, I dumped quarter after quarter into that very game. I used that as one of my arguments to my parents when I asked for the NES. We spend this much and it saves me this much.

One of those clones came from Sega, a video game company that showed true promise. They made fun games that toiled in obscurity (sound familiar?) in the shadow of the Nintendo behemoth. To whit, I never even knew that Sega made a console before the Genesis. I discovered them when they made the bold decision to finally stand up to their bully in the console wars. Part of that stand came with a redesign of their blue (not yet mascot status) hedgehog as a supersonic (yes, pun intended on their part) alternative to the slow and plodding running sideways and jumping to avoid things of the Mario games.

As you see from the video, Nintendo responded to Sega’s claims that Mario is too slow and boring. They added new powers and, more importantly, put a run meter into the game. This worked because even though I started as a Sonic fan, Mario rules my gaming memories. The games are just much more deep and detailed than the Sega counterpart. Don’t get me wrong, I like much of what Sega did, but Nintendo made Mario into a true icon.

Beyond Mario and Sonic

Both companies obviously expanded their libraries beyond Sonic and Mario. Nintendo started their habit of allowing any and all development companies to throw shit at the wall and hope for the best. Sega held their cards closer to the vest and mostly just allowed polished games and franchises on their consoles. But, I plan to concentrate only on the best of the best games in this article.

Thank you Nintendo and Sega for these franchises that endured and followed me through life. Again, I became a staunch Nintendo fanboy when they dropped the pretense and released Mortal Kombat II unmolested. They repeated offered better graphics and more fun gameplay than Sega. Even so, it surprised and saddened me when Sega decided to stop manufacturing consoles.

Nintendo 64 and Sega Dreamcast

When I think of one of the seminal times of my gaming life, that death of Sega still feels fresh and raw in my memory. Being part of the problem when I purchased a Sony Playstation instead of a Sega Dreamcast as my first console as a grown adult, I obviously helped in that demise. However, as a young person not fully versed in the insanity of our money culture, I still expected Sega and their consoles to be a part of my life for the duration.

Thankfully, Sega stuck around long enough to give us one last Mario v. Sonic showdown into the three dimensional realm. You can argue the merits of this transition. Many, including some of my most esteemed colleagues made a living doing just that. For this article, I argue neither for nor against it. I simply include them as a monument to the fallen and a reminder that nothing in life is permanent. Oof, that got philosophical.

Thank you Nintendo and Sega for great games, as always.

Both Companies Innovate and Survive

Nintendo famously went away from the bro culture that gaming became and started developing their consoles as more family oriented. They pioneered the use of motion based gaming with the Wii, revolutionized mobile gaming with the 3DS and WiiU, and then put it all together in their piece de la resistance, the Nintendo Switch. Again, I started the 3D console wars with Sony, moved to Microsoft, and ended up firmly back in the Nintendo camp.

Meanwhile, Sega focused on making great games for other systems, thereby removing the loss leading nature of gaming systems. They pivoted to a more pop culture focus for their characters, releasing several successful cartoon series. Finally, they triumphed over Nintendo in creating a “cinematic universe” for their mascot in the form of three movies and at least one television show. Nintendo eventually responded with a movie of their own and a soon to be released sequel.

The Verdict

No matter the setting, both Nintendo and Sega brought my great joy in my life. Sure, I mourned when Sega stopped making consoles and wondered if Nintendo could survive the leap to 3D gaming. But, that made me shout with excitement even louder when both survived and grew into their new roles in the ecosystem. I look forward to decades more with these two industry giants. One last time, for now, thank you Nintendo and Sega.

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X-Books October 2024

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Introduction

I went from missing the entire Krakoa era (other than the very end) to trying to collect as many of the mutant based titles as possible. As a result, X-Books October 2024 outpaces the other Marvel books for last month and this month. And, I haven’t even collected all of the possible books. Each month it seems like they add a new one or I find one that I missed. Clearly, the mutants are carrying Marvel Comics right now and they’re using them to hype up the eventual reveal in the MCU.

Exceptional X-Men #1

Writer: Eve L. Ewing, Artist: Carmen Carnero

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Kitty tries to adjust to normal life in the wake of the fall of Krakoa. She’s a bartender, attending therapy, and going out on dates. No plans to start and lead a new team of mutants. Then, she intervenes in the rescue of just such a young mutant. But, still, not going to recruit that mutant into a team. Back to work. Or, is she? Emma Frost reaches out to find several of the X-Men and settles on Kitty. What plans does she have?

I loved Eve L. Ewing’s Black Panther story. I’m glad she’s back and writing for this book. It has some of the charm of She-Hulk, but not quite on the same level. As long as she keeps some of that fun in the book, I’ll keep coming back for more. The art, too, gives me a reason to enjoy the book. Carnero understands the assignment and gives the book a colorful look that adds to the fun. My verdict: Great start.

Nyx #3

Writers: Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly, Artist: Francesco Mortarino

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The mutants of Nyx bid farewell to one of their fallen as they continue to face prejudice and attacks. In the aftermath, they welcome Anole into their family. Kamala Khan also makes an appearance, fighting alongside X-23. She continues to get pushed to think of herself again as Ms. Marvel and join the fight completely, an act that will tip the scales in the battle.

Lanzing and Kelly brought me my favorite Guardians of the Galaxy story, maybe ever. They pick up this title, another rag tag group of heroes that call themselves a family and bring much of the same magic to Nyx. I never heard of the title before now, but I’m glad that they enticed me to read it by putting these writers together again. The art lacks some detail, but I like the use of two page panels to bring more action when called for. My verdict: Great.

Phoenix #3

Writer: Stephanie Phillips, Artist: Alessandro Miracolo

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Jean works to rescue an entire planet of abductees. Tipped off by Corsair, she wonders if she can even trust him. But, she goes through with it nonetheless. They have a showdown and the final page reveals who was behind the entire plot. The Black Order, scions of Thanos, now work to try to bring down the Phoenix.

This story is one of the few from these titles that doesn’t resonate with me. I never got into the original Phoenix story and the only recent experience I have is when they revealed that the Phoenix force was Thor’s mom or whatever. Not sure if that is even canon anymore, so who the heck knows. I don’t hate the story. It’s just that I can’t get into these galaxy spanning storylines as well as the more personal and down to earth ones. I will say the art is pretty in this book and that helps me to make it through the story. My verdict: Good.

The Uncanny X-Men #2 (Legacy 702)

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: David Marquez

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Like Nyx, the Uncanny bunch stumbles on a group of wild and untrained mutants. Initially, Wolverine causes a ruckus and the two groups battle. Jubilee comes back from a visit to the prison and brokers a tentative peace between them. Logan refuses any part of the mentoring or training. Interspersed in the story, they read from the journal of Charles Xavier and it gives some insight into where this story might go.

Marvel continues to sucker me into titles with writers that I love. This time, Gail Simone brings her unique ability to make these super powered beings completely human, even the mutants. By the end of this story, I expect to laugh more, cry more, and cheer when all is said and done. Right now, she’s masterfully setting up the pieces. Marquez helps to establish that humanity and those relationships with his very real portrayal of their facial expressions and other interactions. A good team for this title. My verdict: Great.

X-Force #3 (Legacy 283)

Writer: Geoffrey Thorne, Artist: Marcus To.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Forge’s team makes their way to confront the Fracture Node. They pick up on a massive force in the same area and try to neutralize that, as well. Neither goes according to plan because Nuklo feeds off of the anomaly and vice versa. They sacrifice themselves in the name of saving the day and end up on the verge of destruction.

This book is wild. While some of the other books focused on character building and the more human side of things, this one went balls to the wall with action right out of the gate. Usually, that’s not my thing, but it works with this book and this team. Add to the fact that the art is probably some of the best in the X-Books October 2024 and I want more of all of it. My verdict: Very good.

X-Men #4 (Legacy 304)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Netho Diaz

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: An insane group of social media “stars” go live on a regular basis to kill mutants for clicks, likes, and subscribers. When the X-Men track them down from landmarks in the background, an epic battle ensues. What’s worse is that each member of the group seems to have a power that nullifies one of the X-Men. They return to report their success to the Sugar Man. The X-Men return to their base to regroup and come up with another game plan. At the end, an old friend awaits as Magick’s chess partner.

This article mirrors X-Factor some. So much so that it made me think of that book and why I never added it to my pull list. Oh well. A long weekend coming up that maybe I can use to travel to That’s Entertainment to fill in some of the books that I missed. I think I never put in an order for next month, so I need to pick up some books. Anyway, I liked this story more than what they did in X-Factor, which is why I mention it. MacKay gives us a reason to care about the social media aspect of the story. My verdict: Good.

The Verdict (X-Books October 2024)

Just like the main Marvel books, X-Books October 2024 brings some great stories. I liked every book, even if Phoenix isn’t quite my cup of tea. A few months ago, others joined mine and Chris’s chorus of “comics might be dead” and then DC sold half a million Absolute Batman books. So, I’m just sticking with my, “this might just be another golden age of comics” and if you’re not reading, you’re missing out.

Images downloaded from Marvel.

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Marvel Comics October 2024

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Introduction

My commitment to the page can not be questioned. My ability to live up to that commitment, however, remains very much in question. Last month, I posted 7 articles and I posted 5 so far this month. Hopefully, with Thanksgiving break, I make it to double digits this month. It remains to be seen. This week, I plan to post this Marvel Comics October 2024 article, then Marvel from November, then the X-Books from both months.

I also want to finish my Thankful articles with Sega/Nintendo and Steam. That gets me 6 more articles and up to 11 for the month. While not the best number for momentum building, at least I can point to something for this month. I promise, folks, I will get this page and the supporting content back to our semi-regular updates soon. How soon? Well, I’m done making promises. 😜

The Avengers 18 (Legacy 784)

Writer: Jed McKay, Artist: Velerio Schiti

Quick Synopsis and Review: Hyperion hurtles through space on a collision course with Earth. The Avengers realize and recognize the threat and try to neutralize it before it destroys the planet. The X-Men also make a cameo, as do the gods of Asgard. In the end, they come up with a plan to dimension shift him into another Earth that needs his assistance. Problem solved. Also, Thor formally asks Storm to become part of the team.

A bit anticlimactic on this one. I realize that not everything can be a 6 issue arc with the fate of the universe on the line, but I expected more from this story. However, those who saw McKay taking over for X-Men and predicting another AvX story just got a pretty big hint that may happen sooner rather than later. Schiti’s art is absolutely gorgeous and gives us the Avengers level team we need on this title. My verdict: Decent.

Captain America 13 (Legacy 763)

Writer: J. Michael Straczynski, Artist: Carlos Magno

Quick Synopsis and Review: Tell JMS that not everything needs to be a six issue arc with the literal fate of the human race on the line. Cap and his crew fight through the army sent by death. Cap realizes that he, alone, must face death and does so in an epic clash that goes on for about a dozen pages and includes a “final form” that doesn’t quite work out as intended. Cap defeats Death but, in doing so, isolates him and “ensures the downfall of humans” according to Death. So, where do we go from here?

The last two issues finally paid this story off. I think JMS wanted to write Dr. Strange, because this story reminded me very much of a Dr. Strange story instead of Cap. But, he pulled it together and gave it the Cap treatment. The fight between Cap and Death and the uncertain ending give me hope that this book is in good hands. While the art takes some shortcuts here and there, Magno knows when to bring the full monty and give us what we want. My verdict: Great.

Fantastic Four 25 (Legacy 718)

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Carlos Gomez

Quick Synopsis and Review: Meanwhile, Ryan North continues to show why he’s the best pick for this book. Nearly all of his stories harken back to the early days of comics and Fantastic Four where everything can be contained within a single issue. They start in Latveria where they find a mysterious dome. When they touch it, they are instantly transported to an alien planet! They teach and learn from the denizens of the world. Johnny finds himself love. The FF also find a terrible secret on the planet that threatens the lives of many. Because they’re heroes, they solve the problem and jet off of the planet for the next adventure.

Now that Rainbow Rowell is no longer writing She-Hulk and they killed the GotG again, this might be my new favorite book. It always jostled for the top with the other two books, but now there’s no denying it. I love, LOVE how North writes the Fantastic Four. And Gomez’s art never lets me down. He has a good grasp on the characters and what makes them unique. My verdict: Great.

The Incredible Hulk 16/17 (Legacy 797/798)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artists: Daniel Earls and Nic Klein

Quick Synopsis and Review: Issue 16 deals with some of the history of the Eldest. The normal ultraviolence that comes with such a being. The end sets up (again) the confrontation between Hulk and the Eldest. In issue 17, Hulk arrives at Vegas and accepts the invitation from the Eldest. Meanwhile, Banner is trapped in the Hulkscape and trying to find a way to free himself. Betty (not real) torments him. Later, after confronting the Eldest, this Betty subdues Hulk in order to allow for the true ascension of the Eldest.

Both issues accomplish what they want. I think Marvel realized that 800 was on the horizon and dragged things out a little bit. That’s all well and good, but it makes for some repetition in the story, like issue 16. I loved 17, though, and PKJ writes Hulk on par with Ewing. I’m glad they brought him on after some subpar runs in between. The art still bothers me, but it’s starting to grow on me some, too. My verdict: Overall, good.

The Verdict (Marvel Comics October 2024)

I lost She-Hulk, Dr. Strange, Guardians of the Galaxy over the last six months or so. That leaves only the books above in my regular rotation. I picked up some of the new Ultimate Marvel stuff, but I have to say, I don’t really like it all that much. And, so Marvel Comics October 2024 is a small but mighty bunch.

Not Reviewed: Any Amazing Spider-Man with Zeb Wells writing. Also, Venom 37 (still Venom War? another Venom War? I’m tired, Boss.)

Images downloaded from Marvel.com.

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DC Comics November 2024

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Introduction

As discussed previously, in an effort to both get the page back on track and also not miss any comic reviews, I plan to review last month’s and this month’s comics over the duration of this month. I posted last month’s DC Comics already and now need to discuss DC Comics November 2024. The comics all have the “All In” designation on the cover, whatever the heck that means.

From the looks of it, “All In” is a soft reboot of the books with new creative teams after the events of Absolute Power. While I once cursed the every two year cycle of reboots, I welcome them now. New creative teams and a slightly new direction keeps the books fresh. And, with the new Ultimate and Absolute universes, both companies can reboot the books without affecting the main title. Win/win, as far as I’m concerned.

Action Comics 1070 and 1071

Writer: Mark Waid, Artist: Clayton Henry

Quick Synopsis and Review: The Phantom Zone projector cracks and shatters in the Fortress of Solitude. A three headed “phantom” of Kryptonians escapes. Superman must defeat them in spite of the fact that they outclass him in nearly every measure. However, they lack allies, and he comes with many. With the help of other super beings and Jimmy Olsen, they defeat the threat. Then, Superman travels into the Phantom Zone. He survives an ambush and fights his way to meet the so-called “Phantom King.” Meanwhile on Earth, an alarm in the Fortress of Solitude brings two of the younger super fellas to investigate. While we don’t know what they see, Superman meets up with and old acquaintance, Mon-El.

DC did the impossible a few years ago. They got me to finally care about Superman without killing him off. Ever since, I enjoy Action Comics and Superman much more than I ever expected. And, they again have one of my favorite writers working on the book. So far, this story lacks something. It’s entertaining enough and, while somewhat simple, the art looks like a Superman book. I just hope something happens to distinguish this from just another comic book. My verdict: Good

Batman 153 (Legacy 918)

Writer: Chip Zdarsky, Artist: Jorge Jimenez.

Quick Synopsis and Review: A familiar beginning with a family in an alley. This one ends with Batman overlooking them getting directions from a stranger. He meets with Gordon who comes to the conclusion that Gotham and her people are getting better. Some politics. Some underworld dealings. Then a character who looks like Captain America’s third cousin twice removed. He and Bats have an interaction and the authorities side with Patriotic Dude, or whatever. They try to arrest Batman and he disappears. Goes into hiding. Someone attempts a hostile takeover of Wayne industries and the dude with the eyepatch (did I forget to mention him?) gets shot.

This title kept its creative team. I think maybe they should reconsider that. I liked some of Zdarsky’s work on this title, but much of it follows the messy story like this issue. Is it an homage to Batman books of the past? Trying to be something different? As a result, it makes JImenez’s work slightly wasted. Great panel work and appropriate use of splash panels give the story more merit than it deserves. My verdict: Decent.

Catwoman 69

Writer: Torunn Grobekk, Artist: Fabiana Mascolo

Quick Synopsis and Review: Selina wakes up in a room that isn’t her own. She scans her phone for clues and feeds one of her cats. It flashes back to the night before and her working over some rich pricks at a party. Meanwhile, a computer geek makes her using facial recognition software. Selina’s on the run and in disguise. But, computer nerd guy makes her again, this time in Berlin.

Okay, this is how you write an homage issue while bringing something new to the character. Where the Batman book failed by trying to do too much, this issue reads very much like any number of Catwoman introduction stories. Gronbekk leans heavily into the character and gives us something to look forward to next time. Mascalo’s art lends an ethereal quality to the story that also gives off the mystery of the character. My verdict: Good.

Detective Comics 1090

Writer: Tom Taylor, Art: Mikel Janin.

Quick Synopsis and Review: Someone presents Batman with a “gift”. Someone tied to a chair. They wanted him alive just long enough to watch the person die. “Don’t make the same mistake your father did.” Cut to Thomas Wayne in the hospital, called in to deal with a tragic accident. Some exposition around the Wayne family. There’s a serial killer stalking young criminals in Gotham. Bruce has someplace to be. More of the story from the past. The person that Thomas saved? Joe Chill.

While I thought Ram V’s opera for the previous issues was hit or miss (much more hit than miss), I respected him for trying. This book takes a similar swing, but we’ll see if it resonates as much as Ram V’s story. Somehow, I doubt it. Don’t get me wrong. I found the issue entertaining, but like the other books this month, it’s just missing something. Kudos to Janin, though, his art helps to tell the story similar to Mascalo with Catwoman. My verdict: Good.

The Flash 14 (Legacy 814)

Writer: Simon Spurrier, Artist: Vasco Georgiev.

Quick Synopsis and Review: Wally’s family takes a vacation to the center of the Earth to relax and recharge. Barry celebrates his retirement. The Justice League hang out in their fortress and do their Justice League type activities. Wally’s daughter ends up in the fortress, much to everyone’s surprise.

I lost the thread of the last couple of arcs in Flash. It got so bad that I stopped even reviewing them. But, this one gets back to basics and lets me reset my brain some. Truthfully, I only started collecting Flash because of Aiden. Then, I started to enjoy some of the writers. And, every now and again, I like what I read. My verdict: Decent.

Wonder Woman 14 (Legacy 814)

Writer: Tom King, Artist: Daniel Sampere.

Quick Synopsis and Review: Diana walks along the beach. She dives into the water. This triggers myriad flashbacks of her time without Steve. When she surfaces, she sees Steve and they spend some time together. He realizes that it is no longer his place and leaves. She takes a piece of her own soul and his and places them in the clay. After praying, the clay takes the form of her daughter.

A terribly simple explanation of one heck of an issue. When I saw Tom King take over Wonder Woman, I cheered. I loved everything he wrote and couldn’t wait to see what he did with the book. Then, I wondered if maybe his voice didn’t match the character. This issue finally pays off all my expectations. With Sampere’s beautiful art, King tells a painful story of loss along with an inspiring story of hope in only 20 something pages. Thanks for saving the books this month. My verdict: Great.

DC Comics November 2024 Final Verdict

A bit of a mixed bag this time around. Nothing truly terrible. But, nearly every book seems to be missing something. Not the right tone. Too much going on. A story without much of a purpose. Then, Wonder Woman blew me away with the simplicity that brings out everything I enjoy about that character. Good to end DC Comics November 2024 on a good note.

Images taken from DC.

Side Note: I noticed embarrassingly late that DC Comics November 2024 included Legacy numbering.

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DC Comics October 2024

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Introduction

I continue to try to make up for the failure of Frightober by catching up on the comics I missed from last month. So, this week, in addition to the current shipment, I need to review DC Comics October 2024. You may remember that previously when this happened, I simply skipped the month. But, that’s how committed I am to making this month better and building to keep the momentum going next month into the new year.

Also, I only need to read and review six issues for last month’s shipment. So, it makes things a little easier. Once I get to the Marvel issues, I might have to split it up among two weeks. But, we’ll cross that bridge when we get there. For now, enjoy last month’s (and really a couple of months ago at this point) books.

Action Comics 1069

Writer: Gail Simone, Artist: Eddy Barrows

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Weary from his last battle, Superman needs to rest and recharge some before his final battle. Meanwhile, they tell the story of the behind the scenes of the people running the tournament. Bad dudes, of course. Then, they reveal his opponent. Someone from a planet very like his own with similar powers. They go back and forth before Supes pulls out the victory. With it, he saves the planet again and returns to Earth. Things return to normal.

A good conclusion to the story. A bit abrupt and predictable, but what else do you expect out of Superman? He fights and defeats the bad guy and saves the world. The art adds some to the light-hearted nature of Gail Simone’s writing but also maintains the seriousness of the fight for earth’s survival. While you never doubt the outcome, it’s a tough line to straddle, but they pull it off. My verdict: Good.

Batman 152

Writer: Chip Zdarsky, Artist: Mike Hawthorne.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Bats and Cats fight together on the dying planet of Czarnia. They search for the Mother Box and fight against members of the Suicide Squad plus Bizarro. Battered and beaten, they find the box. Batman realizes that it acts as a beacon for Darkseid. They activate the box and escape onto a beach as Darkseid appears and take a “moment” before what comes next.

While I liked this issue and always love to see Bats and Cats together, I feel like it would have more impact if I kept up with the Absolute Power storyline. Because, alone, it just feels like I’m missing too much of the story to care. I mean, we all need to be afraid whenever Darkseid shows up. But other than that, I need to pick up the rest of the story. In addition, the art isn’t quite what I come to expect from one of DC’s flagship titles. My verdict: Decent.

Detective Comics 1089

Writer: Ram V, Artist: Guillem March

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The finale of this experimental story from the mind of Ram V. While I normally enjoy his stories, for some reason, this one never quite landed completely for me. This issue felt more like a traditional Batman comic to me and that gave me some grounding that the other issues in the story lacked.

So, I’m grateful for that part. And, I might need to go back and read the whole story through and see if it works better that way. Sometimes when you have these types of stories, it all comes together at the end and the pause in between waiting for each issue ruins some of the immersion for me. In any case, I liked the art in this book better than Batman. My verdict: Decent, for now.

Superman 18

Writer: Joshua Williamson, Writer: Jamal Campbell

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: While Bats and Cats fight on another planet looking for the Mother Box, Supes and Zatanna fight and search for the mystical map to the Dark Roads. I assume they need it to help return power to the heroes. Meanwhile, the supporting characters battle against Amazos to save Metropolis. The final page gives us a sneak peak at what’s coming, Doomsday.

Again independent of the main story, this failed to have much impact on me. Unlike the Detective Comics story, though, I don’t have any plans of picking up the Absolute Power books any time soon. I might end up at That’s Entertainment this weekend for a Gundam build day. If they have the books, maybe I will grab them and can fill in the blanks of what I missed. Campbell’s art, at least, is pretty. My verdict: Decent.

Wonder Woman 13

Writer: Tom King, Artist: Tony S. Daniel.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: A weird team up between Wonder Woman and Robin to find the heroes that Waller jailed. I won’t sound like a broken record and say, again, how much missing the main title puts me at a disadvantage here.

What I will say is that I feel like Tom King finally started to reach his potential with this title just as they took the detour into the Absolute Power storyline. Hopefully, he can pick up that momentum again going forward. Because his words and Tony Daniel’s art make for a great combination. My verdict: Decent.

Not included in DC Comics October 2024: Flash.

The Verdict

DC Comics October 2024 finishes Absolute Power, which is good for me. Those of you who read the actual books might feel differently about the story. But, in addition to growing weary of multi book tie ins, I just didn’t understand the reason for this one. Just to get the Absolute name out there and try to sell some of the new line? Or, is that simply a coincidence?

Pictures from the mothership.