Off- Topic: Comic Book Reviews

Marvel's AVENGERS ARENA #16
This book has steadily improved since I first read it. The whole thing has exploded into various scenes of raw action and insurrection against oppression and evil. On the one hand you have one group of teenage heroes who have embraced the game and are involved in a life or death struggle against one another for survival. On the other front you have a small group of heroes who have decided to turn their rage upon the game master himself, the insane genius Arcade. Great action, good if derivative story line, decent dialogue...though the art leaves something to be desired.

Story Line: 4 Stars
Dialogue: 3.5 Stars
Pacing: 4 Stars
Art: 2.5 Stars
Overall: 4 Stars

Marvel's INFINITY #4
Still very much enjoying this book. The Thor story line involving the battle with the Builders was mucho fun and gave you a big "heck yea" moment. The fight between Thanos and Black Bolt had me very interested, and we finally got to meet Thanos' son. The Big Reveal did not disappoint. Still some pacing problems, but overall a must-read.

Story Line: 4.5 Stars
Dialogue: 4 Stars
Pacing: 3.5 Stars
Art: 4.5 Stars
Overall: 4 Stars

Zenescope's OZ #3
This book is very different from LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST. I do not like the Dorothy character as much as LEGEND... she comes off too much like a classic superhero. I'd like these books to transcend that trope (though I love it, this is an opportunity to do something fresh). The environment of the world they have created is very interesting, and I like the liberties they took with some of the classic characters. I'm enjoying the book.

Story Line: 4 Stars
Dialogue: 3.5 Stars
Pacing: 4 Stars
Art: 4.5 Stars
Overall: 4 Stars

DC's SUPERMAN/WONDER WOMAN #1
Well DC is certainly making the Superman/ Wonder Woman relationship the center of their world right now, and I have to say I love it. I especially like the way Wonder Woman 'checks' Superman. They are a perfect match. The idea of them teaming up independently more really intrigues me. This book splits its time between Clark and Diana's first date and an adventure they are undertaking for the Justice League. There is a surprised ending that elevated a story that looked at first like it was a rip-off of the (very good) comic SUPERMAN: UNCHAINED. The art in this book is, like UNCHAINED, ridiculous in its excellence. Not a great start, but the book has potential.

Story Line: 3.5 Stars
Dialogue: 3.5 Stars
Pacing: 3.5 Stars
Art: 5 Stars
Overall: 4 Stars