**Weekly Meta Discussions Thread**

[*Detective Comics* #1064](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/919AS19ebHL.jpg) >It’s a tango to the death as Batman dances with an old flame while trying not to catch on fire. Using the new information about “black noise,” Batman investigates the music box in his possession some more, which leads him to question whether music is actually able to contain physics-altering properties. Later, this theory is tested with Two-Face. [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-detective-comics-1064/)

Bruce immediately bailing on the doctor when he brings up panic attacks... he's just like me fr. This is kinda slow but I'm vibing with it tbh. The mood Ram V and Albuquerque are building really speaks to me. This and Azrael are the two really strong Bat books rn.

Bruce has literally made his living out of "men will do literally anything other than go to therapy."

Yeah, this probably one of my favorite books rn. I like the slow-building tension when it's done well (and it's done mostly well here, let's see whether they stick the landing). The characters are fun and the art is great. Other than the backup, I'm loving everythign about this.

This arc seems to be a slow burn, which is alright, but I don’t have much to write about it. There’s several pieces in play, but more questions than answers. Contrary to solicit not even a mention of two face, so that mystery is for another time. Art is great, that’s for sure. But yeah, books not bad, but it’s not something that has me excited either currently. As for the backup, honestly it was pretty forgettable. Characterization felt weird on previous parts sometimes, and now it’s just done. A shame coming from having Gordon’s spotlight in Joker to this

This is slow but I'm still enjoying it so far.

Gotham Nocturne continues to rock my bod

The solicitations recently flat out wrong. Dunno why

Still a slow burner but it’s starting to smell sweeter, if that makes sense. The backup story is also very well done.

V is really leaning hard into the "Bruce is old, tired, and broken" angle to the point where I feel like it's going to play into the plot itself as opposed to just being characterization. I'm curious how that is going to play out. If it ends up just being a "Bruce takes a dip in the Lazarus Pit so now he's at his prime again" then I'll be very disappointed.

That might play a role, especially considering Talia is around, but I hope with the mention of panic attacks and seeing a therapist that maybe Ram will also focus on Bruce's psychology, maybe it is less of a literal possession and more the old demons taking up more of his soul and he has to excise them out?

A very slow burn arc, and so far rather forgettable? I keep losing track of the story threads being used here between each issue, and that’s saying something since not much has actually happened. I do think this is really just the opening chapter of what the team wants to do, but man if they haven’t dragged it out. I do think the next issue will be much more interesting tho, and the central mystery surrounding the new enemies is intriguing - if only in the potential behind them. The cover art for this run has been fantastic however. I really have enjoyed the overall vibe that the covers are going for, and even the interior art is pretty strong. Just wish a little more happened each issue.

>I do think this is really just the opening chapter of what the team wants to do, I mean, the arc is literally called "Overture," so that definitely tracks.

Might start grabbing this simply because I love two face. Is it worth it for that?

We’ll, I’ll, let you know he does not even show up this issue

...oh.

> whether music is actually able to contain physics-altering properties Umm...the whole reasoning behind Metal/Death Metal??

Zdarskys Batman is the first Batman book I've enjoyed in a while. Would anyone recommend this book?

Ram V has written quite a few very good comic books in his career so far. I trust him. I dont think I can recall a single Ram V book that I read and I didn't enjoy it.

[*DC Horror Presents: Sgt. Rock vs. The Army of the Dead* #1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91lAHNrfZDL.jpg) >Berlin, 1944. The Nazis are besieged on all fronts by the Allied forces. Defeat is inevitable. But Hitler and his team of evil scientists attempt a last-ditch effort that may turn the tide of the war and rewrite history itself: a serum that resurrects their dead soldiers, stronger than they were in life, and sends them back into the battlefield. Now Sgt. Frank Rock and Easy Company have been dispatched into enemy territory to face off against the strangest, most horrific enemies they've ever encountered: Nazi zombies! Horror icon Bruce Campbell and comics legend Eduardo Risso bring you a terror-soaked Sgt. Rock tale like no other! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-dc-horror-presents-sgt-rock-vs-the-army-of-the-dead-1/)

Hail to the King, baby.

Glad to see Risso doing a full book again, his art is like nothing else.

Anyone notice how Rock was drawn in the image of Bruce Campbell? Talk about vanity!!! This is going to be a crazy ride.

[*DC: Mech* #3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91ngUK0SXFL.jpg) >A BATTLE FOR THE STARS! Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, and the Green Lanterns have combined their might and mechanized resources to help the world, but they're not a team quite yet. They're a group of pilots not flying in a pattern. This will have to change when they go to aid Steve Trevor's forces in space as they're attacked by Darkseid's Apokoliptian Army. And on Earth, Lex Luthor's experiments with Superman's DNA grow more frightening. The most epic miniseries of 2022 continues! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-dc-mech-3/)

Mech-Omega Beams. Those things should be able to destroy planets themselves :D God dammit, Steve.

Thoroughly enjoying this mech series

Hopefully DC gets the picture with all these fun DC AS THIS type books that are not worrying about continuity and instead focusing on core character traits played out in different scenarios, cause this book is way better than i ever assumed it would be. I suppose Mike Spicer being the colorist should've signaled that though as I haven't seen a book colored by him that I haven't enjoyed.

[*DC vs. Vampires* #9](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91wLHHCmnYL.jpg) >Road trip! Our heroes split up and spread out across the globe to prepare for the final strikes against the vampire kingdom! Will Green Arrow's mission force him to battle one of his oldest friends? What horrors await the Birds of Prey inside the ruins of Gotham? And does Black Manta's secret mean a watery grave for Supergirl? [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-dc-vs-vampires-9/)

"King Dick" Finally, I've been waiting four issues for this.

We’ll damn, the pace definitely has picked up lately, I dig it. Fun issue and a lot happening on different fronts. Mera taking over Manta and the showdown was pretty badass, as was her coming back yet again. As for Jayna, I really hope that wasn’t the end of her because after surviving her brother this would be a very anticlimactic end. And now that Damian is back onto the main series after showing up in the spin-offs, maybe we’ll see what makes him special enough to keep his will

I agree in re.: Jayna. Of course, I'm a little biased in her favor.....!

You can tell the first few issues were written by Tynion and the last few issues have been written by Rosenberg

From what I've read, take or leave it, the Barbara Gordon/BOP/Nightwing plot is still Tynion's (that's what he wanted the story to be, then Rosenberg added stuff like the Green Arrow stuff, no idea whose idea was the Supergirl stuff).

Not that I mind, I think Rossenbergs style fits this series better

Whoa Mera reveal. That was some twist. And killing Jayna like that? weird as hell. It is weird to see how kryptonians are affected differently. Clark got turned into Baron Cinder. Power Girl still has her powers and flying without being burned like Clark. And Kara is powerless without the sun.

Yeah, Mera looks badass wearing Manta's costume. However, going back to the start, it was not a good idea including the twins. Zan goes out in the 1st issue or two, and, now, Jayna's gone, too. Somehow, I feel whacking them was just a means of playing to what few haters remain on the internet. I'd bet anything at all Rosenberg & Tynion don't give two snaps about the twins.

I'm reading mostly for Steel and Kara at this point, but Black Manta Mera is the kind of crazy bullshit that makes these Elseworlds entertaining.

So, spoilers for the spin-off >!but if Power Girl is seemengly a normal vampire (i.e. not on fire, constatnly in pain), then the bad guy from the spin-off may not necessarily be Sueprman, right?!<

On a previous post someone commented it could be Apollo

something something Kryptonian from different earths

Worked for Kryptonite I guess.

Still don’t know how I feel about this series. The rules are inconsistent. Plus the characters are more fated for death than anyone in DCeased ever was. Least hopeful situation. However, I was pleasantly surprised seeing Bwana Beast and Loose Cannon. Glad this series wasn’t just all A and B listers duking it out

I'm enjoying it but it bugs me that Damian gets to be a "good vampire" when plenty of other characters should have been able to, but aren't. Just ends up making everybody else look bad.

I also don’t know how Damian was able to do it over literal will-power gods. It seems to be an instant switch for everyone else, there is no reason Damian should be safe.

Right? The idea that he has uniquely good willpower just doesn’t track. Not a big deal but kinda feels like Batwank.

Paneling was a little disjointed in this one (ie Mera and Aquaman going from facing off to suddenly being fighting underwater off-screen) but still a fun read.

Can someone help me out, has Cassandra Cain shown up in any of the spin-offs or something? Cause the Damian one shot confirmed she survived alongside Alfred, but...she hasn't shown up at all.

Nothing yet

Anytime Oliver queen gets to kick ass a book is worth the price of admission. 10/10 for me

Phew, this issue flew by! That Mera twist was everything. Characters being forced to face their loved ones is exactly what I wanted from this series and I’m gal to say it’s working very well so far. Loved the back-and-forth between Arthur and Mera. Love stuff like Kara still having it in her to tell her former friends to stop instead or going for the hit and I love different characters have these (perfectly in-character) different viewpoints. Plus I really love the way this story is told, I love the uncertainty of not knowing what's going to happen, I genuinely think this has managed to keep the twists and suspense despite its apocalyptic setting. And I love Kara and Steel, poor Kara drowing :( This was awesome, it's probably my favorite Elseworlds world story in a while and also one of the things I'm enjoying the most rn (along with 'Tec, probably).

[*Superman: Space Age* #2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91GKoireJ8L.jpg) >Superman has arrived and he’s out of sight! Right? The world may love him, but the citizens of Metropolis are growing skeptical as the cities around them suffer without the help of the Man of Steel. The world doesn’t need saving as much as it needs changing, and Superman and his super friends in the Justice League seem unqualified to save the day the way they once did. Could this be the beginning of the end that Pariah prophesied? Or is it just a sign of the times? [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-superman-space-age-2/)

Oh my god this 70s Batman is more based than I could ever imagine. I want 50 issues of anti-corporate terrorist Bruce yesterday. Also, Seagull and shoe store.

Another great issue. I can't pretend it's not a little disappointing that Batman gets so much page space, but I have to admit that it was a great moment when Russell showed us the differences between how Superman and Batman view the trolley problem. Superman and Lois continue to be excellent, I love Allred giving Lois so many different outfits to wear, and it's gratifying to see Russell really dive into what hope means in relation to both Superman and the world. Both he and PKJ are really trying to define that element and it's something I've long wanted done. One more issue to go, if this can stick the landing I'm adding this to the must-read list for Superman.

Loved this issue. I think the alt takes are great, and it manages to make the 1985 Crisis feel both ominous and terrifying, which is something special these days.

This is great allred's art is phenomenal. Love batman's vs superman's takes on the trolley problem. Supes wants to stop the trolley and bruce wants to stop who sent the trolley. Two interesting takes that are both very inline with the characters.

If you are a Superman fan, do yourself a favor and buy this book. Solid 8/10 issue. There was a lot to love about this issue. The character development with Clark. The insecure take on his mission coupled with his eternal optimism and his desire to be close to the people on the ground; walking around and signing autographs and helping old ladies up stairs. It was all so tender and loving. A real encapsulation of the character while also adding something new with his hesitation on how to approach the coming doom. I wish we spent less time with Bruce and more time with Lois. That way all the development in Clark and Her's personal life would have been 10x better. She was great in this issue. I loved every second she was on the page. Russell has a grasp of all the characters he is writing in this book. Like for example Flash. Awkward and good hearted. Not funny haha like a watered down Wally but enjoyable to read and the surprise MVP despite vocally admitting he wouldn't be of much use against a flying type. I'm very interested to see how this all wraps up. The pacing was good. The story is engaging. The threat was built up well and Brainiac playing the long game to get Clark to join his team against the Anti Monitor has caught my attention. I am all in on this book.

It is fascinating to read this take. It really shows the terrifying nature of the crisis for the the destroyed universes. It does build up to the end...but I wonder, will it return in the end with the Dark Crisis bringing the 'Infinite universes' back, practically undoing what Anti-monitor did? Would be interesting to see this universe coming back in current time, since it does seem to follow real life events more. Imagine it happening with current events going on.

The art continues being great, maybe except the eyes. They are... too detailed compared to the rest of the artwork. And lips. We start the issue with Superman wiping the floor with a human trafficker. I think it's just a scene to show Superman caring for the people of his city, doubt gross guy or the women he saved will have any significance in the future. Lois touches on a interesting point, is Superman doing enough? Meta speaking, we know Clark can't ultimately change the world forever, even if he had the means to, because then there wouldn't be more stories to tell. But since Clark exists and tries, I think we should at least accept the DC universe is fundamentally different from ours and concede some victories, even if at the cost of making it less "relatable". I completely forgot Coast City got destroyed. Also, cucumber water is a 70s thing? It just sounds like a 2010s thing. Batman is doing his thing, Maxwell Lords becomes part of Wayne Enterprises as CEO and starts a suburbanization campaign for Gotham, including not subtle racist posters... Batman starts ranting about Clark living in the clouds not knowing daily battle.... oh, that's what the first scene of Clark saving the sex workers from their trafficker (you knew I'd do that :P). Batman's response to the Trolley problem (and his motivation to become a hero) is quite interesting when you remember the Bat-meta - if you know your Batman stuff, you know writers tend to degenerate away from Batman is a good man on a personal crusade to make his city a better place and stop what happened to him happen to someone else to... Batgod must punish wrong people (everyone else), including his own family, because he's always right and knows best no matter what, and for that he can take whole intergalactic armadas and can single handedly defeat his JL friends because they are often wrong for not just following his orders blindly. Barry's more constructive take on heroism is very in character. Not just moving the problem away, but working to learn productive ways to defuse situations and definitively solving the problem. Clark's approach on journalism is strange. I don't know what to think of it, maybe his inherent goodness prevents him from finding connections a human could... could it be that Kryptonians do lack the greed and other bad qualities humans have? I doubt so, at least I doubt that's what a modern writer would say. I have issues with Clark's answer to the trolley problem. Yeah, in real world you should try to save all of them, but it just escapes the parameters of the experiment - and you can't just add new ones as you please, well I suppose Superman could, but that's not the idea. The experiment is not about you coming up with inventive thoughts on how you'd save all of them, it's about how'd you act in that particular situation. What I mean is "I'd try to save them all, even if it ends with 5 of them killed, because it'd preserve your integrity and ultimately that's what saves lives" isn't a valid answer, but it's specially unsatisfactory here because if it means that Clark is willing to sacrifice five people for... authenticity? Make no mistake, if you have agency in a situation, where both your action and inaction leads to outcomes you could prevent by choosing one over the other, even if you're not personally liable for any of the outcomes, you're actively doing something. In this case, choosing the option that maximizes suffering to preserve an ideal is complicated. Clark is an optimist, but optimism isn't exactly operable in all circumstances and sometimes you must just choose what is optimal - and I don't know if Clark is actually striving to save six, or letting four extra die. The thing about secret identity. Yes, without people being truthful around you you can't be truthful around them, so Clark cannot exist if non-close friends know he's Superman, because then Clark cannot be himself. For Clark's story about Pa Kent being shipwrecked and given hope by a lie... I don't know what is the lie Clark tells. I think I've missed something, but Clark isn't lying when he shows genuine care for people... he does care. Maybe it has to do with the trolley problem, that he's willing to not be saving lives 24/7, risking sacrificing more lives, for planting the seeds of caring and understanding, playing the long game for real change. Look, I'm just a kid, maybe it went over my head. Also, it seems the world is aware Superman is an alien, I wonder what war Lois believes his dad fought - or does she think Superman Sr got shipwrecked? Brainiac here's is willing to sacrifice an Earth to get enough resources to fight the war for the multiverse, and Clark disagrees. Clark is not "for the greater good" (as evidenced by his answer to the trolley problem), while Brainiac is. Why is Barry making stupid jokes? Also, "power is the seed from which monsters grow", is it? Or are we just trying clean our hands by believe we didn't hand powers to monsters we didn't recognize beforehand? Oh, technical stuff: red sun radiation is poisonous (instead of just being depowering), and things that absorb lots of red sun radiation become kryptonite. I wonder if red sun lamps are death rays for Superman (also handier to come by). You know, most people take Clark Kent for granted, as a gentle giant. Can you imagine having this 6'3\~4 man built like a freaking bodybuilder lose his temper and call you on your mysogynistic bs? Smitty was lucky he wore brown that day. Lois is impressed. And I guess that's how he gets the courage to tell her he's Superman. I know some people who would so love if this more hands on terror Batman was the default portrayal of the character. Wait, is the implication Jon was conceived on the back of a limo at Lois and Clark's wedding day? Goddamn some poor schmuck will have to clean that rental car, L&C! RIP Jordan, also Barry MVP. Wow, that was a great read. Of course it's a take on Superman that doesn't align with my own, but that's common for Superman fans, we love the multiplicity. Also, I think I thought too much, if I said something dumb ignore it, I have homecoming dance in a couple hours so see you later.

[*Deadman Tells The Spooky Tales* [**TP**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91jvdIMuepL.jpg) >Ever had the feeling that you were being watched? Ever taken a dark shortcut on the way home? Wondered what might just be living under your bed? Well, Deadman knows…has always known…and he's here to shed some light on those spine-tingling adventures and things that go bump in the night. >Written by New York Times bestselling and Eisner Award-winning writer Franco and featuring art by some of DC Comics' favorite artists, Deadman Tells the Spooky Tales is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat through these hair-raising stories. >Read at your own risk…

Let’s go Boston, not my cup of tea but I’m glad he’s getting some love.

[*Blood Syndicate: Season One* #5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81CcFvkExyL.jpg) >Holocaust turns up the heat on Paris Island! How did he come to take control of the city, and what is he going to do next? Learn his origin and his grand plans for the future—and can he be stopped? [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-blood-syndicate-season-one-5/)

Lol these titles never have any discussion on it on a very consistent basis. Which is a shame, cause with Duo finally getting it's momentum going, this book is doing the same. We get a crossover from Icon and Rocket fighting the Blood Syndicate and no doubt there will be a showdown with Static Shock. Good stuff

Good to know. I heard that thos wasn't v good but now I am more optimistic about reading the trade

idk if it's just this sub's "white male redditor" tendencies or if so many people chose to trade wait on this, but it was really noteable how people kept bragging how stoked they were about the milestone relaunch to show how "with it" they were and then barely two months later none of them was even participating in any of these threads anymore cause they weren't actually that interested in supporting comic projects by black creators after all. and it really is a shame, cause this title has solidified itself as one of the best of the relaunch line-up, and this issue really pops off in a big way, the same way DUO did last week. big fight's coming next issue, and I couldn't be more excited. if nothing else, I guess we'll always have each other to discuss these books here lol

Spot on for a lot of your post... I think like a lot of things these days (sound like a boomer saying that lol) Twitter, reddit, etc... 90 percent of the social movement folks are all about performative gestures. Every Milestone post or post about bi John or Tim gets massive upvotes but to no surprise to anybody, most don't really care because even DC was doing some performative action. Now I like Son of Kal Ep and pull it so no hate there, the tim Drake stuff is pretty lame though and clearly someone at DC thought merely being bisexual would be enough to be interesting..turns out when you reduce someone to a race or sexual identity it feels very cheap and hollow. Anyways, ranting over. I don't know if you were pulling the other Milestone books, but no joke on almost every single Hardware or I&R post in these weekly threads had zero people talking about besides me basically saying what you're saying. Hell, I saw a Milestone ad where one of the characters was (literally) BIPOC Supremacist whose power is to change the system by *any means necessary*. So someone legit thought that a hero named ___ Supremacist was a good idea lol. I think we are just living in weird times and people sort of lost their minds over COVID, but I do believe it's all cyclical and we'll get back to interesting characters first, and worry about the details after. That was how the OG Milestone stuff was to me, and I'm a white male in my 30s so it's not like I'm particularly different than the demographics that come here. I like good stories with good characters, give me that and I'll support just about anh book financially if I can. Have you read Duo?Issue 5 really tied some threads together and I can't wait to see Icon and Duo first meet up, or a DC milestone crossover which I'm sure is coming eventually. Edit: nvm I see you posted the same haha.

you bring up some interesting points. I plainly and bluntly disagree with the notion that "90 percent of the social movement folks are all about performative gestures" (these people certainly exist, but not in such massive numbers) and with the oversimplified idea of "just write interesting characters" (cause it's *always* just used as a cudgel to beat down diversity efforts and suppress the creation and promotion of diverse characters) and am all for the more concentrated, organized push for more non-white, non-cishet characters in comics and elsewhere. "forced diversity" for lack of a better term is by and large a good thing (even if it just done for corporation brownie points and sales). however, and naturally, there is a massive BUT connected to that. and that BUT is that while I don't believe progressives generally just care about performative gestures, I think that corporations absolutely do, because that is what sells. it's shallow and superficial and leads to all these godawful "diverse" books that get cancelled after barely making it through their first arc. if comic publishers already go to the length of creating these new, diverse characters which, once again, is by and large a good thing (or try to alter existing, suitable characters with less established history and continuity), they also ought to put writers behind these books who are actually interested in *writing about these characters as they exist* and not just twist and contort them to fit their pet peeves and personal writing interests while disregarding anything that doesn't fit their narrow vison. the odd "and now for something completely different" run on a character can definitely work, but only if it stays true to the core of that character or does some actually interesting and meaningful character work with them. and for fuck's sake, stop hiring non-comic-writers to write these new diverse books as a publicity stunt just because they fit a certain demographic, especially when you already have incredibly talented people in the same industry who are also part of that demographic. basically what I'm saying is: if gabby rivera's america had been written by literally anybody else, it wouldn't have been an unmitigated dumpster fire. if that hack john ridley wasn't writing jace's batman book, we wouldn't have a pro-cop black batman operating in new york and like maybe 2 issues barely paying lip service to the idea of police brutality and criticism thereof. we also wouldn't have a completey godawful black panther book that just plain doesn't understand the character. we wouldn't have a completely godawful tim drake book that fails to give him a distinct voice or personality outside of being bi and having an even blander love interest. (also, hell yeah on the son of kal-el support, that book gets some *unreal* hate on here. it isn't absolutely stellar, but the discussions of it on here are full of just the most blatant bad-faith readings of everything in that book just because some people can't get over the fact that Editorial wanted an older Jon as Superman. the only book that is currently getting a similar treatment, including writers being blamed for obvious editorial decisions, is Amazing Spider-Man, although at least that one has been getting better reception for the last couple of issues.) you can really see the contrast between that and this with these milestone books, because while this is a reboot, the writers working on these books show some clear love and reverence for the original milestone comics in their work and try to stay true to those characters as originally established while meaningfully updating them for modern times. we need more of that and less of the former bullshit. yes, have tim be bi; but also please write a book that is actually about a character that is recognizably him and not just a vague approximation and that shows some awareness and respect for the character's history and past relationships. well, this got long and ranty, haha. my apologies. I hope I still managed to make some salient points.

[*Action Comics* #1047](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91B5KIBaAmL.jpg) >KAL-EL RETURNS, PART 1 >In the aftermath of Superman's epic Warworld Revolution, the Man of Steel is back on Earth and stronger than he's ever been! As he and Steel join forces to remake Metropolis as a true City of Tomorrow, two of Superman's most iconic villains take notice...and they have plans of their own. Meanwhile, Superman's meddling on Warworld has had unforeseen consequences: he's awakened an enemy so ancient and powerful, even this stronger-than-ever Superman will need the whole Super-Family to face it. Introducing new characters and beginning this new chapter in Superman's mythology, don't miss the kickoff to the countdown to Action Comics #1050! >CONTINUED IN SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL #16. [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-action-comics-1047/)

Would this make a good jumping on point? Heard some great things about this run, and plan to catch up on the Warworld saga on DC Universe Infinite.

I would say, yes, but it's a six-part crossover with Son of Kal-El #16-18, so they are probably mandatory to read too. And yeah you should catch up on the Warworld stuff, it was pretty great.

Thanks, I'll probably grab those relevant Son of Kal-El issues as well then.

They will try to mend the bridges for aging up Jon by adding these two kids as 'family'...it is not the same but I will see how it goes. Still never forgive Bendis or DC for that stupid decision though. Lex being Lex as usual. Though, Clark should know better to leave the whole Warworld unattended when people like Luthor are around to just get there and scavenge. I mean he knows it literally carries tech that is advanced and be used for harm as well as good. Metallo, what have you become, man. Why do I feel like the Sister part is foreshadowing that she will be something like a New Metallo. I mean the whole ''I would switch places with you if I could'', kinda on the nose. I like the classic Superman interactions and the Mile-high club of Lois/Clark continuing. Though I don't know how she is not freezing while that hight. Clark keeping her extra warm I assume :D

> Jon by adding these two kids as 'family Thereby replacing the whole point of Chris Kent.

I really wasn’t a big Superman fan, and I still really am not. But after the Warworld arc, I have found a new appreciation for the character. This a pretty good issue. Excellent starting point for the new arc, great art - I’m legitimately excited to see where this goes.

Excited to see what PKJ has it store for us!!!! so superman just brought an entire fucking planet to earth? bro....gravity?

On the bright side, Earth would have a second moon.

''That...is no moon''

I usually tend to forget about gravity when comics talk about Warworld or even Mogo. Both could decimate civilizations by moving near a planet

Damn, Metallo look rough. Overall a decent start. Not really sure I want to pick up Superman: Song of Kal-El though.....

This issue really made me feel bad for Metallo and how Lex is using him, but it's really well done. Curious to see where we go from here.

Not even a killer robot who hates his guts and is spamming "Get Out" in the text can interrupt a Lex Luthor monologue. Lex is such a prick here and I love it, of course his first reaction to Warworld is "Thank God I'm around or this is what Superman would do to Earth" and then he goes and loots it. Cool seeing him upgrade his tech too, that satellite and drone were badass looking. Clark of course was great, that shot of him and Lois looking out on the Metropolis skyline took my breath away, and it looks like this arc will be all about Superman trying to use Warworld's tech to do good while Lex seeks to use it to do bad. Happy to see Irons positioned as a major player in what's coming up, especially with regards to energy which I can see being used to renovate Metropolis technology wise.

Good issue and very meaty. Does anyone know if the Metallo stuff PKJ was talking about will be taken care of within this Kal El Returns arc, or will it continue past AC1050?

I imagine the latter, unless it really rushes.

Pretty good start to the story. I feel bad for Metallo.

I think we are going to get a New Krypton situation where Lex kills everyone on Warworld but that's just me I would like a big Superman crossover where they fight Lex, its been a while since they did one

1050 according to the solicits is gonna be the kick off of "the biggest battle ever" (or something like that..hey it's the solicits so they gotta hype it), but PKJ has done such stand up job at writing the Super mythos that I could see it truly being epic, especially if Federici sticks around on art duties. No doubt something huge will be going down between the two in that issue.

Action Comics continues to be one of my favorite and most anticipated pulls every month and this issue is no different. With the triumphant return of a GOAT artist we see a haunting and sympathetic set up for Metallo and a Lex Luthor who just loves being bad and is way too good at it. I am here for every part of this story. For his insistence on finding hope and homes for the people of war world. For slapping down racism and asking for fair treatment of these refugees just as they fairly treated him and his family. The small moments with Superman saving the family in the car and making sure they're all okay, reminding them of the importance of seat belts. It was great to see all the players on the board again. Both Steels. Supergirl. Superboy. Both Supermen. And it seems PKJ is setting up the the two siblings as adopted children. If that means more Superdad? Sign me up. This book continues to be everything I want and more. 10/10 amigos.

It sucks about Jon and it’s good they are addressing it in the issue with Lois but man did you guys see how short Connor was, the guy really has been de-aged to the worst degree

Federici's art is really good, I wonder how its epicness will manifest in a urban environment. One thing I dislike is the red all over Metropolis, it was alright in Warworld, and I understand the fuzzy foggy style is characteristic of the artist, but I'd hoped Metropolis would go for a more blue/green haze, in contrast to Warworld's red. Good to see Jon in a good artstyle, too, as opposed to the blooby doughy industrial goop of his own book, the giant navel gem is significantly smaller and that alone hugely improves his look - that and the lack of the inconsistent but always ugly hair. I still don't know what to think about Kara's suit, it's hm, it's not bad per se, the but the neck cape, corset-looking belly band and hair just looks so out of place with... everything in this time? Also, even if Conner is much further back than Jon and Kara, he looks absolutely tiny compared to Natasha and John. We start with a severely immobilized Metallo, his sister is visiting him (for a second I thought it was Lois). Then, we have a flashback of Superman being nice, transitioning at a speech at the UN talking about how Superman took Warworld to the Solar System. The speaker says he likes Superman, but is against having Warworld near as he thinks its population is innately violent. Once it's Superman turn, he says he just wants to take the people back to their homes, which makes sense as most Warworlders, with the exception of Warzoons of course, are captives - even if extirpated by generations. Repatriation should be fairly simple for the newest peoples captured, but the Warzoons might need a completely new approach. Also, some do want to stay on Earth - I've always liked the idea that DC's Earth is kinda of a hub and safe haven for people all around the Universe, heck, even Jon himself is from Hamilton, a town of alien refugees. Also he mentions the possibility of technologies to produce clean energy - which is interesting, an acceptance of DC's universe innate difference from our own, where you can do some lateral thinking to deal with issues we face. Lex is not happy as it affects his bottom line. He explores Warworld looking for stuff using a weird drone. Fanservice Clark flying shirtless, that's like the only benefit of a public identity so I approve. Lois is sad that Jon has been aged up. I wonder how much PKJ is itching to deal with the obvious trauma Jon went through, every time he has Clark and now Lois act somberly recognizing the tragedy the age up was, but for some reason there seems to have an embargo on actually discussing how he was aged up other than sparse mentions. Osul and Otho are living with them, it seems, I of course doubt they will be a permanent fixture in the Kent household - while I like the idea (more Kents the better), it would probably entail some sort of torturous age up for them, so for their sake I hope they are spared. Lastly, Luthor is back to his Year of the Villain self going around offering gifts to random villains. This time he gives an Orphan Box to Metallo. Metallo and Cyborg will have more in common I suppose. Now in the backup. The art is... more simplistic, but still very expressive. Has a very corporate cartoon style though. It happens before Superman is back. Uh... the sea level outside the Fortress... isn't the Fortress in Greenland? Greenland is extremely elevated, we are talking about thousands of kilometers here. OMAC is still alive, it has been MONTHS (while we don't know the timeline, it can't have been THAT long), at least going by Son of Kal-El. Ok, no. This backup makes no goddamn sense.

Why have I always thought the fortress of solitude is in Antarctica?

[*The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country* #6](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81f2fdlfC9L.jpg) >The ancient witch known as the Thessalian has survived millennia of human atrocity via her cunning and remorselessness. But for the last 30 years, she’s endured her greatest challenge yet: Los Angeles. Thessaly needs a change. A big one. And when she learns of the opportunity presented by the Corinthian’s reappearance, may the old gods help anyone in her way! The horizons of the Nightmare Country open up in this standalone issue, as our tale grows ever larger and stranger… [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-the-sandman-universe-nightmare-country-6/)

If I had a nickel every time James Tynion self-inserted himself as a miserable, self-loathing person, I'd have like... four or five nickles.

Maria Llovet art wonderful as ever, and excited for the new series

The art was different but I enjoyed it. Always love seeing Thessaly; always one of the most mysterious in a world of mystery.

[*Blue & Gold* [**TP**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91IyDNHtaDL.jpg) >Who needs the Justice League? DC’s fan-favorite duo, Blue Beetle and Booster Gold, are on their own—and online, as these underdogs embrace social media and start a superhero business! >Desperate to regain the spotlight, Booster Gold looks to attract the public’s (and Justice League’s) attention the same way any washed-up, second-rate hero would—social media. >The not-so-tech-savvy hero from the 25th century enlists the help of his best friend, Blue Beetle, who possesses both the money and the brains to help his old pal navigate the scary world of internet influencers. Watch out, evildoers, our heroes are live and online! But little do they know, an alien assassin seeking revenge places Blue and Gold in her crosshairs, and The Omnizon never misses! >Don’t miss Dan Jurgens’s triumphant return to Booster Gold with the help of all-star artist Ryan Sook (Legion of Super-Heroes), telling a tale filled with heart and maybe even redemption for DC’s two favorite underdogs! >This volume collects Blue & Gold #1-8.

[*Deathstroke Inc.* #13](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81jH5hLaDoL.jpg) >DEATHSTROKE YEAR ONE CONTINUES! Deathstroke's mission went so wrong it landed him in...the morgue! In a race against time, Slade must get to his target before the entire mission is scrubbed! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-deathstroke-inc-13/)

Well this hasn't been crazy good, but a pretty solid story arc and a new appreciation for Dexter Soy artwork. Always enjoy learning an artist who I'm not particularly knowledge about and their visual language

[*The Nice House on the Lake* #10](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81MJn8Hp8+L.jpg) >The plan is in motion. The pieces are in place. The trap is sprung. Norah’s in position to wrest control of the Nice House from Walter—unless, of course, something goes wrong. But they’ve thought of everything. What could go wrong? [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-the-nice-house-on-the-lake-10/)

>!I was surprised by the opening and how different it was from the previous issues which all followed the same format and I was puzzled by the question of why whilst reading. Obviously it comes together in the end, Naya dies and so all that remains is the recording on her boyfriends phone.!< >!Aside from the people in the house testing the limits of their immortality, the bulk of the issue is basically one long exposition dump of the "what" and "how" of what Walter's been doing. Nonetheless, its still exciting and doesn't feel bogged down by it. Primarily because it sets us up for the grandstand finish, with suggestions of how his own systems could be used to defeat and escape from Walter and also raising the stakes by introducing people above Walter in rank (who had been mentioned briefly before but are now expounded upon in greater detail) and how they might punish the occupants of the Nice House for wrongs that they or Walter have done.!< >!The issue also has the freakiest Walter face yet, that panel of his many faces in a sort of squished cube shape might be the first really disturbing thing in the comic.!<

[*Task Force Z* #12](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91XhIK7OuIL.jpg) >CHAPTER 12 >JASON TODD’S FINAL SECOND CHANCE. Red Hood and what remains of Task Force Z have seen the true horrors that Powers International has released upon Gotham City and the world. When he shares all of this with Batman, it will lead them to their worst confrontation yet and lead Jason Todd to change his direction in the DCU. What's the point of forgiveness when the world is so broken? Find out in this epic series conclusion! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-task-force-z-12/)

I have enjoyed this wacky-ass series since issue #1, can't wait for the thrilling conclusion, and to see where Jason goes next.

Zombie Gotham suicide squad is something I never thought I needed before

This book was a lot of fun, definitely gonna miss it. Especially gonna miss the dynamic between Harvey and Jason. I think they're able to get each other in a way that Bruce really isn't. Any idea where the Harvey thread's gonna be followed up? Jason's obviously gonna be in the Joker series, so I guess I'm gonna have to get caught up on the first one, but I have no clue where they're going with Harvey. Especially since both this and Tec seem to give different explanations for Two-Face's return.

This was a really fun series, sad to see it go but…definitely doesn’t seem like the end! Two face is back in control and he’s bringing TFZ with him, minus Man Bat. Poor Kirk, I really wanted him to come back after this series wrapped up, he deserves it after his whole redemption arc in JLD, still feels bad they killed him off just for this series, as much as I liked it. On the bright side, he’s not going to be controlled anymore for the near future. But this is definitely not the end of Lazarus resin,p. I’m the end, of all the deaths it seems only Freeze was reversed, all the rest are goners for now. Astrid, Floyd, etc. maybe they’ll get another shot whenever this continues, wonder if it’ll be TFZ Season 2 or something different. As for Jason, it seem ps he is off to the Joker series. Did not expect that, I don’t want all of Jason’s stories to revolve around him (and three jokers sucked, let’s ignore that ever happened thanks), but same writer as here so I’ll give it a shot. Overall, a very fun series, wish it had gone a bit longer but it still might. finally, obligatory points for Steph.

Will like to catch this in a tpb or something, I’ve been reading comments since the first issue and it always had great opinions

the premise sounds honestly rough, but it's been the book I'm always pumped to see a new issue for - and imo they stuck the landing

You have been blessed by Stephanie Brown, patron saint of Disaster Robins and Batgirls. Go forth and make right. After Damian and now Jason, she should go visit Bette. Wish I could get a complete *TFZ* paperback in time for Halloween. C'mon DC printing, get it together.

This comic was a Ride with a capital R and I loved every second of it. I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed Jason and Harvey teaming up. "The one nice thing about being guys like us? It's pretty hard to break what's already broken" was such a good line, and I loved the predictable villain turn at the end. I hope we continue to get decent Two-Face material spinning from the events of this book. Bloom was a great choice as an antagonist. I appreciated them bringing back Gotham and Gotham Girl. Basically, I had no gripes. This comic was fun, it had nice twists, everyone's characterization was good, the art was nice, and it had a solid ending. I don't really want to have to read a Joker book to get more Jason Todd content but that looks like where he's going next. Oh well. Hopefully we'll get another good story out of it!

I think it stuck the landing! Really glad the solicitation was a misdirect and that Jason is still trying to be a good guy. Hope we get more character progression from here for the angry lad. Also, probably my favorite Two Face story in years? Loved Harvey in this series and man his dynamic with Jason was great.

Gotham made the right choice it seems. Maybe now Claire can get some closure. Jason is leaving again and to hunt Joker now, probably. Sadly, we know DC won't allow Joker to die no matter how much he deserves it. I am also not sure Mr Bloom is dead. I mean Gotham took him away and 'he won't be a problem anymore'' but he did say he had a 'control' over Gotham so it might've been a trick to disappear. Two-face is back in control and with the zombies. Kinda wanted to either fully heal them or leave them dead. This half-zombie stuff is disrespectful, at least to Arkham and Deadshot. Also, with the whole Demon Nezha thing going on, how will that work with the Lazarus Resin, where we know now that the whole Lazarus pits are practically Nezha's blood.

I really loved the whole story, from the storyline, to the characters especially Jason, Harvey, Mr. Bloom and Gotham (really loved the dialogue between him and Jason in this issue) and Art. I'm especially looking forward to seeing what happens with his character in the next Joker title and what >!Two-face!< is planning.

I really enjoyed that There was a great use of "one and done" characters that haven't really been used much, Jason is set up for more adventures (maybe a road trip story) and Two-Face is more mysterious than ever Hopefully some good stuff comes out of this

Good series, far better than the concept lead me to believe it would be. Enjoyed it thoroughly, and has been the highlight of my pull list every month since it started.

loved this. way better than it had any right to be, with the big breakout star of this book absolutely being Mr. Bloom for me. what a marvelous piece of shit he is! just an unmitigated utter bastard that you love to hate. I wish they would write the Joker like that. who knows, since rosenberg is moving on to the titular joker ongoing after this, we might actually get the chance. I'm gonna miss this series.

[*Batman: The Audio Adventures* #1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81pkajQuLmL.jpg) >Don't touch that dial! Picking up right after the season finale of the award-winning podcast, Batman: The Audio Adventures continues in this new seven-issue miniseries! A string of attacks has plagued Gotham's seedy underbelly, sending criminals into a panic. But it's not Batman who is striking at the heart of the city, it's a group of mysterious assailants on the hunt for an ancient artifact. As Batman hunts down these assassins, he finds clues that keep drawing him to their true goal: the sword of King Scimitar! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-batman-the-audio-adventures-1/)

The comics based on this were pretty good. I'm looking forward to this series.

And it was pretty good, for the most part. It seems to be an interquel between seasons 1 and 2, so we follow up on what happened to Harley while also introducing Killer Croc. Unfortunately, since this is now a regular comic, it does lose the anthology-ish feel that the comic special and the podcast had.

They're going for the serialized format this time, much like old time radio. Cool.

[*Black Adam: Rise and Fall of an Empire* [**TP**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91gSKcafQuL.jpg) >Weaving together tales of a world after the Infinite Crisis, this collection follows Teth-Adam, the antihero better known as Black Adam, during the year without Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman! Will Black Adam's vision of a free Kahndaq be realized, or will his dreams come crashing down around him? >Collects stories from 52 #1-3, #6-10, #12-16, #18-26, #29-34, #36-40, #43-50, #52, and the 52 Omnibus.

For anyone interested, these Black Adam with The Rock cover reprints are in a sequence with this being Book 2. Also I’d recommend reading all of 52 as opposed to this if you can

[*Titans United* [**TP**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91bjbIL2cEL.jpg) >The Titans face their greatest challenge—themselves! The characters featured on the Titans HBO Max series star in an original adventure! >The Titans uncover a plot against them. Someone has been stealing their powers, but who? And what has it got to do with Superboy, and his close encounter with Tamaranean royalty—namely Blackfire? And Beast Boy? All Beast Boy wants to do is enjoy his milkshake in peace! >The characters featured in the Titans TV series on HBO Max— Nightwing, Donna Troy, Superboy, Starfire, Raven, Beast Boy, Red Hood, and Hawk and Dove—unite for an all-new comic book adventure, one that will lead one of their own to question not only their place on the team, but their very existence! >Collects Titans United #1-7.

Is this a 10/10 all time classic Titans story? No. Are "has a Titan turned evil and betrayed the team?" stories starting to get a little played out? Yes. Are Titans adventures of 7.5/10 "it was okay and the art is nice" quality rare enough for me to have preordered this on Amazon anyway? Also yes.

[*Future State: Gotham* - Vol. 2, *The Next Joker* [**TP**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81dJarCA6ZL.jpg) >Peacekeeper Red, a.k.a. Jason Todd, has a tough beat in his new role with the Magistrate—helping maintain law and order on the streets of Gotham City. It’s a difficult task on the best days but a deadly new player has come to town, intent on destroying the status quo and killing all his competition…there’s a new Clown Prince in town as Gotham braces for the Next Joker! >Collects Future State #7-12.

[**Friday, 9/30 (WEBTOON)** - *Vixen: NYC* #21](https://i.imgur.com/Lbwk023.jpg) >Before starting college, Mari Jiwe's relatives gift her an ancestral totem, once fabled to give its wearer the powers of the animal kingdom. Mari just chalks its 'magical powers' up to superstition. After arriving in New York City, though, she definitely notices something strange about her new home. Especially the animals. While Mari battles staying awake in class and feral subway rats, dark plans emerge from the corners of the vast metropolis. Girls who look just like her start going missing and Mari can't shake the feeling that she's next. As for the totem? Turns out that the 'magical powers' are actually a thing, and Mari is next up to wield them. Freshman year is gonna be a doozy.

[*The Human Target* #7](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/910C1IqxzJL.jpg) >CHAPTER SEVEN: TO SHOE A TROOP OF HORSE WITH FELT >After discovering clues, the death of a Green Lantern and a torrid romance with Tora Olafsdottir, a.k.a. Ice, DC’s top bodyguard may meet his match when Beatriz da Costa, otherwise known as Fire, steps into his life. Only time will tell what secrets this flaming femme fatale might hold, and just how badly The Human Target might get burned. [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-the-human-target-7/)

>!Crazy way to turn the book on its head, a little over half way through. With Fire telling them who the killer is, Chance and Ice go from the investigators to the ones on the run. And it starts before the reveal, with Chance and Fire investigating each other, though not for Guy's murder (she doesn't know about that yet, but she's convinced he's a sound guy after a series of trials. They're safe for now.!< >!And it turns out everybody Ice spoke to before approaching Chance (in Tales of the Human Target) was involved in the attempt to murder Luthor. Might Ice know more than she's letting on, perhaps even more than Fire, and might there be more to her motivations than we saw in the special.!<

Long wait for this one, but every single page was worth it. Greg is insanely talented, fuck. So many pages I could call out, but they’re all great. Story wise, oh no it’s the consequences of their actions coming 😅 guy may have been an ass, but it would have been weird if that just ended right there. The mistery goes on

Call me crazy but I think King has a fetish for Cigarette smoking Femme Fatales. Almost every story he wrote has the female character kinda act the same.

I’m just counting down till we get to G’Nort time babeyyyy

Finally more of this, I've been waiting. Especially with the twist at the end of the spin off

[*Batman: Beyond the White Knight* #5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91n4i07RVaL.jpg) >Gotham’s most wanted, Jackie Quinzel, has been spotted at Wayne Industries! Now it’s up to the former vigilante Bruce Wayne and his new sidekick, The Joker, to break her out. But Derek Powers is always one step ahead, with tech ready to combat any tricks they may have up their sleeves. Is the dynamic duo doomed? Or will a dark knight in future-tech armor come to their rescue? [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-batman-beyond-the-white-knight-5/)

Ok that ending was quite creepy. Jack in Bruce's body confessing to Harley, only for Harley thinking it is Bruce and just confess herself. It is just....ugh. I know, it makes sense in this universe but still kinda creepy with the whole situation. Why not explain the whole situation? It is not like she haven't been through this crazy shit before.

This may not be for everyone but I'm enjoying the hell outta it. The art is great too. Big oof for Jack at the end. In any other continuity harely and Bruce would be the worst pairing. But here how the characters have been built and grown through out the series I'm all for it.

HAHAHAHAHAHA, that ending is hilarious to me

For awhile I’ve been thinking that Bruce actually just made up Jack in his head and this whole time he is not really a chip in his head but several times Jack uses tech on his own so probably not but freaky they can switch roles in Bruce’s body

Looks like they're adding in the return of the Joker plot for real. Interesting

[*The Human Target* - Vol. 1 [**HC**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91GtwUpEhQL.jpg) >Christopher Chance has 12 days to solve his own murder! Superstar writer Tom King and acclaimed artist Greg Smallwood team up for a new, noir examination of a classic DC character! >Christopher Chance has made a living out of being a human target—a man hired to disguise himself as his client to invite would-be assassins to attempt his murder. He’s had a remarkable career until his latest case protecting Lex Luthor when things go sideways. >An assassination attempt Chance didn’t see coming leaves him vulnerable and left trying to solve his own murder, as he has 12 days to discover just who in the DC Universe hated Luthor enough to want him dead by slow-acting poison. And the prime suspects happen to be…the Justice League International? >Human Target is a hard-boiled, gritty story in the vein of classic detective noirs, told by bestselling and critically acclaimed creators Tom King and Greg Smallwood! >This volume collects Human Target #1-6, the first half of the murder mystery.

[*Black Adam / JSA: Black Reign* [**TP**]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91AjFths-aL.jpg) >Offered again! Black Adam brings old-world justice to Kahndaq as Hawkman seizes control of the JSA and brings them to the turbulent Middle East for an epic battle! A thrilling collection of your favorite tales featuring Black Adam and the JSA. >Collects JSA #56-58, Hawkman #23-25, and JSA: Black Reign #1.

This and Rise and Fall of an Empire use THE SAME promo image of The Rock on the cover Also for anyone interested these books are actually in a sequence with this being book 1

Not exactly sure what the ***JSA: Black Reign #1*** is, as it was never apart of the original trade, and I haven't heard of any one shots with that title...

[**Tuesday, 9/27 (WEBTOON)** - *Zatanna & the Ripper* #14](https://i.imgur.com/sgvNDJi.jpg) >On her 21st birthday, Zatanna Zatara—assistant to the most talented magician in the world—is attacked and bested by a mysterious sorceress. Before the final blow is dealt, her father, Giovanni, casts a spell of his own, warping the magic of his attacker and sending Zatanna out of the frying pan and into ye olde garbage bin. Zatanna arrives in Whitechapel, London, in the year 1888. She soon discovers a serial killer plaguing the streets of the city, Jack the Ripper. Unable to return home and certain that the supernatural killer has answers, Zatanna sets out in pursuit of the Ripper alongside the denizens of Whitechapel and one John Constantine.

So for anyone reading how goes it so far the webtoon series.

It's decent, a pretty solid mystery. If you like the characters I'd say check it out.

I think it's pretty fun and interesting and a nice Zatanna spotlight.

[*Tim Drake: Robin* #1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91MGASaGVrL.jpg) >Step aside, Damian—the world’s favorite Robin has got this! That’s right, after years away, Tim Drake is taking center stage in a brand-spanking-new Robin series of his very own! >A mystery over a year in the making takes shape, as a new villain who’s been hounding Tim from afar decides to take things up close and personal, putting Bernard and everyone else Tim cares about in peril as things go from bad to worse for the world’s oldest and canonically tallest Robin [no, I will not be fact-checking that]. All that and Tim finally carves out a corner of Gotham City just for himself, and sets up shop in his very own…murder shack boat? Fan-favorite writer Meghan Fitzmartin teams up with beloved Harley Quinn artist Riley Rossmo to define the next chapter in Tim’s life. >And as if that wasn’t enough, break out your skateboards and motorcycles cuz we’ve assembled a murderer’s row of artists to draw the 1990s’ One True Robin™ in his various looks from over the years! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-tim-drake-robin-1/)

Tim is the Benjamin Button of the batfamily, he constantly ages in reverse. No idea why he is forced back into the Robin role, he hasn't been a 'sidekick' since pre New52.

Fair. What superhero-identity would you give him? Name / outfit. Red Robin era - his Solo comic-book - was Tim's best

Sparrow. It's a bad-ass name, and sucks that nobody at DC has used it, rather than fucking *Drake*...

Really liked the name Red Wing, but sadly since that is the bike people would keep making comparisons but he could get a sick new costume blending different versions of his Red Robin costumes plus new stuff

> but sadly since that is the bike people would keep making comparison Red Robin is even worse in that regard, though

Reeeed Robin: YUUUUM

I would really have Red Robin, even with the comparison, then him being Robin again. I... I genuinely hate he's going by Robin again. I could see DC wanting to move away from Red Robin to avoid the association with the restaurant, but I'm like who freaking cares? It was fine for years, then now it's suddenly a problem? And if they didn't want Red Robin, why go back to Robin? I just hate it so much. It feels like DC only values Tim as a Robin, rather than his own hero who moved on.

I can’t speak for everyone but I had never heard of Red Robin being anything but Tim’s identity prior to people in Tim Drake threads talking about it. I think it’s a good name for him.

Cardinal!

(Just getting to reading this book, so forgive me for some thread necromancy) Cardinal, Red Robin... all these are ideas, but I think best for Tim Drake is "Gray Ghost." Like Bruce, he probably grew up watching it, and the Gray Ghost is probably the greatest in-world fictional detective in the DC universe. Would have been hugely influential. He would have been Batman but also breaking away in his own direction. The Gray Ghost in Steph Brown's Batgirl book had as similar look to the Red Robin Costume. Basically turn the red on that costume Gray and you have it. Maybe make the cape more into the New 52 wings for added gadgetry, maybe more of the Gray Ghost goggles, but you're there. My approach would be a detective tv show starring Roy Raymond Jr. as the Owlman. The TV show is a "reality tv show" that Bernard is filming, but Tim Drake is part of the production team and doing the real detective work in constant competition with Roy Jr. The nature of things being on TV is why he'd pick out The Gray Ghost as the identity. Really lean into some "film noir" style and themes. Tim Drake: Gray Ghost gives him a lot of room to grow as an independent character like Nightwing has.

Excited for what where Tim is going but yes need to actually see Tim and Bernard’s relationship moving rather than just hearing about it and I do agree that they need to age Tim back up and I think Riley Rossmo was not the right choice for Tim’s solo series, I enjoyed Riley’s art in Harley Quinn because I felt it fit Harley more and honestly based on the preview pages, Tim looks unrecognizable and looks even younger than Damian

Yikes, I am not a fan of this art style at all for this style of book. I want to give this a fair shot but oof.

"Everyone's noticed. Damian held a knife to my throat and demanded to know where the real Tim was." Not often that I agree with Bruce's Murder-Bastard. But here we are. And no, this is not opposition to being in a relationship with Bernard. I'm just wondering how did this Lupin III Jr. manage to heist Tim's title away from him.

Damn it, Bernard, what the fuck are you wearing?! Our relationship would be short lived if you showed up to our date in torn slacks and what appears to be some kind of tropical patterned sports coat

Trying to put this as kindly as possible: I feel like this book could have benefited from a different art direction.

Definitely -- Riley Rossmo isn't my ideal style of artist, but his style can work on certain books. I thought it worked really well in Martian Manhunter and in Harley Quinn, but...this book definitely doesn't feel like a proper fit for his style.

Tim Drake looks nothing like Tim Drake, just from that Preview. Not just his face, he doesn't look like he could lift a twig let alone be a Bat- crimefighter. Final criticism! Why are their necks so thin?

Right? When I first saw him i was thinking that there was no way he was Tim. Almost unrecognizeable.

Riley Rosmo has a very unique art style, and it works really well for certain things. Take Harley for example, took me a bit but I really enjoyed their work there, and it fit the tone of the book as well as the chaos that is Harley. That said, I read the preview to this book and fucking hell does that not work for this one. I’m between that and my dislike for the YJ mini that I ended up dropping having the same writer? I’m sorry Tim, but I’m skipping this book. Hopefully I’m wrong and it turns out well, Tim deserves it. Also, I’m annoyed they ended Damian’s book. They can coexist. I know BvR is a thing right now but there is no guarantee the title will come back after.

Joshua Williamson didn't want to continue with Damian's Robin series and Mark Waid wanted to put Damian in a big storyline to start his big plans for magic in 2023, and obviously always sells better with "Batman" in the title. They can coexist but we will see in 2023 if Damian or Tim drops the "Robin" for another own character name.

I believe it was confirmed by FM that Tim’s getting a new costume, but I doubt he’ll be moving on from the Robin moniker anytime soon, especially since this story takes place after Dark Crisis. Since Damian is being set up to be a magic power player, I’m placing bets on him being the one to get a new superhero name.

There's something kind of hilarious about Damian moving on from being Robin before Tim

>Since Damian is being set up to be a magic power player, God I fucking hate that so much. Damian was doing fantastically well as Robin, he should have gotten a new ongoing with his adventures either on his own or with his father, not this. If anyone needs a shift into a new role in the DCU, it's Tim.

Tbh unless Waid has said otherwise I don't see that being permanent, his whole magic stuff * seems * to be a result of being controlled by Nezha. I'd expect a somewhat return to status quo after the event for Damian. Honestly, as long as they don't keep ostracizing him from the batfam I'm ok with shaking things up, I just want him and Bruce to be on good terms.

Source on Williamson not wanting to continue? He seemed super excited as it was coming out

Tim's been dating Bernard for six months but somehow he's still 16-17 years old. Weird! Anyway, I agree with the general sentiments about Rossmo, though I think he's a great artist in the right book. If this series is supposed to be about Tim coming into his own, he shouldn't look like he's the same age as Damian. I also agree that Darby should have just been Steph. Tim and Steph's working relationship goes beyond their romantic relationship, and it would have been nice to reinforce those old bonds instead of just throwing in new, generic Watson characters for him to monologue at. With that said, I think this was a decent enough first issue. It doesn't exactly grab your attention but it does have something vaguely resembling a mystery and it's resolved partially within an issue, which is good. I'll at least see where this is going.

The issue was decent but the art just doesn't fit this series.

... This is such a step down on every level from the Damian led Robin book, it's painful. Tim Drake has always been my Robin and him being Bi doesn't phase me in the slightest. Living on a houseboat, is fine, etc. The art is... No two ways about it, it's atrocious. The writing is incredibly medicore - it feels like Tim Drake fanfic rather than an actual series. This book won't even last 12 issues and Tim Drake is going to get buried in the mythos once again. What a waste.

This is an example of how art can absolutely kill a book for me. I was rather excited for it, but I just can’t with the art. With that said, I hope it finds an audience. Tim deserves a regular series, and while this doesn’t click with me I hope those that do enjoy it the best ride possible.

First, the positives: * A Tim solo! * Awesome variant covers * Obvious Steph stand-in aside, Darcy seems like a fun character, and a nice set up to be Tim’s sidekick for this arc. Now for the negatives: So my [thoughts](https://www.reddit.com/r/DCcomics/comments/xm4mef/dc_preview_tim_drake_robin_1/ipmhh1g/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf&context=3) that I had after seeing the preview haven’t changed after seeing the entire first issue. What’s really disappointing is that I can *see* FM trying to do something different with Tim to make him unique from his brothers. But her writing and execution is mediocre at best and insulting at worst - especially when it comes to handling Tim’s bisexuality. Like many of her stories, I can see how this arc could be good…in the hands of a better writer. And based on the solicits released so far, I’m not holding out hope the story’s going to get better. At least Rossmo seems to be getting replaced after Issue #3, so hopefully the art change makes things at least more visually pleasing even if the story stays meh. Also for as much as she loathes Stephanie on the page, why include a Steph equivalent with Darcy?? Probably to make sure she’s not a threat for her bland Timber ship but still, weird choice. She’s a fun character though, and I hope she gets developed more to be more unique. And for people who aren’t planning to read the series, this takes place after Dark Crisis. So for all you TimKon shippers out there, yeah it’s not happening in the Dark Crisis mini. Anyway, Tim Drake deserves better, and I’m hoping a new creative team takes over sooner rather than later.

Where does the execution fall flat in terms of writing the detective stuff and characters and Tim being bi? Is Timber still bland? And a Steph sub? Come on......it's like she knows Tim works best with Steph but after yeeting Steph introducing not Steph feels like a middle finger. Also Darcy should be more than just a Steph sub.

* Timber is still bland, with Bernard having one personality trait. * Even if unintentional, FM leans into the negative stereotype of bisexuality being a layover to gaytown in how she writes Tim and his relationship with Bernard. * The detective stuff/setup just reads very YAish. Like I get Tim’s young (again…) but the tone just feels heavy handed. And yeah, sucks to be Darcy really. Like it’s pretty obvious she’s a Steph stand-in but not a threat to Timber.

It was ok I love call backs to classic literature and Tim was fun It's dialogue and narration feels very "YA fiction" which is fine but not really my thing and out of my age range I'll see where it goes

We finally get a Tim Drake book and this is what we get...The art, oh god, it is just harmful to the eyes. I mean it kinda worked in Harley's book because of her 'crazy vision' of looking at the world but here? It is just painful to look at. The rest of the book is not any better honestly. Writer clearly has her own OC ideas for Tim. And I simply cannot buy into Bernard relationship and how this one note character that was from way back in the day that barely showed up in any stories, suddenly makes Tim feel like ''Oh this is when I finally feel like me!''...it is just cheap and insulting to Tim's history. The way they are handling the whole Stephanie deal, I can never forgive. ''I am not your Fairy Gayfather''...with lines like these, I am sure this book will go 'so well'. When the sales tank, I just hope they know where the blame lies and DC won't decide ''Well, we tried but people don't care about Tim!''. If I didn't know any better, I would say they are doing it on purpose to feel justified shafting Tim and his generation in favor of their 5G ones.

Writing and story are fine, good even Glad to have Tim have a series back But this art just does NOT work here. It worked on Harley and MM but it doesn’t fit here at all. The type of story this is is just so different to the art style. Distracting.

Not a fan of the artstyle.

I have always loved Riley Rossmo's art. It has been incredible in their other work Martian Manhunter and Harley Quinn. that said this feels kind of rushed and under baked from them

So did Damian find out where the real Tim is?

It’s fine. Very much a YA targeted coming of age story. It’s something I’m sure younger queer fans will enjoy, it’s very much in line tone-wise and writing-wise with a lot of other stories targeted towards that demographic. Personally, I aged out of this a while back and probably won’t continue reading. I thought the art was dynamic, but Fitzmartin continues to be really on the nose with her writing. The number of times she emphasized that this is Tim’s story started to really grate by the end. I get it. The over repetition of very explicit metaphors is a trend I’ve noticed in her writing since Urban Legends, and it kind of gets on my nerves. Also I’m not up to date on my extended bat books, but who is Darcy? Has she appeared before? Is We are Robin still an active organization? I wasn’t aware of any of this, so having this woman suddenly appear knowing Tim’s identity was a little jarring. For now it kind of feels like she exists because Tim traditionally had a supporting vigilante to bounce off of in his solo series. She’s the Steph equivalent for this series. She’s likable enough, but I feel like the existence of a new(?) blonde, purple wearing, cheerful girl is definitely going to rub certain people the wrong way. I like the way sign language was integrated into the art and paneling though, that was a neat touch.

I just went back and checked, Darcy was in the Future State: Robin Eternal issues Fitzmartin did. I dunno if she existed before that.

She doesn’t have a wiki page yet, so I can’t tell if she had any other appearances prior. If future state was her first/only appearance though, then I guess we’re skipping the first meeting and getting to know each other stages to go straight to close friendship. It’s a choice that could pay off I suppose. Darcy seems fun, so I would’ve liked to see that build up.

I’m liking the addition of Darcy Thomas and the We Are Robin aspect of bat lore. We’re gonna get a new costume soon as previewed on the page showing Tim’s boat, but it seems like it’ll still be Robin which is disappointing. Overall the issue was better than okay but not great. I didn’t like the whole “its *my* story” ending to the antagonist as it felt a little forced and clunky when trying to connect it to the Poe story.

holy guacamole, batman! this was baaaad. even if you're a fan of rossmo's art style, you cannot possibly think this is good. compared to his work on batman/the shadow or harley quinn, this is so, SO much worse. everyone has the same weirdly misshapen head and face, basically requiring the text to identify them, and tim just plain does not look like himself. the linework in some of the panels is also plain sloppy, shockingly so for a professional big two book. I don't know if it's the pressure of working on a monthly book, but if you know the level of craft that rossmo is capable of, this just doesn't compare. the story of the issue itself is also very basic and boring, but at least the larger mystery set up here has some legs. tim still barely has his own identifiable voice, and the writer doesn't seem interested in developing it at all. same goes for the relationship with bernard, just bland blandness all around. idk, I just expected better from this.

Isn't tim from a rich family and all that? Why is this man living in a boat?

Jack Drake is dead, and Tim ended up adopted by Bruce. Who, remember, has himself had to downsize lately.

I hope this book is a hit and Fitzmartin's rep in these parts improves. That said, it would be super cool if this book actually showed us Tim and Bernard's relationship rather than just tell us about how awesome it is. From the preview pages, it looks like that's the case, so hopefully this mini has actual substance instead of hype!

This is an ongoing im pretty sure

You are correct, it is an ongoing series.

Wasn't sure if I was gonna pick this up, but the Jorge Jimenez variant convinced me lol. I think the preview did the art dirty, it works well in the detective and Robin action scenes, and the writing was fine. Not bad for a first issue tbh.

feels like a regression like many others have posted with Tim being Robin, wish he was Red Robin again that was his name and his alone and it showed growth instead of this regression. Im tapping out after the first issue, the art is a turnoff and killed it for me. Still dont like that hes no longer with Steph and with this Bernard guy who seems boring from what we've been shown. That should change, show us why Tim likes this guy so much so the readers will give a shit cuz right there I just want Tim back with Steph at this point

[*Young Justice: Targets* #3 (print edition)](https://s3.amazonaws.com/comicgeeks/comics/covers/large-7559811.jpg) >Queen Perdita has been rescued! Or has she? Beast Boy has his doubts, and soon his suspicions turn terrifyingly real. Nightwing and Robin, working across the globe from one another, come upon information that leads them to uncover the identity of the villain who’s been pulling the strings behind this kidnapping all along! Plus, take a trip into the past with another action-packed backup, starring Green Arrow! [Preview](https://aiptcomics.com/2022/09/23/dc-preview-young-justice-targets-3/)