The New York Comic-Con will be happening this Friday and Marvel has released a ton of promos for new NOW! Titles. Here are some of my predictions for new books (and some rebrands)

EXTINCTION by Sam Humphries and Andre Araujo

Ok, this one is a little vague but kind of one the nose a bit (if that makes sense) Sam Humphries is currently writing Uncanny X-Force and the font used in this promo is purple and gold so I’m going to go with a Psylocke lead X-Men team with a more traditional roster.  The X-Men are lacking a true Extinction team like they had in Uncanny, and I could definitely see Psylocke helping both Wolverine and Cyclops if the situation demands it. I wouldn’t mind seeing a team consisting of; Psylocke, Colossus, Domino and X-23.

Prediction: Uncanny X-Force (Leader Psylocke with new team members)

DESCENT by Dennis Hopeless and Kev Walker

This one is a bit more difficult to pin down; Hopeless is currently writing Cable and the X-Force and Avengers Academy. If we go with the actual word in the promo “DESCENT” could be referring to many different characters but it’s red and black color could be linked to Deadpool. With Gerry Dugan writing NOVA now, maybe Hopeless is coming in to write a new Deadpool story?

Prediction: Deadpool

FRENEMIES by Ales Kot and Michael Walsh

Not a lot to go on this one, but I’d like to make a fun selection. I’m going with Cable/Deadpool because they are both awesome!

Prediction: Cable/Deadpool team-up book

TRIAL by Brian Michael Bendis and Stuart Immonen

This could only be about one person.

Prediction: Cyclops in a new story arc involving All New/Uncanny/Wolverine and the X-Men

JUDGMENT by Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli

This will probably tie into the TRIAL promo, and I believe both will involve the X-Men.

Prediction: story arc involving the X-Men

MINDBUBBLE by Rick Remender, Pascal Alixe, Nic Klein

Remender is a wildcard, but MINDBUBBLE sounds like it may have something to do with Charles Xavier and family.

Prediction: A new arc in Uncanny Avengers involving Charles Xavier, or maybe a sibling?

RAD! by Dan Slott and Michael Allred

Odd word selection, but it may be a dead giveaway along with the color of font. Along with the resurgence of cosmic books…

Prediction: A new Silver Surfer ongoing

THE END by Dan Slott and Giuseppe Camuncoli

This has to be…

Prediction: The end of Superior Spider-Man!

GLOBAL by Jonathan Hickman, Nick Spencer and Stefano Caselli

Not a new book, but a new arc and jumping on point.

Prediction: A new Avengers arc

HIGHER by Kelly Sue Deconnick and David Lopez

Please, Please, Please!

Prediction: A new Captain Marvel story arc!

Ruben “Bandito” Mendoza

Do you agree with Ruben’s predictions? Leave your comments in the section below or follow him on Twitter at @TheRubenMendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

Hey, so I know I’m a month behind, but who wants some old reviews to comics you’ve probably forgotten already! Plus, we have a new Batman and Scarlet Witch (or Wanda) is an Olsen. Big week folks, buckle up.

FLASH ANNUAL #2

I jumped off the Flash around the time Gorilla Grodd showed up, it wasn’t because I didn’t enjoy the comic (I really liked it, the art is amazing) but it was more of a financial thing. I was interested in jumping back in with the Reverse Flash arc but decided to go with the annual instead. Wasn’t exactly the best choice, for one the art is very dull. The Flash I was reading had vibrant colors and a distinct style, this felt a little more like a backup comic. The story itself followed the Green Lantern and Flash first meeting each other, and while that part of the story is pretty cool it just falls downhill from there. The backup stories were a lot better and made this an ok Annual.

Rating 3 out of 5

GOTG has been one of my consistent favorites month after month. It find’s a way to blend action, humor and sci-fi elements to make this book easy for anyone to pick up and enjoy. This was an Age of Ultron fallout (that I already forgot about) with a special appearance by Angela. I wasn’t a big fan of this just because of how Gamora was portrayed. I understand Angela is this big threat, just wasn’t thrilled with how Gamora was handled in the aftermath. Nevertheless, this book still has a lot going for it. A very funny conversation with Rocket Raccoon and Iron Man and a crazy chase involving Peter Quill reminded me quickly why GOTG is always near the top of my buy pile.

Rating 4 out of 5

BATMAN ANNUAL #2

I struck out with one annual, so I was relieved when Batman delivered on his. This doesn’t really contain much about Zero Year, but feels like it may be towards the early stages of Batman’s career as it’s his first visit to Arkham.  Batman is brought to Arkham to test security measures in the building. We get some great detective work from Bruce and a great secondary arc with a new staff member inside the prison. The story really revolves around one villain named Anchoress who can phase through walls and her feud with Batman. We get a great glimpse inside the mind of Bruce Wayne as his worst fears are brought to life, which may be reason to buy the comic alone and this is done with fantastic panels. I still find it quite jarring when Capullo is not drawing Batman.

Rating 4 out of 5

NEW AVENGERS #8

It’s an Inhumans issue with very little of the New Avengers, which is a very good thing. Hickman knows how to write these characters and feels like he is picking up where he left off. I am interested to see what Fraction does, but my gut tells me Hickman should be writing Inhumans. Deodato! Absolutely love his artwork, and he brings in this issue.

Rating 5 out of 5

SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #13 and #14

It’s Superior month, so here’s 2 (3 if you count Carnage) Superior reviews. Issue #13 takes place with Spider-Man still searching for the Spider-Slayer inside of the Raft with JJJ close on the trail himself. The stakes are high, as The Shocker, Vulture and Scorpion( each with upgrades in tech courtesy of the Spider Slayer) are all running around trying to kill SpOCK and a group of hostages still inside.  Things move fast so it’s hard to appreciate everything that is happening, this could have been its own mini event (so much story left on the table). Art is great and fun to look at and the conclusion has a neat little nod to ASM #700.  All in all, a great issue.

Rating 4 out of 5

Next, we move onto Issue #14 with the Superior Spider-Man taking down Shadowland! Like, literally destroying the entire thing brick by brick; it’s amazing that Dan Slott continues to find ways to bring the reader back each month. Spider-Man now has his own army and the blessing of JJJ to do whatever he pleases when in regards to criminals. The ending is a bit of a bait and switch, and kind of ruins the whole suspense part of seeing whether or not a character would make it to the end. Still fun and we are still getting a small dose of the Green Goblin…which is awesome.

Rating 4 out of 5

SUPERIOR CARNAGE #1

Kudos to Kevin Schnick and Stephen Segovia for giving us an entirely different (although done before with another symbiote) approach as the Frightful Four as the Wizard tries to control the uncontrollable Carnage. I really enjoyed what I read here, the book does a good job to build Carnage and Cletus Kasady as the threats they are.

Rating 4 out of 5

NEW BATMAN, NEW AVENGER AND A TALKING RACCOON

So, the internet broke yesterday when a new Batman was announced (that guy from Phantoms) and it’s Ben Affleck. I was more confused about the choice than I was mad. I do not question Affleck’s acting ability but I think he is a bigger success at directing rather than acting. Who knows, maybe he will be good. It’s far too early to judge this now, so for now let’s put a fork in it. We also had a casting rumor that Elizabeth Olsen is in talks to play Wanda Maximoff in the Avengers sequel.  Haven’t seen a whole lot from Olsen but she definitely has the look and is starting to get mainstream. I just wish I could call her Scarlet Witch. Bradley Cooper may end of being the voice of Rocket Raccoon, which is odd. Or is it, I don’t even know anymore as both DC and MARVEL appear to know what their doing. I do know one thing; I will be there for all three movies in theaters.

CHEAP POP

Forgive me, I am going to promote on my blog. I’m sorry guys. For anyone that has followed me on twitter (when I’m not constantly tweeting Autumn Reeser, Azita Ghanizada and Naomi Kyle) I have talked about a web series that I was making. I’ve done a few videos under the rubenm33 name on youtube and a series called the Adventures of Ricky Django! (2 years before the movie). I am in no way a professional and I operate on less than a shoestring budget but I do very much love the entire filming process. Over the past year and half, I’ve been writing and writing and writing and writing and writing and writing and writing and writing and writing a web series that I would one day film. Well, I am not getting any younger and don’t plan on spending another six months rewriting. So, in October I will debut the Sleep Walkers which will hopefully have some sort of budget. Sleep Walkers follows Rey Sueno Jr (Dream King in English) as he investigates crime in the Dream World. The series will hopefully blend action/comedy and drama into one entertaining peace. Think Twin Peaks and Avengers minus the colorful costumes…maybe. I would really appreciate it if you guys helped by spreading the word. Please and thank you, see you next month.

Viva!

Ruben “Bandito” Mendoza

For more comic views and reviews follow Ruben on Twitter at @Viva_Mendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

Marvel has just released Solicitations for September so I thought what better time to check out what the house of ideas has in store for us in the month of September and also what the next big event is all about.

INFINITY

The story this time around has Thanos arriving to Earth to attack it in a very vulnerable state as the Avengers are out in space

Starting in August, Marvel will begin it’s next big event called Infinity, which will tie into; Avengers, New Avengers, Thanos Rising, Guardians of the Galaxy as well as some other titles such as Captain Marvel and Nova. The story this time around has Thanos arriving to Earth to attack it in a very vulnerable state as the Avengers are out in space battling a new enemy. It will be up to what’s left of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to take on the Mad Titan and whatever he has coming with him. In the past, some of Marvel event’s have seemed to appear out of mid-air but with Infinity it feels more like a progression instead of just being shoe horned in. If you have been following Avengers and the New Avengers you can see how the threats have slowly progressed into bigger and bigger problems, and it’s only fitting that Thanos be the end result of these threats. I am not usually a big fan of tie-ins as I feel they mess with the flow of a book (Wolverine and the X-Men has not been the same since AVX) but with a new Avengers line titled Mighty Avengers (taking the place of Dark Avengers) that assembles a team to face the threat of Thanos lead by Luke Cage, and two other tie ins called Infinity Heist (which showcases the villains of the Marvel Universe taking advantage of the situation of splintered Avenger groups) and Infinity: The Hunt ( featuring a contest of champions with the younger Marvel heroes) the tie ins sound as interesting if not more so than the mainline title itself!

A SUPERIOR SEPTEMBER!

This will be a great month for the Spider-Man family of books.

September will be a very Superior month as we will be getting three different Superior books that tie-in or are related to Superior Spider-Man. By September we will be on #3 of both The Superior Foes of Spider-Man (a team of Spider-Man baddies causing trouble around the Marvel U) and Superior Carnage (it’s Carnage, no explanation needed!) While both books sound great it’s Superior Spider-Man that you should be keeping your eye on. Two Spider-Men in one book?! This can’t end well for anyone! And rounding out our Spider-Man and Friends September is Venom (who will be receiving a female symbiote side kick) and Scarlet Spider who is about to do battle with a Hunter?! This will be a great month for the Spider-Man family of books.

X-MEN: BATTLE OF THE ATOM

Happy 50th Anniversary X-Men!

Though it will probably be Infinity getting most of the headlines in the coming weeks, it’s the X-Men: Battle of the Atom that has me most interested. The X-Men from the past, present and future’s paths will all collide as a new mutant appears and the Original X-Men take a turn for the worst, so bad that X-Men from the future have to come back and fix the time streams! Battle of the Atom will be a ten part event that will cross through various X-books in the Marvel Universe. The X-Men have such a rich character history and practically all the X-books being as brilliant as they are, I can’t see this one being anything but fantastic. Happy 50th Anniversary X-Men!

These are just some of the books we have to look forward to, and most of these are the ones I have been following. If you guys have any books that I missed and want to talk me into buying them, comment below or send me a tweet.

Thwip!

For more comic views and reviews follow Ruben on Twitter at @Ruben_Mendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

So, the first wave of Marvel NOW! titles has officially come to end with the release of this week’s all new book simply titled X-Men (featuring an all female X-Men team). With a second wave already in the works, why don’t we take a look at what you should be reading from wave 1.

(Note, although I have done a pretty good job at keeping up with most of the new NOW! books there are some that have slipped through my fingers. A+X, FF, X-Men: Legacy, Cable and X-Force, Thunderbolts, Morbius: The Living Vampire, Savage Wolverine, Young Avengers, Fearless Defenders, Savage Wolverine, Wolverine are some of the books I haven’t been on board with for strictly financial reasons. Young Avengers appears to be the most talked about of the books I’ve listed).

All New X-Men introduces us to the original X-Men who are bought into our time to try and stop Cyclops and his Uncanny X-Men.

All New X-Men: This (and Superior Spider-Man) is my 2^nd favorite of the NOW titles. ANXM introduces us to the original X-Men who are bought into our time to try and stop Cyclops and his Uncanny X-Men. ANXM also does a great job introducing us to all these characters while at the same time it incorporates an interesting story that continues to impress every month. The premiere X-book IS All New X-Men, it has something for new and old fans of the X-Men. Brian Michael Bendis is on top of his game here.

Brian Michael Bendis continues to do a great job at re-introducing and modernizing older characters.

Guardians of the Galaxy: GOTG is another solid entry for NOW, as it re-introduces (see a trend?) the Guardians of the Galaxy (Star Lord, Gamora, Drax, Groot, Rocket Raccoon and Iron Man) as they defend Earth from intergalactic threats. Brian Michael Bendis continues to do a great job at re-introducing and modernizing older characters. He seems to be setting up a solid story and with a universe as big as Marvel’s there will not be a shortage of villains or dangers.

New Avengers: Funny how the Avengers/New Avengers books, it is the “second” book that is getting most of my intention. Is isn’t because Avengers is not an interesting book ( on the contrary) but it seems that New Avengers with it’s smaller cast and more focused story arc is what continues to bring me back. Even though it’s a bit confusing.

Nova: Marvel’s continued focus on the cosmic characters of its universe continues with Nova. We have a brand new Nova (Sam Alexander) as he becomes one of the youngest Nova’s in history. This book seems to be aimed at younger readers but it’s the light hearted story with just the right amount of character development that makes this a great read.

The most controversial and talked about NOW titles is Superior Spider-Man.

Superior Spider-Man: The most controversial and talked about NOW titles is Superior Spider-Man, as Doctor Octopus takes over Peter Parker as Spider-Man as he sets out to be the Superior hero.  Although much of the controversy surrounding the absence of Peter Parker has disappeared, Dan Slott still continues to find ways to shock the reader and it continues to bring me back in to find out what is going to happen next to Spider-Man. And with a load of guest stars set for the next few issues the lives of Spider-Man and his Superior friends looks like it will get a bit worse before it gets any better.

X-Men: With only one issue to its name, I was hesitant to even put this on the list. X-Men had such an incredible introductory chapter and a solid cast that makes me believe this book will be a success.

Captain Marvel is a solid character driven book that every comic book fan should own.

Captain Marvel: As one of the only female lead books (the other’s being X-Men and Fearless Defenders) Captain Marvel continues to break new ground and set new standards for female lead books. Captain Marvel is a solid character driven book that every comic book fan should own.

It almost seems like a Dark Avengers version of ANXM and WATXM.

Uncanny X-Men: With so many X-titles on the shelves today it takes a lot to be considered different than the rest. And Uncanny X-Men is indeed different, focusing on a rebel group of X-Men we get an incredible story that shows what the world thinks of the X-Men and what the X-Men think of the X-Men. It almost seems like a Dark Avengers version of ANXM and WATXM. Bottom line is that this is a can’t miss book.

Secret Avengers: another Avengers book, that some how manages to take a different approach and makes it work. This book seems to follow more of the cinematic Marvel Universe and puts Black Widow, Hawkeye and company into smaller secret missions that don’t require the reader to buy several books to know what’s going on.

Uncanny X-Force: Initially off to a slow start, UXF has found its voice and story and is starting to create something really great. Keep an eye on this one.

The most fun you will have reading a comic book this year, great story and funny character moments help give Wade Wilson a truly fantastic book.

Deadpool: The most fun you will have reading a comic book this year, great story and funny character moments help give Wade Wilson a truly fantastic book.

Avengers: The premiere Avengers book, Jonathan Hickman’s Avengers finds a way to include all of our favorite Avengers and still give everyone their own time to shine. The massive story is inching at about a snail’s pace but with Infinity right around the corner you be can sure that this is leading to something BIG.

That’s it for now, stay tuned as I give my picks on who should be getting books in Wave 2!

For more comic views and reviews follow Ruben on Twitter at @Ruben_Mendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

This week’s Superior Spider-Man #9 promises a big change, what could possibly be bigger than the death of Doctor Octopus and Peter Parker?! If you have been following Superior Spider-Man (if you haven’t you should, it’s one of the best Marvel NOW! titles) then you know the changes that Spider-Man has gone through. The Superior Spider-Man has become far more aggressive (even deadly in one case) in the way he deals with adversaries and not only that he has also alienated himself away from his family, friends and even the Avengers. Otto has become increasingly unstable and it appears to be finally coming to a head as Peter has found a way to gain control of his body back!

Peter has been inside of his own mind since the mind swap waiting for the right time to take back control and he finally found his opening, only for Otto to be one step ahead

Peter has been inside of his own mind since the mind swap waiting for the right time to take back control and he finally found his opening, only for Otto to be one step ahead (won’t spoil it, read #8) so this all leads to big events of issue #9, what could possibly get us more upset than Spider-Man dying? Here are some ideas… (may contain some spoilers)

1. Peter Parker dies…for real- the only thing that I can think of that can make us even more upset than when Parker “died” is actually having Otto successfully remove all traces of Peter Parker from his body. Even in death, Peter Parker cannot catch a break! #ParkerLuck
2. Mary Jane dies- Mary Jane role has been all but non existent in the new Superior Spider-Man, but her death would still send shockwaves through the Marvel Universe.
3. Green Goblin returns- It was revealed in #4 of Superior Spider-Man that the Green Goblin is running around in full costume, I can’t think of an event that will change Spider-Man life that doesn’t involve the Green Goblin…and for that matter…

Who is the Green Goblin?

Who is the Green Goblin? If you happen to read the C2E2 conference, you will notice that Dan Slott (writer of Superior Spider-Man) noted how it was interesting that the Green Goblin has only been seen once in costume, and how we as readers should not jump in and just assume it’s Norman under the hood. Wait…what?!  Who could possibly be the Green Goblin? Also, Spider-Man 2099 is set to make his return in Superior Spider-Man #17…because you can’t have too many Spider-Men…why not bring back Ben Riley…always liked him! Anyway, Dan Slott sent out a tweet a few months back that had everybody (myself included) up in arms because it appeared that Miguel O Hara, was going to be the Superior Spider-Man. Some noted how Superior had a toe claw similar to Spider-Man 2099, so the theory was easy to accept. We would later find out that this wasn’t the case, but the tweet may have had a nugget of truth as Miguel is set to make his return to the Marvel U (with Slott even hinting that this story has been building since #600 of ASM) things are about to get weird folks, buckle up.

Now, we wait till #9 hits shelves later this week.

Now, we wait till #9 hits shelves later this week. Try not to read any spoilers and go into this as fresh as you can and hit up @inter-comics on twitter or visit inter-comics.com and this blog with thoughts and reactions!

Later Web heads!

For more comic views and reviews follow Ruben on Twitter at @Ruben_Mendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

Superior Spider-Man #6AU

Superior Spider-Man #6 AU was a bit of a mixed bag for me. The story feels a bit jumbled because it comes a few weeks after three issues of Age of Ultron even though the events of this book take place during AU #1. Even though, this tie in does manage to tell a great standalone tale as Otto tries to takedown Ultron by himself and nearly succeeds if it wasn’t for his pride getting in the way of his intelligence.

The dialogue from Spider-Man seems a bit forced so the character is played a bit more straight with no witty banter.

The dialogue from Spider-Man seems a bit forced (mainly because Dan Slott isn’t writing this, Christos Gage steps in with Dexter Soy on art) so the character is played a bit more straight with no witty banter. We also are missing out on the ghost of Peter Parker talking to Ock which is a great plot point of Superior Spider-Man. The artwork is a nice change of pace as Dexter Soy draws Spider-Man with a very anime like body. If your just following Superior Spider-Man there may not be enough here to make you go out and buy this as it does nothing to advance the Superior plot in any way. However if you are following AU and are missing your Spider-Man action in the mainline (as I am) this will provide some entertainment.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Guardians of the Galaxy #1

Guardians of the Galaxy is quickly becoming my favorite book of Marvel NOW!

Guardians of the Galaxy is quickly becoming my favorite book of Marvel NOW! (I have lots of favorites though) the characters are slowly growing on me (some are even getting their own FREE digital issues on Marvel.com) and the story itself is slowly picking up steam.  There is a .1 issue that was released that introduced us to Star Lord and tells us abit about his origin story and set up the events that happen in this issue as Star Lord is already apart of the Guardians team (which also includes; Gamora, Drax the Destroyer, Groot, Rocket Raccoon and Iron Man) as they get into a fire fight with a group of aliens. The action is fast and the story is fantastic, go out and buy this!

Rating: 5 out of 5

Nova #2

Another cosmic title, another great book.

Another cosmic title, another great book. Nova #2 ties in a bit to Guardians of the Galaxy and features two characters from that series (Gamora and Rocket Raccoon) as they give young Sam Alexander the Nova helmet that his Father wore (his fate is vague) and Sam begins his career as the new Nova. We get the usual showcase of powers as Sam struggles with his new abilities and all of it works pretty good even though it’s been done before.

Nova is on the right track and maybe in time will be something special.

This is a great book for younger readers looking to get into comics as it gives them a hero they can relate too. The cliffhanger at the end of the issue does raise a few questions but it feels a bit rushed (you’ll see what I mean) I think the build to this character would benefit if it slowed down abit more. Nova is on the right track and maybe in time will be something special.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Uncanny X-Men #3

This is a complete opposite to the other X titles, a bit more mature (not in that way) in tone so if you’re looking for something with a bit more bite in your X-books go with this.

This is a very good time to be an X-Men fan, as you are not only getting one great X-book a month but three! (Uncanny X-Men, All New X-Men, Wolverine and the X-Men) and each book has a different set of characters and different tones and stories. The Uncanny X-Men is a bit more of an anti-hero book as we follow Cyclops and his group of Mutants (Emma Frost, Magik and Magneto) as they recruit new mutants that are rising up all over the world. They are eventually confronted by the Avengers who are still charging them with crimes while they were possessed by the Phoenix Force (Colossus is already in jail) but Cyclops isn’t about to give up so easily not when a mutant revolution is so close. I’ve grown to dislike Cyclops but I am compelled by this book and this group of characters. This is a complete opposite to the other X titles, a bit more mature (not in that way) in tone so if you’re looking for something with a bit more bite in your X-books go with this.

Rating: 4 out of 5

All New X-Men #9

Tension is continuing to mount as Jean is beginning to understand her telepathic powers and begins to abuse them (though not intentionally…at least not at first).

All New X-Men #9 opens with Kitty Pride and the original X-Men battling a group of Sentinels and Kitty barks instructions at them. The group slowly falls apart as it is revealed to be nothing more than a Danger Room test. Tension is continuing to mount as Jean is beginning to understand her telepathic powers and begins to abuse them (though not intentionally…at least not at first) and the group also finds out that Cyclops met with Mystique who is using the mutant dissension as her personal platform for power. Bendis is crafting a very interesting story as he takes these young characters and begins to blend them into their new surroundings. Kitty Pryde plays her role to perfection as the crafty veteran teaching the young rookies how to play the game and the back and forth between her and Jean Grey offers great character development. There is nothing bad I can say about this book; this series just keeps getting better and better.

Rating: 5 out of 5

New Avengers Vol. 3 #4

The group is now coming to terms that they may have to destroy a universe in order to save their own.

New Avengers will not be for everyone as the events of this book are rather confusing but Jonathan Hickman is known for his often confusing storylines that eventually make sense in the end. After the shocking events of issue #3 (SPOILERS #3) the series has been following events where two universes collide with one another and in the process one gets destroyed (basically, still kind of fuzzy) so the New Avengers (Captain America, Iron Man, Black Panther, Mr. Fantastic, Doctor Strange, Black Bolt and Beast) come together to make the decisions others can’t. They have a prisoner from another universe (Black Swan) who destroyed her universe (?) and fell into ours. The New Avengers decided to use the Infinity Gauntlet to push back the other universe which worked but shattered the gauntlet in the process. The group is now coming to terms that they may have to destroy a universe in order to save their own. Captain America is the only one who disagrees with this and is immediately mind wiped for his troubles. Those events are not really talked about in this issue as we focus on the team building their doomsday machine/bomb so this issue a bit light on action until the very end. What we are getting is a slow burning story that is making the readers question the people we call heroes. All these men have done things that are questionable, some more than others so it didn’t surprise me that they would “take out” one of their own. The real question becomes, what will they do to save a universe? And will saving a universe be worth sacrificing your moral code?

Will saving a universe be worth sacrificing your moral code?

Rating: 4 out of 5

For more comic views and reviews follow Ruben on Twitter at @Ruben_Mendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

Wolverine (Headmaster of the Jean Grey School) had to dismiss Betsy for her behavior but does give her a mission off the record in an email.

The only reason I decided to pick up this book was because I’m a huge fan of Psylocke and was interested in seeing where Sam Humphries would take the character and the X-Force as a team. I respect that Humphries decided to take this story in a different direction than Remender did in his Uncanny X-Force though some similarities still remain.

Humphries assembles an oddball team of mutants to be the new X-Force.

The story starts six months after the end of X-Force as Elizabeth Braddock (Psylocke) has become alot more on edge, her whereabouts during the previous six months and what she was doing are in question. Wolverine (Headmaster of the Jean Grey School) had to dismiss Betsy for her behavior but does give her a mission off the record in an email. Storm decides to accompany Psylocke on her mission to watch over her but maybe to also find herself because her character is at a bit of a crossroads.

Psylocke and Storm meet up with Puck as they invade a bar that is selling a new drug. While investigating Psylocke finds Spiral is the one pushing the new drug and attacks her with all her might, Storm and Puck open a vault and find a young girl who mentally orders the rest of the club to attack Psylocke. While this is all going on, Bishop (former X-Men, time traveling baddie) finds his way back to the 616 and Fantomex and Cluster are performing a heist and stealing a kiss as the first issue comes to an end.

Fantomex and Cluster are performing a heist and stealing a kiss as the first issue comes to an end.

This has quite of bit of story going on for a first issue and that is definitely a positive. Psylocke’s character is in a very dark and violent place right now as she is clearly still affected from the fallout of X-Force. Humphries assembles an oddball team of mutants to be the new X-Force that doesn’t seem like a good fit at first. However, I also felt the same way about Remender’s X-Force but after spending time with those characters I realized he was making the right choice. Humphries may be using the same tactic of utilizing lesser known or underappreciated characters to tell his story. The book is a bit on the thin side in terms of combat and action save for the finale but I feel Humphries wants to us to understand that this is Psylocke’s book and in that he succeeds.

3.5 out of 5!

For more comic views and reviews follow Ruben on Twitter at @Ruben_Mendoza and check out his YouTube channel over at http://youtube.com/rubenm33

Click here to view Uncanny X-Force Vol. 2 comics

Slott has turned Spider-Man into Batman with his various technological advances in Superior and it is amazing.

In this issue of Superior Spider Man the relationship of Mary Jane Watson and Peter (Otto) Parker is in the spotlight as we see Otto try to weasel himself back into Mary Jane’s life. It isn’t that easy though as we see Mary Jane taking things very slowly as if she is dating Peter for the first time (she is technically). I was a bit worried (and still am) about how Slott was going to handle this icky situation with Petey and MJ but Slott has handled this very delicately, but I feel that MJ has taken a slight step back in terms of character growth. MJ was depicted as being a little bit stronger willed and minded towards the end of ASM so it boggles my mind that she can’t figure out that Peter isn’t Peter (even Carlie knows something is up!) though she begins to suspect something isn’t right.

It boggles my mind that she can’t figure out that Peter isn’t Peter (even Carlie knows something is up!)

The Superior aspect of Spider-Man is what is most interesting to me about this book, as Otto has developed a series of Spider-Bots that patrol and alert Spider-Man to any problem all around the city, which gives him more time to woo MJ. Slott has turned Spider-Man into Batman with his various technological advances in Superior and it is amazing.

As much as Otto is trying to be a hero we still see his true character reveal itself as he tries on numerous occasions to take things to the next level with MJ who denies him at every turn. An enraged Otto suddenly realizes that he doesn’t have to chase MJ because since he can relive all of Peter’s memories he can be with Mary Jane whenever he wants. Peter (still in ghost form) vows revenge for desecrating the beautiful memories that he and MJ shared.

Otto has alienated Peter’s family and friends. I would even go as far as saying that Dr. Octopus is the greatest villain in Marvel Comics right now!

Dan Slott is slow burning the eventual return of Peter Parker, and when he returns you can bet he is not going to be happy with the way Otto has alienated Peter’s family and friends. I would even go as far as saying that Dr. Octopus is the greatest villain in Marvel Comics right now, not only does Otto have this incredible power and being a better hero than Peter (in theory) but he is actively trying to ruin Peter’s old life. Even in death, Peter cannot get any rest.

4 out of 5!

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Sam Alexander is the new Nova, but this story is about him and his alcoholic father who was also a Nova Corps member.

This is how an origin story should be written! Nova is a character with a very rich history and I felt that Jeph Loeb really did a fantastic job of helping us to ease into getting to know this character. Sam Alexander is the new Nova, but this story is about him and his alcoholic father who was also a Nova Corps member. The story blends both his Dad’s final mission (?) as a Nova and gives us a great look at the character of Sam and his family. Sam is very similar to Hal Jordan in terms of how he acts, I’m not quite sure if that’s a complaint or insult. The artwork is fantastic as Ed McGuiness adds great space to the intergalactic battles and how small Earth seems compared to the entire solar system. The fights in zero gravity and space chases are a treat to the eye.

This is how an origin story should be written!

The only complaint I have is that the origin story feels a little similar to that of Peter Parker but I can overlook that small little flaw because of how great this book is. That is really just a small complaint and shouldn’t stop you from buying this.

Marvel NOW! has put a strong emphasis back on the cosmic teams and characters and that’s good news for fans of Nova and the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Marvel NOW! has put a strong emphasis back on the cosmic teams and characters and that’s good news for fans of Nova and the Guardians of the Galaxy. I have been looking forward to this book since I first saw Nova take down Cyclops way back in AVX and it was worth the wait…and then some!

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Last Thanksgiving, Marvel announced the first event of 2013 would be the Age of Ultron.

Last Thanksgiving, Marvel announced the first event of 2013 would be the Age of Ultron. Written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Bryan Hitch, Brandon Peterson and Carlos Pacheco will help tell us the story of Ultron (an Android created by Hank Pym) taking over the world as what’s left of the world’s heroes tries to form a resistance to stop him.

Written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Bryan Hitch, Brandon Peterson and Carlos Pacheco will help tell us the story of Ultron (an Android created by Hank Pym) taking over the world as what’s left of the world’s heroes tries to form a resistance to stop him.

Now, I haven’t been into comics for long but I’ve read a bit about Ultron from Avenger runs so I know a little about the guy (or girl in one case) that being said, this is just a guide to what to read and offers some predictions as to what will be the fallout of this event. So, here we go!

Here’s a small guide of what you should pick up to get to know Ultron.

Mighty Avengers – The Ultron Initiative

A great start for any new Marvel fan in regards to Ultron’s origin. We get a fantastic story where Ultron takes over the body of Tony Stark, as the rest of the Avengers try to save the day.

A great start for any new Marvel fan in regards to Ultron’s origin.

The Avengers – Volume 1 Bendis

Splitting up the Avenger team into two (one team time traveling into the future, while the other stays to protect New York) Iron Man learns of a dark future and what awaits him and his friends if they fail to stop Ultron. What makes this story arc so interesting is that the event shows future events before they happened (Fear Itself) and that both Captain America and Iron Man saw futures where all hope was lost.

These are just some suggestions to further understand Ultron and his motives, or you can be like me and just jump straight into Age of Ultron (with ties ins!) Now, let’s get to those predictions. My predictions will become crazier as the list goes up, so bear with me.

This one may be the most obvious of all choices, but I know how much Marvel loves to break apart happy couples so I’m going with this one first.

• Hank Pym Dies – This one may be the most obvious of all choices, but I know how much Marvel loves to break apart happy couples so I’m going with this one first. With the recent return of Janet Van Dyne (Wasp) and Hank being relatively more happy I couldn’t think of a more perfect time for this character to bite the dust. I can see Hank sacrificing himself to save the ones he cares about and ending something he started.

• Wolverine Kills Hank Pym – The solicits talk about Wolverine making a controversial decision that will effect the entire Marvel Universe, so why not have him kill the man that created Ultron. Certainly no one would go along with Logan on such a crazy mission, but what if he went back in time and got the jump on Pym? The solicits take about Sue Storm and Logan finding themselves in Avengers past, so why not?

The solicits talk about Wolverine making a controversial decision that will effect the entire Marvel Universe, so why not have him kill the man that created Ultron.

• Reboot! – What if Ultron does indeed win, but decides to restart the Marvel Universe as some sort of competition for himself? We could get the heroes restarting their journeys all over again, very new reader friendly. The only problem I see with this is Marvel already had a sort of reboot and I don’t think they would be too eager to restart again.

• Hope Factor – What if Hope Summers is the one to defeat Ultron? After the fractured mess of AVX (which was suppose to be about Hope?) maybe Marvel owes it to Hope to give her the victory here. For being one of the most powerful mutants on the planet she sure has been quiet since AVX.

What if Hope Summers is the one to defeat Ultron?

• Who is pulling the Strings- Who will end up being the ultimate villain of this story? Last year saw Cyclops take a dark turn, so who’s next? Who do you think is leading this New World Order?

SUBMIT OR PERISH!

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Written by DAN SLOTT
Art and Cover by RYAN STEGMAN

If you haven’t heard yet…Peter Parker is dead (again?) and the new SUPERIOR Spider-Man is none other than Doctor Octopus!

(Note: This Review will contain spoilers to Amazing Spider-Man #700 and Avenging Spider-Man #15.1, so go out and read those before you read this!)

The month of December was a big one for Peter Parker and Spider-Man, well for Spider-Man at least. If you haven’t heard yet…Peter Parker is dead (again?) and the new SUPERIOR Spider-Man is none other than Doctor Octopus! Allow me to explain and this has been in the work for about 100 issues (still working reading through them). Sometime during one of their encounters; Doctor Octopus implanted his memories into the body of Spider-Man/Peter Parker and vice versa. So now Otto has a new lease on life and is in the body of the world’s greatest super hero while Peter Parker was left to die in the broken body of Dr. Octopus.

A lot of people (myself included) were furious when the switch first happened and demanded answers from Dan Slott. After reading the last issue of ASM #700, I can honestly say that Dan Slott handled the entire situation quite well and that last issue will probably go down as one of my favorites of all time. The loss of Peter Parker will be felt for years to come (?), but for now let’s looks towards Marvel NOW!

Spider-Man realizes midway through the fight that he doesn’t like getting punched in the face so he decides to leave!

The new Spider-Man promised Peter Parker that he would uphold the responsibility that went along with great power, but that he would be superior to Peter Parker in every way and be the hero he could not. Right from the start, Dan Slott puts a new twist on the whole villain turned hero story. Spider-Man’s first day on the job has him go up against a group of foes that he was a founding member of! The inside jokes are very fun as we get to watch Otto do battle with the new Sinister Six. Spider-Man realizes midway through the fight that he doesn’t like getting punched in the face so he decides to leave! Spider-Man still struggles with the role of being a hero though and while fleeing battles saves an officer on duty. Spider-Man does manage to get a hold of the Living Brain (member of the Sinister Six) and takes the Brain back to Horizon Labs to study him. After this, Max Modell (founder of Horizon Labs) informs Otto that all of his hard work will be paid off with fame and recognition, both of which will not go to him but Parker. Otto’s old pride shines through and we get some insight on how much this bother’s him, something that readers should focus on in future issues.

Spider-Man manages to get a hold of the Living Brain and takes him back to Horizon Labs.

We then get some rather uncomfortable panels where Otto goes on a date with Mary Jane Watson, as Otto nearly drools himself over the fact that he now has the company of Peter’s greatest love. The implications are all there and I hope this doesn’t go down the road I think it’s going, I hope that Slott shows some restraint and doesn’t revisit this love triangle anytime soon (though, solicitations show a different story) but I trust Slott will handle the situation in the right way. During the date Otto reveals that in his battle with the new Sinister Six, Otto cut one of the members (Boomerang) and injected him with Spider-Tracers (a SUPERIOR tactic) so he knows where they will strike next.

We then get some rather uncomfortable panels where Otto goes on a date with Mary Jane Watson, as Otto nearly drools himself over the fact that he now has the company of Peter’s greatest love.

The Sinister Six invade Horizon Labs and to their surprise are greeted by the Superior Spider-Man. As Otto systematically takes each member down, he gives us insight into why he is a better hero than Peter Parker ever could be.

I’ve already said too much and won’t spoil the big reveal at the end of the issue, but do yourself a favor and go and buy this now!

As Otto systematically takes each member down, he gives us insight into why he is a better hero than Peter Parker ever could be.

The Positive

A new and exciting take on an old super hero, Dan Slott gives us a conflicted character with great power, and great arrogance. The art is fantastic here and the colors are fantastic to look at, really great work all around.

Please no more of this!

The Negative

The entire date with Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson…please no more of this!

The Verdict

The Superior Spider-Man is off to a great start; if any of you Peter Parker fans had doubts with what direction Dan Slott was taking Spider-Man in, don’t be! The memory of the true Spider-Man will never die!

5 out of 5!

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Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Art and Cover by STUART IMMONEN

This is it. Cyclops vs Cyclops!

This is it. Cyclops vs Cyclops!

Cyclops inner monologue shows that there is still quite a bit of dark tendencies left in him, something that Magneto tells him as well.

The Positive

After a bit of a side step with the 3^rd issue, Bendis quickly regains his senses and gives the culture clash we’ve been waiting for. The initial shock of the original X-Men as they see what Cyclops was is one of the great comic book moments. You could feel some of the innocence being lost as these characters get a glimpse of their future counterparts in action. So many new and interesting plot points have emerged with this issue and it’s guaranteeing some great stories in the future. We also have a fantastic monologue with Cyclops as he tries to break down why his past self is here; his inner monologue shows that there is still quite a bit of dark tendencies left in him, something that Magneto tells him as well. Bendis does a great job of adding humor and at the same time presenting us with deeply rooted characters, this is some of his best work.

Bendis does a great job of adding humor and at the same time presenting us with deeply rooted characters, this is some of his best work.

The Negative

Everything here was fantastic.

This is definitely a series that every X-fan should be buying; it has everything you could possibly want as a fan.

The Verdict

This is definitely a series that every X-fan should be buying; it has everything you could possibly want as a fan. It’s almost like they could split this up into two different books…sigh

5 out of 5!

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Written by JONATHAN HICKMAN
Art by JEROME OPEÑA

The team is growing in size, the question will be how can Hickman balance the team and its members and keep things moving along without biting off more than he can chew.

The theme of this series so far is expansion and the first issue hit the point home even further as the team was split in two. The team is growing in size, the question will be how can Hickman balance the team and its members and keep things moving along without biting off more than he can chew.

Hickman creates a threat that is worthy of the Avengers’ firepower, and the issue flows at a great pace as Hickman allows you to absorb every beat of the story.

The Positive

The new threat of the Garden is further explained in this issue through flashbacks as EX Nihilio explains his process to the reader and it’s very frightening indeed, and cements himself as a very credible villain. Hickman creates a threat that is worthy of the Avengers’ firepower, and the issue flows at a great pace as Hickman allows you to absorb every beat of the story.

Hulk Good…now Hulk Bad!

The Negative

Hulk Good…now Hulk Bad! Same old character development for the Hulk and Banner.

The addition of new members is fun and exciting but so far it’s only added up to cameos or a witty line or two.

The Verdict

Hickman is building something solid with the Avengers, but it’s the wait that some people might not like. The addition of new members is fun and exciting but so far it’s only added up to cameos or a witty line or two. Hickman has earned my trust after his time on Fantastic Four, stick with this folks.

4 out of 5

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Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Art and Cover by STUART IMMONEN

If you like Cyclops or Magneto this is the issue for you.

I had to pull myself away from this comic a few times, because I wasn’t sure if I was reading All New X-Men #3 or an issue of Uncanny X-Men #21. This issue focuses more on the fallout of AVX and what happened to the Phoenix Five.

The Phoenix Four (Cyclops, Magneto, Magik, Emma Frost) powers seem to be all over the scale and uncontrollable.

The Positive

The Phoenix Four (Cyclops, Magneto, Magik, Emma Frost) powers seem to be all over the scale and uncontrollable. Cyclops isn’t able to focus his optic blasts (shown in the art by its chaotic style) Magneto’s power to control metal seems to have diminished greatly, and Emma can’t read minds or so she says. The only one that doesn’t seem to have been affected is Magik, whose powers might have actually gotten stronger. This is probably the most interesting part of this issue, why have the X-Men’s powers weakened? Is it because of the Phoenix Force? Or is something more sinister going on here? This is what all of those post AVX stories should have focused on, and Bendis executes this storyline well.

The only one that doesn’t seem to have been affected is Magik, whose powers might have actually gotten stronger.

The Negative

Hey, if you like Cyclops or Magneto this is the issue for you. I really liked what Bendis was doing with the original X-Men and was just wondering why he would switch gears so quickly, and badly to give us this story. The story could have been told in half an issue and instead takes a full book. I don’t get Magik, not a real big fan of hers and the fact that her powers have gotten stronger just irritates me.

The New Mutant revolution BEGINS!

The Verdict

While this issue isn’t as strong as the previous, All New X-Men #3 still has some interesting things going on.

3 out of 5.

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Written by JONATHAN HICKMAN
Art by STEVE EPTING
Cover by JOCK

The other side of Jonathan Hickman’s Avengers story featuring the Illuminati as the New Avengers.

The other side of Jonathan Hickman’s Avengers story featuring the Illuminati as the New Avengers. Hickman is telling such a big story with the Avengers that he had to split it up into two different books (much like Fantastic Four/ FF) and although the threats are different for each team, they are similar in size and scope.

Fans of the Black Panther will really enjoy this book, as it puts him front and centre.

The Positive

Fans of the Black Panther will really enjoy this book, as it puts him front and centre.  Hickman puts great emphasis on the character and makes him feel as important as Captain America and Iron Man.

Hickman puts a great emphasis on the Black Panther and makes him feel as important as Captain America and Iron Man.

The Negative

Not a whole lot of action in terms of fighting in this issue, and the villains of the story feel a little bland.

Being a fan of Black Bolt I am interested to see how he handles the characters.

The Verdict

I’m interested to see where Hickman takes the New Avengers, being a fan of Black Bolt I am interested to see how he handles the characters. Very new reader friendly, New Avengers is off to a good start.

4 out of 5

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Click here to view New Avengers Vol. 3 comics