DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1, by Red 5 Comics on 1/17/24, returns to a reunited Kain and Alice when they receive a request to recover a supply of dangerous Red Powder to fight the army of the undead.
The Details
- Written by: Etienne Derepentigny
- Art by: Etienne Derepentigny
- Colors by: Etienne Derepentigny
- Letters by: Jerome Gagnon
- Cover art by: Etienne Derepentigny
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $4.95
- Release date: January 17, 2024
Is DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1 Good?
Etienne Derepentigny’s Middle Ages zombie tale returns with a rested Kain, a restored marriage, and a new mission to stop the undead plague in DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1. Derepentigny ended the first volume in an unusual spot, but Volume 2 kicks off with strong pacing, plenty of plot development, and high hopes that the source of the zombie plague will soon be revealed.
When last we left Kain, his soldiering skills served him well enough to protect his dwindling team and get them to safety while his blossoming leadership inspired townspeople to fight. When Kain reached the safety of the Citadel, his relief was matched by surprise when he found his wife, Alice, waiting for him.
Now, Kain and Alice block out the troubles of the world for a few days while they rest. However, the troubles of the world won’t wait. They receive a summons from the Citadel’s leader for a mission to recover a supply of dangerous Red Dust.
The big open question that started in the first volume and received shockingly little resolution is the identity and intentions of the hooded figures. DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1 goes much further to explain who the hooded figures are, what they want, and how/why they’re connected to the zombie plague.
What’s great about DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1? Derepentigny delivers a tighter, more focused, and meatier issue to start Volume 2. Rather than cast Kain in a series of fight-or-die scenarios, Kain’s story has a better sense of purpose and direction.
What’s not so great about DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1? Overall, there’s very little to criticize with this first issue. Derepentigny’s pacing, plotting, dialog, and direction are much improved over the previous volume, and this issue gives you plenty of foreshadowing to build anticipation for the next issue.
How’s the art? Excellent. Derepentigny pulls double duty as writer and main artist, so you’ll notice how well the art integrates with the script and carries the weight in furthering the story through the visuals. We also notice the coloring application, particularly the shading, is improved compared to the first volume.
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What’s DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1 About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
Check out our DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 1) #5 review to find out how Kain made it to the Citadel.
We begin with Kain and Alice spending some quality time together as a couple as they notice how they’ve changed during their time apart. Alice’s skills for healing have elevated her to the local doctor, while Kain’s talents as a soldier have evolved him into a leader.
A couple of days after Alice and Kain’s reunion, they receive a summons from the Citadel’s Commander, who makes a request. A nearby mining town has a supply of Red Dust, a dangerously destructive chemical, and the Commander wants Kain to assemble his team to retrieve it. Kain is done taking orders but is willing to take on the mission as a favor.
We conclude the issue with unusual quiet, an unusual doctor, and a welcoming party.
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Final Thoughts
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DEAD KINGDOM (VOL. 2) #1 kicks off the return to the Middle Ages zombie plague story with a renewed team, better focus, and dangerous surprises. Derepentigny returns to the series with better pacing and plot development for a more enjoyable reading experience, and the art is consistently solid.
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