SKINBREAKER #5 – New Comic Review

Skinbreaker #5, by Image Comics on 1/28/26, throws us back into the primitive mud as the newly crowned Paca learns that wearing a leader’s mantle is much easier than actually leading a hungry, terrified tribe.

Credits:

• Writer: Robert Kirkman
• Artist: David Finch
• Colorist: Annalisa Leoni
• Letterer: Rus Wooton
• Cover Artist: David Finch (cover A)
• Publisher: Image Comics
• Release Date: January 28, 2026
• Comic Rating: Teen
• Cover Price: $4.99
• Page Count: 36
• Format: Single Issue

Covers:

Analysis of SKINBREAKER #5:

First Impressions:

I walked away from this issue feeling genuinely impressed by the shift from high-octane action to a tense, psychological survival drama. It is a smart move that grounds the supernatural threats in very real, human desperation. The creative team successfully made me care about the fallout of the previous issue’s violent transition of power.

Recap:

The previous issue concluded with a violent tribal upheaval as Paca formally challenged Anok for leadership. Paca rejected Anok’s warnings about the importance of traps and modern tools, choosing instead to embrace the old ways of brute strength. After a bloody duel, Paca disarmed Anok and claimed the Skinbreaker blade, forcing the former chieftain to flee weaponless into the jungle. Paca now stands as the new leader, promising to restore the tribe’s honor while Anok wanders alone in the dangerous wilderness.

Plot Analysis (SPOILERS):

Paca begins his reign with a heavy focus on ritual and the “old ways,” but the reality of leadership hits him almost immediately. The tribe is struggling with a lack of food and the constant threat of the Silver Fangs, which Anok’s traps previously kept at bay. Paca dismisses the concerns of the tribal elders, insisting that their past reliance on gadgets made them weak and soft. He believes that pure warrior spirit will be enough to protect his people from the horrors lurking in the dark.

Meanwhile, Anok struggles to survive in the deep jungle without his armor or his signature weapon. He uses his knowledge of the environment to evade predators, showing that his mind is his most valuable tool. His isolation allows for a moment of reflection on his failures and the stubbornness of his son. It is a quiet, desperate sequence that contrasts sharply with the growing tension back at the village.

Back at the camp, a Silver Fang attack proves that Paca’s bravado cannot replace a solid defense. The creatures bypass the meager guards and cause chaos, leading to several casualties among the tribe members. Paca fights with ferocity, but he realizes that he cannot be everywhere at once to shield everyone. The confidence of the tribe starts to waver as they see the high price of abandoning Anok’s proven methods.

The issue reaches a turning point when Dala confronts Paca about his mounting failures as a provider and protector. She highlights the fact that the “strength” he preaches is currently leading them toward extinction. Paca is left brooding over the Skinbreaker blade, realizing his pride may have doomed the people he sought to save. The story ends with a looming threat that suggests the Silver Fangs are just the beginning of their troubles.

Story

The pacing is excellent, moving between Anok’s survivalist struggle and the political tension in the village without losing momentum. Kirkman’s dialogue for Paca is appropriately arrogant, making his eventual realization of inadequacy feel earned and satisfying. The structure effectively builds dread, showing rather than telling why the tribe is in trouble. Every conversation feels like it has high stakes for the characters’ immediate survival.

Art

David Finch delivers some of the most atmospheric work of the series, especially in the shadowed, claustrophobic jungle scenes. The character designs remain distinct, and the Silver Fangs look more terrifying and visceral than ever before. Annalisa Leoni’s colors are moody and muted, which perfectly captures the sense of a world where the sun is setting on human safety. The layouts are clean, ensuring the action is easy to follow even during the chaotic night attack.

Characters

Paca’s transition from a rebellious son to a struggling dictator is handled with surprising nuance and depth. He isn’t just a villain, but a man blinded by a specific ideology that is failing in real-time. Anok’s resilience shows a different side of his character, proving he is more than just the “man with the tools.” Dala also gets a strong moment, acting as the necessary voice of reason against Paca’s growing ego.

Originality & Concept Execution

The “man vs. nature” theme is elevated by the unique tribal politics and the specific monster mythology established in previous issues. It successfully subverts the typical hero’s journey by focusing on the consequences of a “might makes right” philosophy. The execution of the survival elements feels authentic and adds a layer of grit to the fantasy setting. This issue proves the series has more on its mind than just simple monster fights.

Positives

The strongest part of this issue is the palpable sense of consequence following the leadership change. You can feel the weight of Anok’s absence in every panel, which makes the world feel lived-in and reactive. The art during the Silver Fang raid is a masterclass in using shadows to create a sense of overwhelming numbers. It is a rare middle chapter that feels vital to the overall story rather than just a bridge.

Negatives

The transition between the village and the jungle could have been slightly smoother in a few places to avoid minor confusion. Some of the background tribal characters still feel a bit interchangeable, making their deaths during the attack carry less weight. While the dialogue is sharp, Paca’s repeated insistence on “strength” starts to feel a bit repetitive by the end. However, these are small issues in an otherwise very tight and focused narrative.

Art Samples:

The Scorecard:

Writing Quality (Clarity & Pacing): [3.5/4]
Art Quality (Execution & Synergy): [4/4]
Value (Originality & Entertainment): [1/2]

Final Thoughts:

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SKINBREAKER #5 is a gritty reminder that being the strongest person in the room doesn’t mean you know how to run it. The art is top-tier and the story actually has something to say about the fragility of civilization. If you are already following this series, this is a mandatory addition to your collection. It manages to be both a great monster comic and a smart political drama at the same time.

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