SPAWN #362, by Image Comics on 3/12/25, finds a team of super-powered beings, led by Mandarin Spawn, aggressively recruiting Spawn to join their team… whether he wants to or not.
Credits:
- Writer: Todd McFarlane
- Artist: Brett Booth, Adelso Corona
- Colorist: Robert Nugent
- Letterer: Tom Orzechowski
- Cover Artist: Marco Failla (cover A)
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Release Date: March 12, 2025
- Comic Rating: Teen+
- Cover Price: $2.99
- Page Count: 30
- Format: Single Issue
Covers:
Analysis of SPAWN #362:
Recap:
When we last left the undead hero with the fancy cape in Spawn #361, Spawn’s plan to put himself in harm’s way with the intention of getting killed worked. Nyx’s plan, whatever it might be, needs Spawn, so his death forced her hand to return him to life, thereby restoring his powers and the powers of every supernatural being on Earth. Before Nyx returned to Hell, she warned Spawn to mind his place. In return, Spawn reminded Nyx that he was the one in charge on Earth.
Plot Analysis:
In Spawn #362, All Simmons is confronted by a small team of powered individuals who are dead set on having the repowered Spawn join their army, whether he wants to or not.
The gigantic Tremor flexes his muscles to add weight to the discussion. Bullet-Proof is somehow impervious to Spawn’s magical blasts, hence the name. Curse is still groggy and slow from being dead, but as Spawn’s “cousin,” he knows how valuable Al can be. Finally, Mandarin Spawn uses armor and light to strike down all enemies.
Mandarin Spawn demands Al join their cause, starting with submission to Mandarin’s authority. Spawn refuses, prompting a fight to begin. In the end, Spawn’s greater experience and formidable power win the day, but even he isn’t prepared to learn the identity of the person underneath Mandarin Spawn’s mask.
First Impressions:
What Spawn #362 lacks in plot movement and direction, it makes up for in spectacular art, pacing, action, and energy. Only Todd McFarlane can tempt fate by devoting an entire issue to basic bickering during a single fight and not leave you feeling like you were cheated out of your hard-earned dollar.
Artwork and Presentation:
The art from Brett Booth and Adelso Corona is nothing short of spectacular. Booth captures that 90s aesthetic that made Image popular from its inception, adds in gobs of detail and dynamic whimsy, and presents it all in a pristine package. This comic looks phenomenal.
Art Samples:
Story Positives & Negatives:
The Positives:
If you want supernatural Spawn action and don’t mind that the story isn’t going anywhere in a hurry, Spawn #362 has your number. Todd gives readers a believable scenario for conflict as the collective of stranded supernatural creatures suddenly get their powers back and quickly choose sides. You know it’s going to be a while before Spawn gets around to dealing with Bludd or NYX, but the presentation is entertaining enough that you don’t mind the wait as much.
The Negatives:
Talk about running in place. McFarlane devotes an entire issue to one conversation and one fight, with no discernible plot movement, direction, or sense of urgency. If not for the overwhelming excellence of the art team to keep your eyeballs glued to the page, this issue would almost be a full-on skip.
Final Thoughts:
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SPAWN #362 finds the supernatural beings of Earth quickly picking sides, now that their powers are back, and everyone is calling dibs on Spawn. Todd McFarlane’s script isn’t in a hurry to get anywhere anytime soon, but the magnificent artwork and cool, last-page twist almost make the lax plot worth it.
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