THE CODEX (VOL. 1), by Hayburner Studios on Kickstarter, follows a ragtag band of post-apocalyptic scavengers who find the key to stopping the return of a demon intent on destroying the world.
The Details
- Written by: Cory Crater
- Art by: Pablo De Bonis
- Colors by: Damián Peñalba
- Letters by: Adrian Dela Cerna
- Cover art by: Pablo De Bonis
- Comic Rating: Mature
- Cover price: $15.00
- Release date: October 2023 (estimated)
Is THE CODEX (VOL. 1) Good?
In THE CODEX (VOL. 1), imagine a desolate Earth, ravaged by demons forced to the surface by nuclear testing. The demons unleash plagues, zombies, and general Hell on Earth. Amidst this chaos, a group of scavengers stumble upon a mystical key. Little do they know, this relic holds the power to either vanquish the demon lord or doom the world by summoning him back. Thrust into the hero’s role, the reluctant August Trasky must navigate treacherous landscapes, decipher ancient mysteries, and contend with warring factions – all while battling his own inner demons.
What We Liked About THE CODEX (VOL. 1):
- Deep Dive into Lore: Prepare to be enthralled by the intricate tapestry of world-building. Cory Crater weaves together magic, steampunk, and various cultures, creating a richly detailed and believable post-apocalyptic setting. Every page brims with hidden depths, enticing you to explore further.
- Masterful Storytelling: Pacing and plotting are on point. The dialogue flows naturally, the narration adds context without feeling intrusive, and the action sequences are thrilling. This is professional-grade storytelling at its finest.
- Bang for Your Buck: With 190 pages packed with adventure, you get a substantial read for your money. The journey doesn’t end here, though – this volume sets the stage for a much larger saga.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Information Overload: Sometimes, the references to various languages, places, and cultures can be overwhelming. While it demonstrates a well-developed world, it might leave you scrambling to catch up at times. However, focusing on the main characters usually provides enough context.
- A Double-Edged Sword: The vast lore, while impressive, can be a hurdle for casual readers. If you prefer straightforward narratives, this intricate tapestry might take some getting used to.
Art Quality:
Pablo De Bonis takes center stage with his phenomenal artwork. The visuals are dramatic, the character designs are distinct and memorable, and the attention to detail is truly commendable. This graphic novel is a visual feast, showcasing the meticulous effort poured into both script and art.
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Final Thoughts
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THE CODEX (VOL. 1) s a stellar post-apocalyptic adventure with a healthy dose of fantasy. Compelling characters, excellent pacing, and captivating artwork come together to create a must-read experience. Sure, the rich lore might be a tad overwhelming at times, but it undeniably contributes to the world’s depth and realism. With its cliffhanger ending and promise of more to come, this first volume leaves you yearning for the next chapter.
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