VOID RIVALS #21 – New Comic Review

Void Rivals #21, by Image Comics & Skybound on 7/23/25, delivers a tension-filled narrative as Darak grapples with the fallout of Solila’s actions, and Proximus falls to Zalilak’s newfound faith.

Credits:

• Writer: Robert Kirkman
• Artist: Conor Hughes
• Colorist: Patricio Delpeche
• Letterer: Rus Wooton
• Cover Artist: Lorenzo De Felici (cover A)
• Publisher: Image Comics
• Release Date: July 23, 2025
• Comic Rating: Teen
• Cover Price: $3.99
• Page Count: 22
• Format: Single Issue

Covers:

Analysis of VOID RIVALS #21:

First Impressions:

From the jump, this issue grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. The raw emotion and high stakes are palpable, instantly drawing you into the spiraling conflict between two characters you’ve come to know.

Recap:

In Void Rivals #20, the strained partnership between Darak and Solila reached a breaking point as Solila, emboldened by her encounter with Zerta Trion and newfound abilities, advocated for unity despite the Agorrians’ deep-seated beliefs. This led to a fierce confrontation where Solila showcased her enhanced combat skills, easily outmatching Darak and even his father, Minister Dulin, and their forces. The issue highlighted Darak’s loyalty conflict and Solila’s unwavering determination, while also checking in on subplots involving Skuxxoid and Zalilak, both poised to become unpredictable forces in the unfolding drama of the Energon Universe.

Plot Analysis:

Void Rivals #21 picks up in the immediate aftermath of the previous issue’s dramatic revelations, with Zalilak, the blue-armored individual, launching a surprise attack against Proximus in the throne room. His movements are swift and brutal, quickly incapacitating his target with calculated precision. The scene shifts to Dulin, who is visibly distraught by Solila’s arrival. Their dialogue is charged with the lingering tension from their recent clash, as Dulin expresses his growing distrust and fear regarding Solila’s radical plans for unity, which he believes could lead to destruction.

Solila, however, remains resolute, convinced that her path, guided by Zerta, is the only way to save their peoples from an even greater, unseen threat. She dismisses Dulin’s pleas, her determination hardening into stubbornness, leaving no room for compromise. This ideological chasm between them widens when the now-converted Proximus leads an assault on the capital . The fight is intense, reflecting not just their differing fighting styles, but also the deep emotional and philosophical divide that has formed between the two peoples.

As the conflict escalates, the Transformers are drawn into the fray, complicating an already volatile situation. The fight spills beyond their immediate confrontation, drawing in other characters who are forced to choose sides or become collateral damage in the escalating dispute. The stakes continue to mount as the consequences of Solila’s fervent pursuit of unity become increasingly clear, threatening to unravel the delicate balance of power within their world.

The narrative culminates with a significant plot twist that irrevocably alters the trajectory of their mission and the broader Energon Universe. This development forces both Darak and Solila to re-evaluate their positions and confront the true cost of their convictions, setting the stage for an uncertain future where alliances are tested and new threats emerge from the shadows.

Story

The writing in Void Rivals #21 maintains a tight grip, pulling you deeper into the moral quagmire facing Darak and Solila. Robert Kirkman crafts a narrative that feels both intimate and grand, perfectly balancing the personal conflict with the cosmic stakes. The dialogue is sharp, particularly in the exchanges between Darak and Solila, highlighting their opposing viewpoints without resorting to expository dumps. The pacing is relentless, building tension effectively from the opening scene to the shocking conclusion. The story feels like a critical turning point, pushing characters into uncomfortable but necessary confrontations.

Art

Conor Hughes’ artwork continues to evolve, demonstrating a growing mastery of dynamic action and emotional expression. The fight sequences are fluid and impactful, with each panel conveying the brutal efficiency of Zalilak and the raw power of Solila. Patricio Delpeche’s colors are vibrant yet nuanced, setting the mood for each scene, from the shadowy industrial backdrop to the stark environments of their conflict. The panel layout effectively guides the reader’s eye through the action, enhancing the sense of movement and urgency without becoming confusing. The characters’ facial expressions convey a wide range of emotions, from Darak’s anguish to Solila’s unwavering resolve.

Characters

Darak and Solila remain at the heart of this series, and their strained relationship is the driving force of this issue. Darak’s internal conflict, torn between his loyalty and his burgeoning understanding of the larger truths, is well-portrayed, making him a relatable protagonist. Solila, while perhaps abrasive in her conviction, is a force of nature, embodying a zealous belief that makes her both admirable and terrifying. The brief but impactful appearance of Zalilak at the beginning also adds another layer of intrigue, hinting at deeper machinations within the Energon Universe.

Positives

This issue truly shines in its character development, particularly for Darak, whose internal struggle is made incredibly compelling. The shift in his demeanor, from a loyal subordinate to a questioning individual, feels earned and authentic. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed and visually stunning, capturing the ferocity of the battles while maintaining narrative clarity. Furthermore, the overall plot progression is significant, delivering a pivotal moment that promises to reshape the entire series and further integrate it into the wider Energon Universe mythology.

Negatives

While the narrative is largely compelling, the singular focus on Solila’s unyielding conviction, without much nuanced exploration of her internal struggles in this specific issue, occasionally makes her feel less like a conflicted hero and more like a plot device to drive the conflict forward. Additionally, for new readers jumping into this issue without prior knowledge, some of the broader implications of the “Sacred Ring” or “Zerta” might feel a bit underdeveloped, relying heavily on existing lore.

Art Samples:

Final Thoughts:

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VOID RIVALS #21 is a strong entry that successfully escalates the personal and cosmic stakes. It pushes its characters to their breaking points and delivers on the promise of an ever-expanding universe. The raw emotion and impactful developments make it a vital read for fans.

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