VOID RIVALS #4, from Image Comics on 9/27/23, brings the Sacred Ring’s conspiracy closer to unraveling when Solila’s betrayal sends the Agorran before Zertonia’s leader.
The Details
- Written by: Robert Kirkman
- Art by: Lorenzo De Felici
- Colors by: Matheus Lopes
- Letters by: Rus Wooton
- Cover art by: Lorenzo de Felici (cover A)
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $3.99
- Release date: September 27, 2023
Is VOID RIVALS #4 Good?
Void Rivals #4 raises the stakes and widens the scope of an eons-long conflict between the two races of the Sacred Ring. Robert Kirkman takes the updated twist on Enemy Mine, set in the Transformers universe, and gives readers an entertaining space drama that keeps getting better with each issue.
When last we left Solila and Darak, they made it back to the perimeter of the Sacred Ring and their respective homes. Without warning, Solila stunned Darak to take him prisoner in service to her commanders. Now, Solila’s gift of an Agorran prisoner results in praise, which quickly turns to suspicion after Zalilak, the Zertonian leader, figures out Solila has seen Darak’s face.
VOID RIVALS #4 is an above-average space drama, but it’s gained notoriety for serving as a tie-in to Image’s forthcoming Transformers comics. So far, the connections to Transformers have either been extremely brief or mentioned in passing, but this issue gives you a full scene with a recognizable Decepticon. No spoilers on this one, but his sudden appearance will be a “shock” (ahem).
What’s great about VOID RIVALS #4? Kirkman is one of the top comic writers for a reason. The story reads as smooth as butter. Darak and Solila have separate, distinct, and engaging personalities. The plot blooms with intrigue concerning what comes next. And the cliffhanger scene is an “Oh, snap!” moment layered with a little heartbreak.
What’s not so great about VOID RIVALS #4? As the arc progresses, Kirkman makes it very clear this story takes place in the Transformers universe, but the cameo appearances and references are little more than throwaways. It would help if the Transformers connection was either integrated into the plot or not present at all because the throwaway scenes are quickly becoming a cheap distraction.
How’s the art? It’s fine. De Felici and Lopes have a good eye for dramatic mood and attention-grabbing panel compositions, but the line work is not the best. Fortunately, the art draws focus right where it matters most.
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What’s VOID RIVALS #4 About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
Check out our VOID RIVALS #3 review to find out how Solila and Darak escaped a nasty encounter with a Quintessan.
We begin with Solila preparing to enter Zertonian air space. Darak is unconscious at Solila’s feet, and Handroid is powerless to do anything about it. Zalilak, Zertonia’s leader, receives word of Solila’s return and immediately prepares to greet her personally. When Solila leaves her ship, she expects to be punished for her mission’s failure, but the gift of an Agorran prisoner delights Zalilak.
Later, Darak examines his prison cell looking for a way out, to no avail. Suddenly, his cell door opens, and Solila is tossed inside. Zalilak figured out Solila saw Darak’s face, signaling the leader’s awareness of the physical similarities between the enemy peoples.
We conclude the issue with enemies no more, a parley, and a father’s resignation.
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Final Thoughts
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VOID RIVALS #4 ups the stakes and widens the conspiracy when Solila takes Darak before her leader as a prisoner. The mystery behind Sacred Ring grows increasingly intriguing, the surprise Transformers connection is fun, and the reading experience is smooth as glass.
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