VOID RIVALS #5, from Image Comics on 10/25/23, deepens the political intrigue and danger behind Draka’s capture when fanatical and rebellious forces work to upset the balance of power.
The Details
- Written by: Robert Kirkman
- Art by: Lorenzo De Felici
- Colors by: Patricio Delpeche
- Letters by: Rus Wooton
- Cover art by: Lorenzo De Felici (cover A)
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $3.99
- Release date: October 25, 2023
Is VOID RIVALS #5 Good?
As much as VOID RIVALS #5 is a Transformers tie-in story, Robert Kirkman’s sci-fi drama works well enough to stand on its own. The main characters face regret, torture, and unexpected surprises in Kirkman’s latest chapter in the sci-fi adventure.
When last we left Darak and Solila, they were thrown in a cell together when it was discovered they both know what lies under each other’s helmets. Now, Darak is hauled away to be tortured for any valuable information he could divulge about the Agorrians while Solila accepts likely execution. Both prisoners are surprised when their fates take unexpected turns.
If you’re curious to know which Transformer(s) pop up in this issue for a cameo, the answer is ‘none.’ You do get a cameo involving the previously seen Quinetsson and Skuxxoid, plus a certain multi-faced Quintesson leader, but that’s as far as it goes.
What’s great about VOID RIVALS #5? The tone is still a bit lighter, thanks to Darak’s unflappable snarkiness, which gives the comic an air of adventure. The fateful twists for both Darak and Solila create anticipation for developments on the horizon, and little bits of information are peppered throughout to give readers a greater insight into Zertonian culture.
What’s not so great about VOID RIVALS #5? Kirkman’s pacing is steady but not particularly brisk. You can see that this issue is setting up bigger things down the road, but the comic doesn’t have much energy or urgency behind it.
How’s the art? The art team has a change-up in this issue with the addition of Patricio Delpeche on colors, and the net result is a great-looking comic. De Felici’s pencils/inks are consistent with the previous issues, but Delpeche’s colors add a little more pop.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at the covers, or Click Here to jump right to the story description with some spoilers.
What’s VOID RIVALS #5 About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
Check out our VOID RIVALS #4 review to find out what happened when Solila betrayed Darak.
We begin with Darak and Solila taking stock of their situation. Given their knowledge about their respective races, Solila’s convinced they’ll be executed to protect the secret. Darak, however, will likely be tortured for information about his people. Solila’s prediction comes true when guards come in and haul Darak away.
Later, Darak endures another round of beings and is left alone to consider cooperating. Suddenly, a young girl emerges from the shadows with Darak’s clothes and handroid, freeing him for escape. The girl leads Darak to a band of Zertonian rebels who wish to unite their people.
Back in her cell, Solila receives a visit from the Order of Zerta – a group of zealous witches who used to have Solila as an acolyte. Solila has since rejected the Order’s fanatical ways, but their leader, Mistress Vill, comes bearing gifts.
We conclude the issue with a deal offered and rejected, a deal offered and accepted, and a gift received.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at preview images of the internal pages, or Click Here to jump right to the score.
Final Thoughts
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VOID RIVALS #5 continues the political intrigue and the surprising twists for a relatively satisfying issue. Kirkman keeps the plot moving at a steady albeit mild pace, and the art looks great.
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