Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH podcast!
For this entry, the saga of Conrad S. Hauser’s entrance in the Energon Universe has taken many twists and turns. From dealing with Starscream head on to being on the run with secrets in toe, the flagship character of G.I. Joe has readers full attention. With last issue’s conclusion, a shocking figure might be the key to Duke’s problems or another cause of them.
DUKE #3 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire and Rus Wooton (Skybound entertainment/Image Comics) takes readers on another epic adventure.
Let's take a closer look at all the action!
DUKE #3 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire and Rus Wooton (Skybound entertainment/Image Comics)
*** POSSIBLE POILER WARNING ***
Last readers saw Duke, he was locked up in the PIT. After his encounter with the Decepticon StarScream, Duke was put on leave from service. In that time, he had become involved with a bigger conspiracy involving M.A.R.S. Industuries. With vital information in his hands from Dr. Adele Burkhart, Duke is evading all comers in an attempt to clean his name.
Luck ran out as he (and Clutch) were brought in by Stalker and Rock N’ Roll. In their holding cell, readers see that they have familiar company. In the next cell is THE BARONESS!
This chapter begins with M.A.R.S. Industries moving operations. A voice is informing someone of the situation at hand. It’s revealed that Major Bludd has been hired to complete loose ends involving Duke.
Meanwhile at the PIT, The Baroness is pleading her case to escape. Duke is caught up in his own thoughts to care. With being ignored with her status, she lashes out. Duke responds by breaking down her file.
Their time to bicker is short lived as Bludd and his forces make a bold attack onto the Pit!
Readers watch as the action is turned all the way up! Can Duke survive this latest obstacle? In between the bullets and explosions, choices are made. None will be bigger than the final page! Brace for a show stopping moment that is sure to leave fans wanting more immediately! It’s another hit chapter!
DUKE #3 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire and Rus Wooton (Skybound entertainment/Image Comics - Cover: Declan Shalvey)
Williamson continues the fast paced excitement which has become the series trademark. The re-introduction of The Baroness is short and to the point. It’s detailed enough to know she brings an element of deception with her. This comes into play once the action starts.
Speaking of which, the attack by Bludd starts off big with the aerial assault. Once events progress further, the writing showcases Duke’ unrelenting will to win. Even with its’ accelerated pace, the key moments are set up superbly to connect with readers. The closing moments are another sensational twist which hits nothing but home runs. This series continues to get better with every page.
Reilly, Bellaire and Wooton lock readers in to the energetic visuals early. There is an excellent two page spread for Baroness’ origin. The pages are filled with spy imagery and mystery fitting for the character.
The fighting kicks of with another strong two page spread of Bludd and his forces descending onto the Pit. It’s a perfect pace-setter for what follows next. The emotions run high with each following panel. The closing page pulls off a huge surprise leaving readers on the edge of their seats. It’s another huge win for the creative team with this one!
DUKE #3 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire and Rus Wooton (Skybound entertainment/Image Comics - Cover: Priscilla Petraites)
FINAL POINT: 9
The introduction of the Baroness complicates Duke’s journey in the latest chapter. Williams delivers on big action and drama with fantastic writing. Reilly and the team construct blockbuster imagery fitting of the adrenaline rush that has made this series a staple on New Comic Book Day.
Hit me up on ODHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Duke #3. Thanks for reading!
