Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!
For this entry, the saga of Darak and Solila continues to drive the Energon Universe. They have been through a great deal in a short amount of time. Interject the looming factor of Transformers and there’s no shortage of thrills to be had. Last readers saw the unlikely duo, a choice was made. Where do things land now?
VOID RIVALS #12 by Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooten (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) answers the shocking statement made last issue and then some.
Let’s take a closer look at where things land now.
VOID RIVALS #12 by Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooten (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Kirkman throws a unique change of course into this series direction. Splitting up Darak and Solila after surviving their latest ordeal leads to a heavy emotional issue. The writing reflects the tense parting of ways of former rivals. Through their challenges, they have formed a bond whether each wanted it or not. Seeing the kind gesture Darak shows proves the evolution of their mission.
The story of Proximus and Ultum starts off with some uncertainty. Recovering from his defeat, Proximus is very reluctant to have someone join him. The writing shows the somewhat “human” connection being made with the half cyborg soldier. It’s a fine sub-plot for the parting of the Energon Universe’s odd couple. Readers won’t be expecting what transpires on the closing pages. The mystery of this book gets another addition. Where it leads will be anyone’s guess but concludes a turning point in the series perfectly.
De Felici and Delpeche bring the painful call to separate to light on the pages. From the worry on Darak’s face to the guarded hop of Solila, the art displays the feelings they go through making this call. This carries into some of the sub-plots, esp with Proximus and Ultum.
Even with helmets on, readers can connect what is unfolding. The body language being displayed speaks volumes. This comes in to more play in the latter half of the book. Readers watch as Solila’s eyes depict the wear of the decision. It is upstaged by the genuine care Darak displays with a gift. The result is a full page image that unlocks something even greater. Long time Transformer fans will know what that is but for now, the art team sets it up with excellent use of coloring. It is a parting image setting forth a new course that fans won’t dare miss.
FINAL POINT: 8.4
The call of destiny appears to be too great for the Energon Universe’s most unlikely pairing with this latest chapter. Kirkman establishes a new direction with solid writing. De Felici, Delpeche and Wooten spotlight the pressure of the choices made while teasing something BIG on the horizon. One chapter may have closed but it’s full speed ahead for an already captivating series.
Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Void Rivals #12. Thanks for reading!