Kai’s new stat quo has been anything but easy. After being betrayed by Xander, his lifeless body was saved. It wasn’t in a conventional way. Kai’s body is now that of an Arc. Dr. Zon needs his help. With nothing left to lose, Kai accepted. Is he ready for who and what is next?
ARCBOUND #3 by Scott Snyder, Frank Tieri, Tom Hardy, Ryan Smallman and Buddy Beaudoin (Dark Horse Comics) continues its’ sci-fi epic with another shot of action.
Let’s take a closer look at what is prevailing now.
ARCBOUND #3 by Scott Snyder, Frank Tieri, Tom Hardy, Ryan Smallman and Buddy Beaudoin (Dark Horse Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Kai’s journey puts him in the direct crossfire of Barnes. Before that commences, Snyder and Tieri take a look back. The writing opens up about a past mission. Kai’s dialogue holds a sense of uncertainty as he dives into action. Once he arrives at the Regulator, old memories are not the only thing to resurfaces.
Xander sends Barnes to eliminate Kai. Their confrontation mirrors their high skill level. Once that settles, the writing throws in another swerve. It forces a change of direction. Pacing moves very fast in this portion. After some great action, Kai makes a necessary call. It does feel tipped off but with the pacing, it makes sense. Readers watch as Kai’s plan starts adding some strength to carry its’ heavy weight. it’s a solid set-up issue with many moving parts at play.
Smallman shows Kai in his element. The soldier’s perspective comes across very grizzled. Panels show Kai ready to return to action. A full page image shows his new destination. It leaves quite the impression. As he starts making moves, Kai seems to switch mannerisms into business mode. It’s subtle but is quickly interrupted when Barnes makes her play.
The full page image welcomes her into the direct conflict. There are great action images that follow. Readers watch as Xander’s move throws all plans off the deck. The art takes events up quite a few levels. It never holds back on the hellish aspects of combat. After the guns stop firing, Stallman brings a calm over the storm. The closing page sends everything onto a new path. It’s sealed with a bond forged in battle. Enemies beware.
FINAL POINT: 8.8
Kai’s path of vengeance starts with a deep dive into danger. The writing takes Kai back to a past place with new beginnings. Stallman and Beaudoin take the bloody battles up a few levels with the art. The series continues its strong start with all the elements readers are wanting in a sci-fi classic.
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