TRANSFORMERS #13 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

One year ago, the comic world witnessed a debut that shattered expectations. OPTIMUS PRIME and company crashed the Energon Universe. In their wake has been compelling stories that have re-ignited a fanbase.

Entering year two, the latest arc dives into the past of an infamous Decepticon. Starscream was left for dead at the hands of Soundwave. Where his future goes now ties into the secret past from Cybertron.

TRANSFORMERS #13 by Daniel Warren Johnson, Jason Howard, Mike Spicer, and Rus Wooton welcomes readers into a new beginning arc.

Let’s take a closer look and see how year two begins!

TRANSFORMERS #13 by Daniel Warren Johnson, Jason Howard, Mike Spicer, and Rus Wooton (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Johnson pens a tragic tale of innocence lost. Seeing the hated Decepticon in a new light gives an engaging perspective. Knowing how power hungry he is now, the writing portrays him as a loyal friend broken by loss. The result leads to a turn that gives big depth into the striving for acceptance.

It plays off where readers last saw him in the Energon Universe. Coming off the brutality of Soundwave’s onslaught, the current state of Starscream is unstable. This is only made worse by who he’s discovered by. As the ties with the Energon Universe become closer, the footnotes being left are consistently raising the stakes. However, the main driver in this chapter is the past. The closing pages perfectly tie events together, It changes the course of not only the tale at hand, but a character’s path to revenge and purpose.

Howard steps in for art duties and gives Starscream’s past an exciting feel. The opening pages recaps recent events with a new twist. It leads into the revealing side of Cybertron’s past. Readers watch as Starscream comes across happy and adventurous. The reactions he has with his friends create a feel of optimism before life changes direction.

There is a huge two page splash showcasing a well known Transformer. It builds up the hopefulness that Starscream carries. The peaceful times fade away in the blink of an eye. In its place, Howard and Spicer presents panels filled with the unstable fighting between the Autobots and Decepitcons. Once the tragedy occurs, the pages spiral towards a monster two page splash. Parting with a bold final image, the art team leaves no doubt that a new player has entered the deadly game of war on Cybertron.

FINAL POINT: 9.2

The rebirth of a fallen Decepticon begins with a devastating look at his early beginnings. Johnson takes readers into the past with phenomenal writing. Howard, Spicer and Wooten weave in the pain of loss with the mounting drama as the pages make loud statements. It’s a strong launching point into year two of one of comics’ best series.

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TRANSFORMERS #12 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the Decepticons are on the verge of final victory. Soundwave has led a precise attack onto Earth. The new “head of the table” has been serving nothing but pain and suffering. Optimus Prime and any others who would cross his path have found little hope. A final play has been called to thwart Soundwave. Is it too late?

TRANSFORMERS #12 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) brings readers to the conclusion of its’ second arc!

Let’s see how the Energon Universe is left after this!

TRANSFORMERS #12 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Johnson has systematically broken Optimus Prime with his writing. For this closing chapter, Prime hits his final points. Readers watch as he unleashes the pent-up anger on his over-confident foes. The result shows a role-reversal. No longer the stoic leader. Johnson replaces him with someone looking to end events once and for all. The change in persona leads to a drastic measure taken. It becomes a polarizing moment for the legendary head of the Autobots.

Prime’s stance causes some friction with his allies from Cybertron. Elita and Prime’s dialogue brings forth many old emotions. Defending Earth doesn’t register with Prime’s old ally and choices are made. Johnson ramps up the drama in this section. Its’ build presents readers with an impactful conclusion. The ramifications of the latest stand undoubtably leaves a massive cloud hanging over head. As one door has closed, another one has completely swung open.

Corona and Spicer continue to shine with the fantastic artwork. Carly’s valiant effort to help pops off the half page panel. It’s given a perfect complimentary image of Cliffjumper smiling in approval to her actions. Pacing speeds events up to a thunderous stopping point. A half page image unveils the destruction that has just transpired. This becomes the starting point for Optimus Prime to become unleashed.

The art team leaves nothing back as Prime delivers his frustration onto the Decepticons. One in particular scene drops a huge exclamation point within the pages. Seeign Prime’s eyes switch colors for this action was a great touch. It left readers no doubt that something out of character just happened.

Another excellent moment is the conversation with Elita and Prime. The art team encases the bursting emotions to give the ultimate choice made more gravity. This leads to an excellent full page splash! With Prime’s guilty narration, the closing image will have readers talking as to the fate of the Energon Universe’s alien protectors.

FINAL GRADE: 9.6

With its’ second arc coming to a show-stopping finale, Johnson, Corona and the team present readers with an intense read. Johnson’s writing pushes Optimus Prime to new heights. Corona, Spicer and Wooten construct amazing imagery as a new stat quo appears on the horizon.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Transformers #12. Thanks for reading!

SCARLETT #4 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the pen-ultimate chapter is here for a legendary G.I. Joe’s entry in the Energon Universe. Through grit and determination, Shana O’Hara braces for impact to save a friend. Her current situation has spiraled into much more. A dangerous organization has eyes on a weapon. How long can O’Hara keep dodging danger before it finally takes her out?

SCARLETT #4 by Kelly Thompson, Marco Ferrari, Lee Loughridge, and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) ramps up the excitement as the famous G.I. Joe makes her next moves!

Let’s take a closer look at the action! 

SCARLETT #4 by Kelly Thompson, Marco Ferrari, Lee Loughridge, and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) 

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Thompson gives a big payoff moment to one of the series’ biggest plots in the latest chapter. The Jinx/Scarlett friendship has been well documented. Getting a definitive answer to where the status quo is now is a huge reward for the readers. This leads into a final play to stop the weapon from landing in Cobra’s hands. That said, the issue also spotlights another famous character along the way.

Storm Shadow is given plenty of page time for this issue. His attacks paired with the Jinx/Scarlett conversation provides a unique feel. It showcases what he is capable of while distracting the readers long enough for the reveal of Jinx’s motives. This theme circles back in the closing act. Once at this stage, a choice has been made that only spells certain fate of Scarlett’s larger mission at hand. It’s another element that the writing weaves in perfectly heading into the home stretch.

Ferrari and Loughridge waste no time in unleashing Storm Shadow’s fury. The Three panel page set-up leaves readers in awe of how violent the ninja attacks. It leads into the more personal moments between Jinx and Scarlett. The weight of the mission starts crashing down on both during these images.

It builds towards a solid closing act. The art team creates a big two page splash featuring the wild combat at hand. Readers watch as the images depict the rapidness of Jinx, Scarlett and Storm Shadow on the attack. Events conclude with a great parting image. It will be one fans will instantly sense a change in the story has just occurred. Heading into the final chapter, all bets are off on what is going to unfold now.

FINAL POINT: 8.4

Heading into the final moments, Shana O’Hara makes one last play to finish her story. Thompson crafts a long awaited payoff in-between chaos with the writing. Ferrari, Loughridge and Wooten construct fantastic combat sequences along with delving into the personal drama unfolding. Readers are led into the finale with very high hopes.

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VOID RIVALS #12 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

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!

VOID RIVALS #11 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the Energon Universe odd couple marches forward. Darak and Solila have been an unlikely pairing. Destiny has crossed the two into each others’ path. Some might think that was enough to crush them. No one could have expected members of the Cybertron landscape would raise the stakes even higher.

Coming off last issue’s reveals, all bets are off on where things lead to next. Can the pair survive to fight another day?

VOID RIVALS #11 by Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooten (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) looks to deliver another huge win for the ever-popular Energon Universe.

Let’s see how things are shaping up now.

VOID RIVALS #11 by Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooten (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Kirkman presents Springer as a much needed ally to Darak and Solila. With last issue’s big reveals concerning their connection to Energon, it was a matter of time before trouble caught up with them. The pace speeds up to give readers big action moments. Darak winds up stealing the panels with a risky move to sway the conflict their way.

In its’ fallout, Darak takes a huge gamble. It is a risk that screams for high risk/reward. The dialogue starts to break up moments between the dangerous pursuit they’re caught in. The writing intersects with some notable areas. None might be bigger than an introduction of a popular Autobot. How that figure will merge with the story is unknown but will be highly anticipated. The closing act feels slightly familiar as a new situation arises that looks to cause fractures in an already cracked bond between strangers.

De Felici and Delpeche open with excellent action moments. The art reflects the frantic battle at hand. It leads into a show-stealing half panel. In that frame is a risky but desperate move for Darak. The move pays off, resulting in a solid transition to another area.

Readers will be excited to see some classic Transformers faces appear. One will stand out more than others. The art team gives a notable welcome with a half page panel. These leads back to the unlikely trio and a mysterious cliffhanger. The art continues to impress and expand on an ever-growing universe.

FINAL POINT: 8.4

The Energon Universe strikes with a solid display fast-paced action and building drama. Kirkman builds a steady foundation with the writing. De Felici and company craft blockbuster action with more grounded reflections for another hit issue.

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DESTRO #2 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the most dangerous weapons dealer in the Energon universe returns. DESTRO made an instant impact in the pages of Duke. The charismatic mastermind has been pulling strings in the shadows for quite some time. His latest challengers are a ruthless pair known as Xamot and Tomax. Pop culture knows them as the Crimson Twins.

Last chapter, they crossed Destro’s path in a power-play move. Heading into the fallout, all bets are off as what the metal faced maestro has in store now.

DESTRO #2 by Dan Watters, Andrei Bressan, Adriano Lucas and Rus Wooton sets the stage for a face-off for the ages. Who will be the last ones standing?

It’s time to jump into the deceit and danger. Let’s Go!

DESTRO #2 by Dan Watters, Andrei Bressan, Adriano Lucas and Rus Wooton (Image Comics/Skybound entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Watters gives readers a true “spy vs. spy” feel to the story. The pacing splits events between the rivals. Each highlights what they’re guessing their opposition is thinking. The game of one-upmanship showcases how vicious the quest for power can be.

This all builds towards a somewhat startling conclusions. let it be said, there is always some honor amongst thieves. Destro comes off as cunning as ever with the writing. Even as skilled challengers as the twins are, it never feels like Destro is out of his element. The final act throws a detour in where events play next. It is one that leaves readers guessing to whom still has the upper hand.

Bressan and Lucas breakdown the back and forth banter with a few notable panels. The “face-Off” homage conveys the rift between sides. This leads into some fun action panels. A full page image of the B.A.T.S vs Crimson Guard will have readers excited for what’s unfolding.

The showdown is filled with a tense overtone. Destro lets his guard drop a bit to indicate to readers the rage and anger he is under while handling this current challenge. With a final page setting a new stage, the chapter takes a bow with many guess on where things lead from here.

FINAL POINT: 8.2

A battle floods over from the board room to the battlefield with this latest Energon Universe chapter. Watters lines up the major pieces for a combustible situation with the writing. Bressan, Lucas and Wooten deliver on action with many moving parts still rolling. Where this goes from here will be a victory for readers never the less.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Destro #2. Thanks for reading.

G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO #308 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points!

For this entry, the Cobra Civil War is poised to explode! Serpentor Khan has turned Cobra Island into a mutated mess. Cobra Commander is building his army in Springfield. Caught in the middle is the elite terrorist fighting team: G.I. Joe!

With key players set in position, the time to strike is now. All forces are making plays. Who will come out on top?

G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO #308 by LARRY HAMA, PAUL PELLETIER, TONY KORDOS, FRANCESCO SEGALA, SABRINA DEL GRASSO and PAT BROSSEAU (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) kicks off the action building since the series returned in #301!

Let’s take a deeper dive into what’s unfolding now!

G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO #308 by LARRY HAMA, PAUL PELLETIER, TONY KORDOS, FRANCESCO SEGALA, SABRINA DEL GRASSO and PAT BROSSEAU (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) – Cover: Andy Kubert

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

With each side trying to make an impact, Hama divdes up the pace to let each party have a few moments to shine. The opening delves into the Joes infiltrating Serpentor’s twisted world. It gives readers a solid build before the combat begins. At this stage, Serpentor unleashes his first salvo to much fanfare.

On the flip side, the Joes begin their two-sided attack. The writing takes hold of the losses Dawn has been dealt as she’s not front and center of plans. This gives more pay-off to the evil ways of Commander’s plans. With the latter portion of the book, things begin to speed up. This creates an exciting feel heading into the close. Once at the final page, there is no doubt in reader’s minds as War has been officially declared in the G.I. Joe universe.

Pelletier and company construct the beginnings of an all-out assault. The team on Cobra Island never ease up from the brutal situation they’re in. Panels leave nothing to chance as the Joes make their presence felt.

The art also hones in on the direct attack on Springfield. Seeing the Serpentor squad jump into bad leaps at reader. Seeing the shock and doubt in their eyes becomes telling in the closing pages. This plays a part in the ending image. Knowing who has now entered the battle, readers can expect more chaos and damage as the next issue is unlikely to let up what was started here.

FINAL POINT: 8

Serpentor’s plans begin with a G.I. Joe team looking to intercept. Hama paints a brutal and direct look at the mayhem about to start. Pelletier and the team craft solid combat panels in with the onlook of combat waiting in the wings. This has all the makings for another classic G.I. Joe event.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #308. Thanks for reading!

TRANSFORMERS #10 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points!

For this entry, have we arrived at the Autobots’ darkest hour? Reeling from more losses, Optimus Prime must plan to stop an old enemy who’s now arrived on Earth. Soundwave has brought Shockwave into the ranks of the new Decepiticons. The impact was instant. Is there any hope left for the defenders of the Energon Universe’s Earth?

TRANSFORMERS #10 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) focuses on a hidden Autobot’s journey into the never-ending battle brought to Earth.

Let’s take a closer look at what is happening now.

TRANSFORMERS #10 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Johnson brings Beachcomber into the forefront for this issue with great success. His path into the fight is filled with solitude and guarded hope. Pairing Beachcomber with Spike Witwicky allows the lost Autobot toopen up to not only a human, but the audience. The story here reflects how not everyone is in to a fight forever. That said, there might not be an option for the newest Transformers as more threats loom.

The pacing gives Soundwave enough time to demonstrate his vileness onto his prisoners. The dialogue between him and Shockwave carries a cold flare as both see means to an end for the Autobots. This plays perfectly opposite with Optimus’ blind faith. Even with the odds as great against him, Prime won’t back down. Judging by what Johnson sets up, there might not be any time to counter the growing threat. The final page leaves a mark as to the dwindling future of survival for Earth and its’ inhabitants. It’s another great example of high level storytelling.

Corona and Spicer feature many sides to Beachcomber on his journey into this series. Doubt, Sadness and Hope flood the opening act. The trip from the Moon to the Earth are prime examples of this. They are panels that readers will lock in on as the story grows.

The Decepticons unveil their plans with some striking images. Readers watch as their “feeder” is given a big welcome and terrifying demonstration. This is depicted later in a moment with Soundwave and Thundercracker. The panels may be small, but the messages conveyed yell out what evil is steering events.

Before concluding, the art team deliver on a huge two-page splash. What unfolds can only be described as epic. It is a game changing moment that is paired effortlessly with the closing image. This chapter’s conclusion is given an exclamation point by the art team. Each time out, they find new ways to take the drama to new heights. This is why the series gets as many accolades as it does.

FINAL POINT: 9

Through a new Transformer’s perspective, the war from Cybertron gets new light in another strong chapter. Johnson continues to push the Autobots past their breaking points with phenomenal writing. Corona, Spicer and Wooten give readers much to be entranced with as the artwork brings out many emotions. This series continues to be the talk on NCBD for good reason.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media an let me know your thoughts on Transformers #10. Thanks for reading.

G.I. JOE : A REAL AMERICAN HERO #307 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, Serpentor is declaring war on everyone. Tying to play Cobra against itself, the mad dictator is looking to take the fight to Springfield. Duke and company are gearing to intercept. Will it be enough to stop them AND Cobra Commander’s growing forces?

G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO #307 by LARRY HAMA, PAUL PELLETIER, TONY KORDOS, FRANCESCO SEGALA, SABRINA DEL GRASSO and PAT BROSSEAU (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) brings the action with another chapter of the never-ending fight for freedom!

Let’s take a deeper dive at what is playing out here!

G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO #307 by LARRY HAMA, PAUL PELLETIER, TONY KORDOS, FRANCESCO SEGALA, SABRINA DEL GRASSO and PAT BROSSEAU (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) - Cover: Andy Kubert

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Serpentor is making big moves in the attempt to take out Cobra Commander. Hama juggles the three factions to build up more suspense for the eventual blowout. The writing depicts Serpentor grasping for control. Seeing something is awry on the island, troops are sent to investigate. The fallout is vintage G.I. Joe action which is sure to please.

Some of the other side plots get a moment to shine. Dawn’s mourning of her parents and Destro’s manipulations are key areas fans will latch onto. The closing act steers back full circle. Serpentor is the driving force in this plot and looks to have more plans up his sleeve. This is another steady read which keeps things rolling towards another epic moment.

Pelletier directs the action front and center with this chapter. The panels feel fast and dives into the tense situation of outrunning Serpentor. The emotional fallout of Dawn with the Joes is another key element of this book. It shows the tolls for the actions taken. It leaves readers with a greater sense of the mission at hand. Once in the final pages, the art elevates the conflict. The closing page is a great cliffhanger to depart on while building towards what’s next.

FINAL POINT: 8

Tensions are rising as Serpentor makes moves that have the world on notice. Hama weaves in classic action with some intrigue in the writing. Pelletier leans into the big action and emotional toll with the classic feel of the art. Since its’ return, the series hasn’t missed a beat. Anyone wondering about G.I. Joe’s impact simply needs to check this series out to understand the hype.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero #307. Thanks for reading!

DESTRO #1 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the Energon Universe is expanding! One year ago, Void Rivals became the unlikely launching point for a new universe. Spinning out of there has been Transformers. Along with Optimus Prime and company, the G.I. Joe fandom has been making waves.

Duke and Cobra Commander launched the first wave of books. From both books, a notorious arms dealer has emerged from the shadows. Is the Energon Universe ready for what he is preparing?

DESTRO #1 by Dan Watters, Andrei Bressan, Adriano Lucas and Rus Wooton brings forth a new threat to the ever-evolving landscape of COBRA!

Let’s take a closer look at what is unfolding here.

DESTRO #1 by Dan Watters, Andrei Bressan, Adriano Lucas and Rus Wooton (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Watters wastes little time in establishing Destro as a force. The takeover of Darklonia is precise in its brutality and message. Destro comes across as a shrewd businessman with grand expectations. His conversations with Cobra Commander play heavy into the “frienemy” territory that has defined their relationship for decades.

The writing also allows for more rivals to make a big introduction. Fans will be very pleased to see a certain pair hit the pages. Their story instantly establishes them to new readers. It also meshes well with long-time fans knowing what they’re capable of.

The conclusion picks up the pace. This allows a further insight into the battle for power. Throughout this issue, Destro is driven by this notion. Heading into the final page, it is clear this is what makes him stand apart from most rogues.

Bressan and Lucas focused greatly on the man underneath the mask. He is often caught devilishly smiling when his plans are working. This comes off of the strong introduction of his forces. The images are unforgiving as the motives are driven by greed.

The other major debut mirrors much of what made Destros’ work. The images are ruthless and cold when they advance their plans. This leads to a solid closing filled with dramatic sequences. The art team leaves readers off with a bold parting visual from a declaration of intent.

FINAL POINT: 9.1

An evil threat makes a daring splash into the Energon Universe spotlight with a solid debut chapter. Watters molds the ruthlessness of business with superb writing. Bressan, Lucas and Wooton provide impactful images that proves all is fair in power and war.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Destro #1. Thanks for reading!

TRANSFORMERS (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the world of Optimus Prime is falling apart. His Autobots have resumed their war with the Decepticons. There have been grave losses. Even in victory, the fight rages on. An old enemy has resurfaced with vengeance on his mind. Can Prime keep fighting the good fight or will he break down?

TRANSFORMERS #9 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) looks to answer that question and much more!

Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening now.

TRANSFORMERS #9 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The Soundwave era has delved into the ruthlessness of the most loyal Decepticon. Johnson adding Shockwave into the mix raises the stakes of conflict. Their attack shows no mercy to an already reeling Autoboyts group.

In the writing, Prime never waivers from his mission to save the Earth from their invaders. Even in a losing effort, his drive is unquestionable.

The fight set-up is everything you want from Transformers. Plus, with Johnson being a huge wrestling fan, the usage of a certain driver doesn't miss hitting its mark in the story. Outside factors are added into the already combustible mix.

This causes a highly emotional moment that should have grave ramifications. The closing pages look to build off of the new wave of faces readers see added into the mix. How this will all play out is anyone's guess. You won't want to miss the ride!

Shockwave makes a proper grand entrance with a near full page panel. Readers can instantly see how the story turns in favor of the mood and pacing. Corona, Spicer and Wooten bring the action with some incredible fight sequences. There is a strong mix of wrestling and brawling that will have fans on the edge of their seats.

Its' fallout conveys an uneasiness for what lies ahead. A small panel featuring a Transformers' fear is an image that hits its' mark. The closing pages switches gears. It will have fans curious on where the journey goes now.

FINAL POINT: 9

Shuffling the deck with a new Decepticon lead has worked wonders for an already near perfect series. Johnson pressures the Autobots into struggling depths with creative writing. The art carries a large and loud sense of the non-stop action. Corona and the team construct a fast billing conflict that fans won't want to stop. There is no question on why this series is in such high demand.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Transformers #9. Thanks for reading!

SCARLETT #1 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the Energon Universe welcomes a new debut series. Since its’ inception in 2023, the new shared universe of Transformers and G.I. Joe has been putting out exciting series after series. With the latest series of DUKE and COBRA COMMANDER wrapping up, an iconic G.I. Joe is poised to step into the spotlight. Backed by a high-level creative team, the EU is poised for another monster win on their hands.

SCARLETT #1 by Kelly Thompson (BLACK CLOAK, BIRDS OF PREY), Marco Ferrari (Frontiersman), Lee Loughridge and Rus Wooton crank up the action in an explosive first issue!

Let’s take a closer look at the latest G.I. Joe spin-off!

SCARLETT #1 by Kelly Thompson, Marco Ferrari, Lee Loughridge and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

In a secluded island of Monaco, someone is emerging from the water. They change clothing from a wetsuit into formal attire. With a simple phrase, readers know that it is time for some action. The line: “Scarlett in position”.

Scarlett enters the party. Inside the mansion, there are a wide variety of characters mingling. The mission is focused on finding nefarious people. Hostages involved are not the priority according to her supervisors. However, Scarlett isn’t one to let rules stop her from doing good.

As she assesses the scene, a familiar face emerges in the party. JINX has arrived with an entourage with weapons. Control base tells Scarlett to stand down. The orders are ignored as she trails in pursuit. Once she walks into another room, there is more going on that meets the eyes.

Readers watch as Scarlett finds the hostages caught in the middle of a fight with others and Jinx’s team. Did anyone seriously think she was going to sit by idly? The fallout results in Scarlett forging a new path as the mystery behind her friend escalates.

Who is the ally that is helping Scarlett in her new mission? What does this all have to do with Jinx? Are readers ready for the Arashikage Clan? The next phase of Scarlett’s adventures leads to uncharted territory. With all the twists and turns, the final page welcomes in another factor sure to throw everything in flux! Brace yourself for the ride!

Thompson wastes no time in setting a high tempo for the series. Scarlett’s initial outing conveys her unwavering drive to do the right thing over a mission protocol. The flashback sequences add to her connection with Jinx as their story takes form. Giving the personal bond a platform, this drives the next phase of the tale forward with ease.

The latter half of the chapter dives heavy into the action. The writing shows off the intense skills leading to a unique confrontation. It plays into a few directions before it’s disrupted by a new debut. One issue in and there’s no way you can’t be hooked on this story!

Ferrari and Loughridge craft a world of high-octane action and suspense with the art. The opening pages lead into the world of espionage. There are two mirroring pages spotlighting the transformation into character that will win fans over.

That said, the pages that fans will be raving about are the action panels. There’s a feeling of thrilling danger flowing in the scenes here. None more so than the two page splash of Scarlett fighting multiple enemies. This all builds towards a show stopping final image as a game changers has entered the field. Nothing but wins for the latest entry what is

FINAL POINT: 9.7

An electrifying welcome for one of the most popular G.I. Joe’s into the Energon Universe! Thompson constructs a non-stop ride of emotions and conflict with spectacular writing. Ferrari, Loughridge and Wooten build epic action images that never let the readers escape the web of intrigue they just entered. This one is a sure fire bullseye add on NCBD!

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