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!

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!

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

COBRA COMMANDER #5 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, Evil sheds its’ final skin. The rise to power of G.I. Joe’s most despised enemy has reached its destination. Lying, cheating and killing has all been in the quest of power. In the course of this story, readers have seen a figure manipulate every scenario he’s come across. Now with one more encounter to be had, the heir to evil is poised to finally achieve his master plan.

COBRA COMMANDER #5 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) positions the devilish mastermind in front of a person who could be the missing factor in global domination.

Let’s take a deeper dive and see how the conclusion plays out.

COBRA COMMANDER #5 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) - Cover: Dustin Nguyen

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

After learning who the Dreadnoks were working with, Cobra Commander makes a statement. Strategic attacks on M.A.R.S. Industries locations unfold. This does not sit well with the CEO: DESTRO!

The company is still recovering from the ordeal involving DUKE. It cannot take another public hit. Seeing that the attacks led to theft, Destro wants swift action. A “clue” has been left behind: Ripper. The dreadnok comes bearing an invite from the Commander to meet up and talk.

Readers watch as Destro, Mercer and a team travel to an undisclosed location. Upon arrival, Destro assesses the seemingly quiet residential neighborhood. Ripper gives fair warning that this whole situation is far from normal. Once a demonstration is given, the Commander makes a grand entrance.

The master manipulator starts his work on Destro. Secrets are revealed on how Commander’s dark vision is coming to life. What is Destro’s reaction to all of this? The conclusion leads into the next phase of a global terrorist organization the likes the world has never seen. It is truly the birth of evil.

However, there is still one party having a vested interest in the Commander’s plans. The parting moment leads readers into a different direction of the Energon Universe which is sure to thrill and delight.

COBRA COMMANDER #5 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)

The Birth of Terror. Williamson crafts a defining moment in G.I. Joe lore. Destro’s initial reaction to events plays into his cold presence. Being a man of business, the dialogue reflects his cutthroat tactics. In dealing with a master con man, this shines through in their first meeting.

Commander’s dark charisma shines in these moments. In each issue, the “horror” aspect stands out with no exception here. The audience will enjoy trying to figure out who has the upper hand in the situation. This builds towards a solid finish with Commander’s biggest strength (and weakness) shining in the end. The parting act re-enforces ties with the Energon Universe as a new phase begins.

Milana and Leoni build Destro’s lead-in with a direct two page spread. The tone is controlled anger as Destro gets more information on the attacks. This leads to the dramatic entrance of Commander to their meeting. It conveys the fragile relationship between the pair as they start talking their deal. A moment that will stand out is one involving Dr. Lazlo. It breaks the seriousness for a second, with his facial reactions saying a lot.

The final pages of the Commander’s tale focuses on his new persona. Reactions are mixed until the moment he makes an address. The two page spread cements the new era of terror. With the feeling of dire excitement, the pages will have readers knowing that change has arrived whether the world is ready for it or not.

FINAL POINT: 9

When the horror ends, the true terror begins. Williamson’s fantastic writing establishes an uneasy alliance that spells disaster for any who cross their paths. The excellent imagery of Milana, Leoni and Wooten construct a sense of fear and danger as Evil enters its’ final form. This series is another monster win for a fast growing universe building a reputation for must read books every time out.

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

TRANSFORMERS #8 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points!

For this entry, the second arc in arguably comics’ biggest book is in full swing. Optimus Prime and company are still reeling from the original debut in the Energon Universe. There’s also a new head of the Decepticons. Exit Starscream. Enter Soundwave. How does the new leader plan to succeed where others have failed?

TRANSFORMERS #8 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) showcases the next phase in the Decepticons plans.

Let’s take a deeper dive and see how things fare now.

TRANSFORMERS #8 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Johnson ushers in the Soundwave era with a bold start. Seeing the cold and unapologetic manner in which he deals with the USS Henry Henderson crew makes a big impression. The dialogue between Thundercracker and him during this moment connects his method of business.

It is a very big contrast with Optimus Prime. Johnson features the effects of Prime’s battles taking a grave toll on him. The ramifications of the first arc still linger on the Autobot leader’s soul. Johnson droves this point home with the growing emotions of Carly and her reaction to the Autobots. The writing mirrors her anger and confusion of events. This only adds to a more complicated scenario as the conclusion brings in another big player for Prime to deal with.

Corona and Spicer give ample page time to Carly’s growing frustrations. The images convey her rage towards the Autobots’ choice concerning Starscream. This plot point continues to be one readers have a strong connection with.

Soundwave’s actions towards the military crew also stand out. The panels leave no doubt about how driven the new Decepticon leader is on his plans. This leads into a near full page reveal about the next phase in plans that spell disaster for the Autobots. None might be bigger than the closing image. With a new factor joining in the fight, the art team leaves nothing in question as the series delivers another strong chapter.

FINAL POINT: 8.5

With new leadership in place, the Decepticons take action in another solid issue from the Energon Universe. Johnson’s writing leans into the emotional themes from a never-ending fight. Corona, Spicer and Wooten compliment the dialogue with fantastic imagery. Combined, it solidifies why this series is on many pull lists.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Transformers #8. Thanks for reading.

DUKE #5 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, we have arrived at the conclusion of G.I. Joe’s franchise character’s origin story. Since debuting in the Energon Universe, Conrad S. Hauser has been searching for answers. Following a Decepticon attack, Hauser has become a hunted figure. Now on the brink of solving the conspiracy of the what he saw, Hauser stumbles on more than he bargined for.

DUKE #5 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire and Rus Wooton (Skybound entertainment/Image Comics) is poised to leave it all on the pages before bowing out.

Let’s take a closer look at this intense finale!

DUKE #5 by Joshua Williamson, Tom Reilly, and Jordie Bellaire and Rus Wooton (Skybound entertainment/Image Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

After escaping The Pit, Duke has his sights set on M.A.R.S. Industries. Unfortunately, he has a welcoming party waiting for him. The party is in the form of a B.A.T. (Battle Android Trooper).

With an invested party watching, Duke is in a claw grip of the android soldier. Emerging from the shadows is a character G.I. Joe fans have been waiting for: DESTRO!

The charismatic arms dealer pleads his methods in an attempt to sway Duke. Knowing what Duke has gone through, does this give the hunted fugitive a way out?

Readers watch as Duke answers with a triumphant answer. The result pits man vs. machine. With answers looming on the other side, Duke must find a way to overcome the odds one more time. Can he do it?

With the signature action the series has been known for, the stakes have never been higher. The conclusion brings forth a new direction for the Energon Universe. If fans think they’ve seen it all, they haven’t seen anything yet.

Williamson caps off events with a strong finale. Destro gets a huge introduction into the spotlight. The banter with Duke and him proves to raise tensions even higher. The fallout throws the gas pedal down. This leads right into a knockdown, drag out brawl fitting for the fandom.

Duke’s unbreakable will is one theme that never leaves readers mind. Even with the deck stacked against him, Hauser’s will solidifies why he is the legend fans know him for. The fallout spirals events into a new playing field. The concluding act sets the stage for an even bigger play in the future. It’s been an incredible journey thus far and readers will be clamoring for more.

Reilly crafts blockbuster action with Duke’s conflict with the B.A.T. This is only rivaled by the full page reveal of Destro in all his glory. The image sets the tone for his place in the Energon Universe moving forward. Leaving that moment, its’ back to big action imagery.

The panels continuously grow until its’ explosive end. The epilogue moments provide a solid foundation to where things lead to next. Rest assured, the parting panel makes a loud statement before saying goodbye for now, but not for long.

FINAL POINT: 9.5

The beginning journey of Duke in the Energon Universe leaves a lasting impression with an impactful finale. Led by Williamson’s outstanding writing, the flagship character of G.I. Joe scores a massive win. Factor in the magnificent art of Reilley, Bellaire and Wooden and there’s no doubt of why this series has been such a huge hit with fans.

Hit me up on ODPHpod socials and let me know your thoughts on Duke #5. Thanks for reading.

TRANSFORMERS #7 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, a new arc is set to begin for the Energon Universe flagship title. Since its debut, the “Robots In Disguise” return has been THE book fans have circled on their NCBD lists. Coming off the heels of its first arc conclusion, the title switches artists.

The story of Autobots and Decepticons hasn't changed but looks poised to have a major change for one side moving forward.

TRANSFORMERS #7 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) leads fans into an exciting new chapter.

Let's take a closer look at how things play out.

TRANSFORMERS #7 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The issue begins with a flashback to Cybertron. An Autobot unit leads an assault onto a holding area. The Decepticons are onto their attack. It turns into a losing effort as the onslaught pours down on the team. Elita sneaks into the building. What she finds is a literal shell of someone she used to know.

The events shift to Earth. A battleship (USS Henry Harrison) is summoned to investigate “Robots” on the coast of Washington. Readers quickly find out that who they’re looking for might not be so welcoming.

The remaining Decepticons from the battle with Optimus Prime’s forces have a meeting about their future. Soundwave calls for Starscream to step down as leader. This doesn’t go well with the ineffective leader of the group. Under Decepticon law, this action is needed to be handled via trail by combat.

Readers sit back and watch as Soundwave and Starscream battle for the crown. It is a vicious battle with a startling outcome. Once the smoke clears, Autobots need to brace for what is coming. Can they overcome another fight while still recovering? They may not have another option. The closing moments dictate there is no rest for the wicked. A decree is thrown down that will ignite a fanbase to another incredible story.

TRANSFORMERS #7 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, JORGE CORONA, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) Cover: Jorge Corona

Johnson doesn’t brake from the fast pacing of the series with its’ latest chapter. The trial for Decepticon control features Soundwave in an unlikely role. Always being Megatron’s loyal right hand, Johnson brings Soundwave’s unwavering allegiance to their mission to the forefront. Readers see a glimpse of the levels he goes to achieve success. The fallout sets course for a new sense of urgency. This plays well to the leader’s counterpart - Optimus Prime.

Prime gives readers a sense of the toll the previous arc has taken on the Autobot leader. The writing reflects Prime’s shaken attitude but unbreakable will. What effects this will have long term is unknown. In the short time, readers are gifted a very well-balanced introduction chapter.

Corona steps into the art role ad doubles down on the big action. The fighting between StarScream and Soundwave is brutal and unforgiving. Each panel screams of the intense action portrayed. Even when Soundwave fights unfair, the art shows there is no limits he won’t go to win. This leads into a half page panel that announces to the readers who is the one left standing in Decepticon rule.

The autobots get their fair share of page time as well. In the Cybertron period, readers see a near full page visual of who lies in captivity. This is fast forwarded to Prime reliving the previous issue events. The closing images show Prime returning to focus with a near full page panel. All in all, the winning formula of drama and action continues to stay balanced for the readers.

FINAL POINT: 8.8

“If you aim for the crown, you had best not miss” is a perfect way to sum up Decepticon mentality in this latest issue. Johnson’s writing leans heavy into the big battles readers know and love. Corona steps in for art duties and gifts fans with the winning formula this series has been known for. Its’ conclusion lays down a proclamation that might not be able to be kept, but only time will tell that story.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Transformers #7. Thanks for reading.

VOID RIVALS #8 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points! It’s the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, the Energon Universe franchise lands back in comic shops with a brand new chapter. Carving its own space on the shared G.I. Joe/Transformers Universe for Skybound Entertainment and Image Comics is VOID RIVALS. The series that started the movement is in the midst of its’ new arc with a dangerous new player entering the game.

VOID RIVALS #8 BY Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooton have Darak and Solila running in the Wastelands of Zertonia. Little do they know that’s the least of their problems.

Let’s take a closer look at how things play out.

VOID RIVALS #8 BY Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Zertonia has not been too kind to Darak and Solila. The unlikely pair are on the run. Premier Zalilak is willing to cross a line to stop them from uniting the colonies. Zalilak has unleashed Proximus to eliminate the pair.

This chapter begins with a flashback to a young Solila. She’s preparing her brother Polada for combat. With youthful emotions, Polada struggles with what’s coming. An impromptu fight breaks out between the both. Suddenly time jumps to the present.

Solila stands out in a gaze. Darak asks what’s going on. Solila brushes it off, claiming there’s no way Zalilak would dare send the person she was thinking of.

As the pair moves forward, Proximus speeds in pursuit. The duo stops to rest thinking that a possible destination could be in reach. This is until Proximus makes a bold entrance to detour their path.

With a fight to the death looming, has luck finally run out? Readers watch as the action picks up. Its resolution leaves a notable impact. None will be greater as the final page. The parting image indicates plans may have gravely changed from the original course.

VOID RIVALS #8 BY Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) COVER: André Lima Araújo

VOID RIVALS #8 BY Robert Kirkman, Lorenzo De Felici, Patricio Delpeche and Rus Wooton (Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) COVER: Qistina Khalidah

Proximus makes a grand entrance for this chapter via Kirkman’s plot. The mysterious hunter comes across as a driven, merciless soul. This is in stark contrast to the more light-hearted Darak. Solila remains the standout character in this series with her insight and reactions to their threat.

The flashback sequences elude to more as the issue goes forward. It only amplifies the outcome of the encounter between the three. Kirkman lays into the battle in the latter portion of the chapter. This is an easy win with readers as the moment carries a certain feel to the fight. The fallout changes up the original path which is another bonus of an already engaging saga.

De Felici and company make a splash with introducing Proximus with a near full one-page panel. This is followed up by an excellent two-page spread of Proximus making the first strike. Wooden’s lettering amplifies the attack tenfold.

Once the dust settles there, De Felici and Delpeche give readers some great fighting panels. Even to the moments of a helmet slowly breaking, the art team leaves nothing to chance with this encounter. The final page is a full page vision that will be haunting some readers until the next chapter drops. It’s a perfect mic drop moment with big indications.

FINAL POINT: 8.8

Making an instant impact, Proximus enters the Void Rivals saga with an action packed debut. Kirkman sets the stage with thrilling writing. The art carries the heavyweight fight feel with every action image. With a show-stopping final page, this will be a book fans will be buzzing about.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Void Rivals #8. Thanks for reading.

COBRA COMMANDER #3 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points! It’s the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, the hunt for Energon is on via Skybound Entertainment and Image Comics. The early days of G.I. Joe’s most deadliest foe have not been easy. The never-ending quest for power has led right to the door steps of the Dreadnoks. If last issue’s ending is any indication, the road to victory is sinking fast.

COBRA COMMANDER #3 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton puts COBRA’s eventual leader right in the arms of danger!

Let’s take a closer look and see how things play out!

COBRA COMMANDER #3 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Credit: Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics)

*** POSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The issue begins with the Commander’s mysterious “bodyguard” walking through the Florida everglades. The Commander is missing. Readers witness that he’s been taken underwater by the swamps’ inhabitants. When a harpoon enters the water, it picks up the Commander out of the jaws of danger…for now.

Meanwhile, Zatana is addressing the rest of the Dreadnoks at their bar hangout. She unveils a valuable object. Readers see first hand an Energon Cube! The mood shifts to optimism. The conversation delivers a note of someone who was snooping around the swamp as well. Zandar walks in with a captured Cobra Commander!

What do the Dreadnoks do with their prisoner? Readers see first hand how unwelcomed guests are treated. However, the breaking of the Commander isn’t so easy. Someone has to walk away with the upper hand. The closing pages reveal a clear cut winner. It also greets readers with a surprise entrant into the fray. With a final page that is guaranteed to leave an impression, the quest for Energon looks to be talking a deadly detour into uncharted waters.

COBRA COMMANDER #3 by Joshua Williamson, Andrea Milana, Annalisa Leoni and Rus Wooton (Credit: Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics) Cover: Paul Azaceta

Williamson dives head first into the dark levels surrounding the search for power. Seeing the amount of violence involved, the chapter walks a fine line of horror. The Dreadnoks are featured as pawns thinking they’re royalty. This plays into the scheming and cunning of the Commander. Once the true game begins, it is an easy connect with readers of who is in charge. The ironic poetry of the closing page is perfect to lead the audience into the story’s next phase.

Milana and Leoni don’t pull their punches with the acts of torture in this issue. It gets taken to another level with the creative use of looking thru The Commander’s eyes for a few panels. This translates greater when the Commander makes his move. Readers will also be blown away by a gorgeous two full page spread giving a certain character a dramatic debut.

Events are concluded on a superb note. Wooden’s lettering is the star of the final page. The words continue to build and elevate an already dangerous situation. It complements a complex game with a clear cut winner emerging.

FINAL POINT: 9

All is fair game in the quest for power. Through Williamson’s excellent storytelling, the face of COBRA stands off against the Dreadnoks in a brutally strong manner. Milana, Leoni and Wooden craft the extreme actions taken leading to a show-stopping finish. The horror-driven tale delivers another winning chapter.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on Cobra Commander #3. Thanks for reading!

TRANSFORMERS #6 (SKYBOUND ENTERTAINMENT/IMAGE COMICS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points! It’s the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast.

For this entry, we have arrived at the conclusion of an exciting first arc of a returning fandom. Ever since they re-debuted in the pages of Void Rivals #1, the TRANSFORMERS have become the talk of comic fans once again.

The current series has been nothing short of a runaway success. Each issue has been jam-packed with drama and BIG action. Now heading to the finish line of their first story under Skybound and Image Comics, Optimus Prime and company look to end events with a BANG!

TRANSFORMERS #6 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment) unleashes a devastating threat that even the great Autobot leader might not survive.

Let’s take a closer look at all the action!

TRANSFORMERS #6 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

With their arrival on Earth, the Autobots and Decepticons have brought a never-ending battle to a world not ready for it. There have been casualties and damage galore. Through it all, Optimus Prime and his group have been the only thing holding Starscream and his soldiers back from taking over everything.

The fight has been brought right to the crashed ship where it all began. Starscream has set the trap. He’s unleashed DEVASTATOR onto the Autobots. Who will be left standing in the end?

This issue begins with The Autobots and Sparky Whitwicky looking for cover as Devastator starts its’ attack. Cliffjumper and Carly race into the battle. Carly swerves Cliffjumper out of direction to get higher ground to attack. The pair is greeted by Starscream for a showdown of the ages.

The Autobots reclaim their spaceship but Devastator still pushes its’ onslaught. With more wounded transformers mounting, things are looking bleak. Even the great Optimus Prime looks like his final moments are approaching.

Readers watch as the darkest hour approaches. An ultimate sacrifice is made. Will it be enough to turn the tide? With unrelenting action, the battle is taken to a whole different level of intensity. Choices are made and lines are drawn.

The fallout packs the emotional weight of all of Cybertron. There are strong images declaring victory but none like the final image. That one concludes events with a somber moment showing the high cost of victory.

TRANSFORMERS #6 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Credit: Image Comics via Skybound Entertainment Cover: André Lima Araújo)

Take about ending things on a mic drop moment. Johnson weaves in the heartfelt toll of combat throughout this issue. The opening displays the frantic attempt of survival for the wounded Autobots. Optimus Prime is written as the powerful leader he is, even in a heavily damaged body. This leads into the ultimate sacrifice previously mentioned. Once that moment hits page, Readers will be caught up in the powerful turning point.

From there, it’s nothing but big action. The visions of Optimus fighting back steal each page. No matter what condition, the art reflects his fighting spirit. There is a mind-blowing THREE PAGE ending to the main event. The two-page full spread is jaw dropping of its’ impact. The resolution still conveys the price paid in conflict. The reactions run high for all parties involved. Johnson captures them with ease. This all builds towards the final page. The closing panel might make some eyes water as the adrenaline wears off. It’s a defining image that will leave readers in a bittersweet place until next time.

FINAL POINT: 10

The first arc of Daniel Warren Johnson’s Transformers brings the house down with a rollercoaster of big action and bigger emotion. Readers will be blown away by the intense art and even more impactful writing. It’s high level storytelling that is way more than meets the eye.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thought on Transformers #6. Thanks for reading.