VALIANT BEYOND: BLOODSHOT #1 (Alien Books, Valiant Comics, and IDW Publishing)

A new day sets on the Valiant Universe. Earlier in 2025, it was announced that the Alien Books imprint would be entering a new publishing venture with IDW Publishing. Many fans wondered what would be the fate of the long-running Superhero universe. Their questions were answered in a refocused endeavor.

“Valiant Beyond” is a brand new starting point for many of their beloved characters. Leading the way is an ultimate weapon poised to mark a violent new chapter. Let the bodies hit the floor!

VALIANT BEYOND: BLOODSHOT #1 by Mauro Mantella, Fernando Heinz Furukawa, Juan Pablo Massa, Brushu Studios & Rocio Zucchi (aka DEWNOIR), and Ezequiel Inverni leads the Beyond charge with an explosive first chapter.

Let’s see how events shape up for the new beginning.

VALIANT BEYOND: BLOODSHOT #1 by Mauro Mantella, Fernando Heinz Furukawa, Juan Pablo Massa, Brushu Studios & Rocio Zucchi (aka DEWNOIR), and Ezequiel Inverni * Cover: Rodolfo Migliari (Alien Books, Valiant Comics, and IDW Publishing)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

If it’s not broke, don’t fix it. That’s the easiest way to describe this starting point for the character. Mantella plays into the strengths of Bloodshot. The opening sequence is very deceptive. Seeing a young boy stumble upon a gang is one thing. Having him morph and violently take them out is another. The action is unapologetic in delivery. A new “intro” page is a nice touch as this Bloodshot goes to work.

Mantella throws in a new surprise into the tale. Readers see how Bloodshot is the cause of his own problems. From here, it’s a very straight-forward plot. At times, it will challenge the mythos of vampires. Readers will get lost in all the action to get a true sense of the changes. The final kill stretches beyond its means. It feels more fitting in a “Lobo” comic than here. Not a very big fan of this choice. This pushes events to its curious close. Readers leave with a sense of curiosity as the complex weapon adds more layers to an uncertain future.

Furukawa & Massa know what works with the title character. The opening sequence is very well detailed. It allows for the brutal half panel image to set the pace. The art team did well with the full “intro” page. It is very clutch for new readers to read. Readers see as it serves as the only stop before full speed ahead.

The fight panels are crushing and unforgiving. There’s some grace with this form due to the vampire aspect. The full page image of Bloodshot standing and waiting is a solid perspective to the fight. Readers watch as the tension stays firm while each page moves. It creates a sense of danger like most spy films cover. The last kill is presented the only way it can be. For being a more dramatic fight, ending it in said manner misses the mark. The final pages save events with a strong lead to close. A full parting shot leaves many questions for the new starting point.

OVERALL GRADE: 8

Minus one aspect, the return of Valiant’s walking weapon is a true return to form. Mantella’s writing leans into the brutal world. Furukawa & Massa deliver on the monster action scenes fans crave. There’s huge promise for this series (minus a questionable bladder).

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RESURGENCE: BLOODSHOT (VALIANT COMICS/ALIEN BOOKS)

With Dr. Silk promising paradise, the Valiant Universe has been torn in half. Some are buying into a life without death. Others are resisting the temptation of the Faustian deal. Each hero has something to gain or lose. One with a vested interest is BLOODSHOT.

The enigmatic killing machine wants to save his family. There is another party more concerned with saving a world gone mad. Something has to give.

RESURGENCE: BLOODSHOT by Fred Van Lente, Rodrigo Rocha, Leo Lujan, Brushu Studio, Ludwig Olimba and Ezequiel Inverni puts the deadly soldier across a foe that knows him all too well: RAI!

Let’s not wait any longer & see who wins this showdown!

RESURGENCE: BLOODSHOT by Fred Van Lente, Rodrigo Rocha, Leo Lujan, Brushu Studio, Ludwig Olimba and Ezequiel Inverni (valiant comics/ Alien Books - cover: Fernando Baldo)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

For longtime Valiant readers, there will be much to enjoy with this throwdown. If you are new to Valiant, they always lead off with a great “new readers” page. Instantly, you’re caught up to speed just enough to join the story. For this issue, the back story for Bloodshot is longer. There is a purpose for this. Once the fight gets started, there’s more of a connection to feel what he’s fighting for.

The conflict becomes very violent in a hurry. Knowing both heroes, this delivers on may fronts. Van Lente pens a strategic match in between the broken bones. Literally. Both characters utilize their abilities to their max. Only then do readers start seeing the personalities come out. Bloodshot comes off very brash to the reserved Rai. It’s a reflection of both strengths. As the combat marches on, it eventually hits a breaking point. One plays for keeps and executes a unique move for victory The fallout plays into a solid conclusion for now but not forever.

The art never shies away from the brutality of the fight. It only delays the inevitable with the opening pages. Taking readers into a longer look at Bloodshot’s drive cements why he does as he does. It doesn’t take long to shift gears into the main event.

The fight begins with an artist switch-up. Lujan spares no expense on presenting a vicious showdown. It is one not for the weak of stomach. The panels reflect the desperation for each fighter’s cause. It eventually leads to some unique spots. Seeing Bloodshot react in most scenes covers a wide ground base. It leads to a near half page conclusion image. Events may be over for now but the art deems there will be more to come.

FINAL POINT: 7.8

The billing of “Soldier vs Samurai” lives up to the marquee in this Resurgence spin-off. Van Lente pens a brutal throwdown centered on noble causes. The art holds nothing back as two unstoppable forces unleash Hell on the other. This is a fight that will have readers wanting one more round.

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RESURGENCE OF THE VALIANT UNIVERSE #2 (Valiant Comics/Alien Books)

Live forever? That is the question plaging the Valiant Universe. Dr. Silk is promising immortality. Flamingo has been brought back from the dead. The concept is polarizing. Some heroes disagree. Others might be leaning into the thought. Sides are being drawn as the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

RESURGENCE OF THE VALIANT UNIVERSE #2 by Fred Van Lente, AJ Ampadu, Guillermo Fajardo, Julio Azamor, Lautaro Ftuli, Ludwig Olimba and Ezequiel Inverni (Valiant Comics/Alien Books) continues the multi character event!

Let’s see where events stand now!

RESURGENCE OF THE VALIANT UNIVERSE #2 by Fred Van Lente, AJ Ampadu, Guillermo Fajardo, Julio Azamor, Lautaro Ftuli, Ludwig Olimba and Ezequiel Inverni (Valiant Comics/Alien Books)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The writing leans into Silk’s division of the heroes. Seeing the formation of sides leads to some unique pairings. Faith and Flamingo crossing paths is a prime example. The confrontation becomes less than cordial. Events go from bad to worse as Silk’s “supporters” unite. The action picks up as a spy is tries gaining intel. What follows next continues the path of putting personal choices ahead of the overall good. The result leads to more fun match-ups of classic characters with the backdrop of a world broken. Readers are left with a closing image setting the stage for a bigger conflict to finally unfold.

The art delivers a big debut for a classic pair of “hereos”. The near full page shot of Quantum and Woody welcomes them into the conflict in their own way. Seeing the formation of Silk’s Supporters tips off some great action panels. Faith’s struggle to fight the onslaught conveys the dramatic impact of Silk’s promises. This builds towards a greater lead-in to the overall situation. Closing the book is a defiant splash page that sets the tone for the big fight forthcoming.

The side story with Azamor art reflects the human aspect of Silk’s deeds. Its’ imagery is very grounded as the violence starts escalating. Events lead to a fever pitch as a turn in events mirrors the dark side of the beliefs that Silk has been selling. It offers a great counterpoint to the heroes’ flawed conflict.

FINAL POINT: 8

Valiant’s big crossover event continues with more fan favorite characters jumping in the fray. Solid writing and art move things along with tension mounting on every page. Readers will much to say about the matches paired off within these pages.

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RESURGENCE OF THE VALIANT UNIVERSE #1 (VALIANT COMICS/ALIEN BOOKS)

Bloodshot. X-O Manowar. Ninjak. Shadowman. Eternal Warrior. These individuals have been challenged throughout the years but never like this. One claims to have the power to conquer death with life. Can they stop Dr. Silk from achieving his plans? The better question is “would they want to?”

RESURGENCE OF THE VALIANT UNIVERSE #1 by Becky Cloonan, Michael Conrad, Fred Van Lente, AJ Ampadu, Guillermo Fajardo, Julio Azamor, Lautaro Ftuli, Ludwig Olimba and Ezequiel Inverni (Valiant Comics/Alien Books) kicks off a new phase of th e long standing comic universe.

Let’s see how their massive event launches a new era.

RESURGENCE OF THE VALIANT UNIVERSE #1 by Becky Cloonan, Michael Conrad, Fred Van Lente, AJ Ampadu, Guillermo Fajardo, Julio Azamor, Lautaro Ftuli, Ludwig Olimba and Ezequiel Inverni (Valiant Comics/Alien Books)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The concept is a very engaging one. Dealing with the notion of immortality puts Dr. Silk in a polarizing position. It also challenges the heroes on a different level. The sub-plot with Chris and his experience makes a run to steal the show. Seeing events play out on a human level (so to speak) throws a new perspective in play. How Silk is winning over the public with his claims proves to spiral more conflict than he might be bargained for.

Long time Valiant fans will be very excited to see the return of a classic character. How said character’s resurrection will play long term is anyone’s guess but adds to the event feel. Short term, it adds a wildcard into the mix of Silk vs. Ivar (Timewalker). The rest of the event does give time for the key Valiant heroes to get into position. Readers will enjoy the interaction as tensions slowly begin to wear away. The close offers a good landing spot for where things lead next as there is much left to work out along the way.

Fajardo and Azamor split art duties for this initial chapter. There is a fair amount of panels that feature the heroes in their natural state of fighting conflict. The initial start with Giann, Tara and Savage sets a solid pace for the rest of the heroes to follow along with.

The resurrection of a certain Harbinger comes across with a near full page image. It leads into bringing Silk’s vision to the masses. Azamor’s art provides a contrast in style. It helps to break up the timelines, giving Chris’s story time to grow. The closing act brings the heroes together long enough to start building on how to handle events. X-O’s lead into the next chapter concludes a very steady issue on its way to announce Valiant is back.

FINAL POINT: 8.1

Valiant’s event of 2024 lays a solid foundation behind a strong ethical theme. The writing shows off both sides of Silk’s actions, bringing both readers and leaders on board. The art captures much of the heroic moments that come with a crossover of this magnitude. If there was ever a time to start or jump back into Valiant, the time is now!

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NINJAK VS ROKU #4 (VALIANT COMICS/ALIEN BOOKS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the super spies of the Valiant Universe have arrived at their final showdown. Colin King was left on Death’s doorstep. Roku is a fractured shell of herself through grueling combat. Who will be the ultimate victor when the smoke clears?

NINJAK VS ROKU #4 by AJ Ampadu, Diego Giribaldi, Lautaro Ftuli, and Camila Jorge is the final stop on the “Road To Resurgence”.

Let’s take a closer look to see how events conclude.

NINJAK VS ROKU #4 by AJ Ampadu, Diego Giribaldi, Lautaro Ftuli, and Camila Jorge (Valiant Comics/Alien Books) Cover: Richard Ortiz

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Ampadu mixes in a few surprises while closing out events for Mr. King and company. The opening sequence does a solid build into the first reveal. Readers will see a shift in direction as Ninjak crashes the scene. The explanation of how he recovers is a unique concept. It plays into the mystical subplot looming with the Undead Monk. Ninjak is redefined from the experience which helps for what lies ahead.

Pacing never takes a break as the story progresses. Readers get locked in for the showdown as the action pops off the pages. Ampadu constructs a steady build until the final blow is dealt. Its’ fallout deescalates slowly for the key players to each get their parting shots in. The ending is a fitting conclusion before the next crossover event. It is one that lives up to the bar that can only set from Valiant’s super spy.

Giribaldi and Ftuli deliver stellar imagery as the showdown commences. The full page shot of Ninjak entering the scene grabs readers right away. It’s matched by a few full splashes as Ninjak rebuilds his pysche. The panels present a deep dive into a broken soul. Readers will see how things unfold as Ninjak finally is ready for the last face-off.

The action panels never waiver on the excitement. Its’ paced with an energetic feel. Action fans will be very pleased at the final product. The pages flow very easy to the parting image. Ninjak’s closing action is gifted a near full page shot that concludes an impressive thrill ride once and for all.

FINAL GRADE: 8.2

The final stop before Resurgence doesn’t miss its’ mark with a solid ending for the one and only Colin King. Ampadu’s writing conveys a battle of wills and skills. Giribaldi and Ftuli craft excellent action through a chaotic backdrop. It’s a fitting addition to the legacy of Valiant’s definitive Super Spy.

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NINJAK VS ROKU #2 (VALIANT COMICS/ALIEN BOOKS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, Valiant Comics’ super spy has entered a familiar realm. An old love has returned with a vengeance. The safety of a young girl has caused an uneasy alliance. Can the two work together to save her or will they be the others downfall?

NINJAK vs ROKU #2 by AJ Ampadu, Diego Giribaldi, Lautaro Ftuli, and Marina Leon pushes the pair further into danger.

Let’s take a deeper dive into the latest chapter.

NINJAK vs ROKU #2 by AJ Ampadu, Diego Giribaldi, Lautaro Ftuli, and Marina Leon (Valiant Comics/Alien Books) Cover by Leila Leiz

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

For this issue, Ampadu builds the story off the uneasy trust factor of the two leads. Readers get a quick background on MaryBeth and why she’s so important to rescue. The writing peels back some of the walls Roku set up to give insight on her personal connection. This becomes more clearer when they meet the Jonin.

Once he breaks down Ninjak and Roku, the writing reflects the Jonin as more than one-dimensional. This plays into his manipulation of events. As things progress, the story shifts back to the uneasy working relationship. This builds toward a strong conclusion. The final page will have readers guessing as the world of Colin King gets more complicated than ever.

Giribaldi and Ftuli step in for art duties for this chapter. The Jonin gets a full page panel to introduce himself to readers. This is followed up by his breakdown of the pair. Roku and Ninjak’s reactions sell the action for being a big event.

This helps to sell the final act. Once the pair heads into action, the imagery reflects the personal history between both. It leads to a shocking moment. The full page image captures the brutal turn of events.

With the red coloring popping off the white background, readers can easily comprehend the deadly action taken. The story wraps up with some quieter panels indicating the cold demeanor of the espionage lifestyle.

FINAL POINT: 8

Colin King’s latest adventure takes a drastic turn with his unlikely partner. Ampadu leans heavy into the fractures of the shaky alliance with the writing. Giribaldi and Ftuli provide solid art to convey the latest obstacles standing in Ninjak and Roku’s way. No one ever said the spy life was gonna be easy. This story proves it.

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NINJAK VS ROKU #1 (VALIANT COMICS/ALIEN BOOKS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the Road to Resurgence is in full effect. Valiant Comics has a new home under Alien Books. With the new home, their roster of characters looks make waves once again at the comic shops.

Leading this adventure is Colin King aka NINJAK. The super spy appears to be on a collision course with an old friend. Who will be the winner of this epic showdown?

NINJAK vs ROKU #1 by AJ Ampadu, Emiliano Correa, and Marina Leon sets the course for a tale of action and espionage.

Let’s take a closer look at what unfold here.

NINJAK vs ROKU #1 by AJ Ampadu, Emiliano Correa, and Marina Leon (Valiant Comics/Alien Books) Cover: Luca Erbetta

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Ampadu showcases many sides of Colin King. In the beginning, Ninjak appears to be calm and confident as ever. Heading into his assignment, there is no hesitation. Once he (and readers) find out Roku is involved, his strong demeanor starts crumbling.

Their initial encounter plays into the traditional spy themes. Roku has many layers of mystery surrounding her. Seeing Ninjak try cyphering the truth turns into a game. Once things get down to the task at hand, their conversation becomes more professional. At this moment, Ninjak’s hesitation starts seeping through. It continues the uneasy feeling that things can flip at the drop of a dime. The final page cements this, leaving readers intrigued for more.

Correa brings a flair for the spy business with the art. The opening panels feel like they are right out of a James Bond film. The encounter with Ninjak and Roku is filled with great fighting panels. Readers will be very pleased with the set-up here. Roku’s past flashbacks has great cameos mixed in. The emotions involve carry much gravity to them. None stand out more than the final panel. The facial expressions make a statement. It’s a solid close to a journey into danger where we are all following along with now.

FINAL POINT: 8

Valiant’s Super Spy heads right in the direction of danger with his latest assignment. The writing delves into the cloak and dagger world with ease. It is mirrored by the art which has a fair split between action and conspiracy. This is a great start to what seems as a multi-layered tale readers will solidly enjoy.

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