GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #3 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Berg Katse is dying! Gatchman’s most dangerous foe has had an attack from within. Left for dead, Katse attempts to survive long enough to get revenge on Skywolf and the Lobo. Does his enemies know what they have just unleashed?

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #3 by Steve Orlando, Pasquale Qualano, Rebecca Nalty and Frank Cvetkovic (Mad Cave Studios) follows along with Katse’s plan for revenge.

Let’s take a closer look at where thing go from here.

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #3 by Steve Orlando, Pasquale Qualano, Rebecca Nalty and Frank Cvetkovic (Mad Cave Studios)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Katse is a very complex character. At his core, his ego drives every action. The opening pages reflect that as he refuses to let Skywolf celebrate his demise. The “doctor” visit solidifies Katse’s drive to make sure he is never looked upon as broken. This leads to an uncomfortable conversation with Leader X. Seeing Katse lie and dodge to X’s questioning makes a loud statement.

This energy carries over into the revenge acts. Orlando wirtes Katse at his most dangerous. Readers watch as Kaste’s cold persona fuels his heated attacks. From here, the end game begins. With his enemies reeling, Katse sets the stage for the final showdown. Pacing sets events up quickly without missing a beat. This connects with readers eagerly waiting for Katse to unleash the full extent of his vengeance.

Qualano steps in for art duties and gives Skywolf a big entrance to the Lobos after her actions. The intensity builds with the near full page of Leader X screaming for Katse. Unfortunately for him, Katse is getting worked on via a simple but loud panel. TThe full page image of Katse covering his tracks sets forth the final road to revenge. Events spiral at a high pace until the closing page. A full page image concludes events as Katse is ready to strike down all that oppose him.

FINAL POINT: 8.3

Gatchaman’s notorious foe starts his revenge era with an engaging tale. Orlando’s writing moves events forward as Katse makes his final play. The art brings out the redemption path while building off Katse’s re-fueled confidence. The path of vengeance starts here!

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on Gatchaman: Galactor #3. Thanks for reading!

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #2 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Someone has tried killing Berg Katse. The dangerous enemy of GATCHAMAN has a long list of people who would like to see him gone. How does he respond when the threat is within the ranks of GALACTOR? With as much viciousness and determination as necessary.

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #2 by Steve Orlando, Kath Lobo, and Frank Cvetkovic (Mad Cave Studios) takes one step closer to unlocking more secrets of the man behind the mask.

Let’s take a deeper dive and see where things lead now.

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #2 by Steve Orlando, Kath Lobo, and Frank Cvetkovic (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The ruthlessness of Katse never escapes readers minds. Orlando drives this point home right from the start. The opening pages reflect how cold and vicious Katse can truly be. Orlando carries this energy into how Katse addresses his followers in Galactor. Knowing there are traitors in the ranks, nothing is held back on how far Katse will go to stop them.

The writing also lends itself to spotlight Katse protecting his secret. With his breakdown, readers see at how Katse attacks. No move is made without ration. It sends a quick message which draws out what he’s looking for. However, it also leads to a big shakeup in the closing act. Events unfold that change everything. It is a great landing spot for now to carry onward to the next phase.

Lobo throws in a great mix of splash pages to offset the calculating aggression of Katse. The mirrored full page splashes portrays him as a loyal servant to Leader X. His actions in killing Filiku run parallel to that cause. A two page splash of Katse walking amongst the troops carries his flare for control. The panels never escape his maniacal grin as he goes to work to draw out the traitors.

There is a moment where this gets broke away. The final act throws an excellent curve into the mix. Lobo’s art sets up the shocking move perfectly. It leaves readers with a distinct closing image that won’t be forgotten any time soon.

FINAL POINT: 8.6

The attack on Berg Katse intensifies with another thrilling chapter. Orlando delves into the mind of a maniac grasping for control. Lobo holds nothing back with the solid panels showcasing his scheming and obstacles along the way. This should definitely be on comic readers’ radar at the LCS.

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

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #1 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay points!

For this entry, the world of Gatchaman has returned in a big way! The legendary team retuned to comic shops with two big releases via Mad Cave Studios. Joining the ranks is a new story centered around their most dangerous enemy. Can there be sabotage from within? That is the question lingering around GALACTOR and Berg Katse.

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #1 by Steve Orlando, Kath Lobo, and Frank Cvetkovic sets the stage for a mystery that readers won’t want to miss.

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

GATCHAMAN: GALACTOR #1 by Steve Orlando, Kath Lobo, and Frank Cvetkovic (Mad Cave Studios)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

For anyone new to the fandom, Orlando brings out the sadistic and ruthless nature of Katse to a terrifying level. The attempt on his life is shrouded in his own self-loathing of failure. Once the attempt is made, the story kicks into full swing. Katse is written as an ultimate strategist. His methods of deciphering who was behind the attacks shows the level of viciousness he will go to win.

This leads into a strong final act. Relying heavily on bait and switch, Katse has a unique stand-off. The devious nature pours off panels as Katse works. This builds up the drama to a fever pitch. Its’ fallout is very good. The surface has only begun to be scratched. That point is drilled home with a definat last page. Events are paced out perfectly to let the world know Katse is out for blood. Get ready for a true path a rage for readers to walk.

Lobo brings an energetic feel to this chapter. There is a two-page splash to feature Galactor in action. It’s met with a brief but impactful entrance for the Gatchaman team. From here, the focus goes solely on Katse and the cunning nature he oozes.

From the evil smirk to the depths of his investigation, Katse’s body language showcases his devious ways. This pours into the final standoff. Seeing the cat and mouse nature of the scene plays out is one readers will enjoy. It ends with a full page dramatic reveal of Katse to his unsuspecting adversary.

The momentum carries right to the closing page. With a glorious stance in full page form, Katse makes his presence known he is only getting started.

FINAL POINT: 8.6

Aim for the King and you had best not miss. That is the aura Berg Katse demonstrates in this captivating chapter. Orlando constructs a building mystery with great writing. Lobo captures the manic nature of Galactor’s heavy with excellent visuals. There is much for readers to become invested with the matters unfolding in the Gatchaman Universe.

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

GATCHAMAN #1 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, a classic series is making a triumphant return! The Science Ninja Team Gatchaman series ran from 1972-1974. It left a lasting impression on many fans for its’ unique team and style. It was announced in February of 2024 that Mad Cave Studios would be re-launching the characters with new series!

GATCHAMAN #1 by Cullen Bunn (Shadowman), Chris Batista (Justice League), Carlos Lopez and Buddy Beaudoin looks to forge a new chapter in the Tatsunoko Productions property

Let’s take a closer look at the debut chapter!

GATCHAMAN #1 by Cullen Bunn, Chris Batista, Carlos Lopez and Buddy Beaudoin (Mad Cave Studios)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The issue does a great job of introducing these classic characters to a new audience. Bunn sets up the conflict early before shifting gears into the group dynamic. Knowing there are heroes waiting in the wings, it gives a sense of uncertainty moving to address the city disturbance. Ken, Joe, Jun, Jinpei, and Ryu debut with some action moments then head right into the main course. The story dabbles in the classic superhero themes.

It is everything fans have known and loved about this fandom. The pacing keeps up a high pace once the big showdown commences. Fans are gifted a solid closing cliffhanger. There is much revealed but not anything spoiled to defer readers from flying back for more.

The art carries a strong presence throughout the issue. Science Ninja Team soars into the picture via a two page spread. The introductory page explaining who and what is a great touch that gets right down to business. This builds towards a solid spilt page kicking off the mission at hand.

Once arriving at the disturbance, the art hits the gas pedal, speeding through action panels. Lopez’s coloring brings out the best of Bastisa’s art. There is a certain electricity through the conflict. This builds towards the final pages. With a sense of doubt, the story concludes after a strong superhero tale.

FINAL POINT: 8.5

Some may say “G-Force.” Others might go with “Battle of The Planets.” After concluding this first chapter, Gatachman will be the one on readers minds at the comic shops. Bunn sets up a vintage inspired hero story with the writing. Batista and Lopez craft a fantastic visual presence that is sure to win over new and seasoned fans alike. Don’t miss your chance to jump on board for the brand new adventure!

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

GATCHAMAN - KEN :DEATHMATCH #1 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points!

For this entry, the Gatchaman return from Mad Cave Studios continues onward! Following a Free Comic Book Day appearance, the Tatsunoko Productions characters look to invade comic shops in a big way! Along with a new volume dropping this week (Gatchaman #1), there is a one-shot companion book for fans of the classic series.

GATCHAMAN - KEN: DEATHMATCH #1 by Tommy Lee Edwards, Mindy Lee, Giada Marhiso and John Workman gives readers an insight to the franchise member of Science Ninja Team Gatchaman!

Let’s take a deeper dive into this solo story!

GATCHAMAN - KEN: DEATHMATCH #1 by Tommy Lee Edwards, Mindy Lee, Giada Marhiso and John Workman (Mad Cave Studios)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Edwards gives fans a thrilling tale with action and intrigue. Ken’s undercover mission carries high stakes. Fighting his way through, the readers can sense the danger at hand. Once the tale shifts with Galactor’s move, the issue finds its groove.

The issue serves as a great introduction for a great villain: Berg Katse. The writing creates a feel of arrogance and defiance in Katse’s dialogue. Once his plan moves into place, readers get locked in quick. There is plenty of action moments to keep the pacing moving. It never seems to slow down which helps. Once the final act starts, things wind down just enough to realize there is more to this saga after this issue.

Lee and Marhiso give action fans much to look forward to. The initial deathmatch is capped off with a great two page splash. Ken brings the fight with fast moving panels. This gets taken up a few notches once Katse makes his actions known.

The transition with a full page shot of his ship connects with readers as a change is transpiring. Katse’s reactions to his gloating will stand out. It is contrasted by Ken’s disdain. Business picks up once Ken switches into his traditional garb. At this stage, the action is furiously moving. The art doesn’t pause to brake. It dips into quieter moments only to level up more until the close. The parting pages are an excellent walk-off moment for now, but definitely for good.

FINAL POINT: 8.6

The franchise of the Gatchaman team steps into the spotlight with a thrilling mission. Edwards keeps the danger moving forward with the writing. Lee, Marhiso and Workman bring the best out of the conflicts with the kinetic art. This is a great introduction for anyone diving into the legendary fandom.

Hit me up on ODPHpod social media and let me know your thoughts on GATCHAMAN - KEN: DEATHMATCH #1. Thanks for reading!

THE DEVIL THAT WEARS MY FACE #5 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we’re diving back into an intense story that combines elements of horror, action, and drama. The one-upsmanship style chase between Father Vieri and Legion has taken some insane turns. Where the story braces to go now will surely keep fans on the edge of their seats.

THE DEVIL THAT WEARS MY FACE #5 by David Pepose, Alex Cormack, Justin Birch (Mad Cave Studios) looks to turn things up a few notches with this latest chapter.

Let’s take a closer look and see where we go from here.

The Devil That Wears My Face #4 by David Pepose, Alex Cormack, and Justin Birch. (Credit Mad Cave Studios. Cover By Alex Cormack.)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

On a burning ship, the spirit of Father Vieri is trapped inside its’ current vessel. Mortally wounded, time is not on the side of the Father. As Vieri makes his call, a name is mentioned that is answered. The name is Santiago Izan.

A spirit emerges. It claims to be the real Santiago Izan. Before there’s time to react, they’re taken down to Hell via demons.

Meanwhile, Legion (in Vieri’s body) stands over the fallen Brother Gabriel. Legion plans to explain the gapping hole in Gabriel’s body. His plans are interrupted by Cardinal Pentecost. Pentecost calls him out for his bizarre behavior. The conversation heats up. It’s interrupted by Maria, who knows that Legion is inside Vieri’s body.

Suffice to say, there are a LOT of moving parts with this story. The descent into the darkness challenges Vieri. Readers see his story take a few twists in finding the truth. The question becomes will he solve it in time?

As for Legion, can he thwart off the Cardinal and Maria? The challengers arise but a power play is made. Readers see a dramatic moment sends things heavily into Legion’s favor. This all boils over into the final pages where the ultimate showdown looks to be heading for an explosive finale.

The Devil That Wears My Face #4 by David Pepose, Alex Cormack, and Justin Birch. (Credit Mad Cave Studios. Cover By Alex Cormack.)

Pepose excells in juggling the vast character stories with this chapter. Both Vieri and Legion’s paths take intense shifts within these pages. Vieri’s path lets his true character shine as he tries saving a soul. The same can be said for Legion. He is pure evil and the writing gives him devious charisma while executing his plans. It’s a classic tale of good vs evil.

The build towards the close comes off steady and to the point. The shocking moments just flow and never feel forced. It gives both leads a final sell to the readers of the magnitude of the final confrontation.

Cormack and Birch spare no expense with the horror elements. The full page panel where Vieri gets pulled to Hell jumps off the page. The facial expressions of Legion convey the manic nature of the demon. Even when confronted, the eyes give away his demonic attitude. This plays into the final act. Seeing one last moment of action, Legion’s ultimate endgame comes to light with a full page panel screaming “The End Is Near”.

FINAL POINT: 9

The pen-ultimate chapter of Father Vieri’s & Legions deadly dance doesn’t disappoint. Pepose constructs the path to the final confrontation balancing horror and heroics. Cormack and Birch bring the hellish playing field to life with haunting imagery. Buckle in for a final showdown for the ages.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know your thoughts on The Devil that Wears My Face #5. Thanks for reading.

THE DEVIL THAT WEARS MY FACE #1 (MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we are checking out a brand new horror series from Mad Cave Studios! Being the start of October, it’s the perfect time to release this to comic book readers. That said, it’s also a challenge to stand out amongst the related theme tales at the local comic shop. Considering the creative team behind this, standing out and grabbing fans’ attention won’t be a problem.

THE DEVIL THAT WEARS MY FACE #1 by DAVID PEOPOSE (Savage Avengers, Spencer and Locke), Alex Cormack and Justin Birch present a multi-layered story that is a lock to win over fans no matter what their fandom is. Let’s take a closer look and see what is being unleashed to the masses here, shall we?

Editor Note: Some of the artwork reflects the tones of the Mature readers theme in the book. Viewing discression is advised.

THE DEVIL THAT WEARS MY FACE #1 by DAVID PEOPOSE (Savage Avengers, Spencer and Locke), Alex Cormack and Justin Birch (Credit: MAD CAVE STUDIOS)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The year is 1740. Hugo Izan and a woman are talking as they watch over a cell. They are wondering how Father Mattias is doing as he is locked inside with something sinister. As the holy man tries to help the poor soul locked inside, he soon realizes that things are much more evil inside these walls than he could ever imagine.

With a terrifying voice and glowing red eyes, Hugo’s son Santiago, stares back at Father Mattias with evil intentions. With thunderous noise, the pair outside the door brace for the worse What they see even tops their wildest notions. Father Mattias has been brutally murdered. The man behind the killing is shackled to the wall, but this is no ordinary man. He is possessed by a devil named Legion.

In Rome, Father Franco Vieri is talking inside a confession booth. Readers witness Vieri’s portrayal of confronting a possessed soul. This ultimately leads him to accepting an offer to try succeeding where others have failed: save Santiago.

What will Vieri find when he arrives at the scene? Can he pull off what so many others have failed at. Readers brace for a journey as they watch as Vieri crosses paths with pure evil. Just when it seems to all fall into place, there are quite the surprises heading into the final pages. Once the last page is seen, there is no doubt that this will be a story that simply can not be passed up on.

Pepose stretches out the themes of the story to truly make this tale stand out. The beginning of the story gives enough clues to the readers to sense the danger looming. Once Veiri enters the mix, Pepose does an excellent job building him up to the audience. Vieri approaches the situation with new eyes but the writing reflects the mood of fear and anxiousness.

The pacing gives the overall conflict time to grow and is an easy follow for the readers. The final page will be what fans talk most about here and with Pepose at the helm, the surprises are just beginning.

Cormack brings a gritty and dark style to the story. The introduction to Legion was haunting and build a solid foundation. Excellent full page shot of Legion and Father Mattias depicting the evil at hand. Veiri’s beginning created a noteworthy impression right from the start.

This adds more emotions to what eventually transpires with Vieri once he initially encounters Legion. The closing half of the book delivers on a strong visual confrontation that fans won’t want to miss. Fantastic final full page to let any doubt disappear. The story is far from over.

FINAL GRADE: 9.5 OUT OF 10

With Pepose’s sharp writing blended with Cormack’s haunting art, the ideas one would have about not doing an “exorcist” story in this time period quickly disappear. Combining action, drama plus the overall feel of horror and fans simply won’t be ready for what this issue and series is going to be bringing on New Comic Book Day. You don’t want to miss this one.

Hit me up on ODPH Podcast social media and let me know your thoughts on The Devil Who Wears My Face #1. Thanks for reading.