The mad killer robot needs a mad killer mate.
The mad robot Ultron has spent months planning his next attack after his latest defeat to the Avengers. He finally breaks out of the super villain prison called the Vault, and from there renews his vendetta against humanity, but this time he doesn't fight alone. -summary
I'm sure it's no secret that this week sees the release of Avengers: Age of Ultron in theatres; and Marvel is doing what they always do which is promote their movies with various storylines old and new on featured movie characters. The last couple of years have seen plenty of stories featuring the Avengers #1 nemesis, the killer robot Ultron in action. Ultron Unbound features a collection of stories released during the 90's. This TPB collects West Coast Avengers issues 89 - 91, Annual #8, and Vision 1 - 4.
This TPB opens up with the three part story Ultron Unbound, and my only gripe with this story is Marvel waiting until the release of a movie to reprint this confrontation. Although it isn't among the best Avenger stories ever told, it's definitely a fun battle as Ultron decides to create another mate in hopes of this new robot assisting him on his rampages. The robot's name is Alkhema aka War Toy, and I always did like her personality since she's so different from Ultron. The two engage in some entertaining slug fest with the group, plus the Vision whom was really a member of the East Coast Avengers guest stars in the battle. This is by far the best story in the book to me. The second story follows the West Coast Avengers as they once again battle Ultron and War Toy; this time there's a twist added to the confrontation promising not only more action but something a little different. Plus it debuts the throw away character named Raptor, that reminded me quite a bit of Sauron but nowhere near as even half way decent. This character just straight sucks and Marvel could have simply guest starred anyone whom could have used the exposure at that point.
The final storyline takes place in Vision's solo limited series that ran in late 94 to early 95. This story is actually quite difficult to follow as the Vision is suffering from some sort of mental breakdown that see's him experiencing various personality changes. The story also features Ultron completely unlike himself, and it's quite funny watching him this way too. There's a bit of action to this one that feels quite underwhelming for sure, but it's meant to be more character driven plus it follows up on an older story involving the Anti-Vision, whom is the real Vision's opposite number.
The main purpose of this TPB is to provide casual fans some type of background to the characters featured in the movie being Ultron, Vision, and Scarlet Witch. The first story is indeed a really good pick for its all out action and casual fans will have a decent enough understanding of Ultron. The second attempts more of the same but I have a had time believing it's going to get over as well as the first. The third story more than likely won't get over at all for those unfamiliar with Vision. The reason will definitely be the lack of action, however the slow development and featuring of extremely obscure characters will be the biggest problem. I know for a fact that many casual fans never heard of Anti-Vision, Death Cry, and more than likely Jocasta and Crystal. However, knowledgeable fans may not have a problem with the last story, which is the case with me since I'm familiar with its background. In any case, this TPB would have definitely been better had Avengers issues, 54, 55, 57-58 and several others had been added instead; and some time after the movie's release then Vision's limited series along with several other issues could have made it to a different TPB.
The artwork is done by various artist and the first story looks indeed the best and is easier to follow. The Ultimate Ultron boasts a different design than usual; he's a hulking menace with the power to back up the intimidating look. War Toy has an unusual yet flashy design with the heavy appearance of Mockingbird which looks really cool. The action panels have several hard hitting moments with Wonder Man taking some fierce looking punishment on one occasion. The second story has moments of being a little flashier yet it's definitely not as good due to a bit of inconsistency. The third story is all flash and at times the panels can be a little awkward to follow; it still looks good for the most part though.
Overall, I'm sure there will be some people looking for an Avengers or Ultron fix after they watch the movie and more than likely they will come into this book. Although I still think it's a good read there are better Ultron stories out there for casual fans. I would definitely recommend Bride of Ultron and Ultron Unlimited way before this. In addition, I also highly recommend several Avengers stories that can quench a fans thirst: Avengers: Under Siege, Assault on Mount Olympus, Legion of the Unliving, and Avengers vs. Defenders. Try this book for sure if you're sold on Ultron, but it really shouldn't be a priority. Serious Avengers fans should give it a shot if they missed any of this during its original run, because this book will be far more valuable to us.
Pros: Some really good action at times, and the first story really is good
Cons: Will definitely be more valuable to long time Avengers fans