Is it just me, or did this issue feel like it ended too quickly?
S.H.A.D.E. is still on the hunt for answers to what, or who, killed Stormwatch; Grifter has been [forcibly] recruited by Cadmus for his special skills; and Terry McGinnis [a.k.a. Batman Beyond] tries to create a plan to defeat, Mr. Terrific; and save the future from the oppressive thumb of O.M.A.C.! These are just some of the things offered in this issue of Futures End!
This was a good issue. Not the best, but still good. The writers did a good job at moving the story forward; and opening the readers minds to more plot twists and suspense! However, the writers can only do this for so long, before the readers start to lose interest. Granted, a lot of things need to be covered, but still, giving us one or two secrets won't kill the story. It'll actually help it! Another complaint I had with this issue was how short it felt. While this could just be me, the issue just seemed to blow by a lot quicker than the prior ones. Maybe it was the combination of stories, or how one story might've been longer than another, but this entire issue just went by too fast! Other than those complaints this was a solid issue, lets move onto what is good about this issue!
I really like how the story is progressing for the Agents of S.H.A.D.E. and their hunt for Stormwatch's killer! The story is exciting, paced well, and gives me a good look at a world above Earth and how different and unique it is. The agents of S.H.A.D.E. are really interesting and complex, as you learn about their lives and what ties them to this world and the team. Frankenstein is the heart, and soul, of the team so it is interesting to see how he is smart in a fight and out of it; and really leads the team quite well. With how this issue turned out, I'm looking forward to finally getting answers as to who, or what, killed Stormwatch.
Another enjoyable part of this issue was Grifter. I'm excited to see how his alliance with Cadmus will drastically change how he battles the enemy unseen, Aliens! Also, how he'll deal with partnering up with criminals like Deathstroke! The writers have done a great job at building up his character and preparing him for this moment, I'm interested to seeing how it'll tie-in with Batman Beyond's mission!
Speaking of ol' pointy ears, Batman Beyond was [sadly] a hit-or-miss for me! Being the [still assumedly] title character of Futures End, I have seen less-and-less Batman Beyond action and progression in his mission. While I know he can't always take center stage, at least give the character a chance at center stage! So far, the writers have done a good job at teasing the character, but not much else. Terry is still hovering around the park outside of Mr. Terrific's building, but this time, he gets caught and leaves some gear behind from his future! So at least I have that to look forward to, but not much else at this point. Step it up writers!
The art team did another terrific job with the art on this issue! I am still amazed at some of the things they can pull off with the art in this issue; great job team. The colors, style, ink and everything else about the art helps me [as a reader] on this amazing journey of Futures End.
Overall 3 out of 5, a solid issue that should be picked up! Until the next one!
Futures End Reviews -
- End of the beginning; beginning of the end! (#0)
- The seed of change! (#1)
- Funeral for a hero. (#2)
- A dilemma. (#3)
- Something big! (#4)
- Better-and-better! (#5)
- That TEASE though! (#6)