Punisher, Spider-Man and Daredevil are three completely different types of heroes. Yet they make a fascinating team even though they don't really like each other.
The Good
I am not a fan of these types of crossovers. I do not like when part one is in one series, part two in another, etc. Despite that, I am completely digging this story. We have so many crossovers and events going on but this mini one is able to hold its own with no problem.
What makes this crossover great is each character is different and gets to stay true to who they are. Spider-Man acts like Spider-Man; Punisher acts like Punisher...except does his best to restrain from killing. One of my favorite parts is seeing Spider-Man's witty/annoying banter and how the others do their absolute best to try to ignore it. Greg Rucka has been killing in on this title (no pun intended) but to see him so beautifully write the three distinct characters and mesh it all together is brilliant. We've seen crossovers and guest appearances often give a pale imitation of the the character we see in their own title. Reading this issue makes me want to see more of this kind of thing. If we can get crossover stories of this caliber, I'm 100% for them.
I can't get enough of Marco Checchetto's art. I may not have reviewed any of the last few issues of Punisher (as other staff members had the opportunity) but I've been a fan of this series from the beginning. Rucka and Checchetto have been doing remarkable things with the character and make it look so easy.
The Bad
If there was anything that bothered me, it is the fact that this takes place in three different series. Also, part one was in AVENGING SPIDER-MAN. That means we got a free digital download with the issue. I would've loved to get one for this part as well. Sure the comic is a dollar cheaper but if I want this digitally to go with part one, I'll have to pay full price (again).
As much as I love the trio of Punisher, Spider-Man and Daredevil, it's strange to think that Spidey and DD wouldn't try to bring more help. They are both members of the Avengers and Spider-Man is also part of the Fantastic Four/Future Foundation. With all that's at stake, you would think they'd bring in as much help as possible.
The Verdict
Part one was great and, no surprise, this one is as well. Punisher, Spider-Man and Daredevil have different tactics and views but with all their past run ins, they can easily put them aside when necessary. Rucka and Checchetto have made this a great series and this crossover has been a welcomed and complete surprise. It is unfortunate that each part of the story takes place in a different comic. It's even more unfortunate that this will only last three issues. PUNISHER is a great series and this crossover is continuing to be a blast to read.