In this next iteration of Dark Knights of Steel, a mythical blizzard curses the land a conqueror seeks to control. Somehow, mercenary Slade accidentally discovers what may be the land’s only hope. Thusly, joined by Dark Knights of Steel’s Kryptonian Batman, Deathstroke crosses the harsh terrain amid all manner of assassins. Let’s see how they’ve fared so far below!
Kingdom Cold
Jay Kristoff uses issue four to unveil several key flashbacks to the true origins of the curse and the potential savior. Basically, many years ago, the land was once fully colored and ruled by King Maxwell Lord. Yes, Kristoff made this version of the character a literal lord. Anyway, after smashing this world’s equivalent to Nora Fries, it pisses off Victor. Consequently, Mr. Fries is a frightening magus in this world and curses the land and kingdom with everlasting death and cold. In a nutshell, everything is monotone and nearly all zombified. Most importantly, the so-called “Everstorm” serves as not only the key affliction to overcome in the story, but also an important obstacle.
Now, the Everstorm and its blanket of darkness reduces Batman’s strength and Kryptonian abilities. In spite of this and not having logical excuses to stay, Batman fearlessly faces hordes of zombies. As such, Slade viciously criticizes his foolish heroism, citing the fate of Maxwell Lord and his undead common folk. Putting the character’s inherent chivalry aside, Batman’s presence in the story is mostly pointless. Conversely, Slade and Alec get to see heroism is still alive and possibly awake within themselves. Otherwise, the only benefits of Batman’s extended cameo are all the sick full page spreads of them kicking zombie ass.
There’s Just Me And My Swamp
Tirso’s best panels are his flashback sequences. Each amazing illustration takes the form of free flowing watercolors, and wonderous fantasy. In contrast, the rest of the book utilizes dour tone drawings with muddy inks and kinetic paneling. However, Alec’s character has a unique halo of color around his figure, deftly showcasing the visual disparity in tone. Best of all, Alec’s swamp monster origin story has a lot of unexpected whimsy and color. Additionally, Tirso teases his medieval designs for Victor and Solomon Grundy, as both character’s aesthetics heavily influence the look of the Everstorm. Not to mention, readers get another look at Rose and Frost as this series’ premiere deadly duo.
As for Heir To The Sea part 4, I can add nothing more of value to the discussion about Federici’s art. Respectfully, Ricardo is holding that entire b-story together. This issue, Black Manta and Orvax send King Shark and his band of pirates to capture Arthur after his stunt in the market. Sadly, this situation also drives an ethical wedge between Arthur’s new parents, unsure if they should continue hiding or not. Manta’s knowledge, the other knight’s recon, and Arthur’s actual power, makes it obvious fleeing is no longer possible anyway. So, Martha and Johnathan’s story feels seemingly in the way of the boy’s natrual destiny and narrative direction. Yet, this may be the most successfully dramatic chapter of this story so far.
Recommended If
- You’ve got a love for Dungeons and Dragons or any kind of sword and sorcery fantasy.
- You’ve already read Dark Knights of Steel.
- Waiting for Kristoff to realize Batman doesn’t belong in this chapter of the story.
Overall
Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter is a robust monotone adventure as excitingly written as any campaign of DND with friends. Typically, that includes its DND like antagonists, characters, and scenarios. Even Batman’s brief role in the story even felt like a temporary DND companion written out of the story with a convivence. In that sense, this issue’s trek across the snow made for a fun and swashbuckling edition. Nevertheless, Tom Taylor’s Aquaman story seems to be taking a turn for the better as well, finally getting into Arthur’s actual participation in his life. I await to read the next admittedly cool but kooky chapter of Allwinter.
Score: 8/10.
English (US) · 