NEW COMICS 4 THIS WEEK (02/18/26)
*All comics will be rated on a scale from 1 to 10*
Absolute Batman # 17 (9/10)
Amazing Spider-Man # 22 (9/10)
Batman/Superman: World’s Finest # 48 (9/10)
Captain America # 7 (6.5/10)
Daredevil & The Punisher: The Devil’s Trigger # 4 (7.5/10)
Deadly Hands of K’un-Lun # 1 (8/10)
End of Life # 1 (9.5/10)
Fantastic Four # 8 (8.5/10)
Generation X-23 # 1 (9/10)
It’s Jeff Meets Daredevil # 1 (9.5/10)
Superman Unlimited # 10 (7/10)
Ultimate Spider-Man # 24 (10/10)
Uncanny X-Men # 24 (8/10)
Wolverine # 16 (7/10)
X-Men # 25 (8/10)
Absolute Batman # 17 – The latest issue of “Absolute Batman” features an Absolute Poison Ivy with a focus on horror elements. It seamlessly combines freshness with nostalgia, providing fans with an engaging experience. The reinvention feels very haunting; if Absolute Bane was a monstrosity, this version surpasses it with Ivy’s remixed origin and body horror that will both amaze and shock readers. This horror aspect delves into Ivy’s emotional depth, making her final form unsettling, while Batman, wielding two chainsaws, adds a touch of intense excitement. Eric Canete’s artwork varies in quality, but in this arc, he heightens the horror to create an unforgettable, grotesque experience, especially with the blend of flashbacks and current events, which amplifies the emotional impact. This illustrates why the Absolute Universe continues to stand out for DC, excelling in bold and innovative storytelling.
End of Life # 1– Vertigo continues its impressive resurgence with this new series from the creative team of Kyle Starks and Steve Pugh, best known for “Peacemaker Tries Hard!” From the outset, the series reads like a high-octane action movie, following professional hitman Eddie Stallion as he’s forced to go on the run after a job goes wrong. With nowhere else to turn, Eddie retreats to his estranged father’s small, dying hometown. While the story taps into the familiar “hitman with daddy issues” trope, it feels revitalized by its distinctive setting, sharp character dynamics, and Starks’ talent for snappy dialogue and dynamic exposition. The series lands its dramatic punches while maintaining a fresh, edgy feel—helped in no small part by the unapologetic bloodshed that runs throughout the issue. Eddie’s banter, which could risk being grating, is kept crude yet laced with dark humor, fitting perfectly with the book’s chaotic tone. Steve Pugh’s energetic art elevates Starks’ script, keeping every page visually engaging and sharp. While the tone may come across as brash to some, there’s a clear audience for this kind of fast-paced, off-the-wall action. “End of Life” is a wild, raunchy action-comedy that pulls no punches, making a bold statement with its first issue and proving that Vertigo is truly back in force.
It’s Jeff Meets Daredevil # 1– Jeff teams up with The Man Without Fear in this delightful and lighthearted one-shot by Kelly Thompson and Gurihiru. The story presents a charming, all-ages crossover: while Jeff enjoys his lunch in the park, he witnesses Daredevil chasing a criminal. In the chaos, a nearby statue gets knocked over, and Jeff is unfairly blamed, leading to his arrest and a trial. Jeff insists on his innocence, and the story wraps up with a hilarious ending. While the story is enjoyable, its brevity—just five pages—feels underwhelming, especially for fans who have been eagerly awaiting this crossover since its announcement last month. The rest of the one-shot consists of reprints from the It’s Jeff Infinity Comic chapters, which may disappoint longtime fans who have already read them. The Jeff and Daredevil story could have benefited from more development and substance. Still, this issue delivers a fun romp with Jeff at the center of the Marvel Universe, sure to entertain anyone who loves his antics.
Ultimate Spider-Man # 24– After twenty-four issues, the grand series finale of “Ultimate Spider-Man” confidently wraps up major plot threads and delivers precise payoffs to year-long battles. At the same time, it gives readers a knowing wink by leaving open possibilities that could have unfolded if Marvel had not canceled the Ultimate line. The ending provides satisfying conclusions for both Kingpin and Mister Negative, while granting Peter a much-needed victory since becoming Spider-Man. The story also offers an emotional and nuanced look at Peter and Mary Jane’s relationship, from past to present, adding a powerful layer to the narrative and celebrating their triumphs with flair. While the finale may feel understated at times, it ultimately ends on a high note, thanks to Jonathan Hickman’s sharp writing and the impressive art of Marco Checchetto and David Messina. Although the shared art duties can make the visuals a bit overwhelming, the result is a well-polished and acclaimed ending. Even without an issue twenty-five, this finale is sure to be remembered fondly, leaving fans with lasting memories of a Spider-Man for a new generation.
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