NEW COMICS 4 THIS WEEK (09/02/26)
*All comics will be rated on a scale from 1 to 10*
Absolute Superman # 23 (7/10)
Archie # 1 (9.5/10)
Batman # 13 (7/10)
Captain America # 15 (6.5/10)
Daredevil # 6 (8/10)
Doctor Strange And Doctor Doom: Triumph And Torment (10/10)
Doom Patrol # 1 (8.5/10)
Fantastic Four # 16 (7/10)
JSA # 23 (7.5/10)
Legion of Super-Heroes # 1 (10/10)
Superman: The Stranger # 1 (10/10)
Teen Titans # 1 (8/10)
Wade Wilson: Deadpool # 8 (7.5/10)
Doctor Strange And Doctor Doom: Triumph And Torment– With “Avengers: Doomsday” just months away, it makes perfect sense for Marvel to reprint this graphic novel. It highlights what a terrifying and intriguing villain Doctor Doom is. Thanks to Roger Stern’s writing, Doom appears as a complex and tragic character, allowing readers to fully appreciate his nuances for the first time. Watching him and Doctor Strange reluctantly join forces to free Doom’s mother’s soul from Mephisto is both captivating and memorable. As one of Marvel’s first graphic novels, this story made an impressive impact when it was released in 1989. Fans can also enjoy the early work of Mike Mignola, whose heavy, expressive shadows and gothic atmosphere demonstrate his storytelling prowess. Overall, this graphic novel remains the gold standard for Doctor Strange and Doctor Doom fans, especially for anyone who enjoys a compelling story about a mismatched duo fighting for a single soul—and their own survival.
Doom Patrol #1– Eisner Award-winning writer Darcy Van Poelgeest and artist Niko Henrichon usher in a new era for the Doom Patrol as Robotman, Elasti-Girl, and Negative Man take on a “heroes-for-hire” business model. However, their plans quickly unravel when they get entangled in a reality-bending sci-fi crisis while searching for a missing cat. Meanwhile, a ghost from the team’s past—connected to Niles Caulder—threatens to invade their world. This series serves as an excellent introduction to one of DC’s most notoriously bizarre teams, familiar to fans of the HBO Max series. While I initially had reservations about Van Poelgeest’s scripting, he fully embraces the team’s trademark weirdness. Although some pacing feels rushed, the story handles its blunt darkness brilliantly. By the middle of the issue, readers are treated to the Doom Patrol in all their eccentric glory, with a striking sci-fi flair. Focusing on just three of the most recognizable members allows Van Poelgeest to give each character, especially Negative Man, space to shine. Niko Henrichon’s moody, gritty art harmonizes perfectly with Van Poelgeest’s writing, making the story engaging from start to finish. This series is a perfect entry point for new and returning fans, with writing that quickly brings readers up to speed and surreal artwork that captures the team’s unique energy. Overall, it’s a winning combination for reintroducing comics’ weirdest superhero team—though cat lovers may be a little traumatized by this first issue.
Legion of Super-Heroes # 1– Joshua Williamson and Hayden Sherman collaborate to create a new chapter for the L.O.S.H., launching DC’s Next Level initiative. The story is set a thousand years in the future, in a dark tomorrow where superheroes are outlawed. The United Planets are under the control of The Persuaders, and R.J. Brande has been murdered. Brainiac 1 of 5 is tasked with solving the mystery, gathering a group of young rebels to assist him while rebuilding the Legion. Although the L.O.N.S.’s complex history has been confusing over the years, Williamson—who has gained a reputation as one of the most talented and innovative writers in comics—works his magic here. He emphasizes the group’s legacy themes and groundbreaking worldbuilding, offering a fresh perspective by removing confusing continuity without discarding the work of Keith Giffen, Paul Levitz, or Tom and Mary Bierbaum. Instead, he provides a clean entry point for new readers, while longtime Legion fans can enjoy Hayden Sherman’s art and Tamra Bonvillain’s coloring, which give the series a neon sci-fi vibe that makes the 31st century feel bright, strange, and advanced. This marks a strong return for the team and an excellent starting point for new readers, showcasing superhero sci-fi at its best, and is one of the most exciting titles from DC’s Next Level initiative. Long live the Legion!
Superman: The Stranger # 1 – From DC’s Black Label, this series transports readers to 1938 Metropolis, where Craig masterfully channels the gritty spirit of Action Comics #1 and the classic Fleischer Studios animated cartoons. The Man of Steel’s mythology is stripped down to its essence: a young, isolated Clark Kent struggling to pay rent and working odd jobs, while as Superman, he strives to protect others with limited powers. Clark’s deep frustration with systemic corruption—where the wealthy grow richer, and the downtrodden barely survive—forces him to grapple with whether he can truly make a difference, all as Lex Luthor manipulates events from the shadows. This isn’t a typical superhero tale, but a hard-boiled noir, with Craig using the Depression-era Metropolis to craft a story that makes Clark a genuine underdog. By removing the Kents, the Fortress of Solitude, and the iconic supporting cast, Craig sharpens the focus on Clark’s humanity, making him a character anyone can root for. The art’s art-deco flair shines throughout, and the depiction of Superman confronting socio-political corruption—rather than cosmic or sci-fi threats—feels both bold and invigorating. This approach not only honors Superman’s humble beginnings but also infuses the story with a modern relevance that makes it more relatable and urgent than ever. Ultimately, Craig’s storytelling doesn’t just reimagine the Golden Age; it demands we embrace Superman’s raw, unvarnished heroism for a new era.
Teen Titans # 1
– DC’s New Level initiative brings another fresh title: the Teen Titans return, but with a twist. Instead of the usual sidekick roster, this new generation features lesser-known young heroes and brand-new faces. Operating from a new base, Fairplay, Cheshire Cat, Eugene Choi (formerly of the Shazam Family), and newcomers Wildcard and Proxy work together to fight crime on their own terms. Their mission takes a dramatic turn when one of their friends disappears after attending a rally for “Ascend,” a rapidly growing youth movement that trains kids to survive in a world plagued by superhuman conflicts. This event brings them into an uneasy alliance with Jason Todd, aka Red Hood. One of the most compelling aspects of this new Teen Titans iteration is their dynamic with Red Hood. The immediate tension between the team and Red Hood is a strong narrative hook, highlighting their distinctive personalities and how they clash from the outset. This gives fans a fresh lineup to embrace while establishing Red Hood as more of a Dr. Cox type than a Peter B. Parker. Kyle Higgins excels at crafting witty, engaging dialogue for these teenage protagonists, making their voices feel authentic. The Ascend movement is also an inspired addition, adding depth by exploring the teenage perspective in a world of constant upheaval. Daniele Di Nicuolo’s visuals give the series a unique edge, perfectly capturing the team’s vibe and energy. Higgins delivers a script packed with action sequences and the kind of immersive world-building he’s known for, ensuring readers will want more of this new lineup. While it’s a bold move to sideline the legacy characters in favor of new faces, with Higgins and Di Nicuolo leading the way, the Teen Titans are back—and possibly better than ever. Just don’t expect any hugs from Red Hood.
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