NEW COMICS 4 THIS WEEK (01/28/26)
*All comics will be rated on a scale from 1 to 10*
Absolute Batman # 16 (9/10)
Absolute Flash # 11 (7.5/10)
Absolute Martian Manhunter # 8 (7/10)
Absolute Wonder Woman # 16 (8.5/10)
Amazing Spider-Man 2026 Annual # 1 (8/10)
Detective Comics # 1105 (8/10)
Harley Quinn # 58 (8.5/10)
Harley Quinn x Elvira # 4 (7.5/10)
The Infernal Hulk # 3 (8/10)
Iron Man # 1 (9.5/10)
Marvel Zombies Red Band # 5 (8.5/10)
Miles Morales: Spider-Man # 42 (9/10)
Sorcerer Supreme # 2 (8.5/10)
Superman # 34 (8/10)
The End 2099 # 2 (7/10)
Amazing Spider-Man 2026 Annual #1– This annual highlights Rapid, a new super-speedster introduced in Giant-Size Amazing Spider-Man #1. Like Spider-Man, Rapid gained his powers in a freak accident and has a father figure guiding him, emphasizing the story’s inspirational tone. Despite the inclusion of Screwball, a villain from the Dan Slott era, Rapid’s heroism is front and center, showcasing his potential and Peter Parker’s mentorship. He proves he’s not a fleeting hero, thanks to the creative team of Saladin Ahmed and Federico Vincentini, both experienced with Spider-Man stories, including “Miles Morales: Spider-Man.” The relationship between Spider-Man and Rapid is engaging and energetic, even if the story occasionally falters. The backup feature by Joe Kelly and Roi Mercado, involving Roderick Kinsley, aka The Hobgoblin, plotting against Norman Osborn, feels like filler despite Kelly’s sharp writing and Mercado’s striking visuals; it could have appeared in any ASM issue. Overall, Rapid is the standout, but slow pacing and the extra backup story make this annual somewhat average. Hopefully, next year’s ASM annual will improve upon these elements.
Iron Man # 1– Iron Man’s new series, from Joshua Williamson and Carmen Carnero, brings Tony Stark back to his roots with classic swagger and modern flair. While the story keeps some MCU charm, it focuses on making Stark engaging for both new and longtime fans. Madame Masque returns as the main villain, teaming up with A.I.M. in a plot that faces obstacles, but she reasserts herself as a top threat. The first issue doesn’t break new ground but does a solid job showcasing Iron Man’s legacy, with energetic writing and strong art that set a promising tone for the series.
Marvel Zombies: Red Band # 5 – Although part of the Red Band line, this series never truly leaned into the intense gore and raunchiness typical of horror. Nevertheless, the final issue ends on a high note. Writers Ethan Parker and Griffin Sheridan aim to leave readers with hope, and that choice pays off, offering a satisfying conclusion—even if it feels a bit hurried. The introduction of Knull heightens the sense of danger, making the zombies seem almost secondary and delivering moments that are both chilling and clever. Phoenix’s arrival accelerates the conclusion, which could have benefited from a slower build. Still, Knull’s role and the sheer number of zombies packed into these five issues make for a compelling read. Despite the rapid pacing, the finale is strong, and the series stands as a worthy entry in the Marvel Zombies lore.
Well, that’s it for me. Thanks for sticking around, and I look forward to seeing you all next time.
