DC x Sonic the Hedgehog Metal Legion #2: The Cat and the Bat (Not that One)

It’s a lot of fun to see how both Lex and Eggman believe they are outsmarting each other simultaneously. It feels like these two really will be driving the plot of this miniseries, as is the case with a lot of Sonic books, the heroes are quite reactive with the villain’s schemes prompting the heroes into action.

I believe this is a factor of how little such brand mascots are allowed to grow and change within these core stories; Sonic’s wants and dreams very rarely drive the narrative. It’s super cute to see Vector team up with the Question. I wish we could see more of that, though I can’t imagine their philosophies would line up very much! And Zazz and Joker trying to hit people with a golf cart!?

I really enjoy how the Legion of Doom are characterized in this story, and I especially like Cheetah’s bestial design, the jagged teeth and piercing yellow and blue eyes give her a lot more menace than usual, which I think really works for her. What I love about the Legion is how they can work in either serious or comedy settings, while the stakes are seemingly high, the banter and bickering between the villains keeps things light. I love how both Lex and Eggman are making fools of themselves in order to stroke one another’s egos.

Maybe I’m assuming this story will be more predictable than it is, there may be a triple betrayal on the agenda.I believe both of these women choose to do the right thing when it matters most. While their desire for riches may bring them together, and on paper they are allied with the forces of good.

There are some brilliant poses and expressions from ABT in this issue, his dynamism is really commendable, the smugness of Sinestro, and adding an extra “cool” factor to captain cold. We are treated to a variety of different locations from across both universes. Superman and Knuckles take on Eggman, but again he seems to forget that Knuckles doesn’t share Superman’s weaknesses and they take him out pretty easily. As the rest of the JL battles their opponents, each Legionnaire draws our heroes into the LEXEGG portals, trapping them in Null Space from Sonic forces! I wonder if they’ll have to “double boost” to the tune of Fist Bump to escape. I assume that the new heroes, Cream, Supergirl, Big, Aquaman etc. Will have to step up to save everyone!

Now, while I have been enjoying this for the most part, I can’t help but feel it’s just going through the motions. I know it’s just for fun, and a showcase of both worlds characters locations, but I don’t want it to just be that. The highlight from this issue was definitely the parallels drawn between Rouge and Catwoman. I hope the story picks up when the titular “Metal Legion” is introduced. I’m not any less excited for the next issue, but I do hope the boat gets pushed out a little more.