Future State: Teen Titans #1
Recap
When the original New Teen Titans formed a school to mentor and train young heroes, they wanted to help save the world. Years later, Titans Tower is a monument to a graveyard of pupils lost in a terrible battle. Returning to the site of their greatest failure, Nightwing, Starfire, Beast Boy, and Cyborg join Raven to plot a course to face off against the evil that destroyed their team and school. Loyalties are questioned and motives are suspect as the former teen heroes must turn to the mysterious Red X—a former student—for help. Don't miss the first comics appearance of this Red X, previously seen only in the hit animated TV series Teen Titans Go!
Review
Tim Sheridan starts by taking us immediately to see a wasteland of what used to be Titans Tower. Their previous home is gone, and accompanied by the graves of former Titans we wouldn’t expect to see. The issue incorporates flashbacks that explore the previous events leading up to the present. Red X makes his comic debut and makes a very memorable impression for fans. This fun appearance is a very big nod to longtime fans of the Teen Titans animated shows. During this issue we get to see how different the Titans could become in this potential timeline. We see a few new compelling members, as well as a fascinating fusion of Beast Boy and Cyborg. Sheridan introduces a fantastic fusion that will leave readers wondering about what this means for the potential of what Cybeast can do.
The art definitely is a great addition to this issue. I love the detail that Rafa Sandoval is able to display with facial expression. Even with Red X wearing a mask we are able to get an idea of what their mood is. We are able to see how serious the characters present themselves with a look alone.
Alejandro Sanchez is able to show the strengths of their coloring techniques throughout the issue. Especially in the scenes that include Raven and other Titans going against a disastrous dragon. The coloring for Bunker’s abilities is also beautiful. We unfortunately only get to see the vibrant usage of his abilities for two panels, yet from the glimpse we do see it was a very nice touch. The color used for Raven and Bunker in particular were a huge standout in this issue for me.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I enjoy the setting we see the Titans in during the chaotic future that they find themselves in. The stakes are incredibly high, and even with them recovering from a destructive past they are able to persevere and work together as a strong unit. With a home destroyed and their foundation fractured the Teen Titans show that they are still a family. I am very curious as to what the next issue brings with Dick Grayson carrying the Deathstroke mantle and Red X and as to what this duo has planned.
Future State: Teen Titans #1 Ruins
- Writing - 7.5/107.5/10
- Storyline - 7.5/107.5/10
- Art - 8/108/10
- Color - 8.5/108.5/10
- Cover Art - 8/108/10
