Sinister’s Six #2: Trapped Like Lab Rats

If your itch for a squad that is suicidal needs to be scratched, Sinister’s Six is a good enough substitute as it’s second outing improves on the first. Our erstwhile team does their job for Sinister and infiltrate the Revelation Territories, and the ever present dread colors the entire journey. We learn a bit more about some of the team and just exactly how the X-Virus affected them, and we also learn just what is going on with Alex and his son. As they battle further and further into the lab, it becomes more apparent that things are not as they seem, which is par for the course with Sinister. 

David Marquez’s script grows from issue one, but there are a couple of plot points that still need some more ironing out. Aside from a few snipes here and there, there is no real central conflict within the team itself. It seems like a group of this many volatile individuals would be rife with sneak attacks and confrontation, but it doesn’t escalate beyond empty threats. There is also the symbiote elephant in the room. 

Venom was obviously the biggest shocker when this book was revealed, but so far they have done nothing of note aside from being the mission target last issue, and a dog on a leash in this issue. There is mention of a host that refuses to be identified, but since Venom does nothing but snarl and roar we get no hints on if MJ is still in the suit, Eddie or Dylan took it back, or if its someone new entirely. In the grand scheme whoever Venom is may not even matter, but I feel that the story is at least hinting that someone of import might be wearing the symbiote in this timeline. 

Marquez does however peel back the curtain on just what is going on with Alex, as well as how the X-Virus affected him and Domino. Neither of them trust Sinister, no one should, but given their unique circumstances it makes sense why they would align with the devil they know. Sinister himself doesn’t so much in this issue, but his presence is still felt by the end of it, especially when the team run afoul of Revelation himself. 

Rafael Loureiro’s art is certainly a highlight in this second issue. Lots of gory, fast-paced action, as well as the creepy atmospheric claustrophobia of the deeper parts of the lab. You can feel the characters tense up as they explore the abandoned corridors and question just who is going to make it out alive.