Void Rivals #13
Recap
Pythona of Cobra-La ventures deep into space. Will her mission spell certain doom for the Void Rivals?
Review
Void Rivals #13 sets the stage for the next chapter of the Energon Universe, setting its protagonists, Darak and Solila, on two different journeys as everything gets recontextualized. The issue never focuses on one specific narrative, with each there being five different settings that are shown to present events unfolding, which are certain to meddle with one another at some point. This is definitely the kind of issue that a reader would want to pick up post-hiatus, as it brings a lot to the table while also reminding the reader what happened before.
One of the most exciting things about this new arc is how The Energon Universe is expanding its interconnectivity. This arc (as indicated by the cover) features the introduction of Pythonia from Cobra-La. This series now features characters from its own mythos, Transformers and now G.I Joe. This is definitely one of those times that fans of these franchises have been waiting to see, with the interconnectivity heavily being featured more than in just crossovers. While this is just an introduction, and she and her soldiers have yet to fully interact with other characters, it is a joy to see everything come together.
The rest of this issue catches the reader up on what is going on with all of the other characters. Darak has decided to return to his home with Springer, attempting to convince his father to stop the endless war. Solila is still with Handroid, venturing deep underground to investigate the mystery surrounding Zerta Trion. Suxxoid is still Suxxoid, completing missions and feeling sorry for himself while doing so. Zalilak is having a crisis of faith, discussing if unity is actually as bad as he and Dulin have perceived. So, yes, not a lot moves forward in this, but Void Rivals #13 definitely sets the pieces in a wonderful motion.
Lorenzo De Felici continues to deliver great art with this issue, with the transitions between the multiple different settings looking just as gorgeous as the next. There is always a lot of worldbuilding in issues like this, with Felici giving each area its own ambiance and tone. This is also due to the fantastic colors from Patricio Delpeche, who gives Agorria a bright, vibrant color, whereas Zertonia is dark and dreary. This book is always a joy to look at, and this creative team really paints a wonderful world.
Final Thoughts
Void Rivals #13 is a lot of setting up, but it does so in a way that builds intrigue for the arc to come. Finally, all of The Energon Universe is coming together!
Void Rivals #13: Where Are We At?
- Writing - 9/109/10
- Storyline - 9/109/10
- Art - 9/109/10
- Color - 9/109/10
- Cover Art - 9/109/10