Void Rivals #9: Space, Assassins, Autobots, Oh My!

Void Rivals #9 kicks this second arc into overdrive as Proximus faces off with Springer, an Autobot that Darak and Solila run into as they escape their home worlds. With all hope lost, the arrival of Springer completely changes the dynamic of the journey, giving readers an explosion of new possibilities for where this series can go, all the while maintaining that the newer characters are the focus and the heart. Full of action and an ever expanding plot, Void Rivals #9 is a blast from start to finish.

The biggest topic that will come from this issue is actually the content towards the end of the book, which sees the Quintessons learn more about the history of Darak and Solila’s people. This has major implications for the mysteries surrounding this new Energon Universe are starting to unravel and it is a joy to see. The mystery set up with Hot Rod in the FCBC Energon Universe Special is unfortunately not brought up here but the possibility of the interconnections are what make this universe feel so special.

With all the wild character moments and action, it’s crazy that Robert Kirkman’s pacing and dialogue are what make the world feel so cohesive. Springer gets to shine so much, not only due to his imposing nature and the fact that he’s a Transformer, but because he immediately has such a good rapport with all the characters, especially Darak. This also is where the true threat of Proximus gets brought to light, as the action depicts him being able to go toe-to-toe with Springer. Without having to spell it out, Void Rivals #9 immediately shows that Proximus is as formidable as he’s been advertised.

Some of the best action thus far is within Void Rivals #9, with Lorenzo De Felici and Patricio Delpeche drawing a truly awe inspiring fight. But even outside the action, seeing a barren wasteland on an unknown world look as beautiful as it does is a testament to the level of professionalism that this art team brings to the series. Void Rivals is simultaneously beautiful and explosive, showing the full range of these creators.

All in all, Void Rivals #9 is everything you would hope a comic would be that features a Transformer on the cover. Springer is a delightful addition to this cast, and seeing Proximus live up to his advertisement is glorious. This series seems to just get better and better with every issue and is definitely worthy of being an addition to the fun mythos of Transformers and G.I Joe, without any of the baggage.