Dynamite Entertainment 2015
Created by Erik Olofsson
Story by Edwin McRae
Script by Royal McGraw
Illustrated by Carlos Rodriguez
Coloured by Tamra Bonvillain
Sometimes it takes a book like this to introduce you to something else and in the case Path of Exile is a board game that lends it’s world beautifully to this medium. This is a steampunk story that takes place in a time Emperors ruled so blending this futuristic science as a kind of sorcery is incredibly well done. Since it isn’t really prevalent it’s more interesting to see such visions of what this style of Steampunk takes.
The story this issue really surprised me and the fact that it did is utterly fantastic. When things happen that you never see coming that means that the writer has some mad skills. When Victario lost Marylene last issue it really lit a fire under him to move forward regardless of the cost. More determined than ever to remove Emperor Chitus from power hence leaving Malachai vulnerable to the will of the people’s judgment.
What happens in this story is that the characterization we get and the strength of convictions we see emphasizes the will of man to be free to rule his own destiny. It really is powerful stuff and Royal manages to convey all this wonderfully. Then Carlos and Tamra take the words and bring them to life superbly. The emotion coming off these characters through facial expressions and the actions they take not to mention the results of actions taken really help draw the reader deeper into the story. The synergy between the writing and the artwork is just excellent.
There really is something here with the mix of the science blended with a time where it shouldn’t exist makes this that much more interesting. It’s done in a way by using elements that are easily found in this era along with some advancements a true scientist would have spent time learning to create something, different and well completely alien and it’s the way this has been done that almost feels like it could enter the world of Clive Barker that has an even greater appeal.
So the fact that you have an ending here that really isn’t an ending and seeing who lives who dies and the unexpected consequences of the actions they take go a long way to showcasing that the good guys don’t always have things go the way they want them too. Plus the twist here was something extraordinary.
I wish more people would go out of their way to experience books like this because the quality of storytelling and artwork make this one of those reads that you’ll remember.