Jon Del Arroz brings us a space marine thriller with The Emerald Array. It was written by JDA and illustrated by Matvei Daniilovich. The plot is set in the Terran Imperium along with the spy Agent Ayla Rin.
The Terran Imperium receives a distress call from the distant agrarian colony of Artac IV, begging for help after they are attacked by demonic aliens called Xenos. Admiral Daker summons Lt. Lansing, the commanding officer of the elite force called Emerald Array, to aid the colonists. Joining the crew of Captain Cullen and xenobiologist Dr. Dolame, they arrive at the colony to find a giant hive ship in orbit and creatures who are seemingly unstoppable.
One thing you count on… JDA delivers. He said he was going to give us a space marine thriller with tough guys, demonic aliens, and feminine ladies with artwork inspired by Jack Kirby. He did. No question.
I do wish he had explored where the Xenos came from in a bit more detail, and while some theories were given, I would have liked something more concrete. However, that could be coming in a sequel.
Outside of that, the story was thrilling and adventurous. I had a blast watching brave men take on the brutal aliens who are attacking a peaceful group of citizens.
The artwork was also fantastic. Daniilovich pays homage to the fantastic adventures of Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, giving it a retro feel. I especially liked how the colors popped, whether it be in an action sequence or a character illustration.
If you are looking for an indie comic with a high-adrenaline tale and good guys blasting away aliens, grab this one. It is exciting, and you are going to enjoy it.
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, anime, movie, or novel you would like me to review.