Eric Heisserer introduces a handful of new characters as Spry continues on his mission to rescue his parents from the clutches of Cal Victus and his Caliphate. Is it good?
The opening to Shaper #2 isn’t as creative as the first issue, but it still draws from the same source. Eric Heisserer uses the idea of detailing a strategy within the card game to defeat the Shapers, while also hinting at the struggles to come for Spry and his family. It fills you with foreboding and concern for Spry. You just know something terrible is going to happen.
Unlike the opening issue, Heisserer jumps between different storylines, effectively switching between Spry, Cal Victus, and newcomer Kaylen. He is able to successfully build each storyline to a climax and then transition to do the same with the next story. This makes for excellent pacing. Each storyline builds out the characters further while also effectively introducing the new ones. The dialogue is fun and enjoyable. It captures the characters’ emotions whether anger, fear, or shock. He even interjects some baby daddy humor when Spry enters a bar announcing “I’m looking for somebody.” Not to mention, he is self-aware about the card game and makes comments referencing other well-known superhero comics.
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