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Blüdhaven is a battleground as rival gangs clash to fill the void left by Nightwing’s cleansing of the city’s corruption. However, something more sinister appears to be stoking the flames, turning the gangs against one another for a darker purpose. To uncover the truth, Nightwing must cross lines he never imagined. This issue marks the beginning of an exciting new arc that challenges what it means to be a hero in a city consumed by chaos.
Nightwing #119 – DC Comics
Creative Team: Dan Watters (Writer), Dexter Soy (Artist), Veronica Gandoni (Colors), Wes Abbott (Letters)
The Writing:
Dan Watters delivers a gripping start to this new arc, immediately plunging us into a Blüdhaven on the verge of collapse. The introduction of a chilling new villain, a puppet-master-like figure whose presence terrifies even the city’s hardened criminals, sets a dark tone. The villain’s mask—a twisted mix of “SAW” and “V for Vendetta”—heightens the tension and establishes an atmosphere of dread from the start.
Watters balances solid character development and world-building, although a few plot points feel predictable. Nightwing’s morally gray decision to potentially assist his enemies hints at deeper layers of this conflict, promising a narrative that will keep readers on edge. The suspense surrounding the villain’s motivations and next moves keeps the intrigue high, even if some moments don’t land with the emotional weight they should.
Check Out Nightwing #117 Review Here
Art, Colors, Letters and Layouts:
Dexter Soy’s art perfectly complements the dark narrative, especially in the introduction of the masked villain. The visual design of this character is haunting, immediately drawing comparisons to Jigsaw from SAW. The use of black balloons with vibrating lines and jagged white fonts by Wes Abbott adds an unsettling element to the dialogue, making the villain’s presence even more menacing.
Veronica Gandoni’s color palette reinforces the sense of foreboding. Dark tones dominate, amplifying the suspense and unease throughout. The contrast between the gloomy city streets and the bright flashes of explosions during action sequences ensures that the fight scenes leap off the page. The explosions pop, while the overall atmosphere remains tense and brooding, fitting the story’s darker direction.
Final Thoughts
A strong opening to a new arc that leans into mystery and suspense, with a villain that immediately raises the stakes for Nightwing. Watters, Soy, Gandoni, and Abbott work together to create a story that promises intense conflict and moral dilemmas, even if some moments are a bit predictable. It’s a gripping start that leaves you wanting more.
Overall Grade 8.75 Out of 10
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