It’s time for round 1 of this twisted tournament as it’s friend against friend, hero against hero, and only one may move on. Superman faces a Captain Atom who is determined to do whatever it takes to win this battle and win the tournament to defeat Darkseid. The duo will soon find out that there is more than brute strength that will win them this tournament.
Creative Team: Joshua Williamson (WRITER), Sean Izaakse (ART), Trish Mulvihill (COLORS pg 1-16 and 20-26), Hi-Fi (COLORS pg 17-19 and 27-30), Dave Sharpe (LETTERS), and Jorge Corona and Sarah Stern (COVER).
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
The Story:
If you thought you would be able to catch your breath after the intense opening, you would be wrong, as fight month is here! Pitting two of the strongest heroes against one another is an excellent way of showing just how lawless this tournament can and will be. It’s three rounds, best two out of three, but I love the twists thrown in, and it pays homage to each character’s powers and rich history. Allowing each hero to choose a version of themselves in each round and then granting a “home field” advantage puts the powers on full display.
Superman uses his brains ultimately to destroy Atom, and hats off to Joshua, as for a moment I thought for sure we’d be swerved with Superman going down. Captain Atom becoming consumed is a clever way to separate the two and set up a “villain” in this fight, all at once.
The Art and Letters:
Sean pulls out a lot of intricate details and callbacks to these heroes when it comes to their various suit designs shown in this issue. Their powers are on full display as the hits are heavy and brutal in each and every panel. Trish brings out the colors and helps bring each setting to life as we go from Metropolis to Captain Atom’s home. The power displays leap from panel to panel, and the duo brings together an excellent display of raw power. Hi-Fi weaves in what is happening on the Watchtower, aiding in the chaos with Dave through his lettering and Sean as the trio bring to life, showing this tournament and Darkseid have ulterior motives.
Final Thoughts:
DC K.O. Superman VS Captain Atom #1 throws us curveball after curveball, keeping the audience at the edge of their seats. It’s an intense and powerful battle between two of the strongest heroes, leaving only one winner standing.
Overall Grade: 9.5/10
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