The first issue of Archon was a good issue, but I was left wondering where exactly the story was going. I would say that’s the only real problem with Archon, is that I’m not sure where the plot is heading. I get that we’re in a world that is mixing fantasy and reality and our protagonist is clueless of this fact, but other than that… I don’t know why I’m reading this book. I know that sounds harsh, but it’s true. It’s not that I need to know how it all ends, but right now there’s not really a conflict outside of Gareth figuring out what he’s in for. Sure there’s the drug deal leading to an arrest at the beginning of the issue which has a pretty significant reveal at the end, but it doesn’t come across as the main story.
The crazy thing is… I like the story. I like this world. I find Gareth to be a bit too clueless. He meets his boss Al, who is an actual dragon and mistakes it for animatronics. Then when he changes into a naked man he missed it because his head was turned… where did the dragon go, should have been his next question. Again, he’s a bit too clueless for someone being hired for his observation skills, but I still dig the story and the world.
The art has definitely grown on me. The exaggerated jawlines and rustic look of the world works. It’s also easy to forget that this is taking place shortly after the Vietnam War, but the vibe of the art fits once you do remember that. The creature designs are pretty cool looking as well. The trolls in particular are unique looking and different from other fantasy stories. It’s a nice touch.
I know I seem like I’m being hard on this series/issue, but I did really like it. I just wonder where exactly it’s all going and if there’s an overall point to what I’m seeing other than just exploring this new world. Hopefully that’s ironed out in the coming issues, but even if it isn’t… I’ll probably stick around. I’m digging the world that Archon has created and I’m willing to stick it out to see Gareth’s in action.
Score: 3/5
Archon #2 Writer: John J. Perez Artist: Marco Maccagni Publisher: Action Lab Entertainment Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/9/15 Format: Ongoing; Print/Digital