By Robert Ramos

First and foremost, this is my very first comic review. I’ve been in and out of the comic scene for a good number of months due to the lack of quality comics being produced. That’s not to say that I don’t keep up with anything, but the number of things I truly follow has dwindled substantially. Nevertheless, here I am and what a doozy I have for you with Ninjak #22.

With the exception of the seven words spread out the last few pages, this is a silent issue. Let it also be noted that this is also the first issue in the series without The Lost Files that followed at the end of each issue since day one. We start off with Ninjak checking his messages. Thanks to his intel, Roku has been spotted and is headed to a mystical temple that “spontaneously generated.” When advised not to pursue, what does Ninjak do? Yup, you guessed it. In typical Ninjak fashion, he disregards the request and so begins his mission.

While I can’t comment on the actual writing of Matt Kindt, I can say that the story crafted was beautifully executed. The pacing is perfect for this fast-paced, action-packed adventure. Each panel flowed seamlessly to the next, never without any hiccups, making for a truly fun and enjoyable experience. On top of that, you can never go wrong with a badass ninja mowing down tons (and I mean tons) of monks. 

Artist Cafu and colorist Ulises Arreola do a bang job as well. Now, I’ve had my issues with Arreola and his work on X-O Manowar, but his work from previous issues of Ninjak carried over. The colors pop and they are never overly saturated nor flat. Cafu’s work is consistent throughout and superb with the brutal action sequences. I mean, the only qualm I had with any of the art, and this is me being unnecessarily nitpicky, was an instance with Ninjak’s eyes as he’s going down a tunnel.   

Admittingly, I have not kept up with Ninjak since his older self teamed up with Gilad in the previous arc. Something about an old Ninjak and a “future” story that has nothing to do with current Ninjak is just off-putting. That being said, I’m calling this a return to form and it couldn’t have come a better time. That cliffhanger at the end left me in anticipation and I cannot wait for next month’s issue. This is seriously a fantastic prelude to the new arc and I urge you to pick it up. Even if you're new to Ninjak, the excellent story telling and action will leave you wanting more.

Score: 5/5

Ninjak #22
Writer: Matt Kindt
Artist: Cafu
Publisher: Valiant Comics