From the Invincible Universe arrives Battle Beast #1, penned by Invincible co-creator and showrunner Robert Kirkman, with art by Ryan Ottley, colors by Annalisa Leoni, and letters by Rus Wooton. Battle Beast #1 follows the titular protagonist immediately after his victory over the New Guardians of the Globe and Invincible. This series follows his adventures from that moment, and seemingly seems to lead to answering how he ended up in a Viltrumite prison ship alongside Nolan and Allen.
Writing/Story
This first issue wastes no time reminding readers that the Battle Beast name, much like Conquest’s, is a title—one given to a being who lives solely for the thrill of combat, and who desperately seeks defeat. As we follow the start of his journey, we see glimpses into his origin, becoming the savior of his homeworld due to his immense strength, and then having to abandon said world to save it from himself. This characterization of Battle Beast is very in line with what has already been established. He is not just a mindless brute rampaging through the universe; he’s an intelligent brute rampaging through the universe.
While not much is revealed about Battle Beast that Invincible fans weren’t already aware of, the story does deliver in giving fans exactly what they want: ferocious combat and unhinged bloodlust. He owns every frame he is in, both in presence and quotable dialogue. The things that made Battle Beast such a beloved character to Invincible readers and watchers are displayed here in spades, and it’s clear Kirkman is still extremely familiar with both the character and what fans want to see.
Art Direction
Like Kirkman, Ottley is also an Invincible co-creator. While he didn’t launch the series with Kirkman, Ottley became the series’s longest-running artist, and his work helped define Invincible. Unsurprisingly, the art style in Battle Beast remains mostly the same.
However, there have been clear improvements and added details over the years, with the art keeping its original style but now looking more refined and striking than ever. This showcases itself in the first real fight scene of this new series, when Battle Beast encounters the Colossus of Emsiu. The battle that ensues has a clear and defined choreography and sharp visual blows, all of which are accentuated expertly by Wooton’s lettering, which allows the action and flow of movement to be easily tracked and made more impactful. It’s hard not to compare this scene to the Battle Beast’s final battle against Thragg in Invincible, as that is when we last saw him in action. While this battle is of much less consequence, it’s clear Ottley has returned to the Invincible universe better than ever.
Wooton’s lettering is especially effective, although somewhat understated in parts of the comic where battle is not featured. While I wish to have seen a bit more onomatopoeic movement throughout the comic, what was there was always wisely placed and vibrant in the flow. The general dialogue bubbles use negative space well, and the page never feels too wordy, which I believe was the intent for such a battle-heavy comic.
Leoni’s color work was fantastic as well. The Colossus fight was especially noteworthy. The planet where the fight took place being is mostly represented by shades of blues and reds. Even due to this restriction, the horizon is established, and there is no lack of depth or confusion of character or background placement. The colors also enhanced the “desolate planet” feeling as intended. It was also a smart choice to make the creature’s blood green so that it becomes quickly distinguishable from the maroon soil and clouds.
Verdict
Given the popularity of the Invincible TV show and Battle Beast himself, the expectations were high for Kirkman and Ottley’s new book. However, this comic shows they know exactly what they are doing with the character. Battle Beast is portrayed here as cool and vicious as he ever has been. It was great to see glimpses of his nature when he isn’t solely focused on combat, and I am excited to see where the comic takes him and his new companions next.
