X-O Manowar #6 from Valiant Entertainment is out in comic stores now. Since issue 3, a plot has been developing that threatens the mundane life of Aric via his suit Shanhara. The revelation that something’s wrong boils to the surface with carefully paced reactions the reader catches onto.
Background
Aric of Dacia (a.k.a. X-O Manowar) works with billionaire Troy Whitaker to combat a nanite swarm. But after a near-death scenario, Aric’s suit Shanhara is in need of rest.
X-O Manowar #6: An Uneasy Recovery
Dennis Hopeless continues the quietness of last issue into X-O Manowar #6 before moving into a major twist. At first, things seem still with Shanhara’s recovery, even dedicating a few pages to her and Aric taking downtime by rebuilding damage from issues back. Seeing the alien armor back in action feels genuinely rewarding. That is until the reader notices how Shanhara’s personality change since issue 4 affects the people around her. Seeing how dominating she gets with Aric to confront the nanite swarm feels disarming.
Check Out The Details
The art of X-O Manowar #6 tells most of the issue’s story. Emilio Laiso seems to having fun with the illustrations, like when Shanhara covers Aric’s head with a large ball. The way characters react to this funny moment is fitting after a moment of fear. Raffaele Forte’s inking emboldens theses reactions to add depth and impact to these moments and drive them home.
As for the issue’s direction, Ruth Redmond’s coloring and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou’s lettering does most of the work. The background coloring sets up most of the atmosphere with floating mountains covered in moss-like nanites catching the readers attention. The lettering then smoothly guides the reader as characters exchange dialogue. Perhaps the most notable contribution however is how Shanhara’s voice is presented. Her red word balloons make her sound assertive and vindictive, unlike the return of her blue word balloon that’s full of concern.
Prepare Yourself With X-O Manowar #6
X-O Manowar #6 is getting into the real crux of the series’ run. There’s a well balanced plot in terms of pacing, with an even more impressive payoff. Through juxtaposition and eye-catchingly evocative artwork it sucks the readers in with a great plot. It all but doubles the anticipation for next issue.
