April 28th, 2026
Rob's Picks:
Zatanna #1 Jamal Campbell returns to the Mistress of Magic with a visually stunning and conceptually ambitious new chapter that elevates Zatanna into a larger role within DC’s magical hierarchy. Picking up after It’s Showtime, Zatanna embraces her new title as Prime Magus, immediately diving into a reality-bending pursuit of a plague spirit across shifting, surreal realms. The story itself is a strong setup, introducing new threats like Agent Di Manes and hinting at larger conflicts to come, but the real star here is the presentation. Campbell fully commits to the abstract nature of magic, crafting pages that feel fluid, inventive, and completely untethered from conventional structure. Each spell, transformation, and transition reinforces the idea that magic isn’t meant to be clean or logical—it’s expressive and chaotic. The involvement of the Department of Extranormal Operations adds a layer of tension between magic and authority, with Zatanna firmly asserting that her role is to protect the mystical from outside interference. It’s a bold, beautiful #1 that prioritizes imagination and artistry, making it an easy recommendation for anyone who appreciates visually driven storytelling.
Punisher #3 This issue pushes Frank Castle into unfamiliar territory, exploring what happens when the man who lives for violence suddenly can’t stomach it. Free from Kingpin’s control but dealing with the aftermath of makeshift brain surgery, Frank finds himself physically repulsed by the very thing that defines him. Rather than take it as a sign to stop, he doubles down, seeking a way to “fix” himself and get back to business. Benjamin Percy leans hard into psychological grit here, giving the narration a Taxi Driver-esque tone that fits perfectly with Frank’s unraveling mindset. Micro’s evolving perspective adds another layer, culminating in a moment that shifts their dynamic in a major way. Meanwhile, Jigsaw’s brutal campaign against Tombstone’s empire delivers on the book’s promise of escalating violence, somehow managing to outdo even recent Red Band titles in sheer gore. It’s a grim, uncompromising look at a character who refuses to change, even when his own body is telling him to.
Doom 2099: Rage of Doom #1 This continuation of the Doom 2099 storyline leans fully into tragedy, presenting a version of Doctor Doom who has already won—and paid the ultimate price for it. Having wiped out his enemies with magic that also extinguished all life, this Sorcerer Supreme Doom now rules over a dead world, consumed by regret and obsession. The concept of him surrounding himself with Doombots modeled after fallen heroes is a particularly effective touch, turning his victory into a constant reminder of failure. The story gains momentum with the discovery of Ultron’s remains, introducing a natural foil whose goals clash perfectly with Doom’s newfound desire to undo his mistake. Their dynamic quickly escalates into betrayal and conflict, giving the issue a strong narrative engine. For readers who wanted more from One World Under Doom, this delivers a focused, character-driven extension that highlights both Doom’s arrogance and the rare glimpse of remorse beneath it.
Solo's Picks:
Wonder Woman/Batman: Truth #1 A standout team-up that leans into character as much as spectacle, this issue pairs Diana and Bruce in a story that feels both intimate and iconic. The premise is simple but effective—Wonder Woman entrusts the Lasso of Truth to the Wayne Foundation, only for it to be stolen almost immediately by Catwoman—but it’s what happens between the action beats that really elevates the book. Jeph Loeb taps into the emotional cores of both heroes, using their interactions to explore trust, perspective, and the quiet respect they have for one another. The dialogue is sharp and reflective, giving the story a warmth that balances the tension, while the visuals reinforce that sense of grandeur with striking, memorable imagery. The result is a story that not only works as a crossover but also as a celebration of Wonder Woman herself, making it especially rewarding for fans who’ve been waiting to see her handled with this level of care.
Red Roots #1 Lorenzo De Felici delivers one of the most ambitious and unconventional debuts of the year, crafting a dual narrative that challenges readers to piece together its meaning as it unfolds. The story splits between two threads—a struggling teacher on the brink of collapse and a ruthless assassin on a violent, mysterious mission—each feeding into the other in ways that aren’t immediately clear. It’s a deliberately disorienting experience at first, but once the connections begin to surface, particularly when surreal horror elements start bleeding into the teacher’s reality, the book locks into place. The shifting tone between psychological breakdown and brutal thriller creates a unique rhythm, rewarding readers who are willing to engage with its structure and themes. It’s not the most accessible read, but for those looking for something layered and thought-provoking, this is a deeply compelling start that blends genres with confidence.
Zatanna #1 Jamal Campbell continues his impressive run with Zatanna, pushing the character into a new era as the Prime Magus while maintaining the charm and personality that define her. The issue kicks off with a visually dazzling chase across multiple realms as Zatanna attempts to free a possessed elf, immediately showcasing the scale and creativity of her upgraded role. The artwork is the undeniable highlight, with every spell and movement rendered in a way that feels theatrical, fluid, and larger than life—exactly what a Zatanna book should deliver. Despite her elevated status, she remains grounded and charismatic, ensuring that the story never loses its emotional connection in favor of spectacle. It’s a strong continuation that builds naturally from what came before, offering both a sense of progression and consistency that should keep fans fully invested in what’s next.