Dark Horse Comics

If you haven't been keeping up with your comics media, we've recapped all our #1 title launches for the year!

THE YEAR IN REVIEW - 2012

 47 Ronin #1

"The book looks amazing, which is no surprise since it is drawn by Stan Sakai. His careful cartoons tell this story perfectly. Obviously, there are no anthropomorphic animals here, but Sakai is a guy who can draw samurais. He knows the time period and it shows. There is a subtle level of detail in each panel that directs your eye and helps tell the story. 47 Ronin is a book to watch, without a doubt, even if you plan on just trade-waiting the thing." - IGN 

"This is a historical retelling of 47 Ronin and is not a non-stop action-packed samurai story. It is a fantastic piece of Japanese history in an accessible format. If you are interested in a well put together story on samurai, it is for you. There will certainly be samurai action in the story, but don’t let that be the only selling point for you, this story is so much more. 5/5" - Comic Book Therapy 

Alabaster: Wolves #1

"Dancy and this world may come from Kiernan’s prose work, but it’s not necessary to have familiarity with those stories in order to enjoy this comic, which is shaping up to be another great psychological horror story in Dark Horse’s stable of comics. The journey that Dancy must take in Alabaster: Wolves is a long and lonely one. You should join her on it." - Newsarama 

"Overall, it's a really good beginning - one that can probably be ascribed to an author adapting her own work to a different medium, knowing how to get the essentials out there to keep readers hooked. Alabaster: Wolves is a five issue series, likely adapting each one of the short stories in the original book. Hopefully, they hang well together as one full tale, and even if they don't, well, Dancy's had her one chance, and she certainly didn't let us down." - Crave Online 

"It's gentle and horrific and apocalyptic all at once.  Good writing. Good pencil and ink work. Good colors. That's a good comic." - Comics Alliance  

Axe Cop: President of the World #1

"If you are not reading Axe Cop, you need to fix that. It's unbridled madness and is quite possibly the most fun you can have while reading a comic. Every once and a while, when I mention Axe Cop to someone who has never read the series, they'll ask me what it's about. I'll tell them it's not really about anything, at all; it's just a good time.

"I'm just glad we live in a world where Axe Cop: President of the World exists." - IGN

"This is the sh*t comic book dreams are made of.  Axe Cop: President Of The World not only gives me hope for comics, but for humanity as well." - Crave Online

Baltimore: Dr. Leskovar’s Remedy #1

"This isn’t Hollywood horror; this is real terror with actual consequences attached to it. And Baltimore might be the only badass equipped to deal with it." - Complex Magazine 

"The crusty vampire hunter returns, and this series, enjoyable every time, is not so much about the emotional foibles of the complex inner lives of vampires as it is about a cold-hearted amputee who really likes to kill a lot of them. I implore you once again to jump on here. It will feel just fine." - iFanboy 

Billy the Kid’s Old Timey Oddities and the Orm of Loch Ness #1

"To be blunt. There is something really wrong with Eric Powell, Tracy Marsh, and Kyle Hotz and it shows in Orm of Loch Ness #1. And I really wouldn't want it any other way. In fact, stop reading this review and go out there and get this comic. Seriously. Stop reading and go buy this book! You'll thank (or hate) me later. 10/10" - Newsarama 

“Billy the Kid’s Old Timey Oddities” #1 is a solid comic book that shows promise for a larger arc. While this issue is good and not great, it is a highly enjoyably twisted read with some talented moody artwork." -Bloody Disgusting 

The Black Beetle: Night Shift #0

"If there's one comic book that we’re most excited for in 2013, it’s Francesco Francavilla’s The Black Beetle. So far, it looks to be a throwback to the serials and film noir of the late ‘30s and early ‘40s. And now Dark Horse Comics has provided a taste of what to expect with this prologue issue." - Complex 

"The Black Beetle: Night Shift #0 is all set up and all AWESOME! Let’s be honest, there’s plenty of pulp heroes running around these days, but The Black Beetle is all sorts of fun. No downbeat, depressing, down on humanity story here, just some fantastic action and adventure!" - Geeks of Doom

"Murder! Intrigue! Nazi werewolves! Is there anything else you really need in a book? Considering that everyone from Jim Steranko to Matt Wagner to Warren Ellis is raving about the book, we suggest you hightail it down to your local comic book shop and snag a copy before the trail goes cold." - Nerdist

 B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: The Long Death #1

"Shit's going down in the Mignolaverse.  Hellboy's dead (he's still dead, right?) and most of the B.P.R.D.is down and out.  And I'm back on board to find out what's next." - Crave Online

"This was intense. I don’t think I have seen so many eyeballs go flying. And the blood. Lots of blood. This was like watching that Goya painting of Saturn devouring his Son come to life. I think James Harren just obtained his rockstar staus card on this one. His work here is beautiful, disturbing, and full of energy. Did I say that there is a lot of blood?" - iFanboy

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: The Pickens County Horror #1 

"B.P.R.D. Hell On Earth: The Pickens County Horror" #1 is a fantastic little horror ditty. Although this issue is all set up, the conclusion comes right in the next installment with the promise of a weirder and better plot. It's not often a book can top itself with the second issue, but these short form tales from Dark Horse give us the entire set up and everything else in #1, allowing #2 to run wild and bring everything together with a crash. If the first issue is any indication, I'll be more than happy to sit down with the finale next month." - Comic Book Resources 

"The Pickens County Horror is a good read for anyone who wants a good horror comic, whether you are familiar with the world of Hellboy or not. Big Red is mentioned once and what’s going on in the rest of the world is present on the margins, but pretty much everything that occurs in the story is independent of outside knowledge. That is why I do not hesitate to recommend this issue to fans looking to dip their toe into the waters of the Mignolaverse but who don’t know where to start." - Major Spoilers

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: The Devil’s Engine #1

"B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: The Devil's Engine" #1 is another strong "B.P.R.D." comic in general, but it also feels like a good a place as any to check out the series if you aren't already. "B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth" is a tense little horror comic, and this new installment lives up to that reputation. Good stuff." - Comic Book Resources 

"Who doesn’t want to raise a little hell everyone once in a while? Mignola and Acrudi’s “Hell On Earth” event has been absolutely astounding so far. Every single title that has fallen under the “Hell on Earth” banner has been a definitive chapter in the BPRD universe, and things are just starting to heat up. The Devil Engine rushes in the second hitting of the event, and the BPRD crew find themselves caught between a rock and a hard place. Expect a lot more action, mayhem, and fury as the series culminates toward the return of the big red-horned devil we all love so much." - Bloody Disgusting 

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: Exorcism #1

"Agent Ashley Strode is a character I very much look forward to getting to know and B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: Exorcism #1 is a great place for her to start. She also makes for an excellent PoV character as one of the few normals that hasn’t been working with the B.P.R.D. for ages, which is where the book really succeeds. We have a few interesting concepts here that should make for a good conclusion soon. With a bit lighter story than normal B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: Exorcism #1 easily earns itself 4 out of 5 stars." - Major Spoilers 

"I think that fans of the series will really enjoy this comic and it’s even worth a look if you are looking for something new to read. I for one have been left wanting more and want to read issue two so that I can see how the story unfolds." - Comic Booked 

B.P.R.D.: 1948 #1 

"B.P.R.D. 1948 #1 is another great addition to the mythology of Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. Some origin stories feel shoehorned in after the fact but the Secret Origins trilogy has continued to build on an almost unparalleled mythology without alienating readers. The dynamic collaboration between Mignola, Arcudi and Fiumara is one that should be kept together even after this miniseries is finished." - Newsarama 

"Go out and grab this book because this is,  without a shadow of a doubt, shaping up to be an excellent mini-series from an extremely talented creative team that is firing on all cylinders!" - Read Comic Books 

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: The Return of the Master #1 

"The title's debut issue serves as a mere setup for what's to come, but writers Mike Mignola and John Arcudi don’t just fill it with dull exposition that serves a utilitarian purpose; here, every scene is well-crafted and vital for the overall picture." - Complex 

"Lots of questions and not a lot of answers in B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth The Return of the Master #1. But it feels like all of those lose ends and vagrant stories are coming together, and with this series Dark Horse has finally thrust a stake in the ground and said The End Starts Here. " - Comics Bulletin 

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Willow—Wonderland #1 

"…Parker wastes no time in catching readers up to speed at the beginning of the script. He lays out the ramifications of this magic-less world in a way that makes you understand why Willow has to venture on this quest alone; not only for her own sanity, but for the betterment of her world." - Bloody Disgusting 

"Willow – Wonderland #1 is a solid start to the five issue series, and I’m curious to see Willow continue to take the lead in her own story for a change." - Wired's Geekmom

Colder #1

"The writing is solid, but it's the art that will grab most people. Ferreyra gives an unholy energy to the page. Nimble Jack seems to just float; he's captivating. Whatever sort of horrors he has in store, you'll want to see, because Ferreyra makes everything look so damn good. And seriously, guys, did you see his cover? The dude can draw and this book is a testament to that fact. Colder is a book worth reading and the kind of book that Dark Horse should be doing a lot more of." - IGN 

"The final page of "Colder" #1 demonstrates that cliffhangers aren't limited to cackling villains, hostage situations, grisly carnage or other stale and intrinsically shocking tableau. It's a pleasure to rediscover that shock can come from something utterly mundane, so long as the writer and artist have structured events so that a very simple action is a deliciously mind-blowing surprise. For a horror/supernatural suspense comic, the subtlety and lack of gore on the final page is unexpectedly and delightfully counter to expectations." -CBR 

Conan the Barbarian #1 

"Wood, Cloonan, and Stewart are an exemplary creative team, and Dark Horse deserves credit for bringing them together for this book. There’s an effortlessness in their collaboration that makes reading a pleasure. With an excellent first issue under their belt, their collaboration is already leaving its unique mark on Conan, and perhaps converting more skeptical fans, like me." - Comic Book Resources

"Ladies and Gentlemen, this is pretty much THE perfect first issue. A great jumping on point for new readers. Different enough that it will surprise anyone with preconceived notions on what a Conan book is, yet it will pleasantly surprise long time fans, because it’s the Conan we all know and love, with just enough difference to keep it fresh. This issue is definitely a must-have!" - Geeks of Doom

The Creep #1

"…If you are willing to dive headfirst into the darkness of The Creep #1 it will be here to swallow you whole. If you’re ready, then I say go for it, you won’t regret it." - Geeks of Doom

"No, there is no action in this book.  What is here will linger with you longer than any bruise or broken bone.  It's deep in your gut with your fears and resignation." - Comic Bastards 

Criminal Macabre: Final Night—The 30 Days of Night Crossover #1

"All in all, this mini-series could mean the end or beginning of a title or character(s) but either way, we the fans win no matter what. I highly recommend that if you haven’t checked out either 30 Days of Night orCriminal Macabre that you go and get everything you can get your hands on because both books are amazing and when you’re reading this series, you aren’t sitting there scratching your head wondering what the hell they’re talking about when someone references something that happened in a prior story." - Geeks of Doom 

"While being quite accessible to newcomers, “Criminal Macabre/30 Days of Night: Final Night” #1 also establishes how the stakes are personal to longtime readers. Eben and his army of nasty vampires from “30 Days of Night” fit seamlessly into the “Criminal Macabre” world. Fans of both series are really going to enjoy watching them clash. It’s a shame one of these books will be ending." - Bloody-Disgusting

Dark Matter #1

"If you like Sci-Fi, but like me avoid Sci-Fi comics like the plaguethen don't avoid this book. This is probably one of the most interesting Sci-Fi premises to hit comics in years and I can't wait to see how it concludes in the fourth issue. Even if you're not a Sci-Fi fan I would still recommend this book since it's so well put together. 5/5" - Comic Bastards

"Overall the first issue of Dark Matter is great. The story is gripping, the characters have lots of personality, albeit a little formulaic, and the art is wonderful." - IGN 

Dragon Age: Those Who Speak #1

"The way it is written just fits their characters well and you can tell that David Gaider will have a memorable adventure when they finally finish. Hopefully that will not be for some time because Bioware and the Dark Horse team up has been giving us great comics so far. If you are even remotely a fan of Dragon Age you should check out The Silent Grove and then Dragon Age: Those Who Speak #1." - VG Revolution 

"If you have never played Dragon Age but like fantasy stories, then give this book or the recent graphic novel Dragon Age: The Silent Grove a try; they are both wonderful, exciting examples of the fantasy genre in comic book form." - Fanboy Comics 

Dragon Age: The Silent Grove #1 (Digital Exclusive)

"Right away I knew I would enjoy this story, being the fantasy buff that I am; swords, dwarven crossbows and conspiracy plots against a kingdom, yep, I’m sold!" - Bloody Disgusting 

"A good script that stays true to each character, amazing art, and a good amount of action. It’s all enough to warrant a purchase at a buck a pop." - 2D-X

Eerie Comics #1

"For those who have never really tried the more old-fashioned, pre-CCA style horror comics, this is as good a time as any to give them a whirl. For longtime fans of this book and its older sister, “Creepy,” though, “Eerie” #1 is a no-brainer." - Multiversity 

"Four stories in all, three in Black and White and one in color. All very well done and even though I could predict the storyline or outcome, I am looking forward to the second issue of this book. I might get a suprise in the storyline." - iFanboy 

Ex Sanguine #1

"I scored Ex Sanguine high due to the twists.  The book is a mystery comic, horror comic, and adventure comic wrapped all in one.  If only I could explain more of the story, you would understand my appreciation for this book that defies all the societal clichés about the vampire.

Finally, a good Halloween read in the month of October." - Comic Bastards 

"While the book follows many horror guidelines, the suspense of the title, even in just the first issue, shows some variation from common formulas, giving the title a feel all its own. While a few parts of the writing felt a bit forced, the artwork was incredibly well done, creating a blend that works very well in a horror format. 9/10" - EGM 

Fatima: The Blood Spinners #1 

"The artwork is quite charming, the story is oddly dynamic, and Fatima’s character is stupidly well developed after only one issue. This is the perfect break from other zombie books because it’s a whole lot of different, combined with the same themes you’ve come to know and love. “Fatima” will find its fair share of followers, and it’s well worth a read." - Bloody Disgusting 

"I was very excited to see this book out this week; Hernandez is one of those creators that create when they have something they want to share not because they were offered a job. If you’ve never checked out his work before then I think this series is definitely one of his more accessible series to date. Dark Horse has yet another great series added to its already impressive “Originals” line of books." - Comic Bastards 

Ghost #1 

"Ghost" #1 is not only a strong first issue, I think it's actually much stronger than the original series that inspired it. DeConnick and Noto are quickly building towards something big, and I for one am dying to see the next installment. Revivals of old concepts seems to be the current rage, and it makes me wish that all of them were as good as this one." - Comic Book Resources 

"DeConnick and Noto are doing great stuff here and Ghost looks to be one very interesting series. Count me in." - IGN 

Hellboy in Hell #1 

"More impressive than Mignola’s script is his artwork. Bringing his trademark heavily-shaded style that blends German expressionism with pop art, Mignola absolutely nails every page here. His figures are appropriately grotesque and Gothic, while his backgrounds look like the lovechild of Jack Kirby and Fritz Lang. Unlike the homogenized pin-up art that saturates many high-profile comic books, this is a mainstream title with a truly unique vision that you won’t find anywhere else." - Complex 

"Hellboy in Hell is great. It's mean and packed and funny in all the right ways... but after I finished it, I couldn't help but find myself wondering how Mignola is going to rip my guts out this time. Dig into it a little and see how it makes you feel." - Comics Alliance 

"Hellboy in Hell #1 is indescribably good. No amount of hyperbole can do the book justice. Mike Mignola is back, and better than ever." - Newsarama 

"Hellboy in Hell is nothing I expected, and everything I wanted it to be. Mike Mignola has once again proven that he is a master of his genre, even though his particular genre is Mike Mignola. Like H.P. Lovecraft, like Robert E. Howard, like William Hope Hodgson, Mike Mignola has a unique voice and vision that many will attempt to imitate and all will fail." - Comics Bulletin 

"Hellboy in Hell" #1 is a gorgeous book, and nitpicking aside, it's a lot of fun too. Was it worth the wait? Absolutely. Fegredo's art on the various "Hellboy" mini-series from the past several years has been a joy to read, and he brought a lot to the property in general. But there's no denying this simple fact: it's great to have Mignola back at the drawing table again." - Comic Book Resources 

"It’s Hellboy in Hell, how f*cking cool is that?" - Comics Bastards 

King Conan: The Phoenix on the Sword #1

"I thank Crom for the return of Truman, Giorello and Villarubia. What a great team! What's to come? Brutal battles and the lushious ladies of course. I can't wait for issue #2." - iFanboy 

"Saying the thing that probably needs not to be said, fans of Robert E. Howard and/or comics should pick u King Conan: Phonix on the Sword #1. It's not because the famous fictional barbarian's name graces the cover, but because it's also a well-crafted product." - Daily Blam 

Lobster Johnson: The Burning Hand #1

"You do not need to know a thing about Lobster Johnson, or the “Mignolaverse,” to understand and thoroughly enjoy this comic. You can pick this one without any prior knowledge and not feel lost at all." - Comic Book Resources 

"There seems to be a formula that has to be followed in order to write a great noir comic.Mike Mignola and John Arcudi have figured out that formula in the latest installment of Lobster Johnson." - Geeks of Doom

Mass Effect: Homeworlds #1 

"This is a very solid start for this new Mass Effect mini-series, although being an anthology, the different writer/artist team on each issue could mean different levels of quality month to month. But we'll just have to wait and see." - Gay Gamer

"All-in-all “Mass Effect: Homeworlds” is a series that will likely be geared towards fans of the franchise and it may not appeal to those that either didn’t like the game or have never played it. For fans though the first issue is a great way to learn more about their heavy-hitting companion and is definitely worth reading." -Examiner.com 

The Massive #1

"5-star review.  "The Massive" is everything readers have come to expect from Wood: provocative, original, and fiercely intelligent in both conception and execution. Don't you dare miss it." - Comic Book Resources 

"The Massive hits the mark in terms of the hype built up for the title, delivering a great read. Even those who aren’t interested in ecological collapse or environmentalism can enjoy the book because of the stellar writing of Wood, coupled with the the beautiful and fitting art of Donaldson and Stewart." EGM Now

"The Massive is thrilling science fiction, offering a nuanced and scarily portentous depiction of the future. It also delivers an important conservationist message that’s never cloying and only emerges to provide a gripping, thought-provoking setting. It’s been a great year for exuberant, cerebral science fiction. Get ready for The Massive to blow the lesser stuff right out of the water." - iFanboy 

Mind MGMT #1

"5 Star Review.  I pick up quite a number of monthly series and I keep telling myself that I need to cut back on the large quantity I bring back home from the local comic shop. But, with all that, Matt Kindt's Mind MGMT has got me for the long haul. If you are a fan of mysteries, if you are a fan of Kindt, if you are a fan of comics: pick this up! But, more importantly, if you have been waiting for the trades and do not see the value in picking up a comic on a monthly basis anymore, do yourself a favor and give Mind MGMT #1 a shot. It very well could be the book that makes you want to go back to the comic shop." - Comics Bulletin 

"This book is something special. The story has so much potential and longevity that I see it going on for years. Add the fact that Kindt is writing the story's history on the front and back cover and you’re getting a heck of a package. Do not miss out on this book! I know I praise everything “Indie”, but this book is going to be one of those titles that breaks that labeling and will be enjoyed by all comic readers as long as they're willing to give it one issue to hook them. Let this be that issue.  5/5" - Comic Bastards

"I would love to see more books like Kindt's "Mind Mgmt" at places like Dark Horse. Though I'm sure books like this are risky and don't get as much high-profile attention, the quality is simply sublime." - Comic Book Resources

Number 13 #1

"It makes a solid debut and has definitely captured my attention. I’ll be checking out the next issue for sure as more of the mystery around the story unwraps and a conflict looms in the horizon. If you’re fearing the end of the world this week then you should buy this issue for a glimpse of what we all might go through or just buy it because it’s really good and entertaining." - Comic Bastards

"Number 13 officially has me intrigued. Robert Love has written and penciled a unique new story and I’m liking it! Our interest has been piqued about what happened to Thirteen and why he seems to be the only one with amnesia. " - Den of Geek

Ragemoor #1

"You'll be hard pressed to find a quality horror comic like "Ragemoor" on the shelves in the modern era. If you enjoy black and white movies from many decades ago or equally atmospheric comics, then this issue is for you. "Ragemoor" makes time feel still and eerie while reading it, creating a slow burn and with relentless, nasty action. This is the start of a tale that will have you checking to see if your windows are locked on cold, dark, and rainy nights." - Comic Book Resources

"For any horror fan this is a MUST buy, and for anyone in the mood for a fun story with a creepy edge to it, this was made with love (and blood) for you!  After just the first issue, I am already disappointed that this is only a four-issue limited series. Seriously, do yourself a favor and pick this up!!!" - Geeks of Doom

Reset #1

"I was really blown away by just how good this book was. It’s too soon to call it Peter Bagge’s masterpiece, but let’s just say I’m penciling it in until I’ve finished the series. I have a feeling that longtime fans of the creator already know what to expect, but for those unfamiliar with him I encourage you to buy the damn book. I really hope that it doesn’t get overlooked because it’s one of the best comic books I’ve read all year. Its raised the bar so high that I don’t think you’ll see another perfect score to come from the site in long time." - Comic Bastards

"Bagge has an art style that can’t be confused with anyone else’s. His story telling sets up some of the best moments of schadenfreude I’ve seen in the medium. If you find yourself enjoying stories of others’ misfortune, I highly recommend picking up Reset #1 when it hits shelves this Wednesday." - ComicBooked

Resident Alien #1

"I'm thrilled to finally see the return of "Resident Alien." Those three chapters may have originally run back in the fall, but it says a lot that I've been looking forward to its return since then. Because of its position in the story it's not the flashiest of comics, but it's solid entertainment, and I'm definitely going to read the remaining two issues. All in all, good stuff." - Comic Book Resources 

"What a unique book. That’s the thought I can’t shake after readingResident Alien #1. I quite enjoyed issue #0, which collects the Dark Horse Presents material this series comes from, but Hogan and Parkhouse really brought their “A” game for issue #1…This is one of those great creative pairings: Hogan and Parkhouse are in sync on Resident Alien and the reader gets to reap the reward of their hard work." - Comicosity

R.I.P.D.: City of the Damned #1

"It’s a solid first issue which delves into the origins of how Roy comes to work for R.I.P.D.; it’s a great starting point for new readers who are interested in the Film. Parker’s renderings add to the script, and bring Barlow’s vision alive with his superb visual storytelling. Even though it feels like the background story is compressed into insufficient space, the premise is still refreshing, and I’m looking forward to the next installment." - Bloody Disgusting 

"Most prequels/tie-ins for films aren’t any good, but thankfully, this isn’t one of them. The build-up for theR.I.P.D. film is well underway, and this adaptation of the Peter M. Lenkov original does a great job thus far of giving fans some information on the characters and history, all while telling an engaging story. The artwork is along the lines of many Dark Horse titles, though Tony Parker adds his own unique style into the title. The series is getting off to a great start, and hopefully the next three issues of the mini will get things really rolling for the upcoming film and will continue to give fans a bit of nostalgia for long time fans and will hopefully gain several more with this offering." - EGM Now 

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Spike #1

"Who better to write it than Spike fanboy himself, Victor Gischler? Taking a fan favourite like Spike and giving him his own adventure away from the BuffyVerse is very risqué, but it proves to be a great choice for the brooding vamp." - Bloody Disgusting 

"Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Spike #1 is surprisingly light-hearted and joke-ridden. Full of boozing diatribes yes, but also full of puns and good cheer as Spike and the bugs both try and get his mind off of Buffy. Spike thinks and speaks a lot. Lot more text than in Buffy or Angel & Faith, not sure if this is a writer’s preference or just geared toward Spike’s inner musings this issue." - Three If By Space

Star Wars: Agent of the Empire—Hard Targets #1

"Agent Jahan Cross is slowly emerging as one of the more complex characters within the Star Wars expanded universe. For that alone, I want to know what happens next." - Newsarama 

"Dark Horse has a lot of great series from the Star Wars universe, but the Agent of the Empire one is a big favorite of mine. Star Wars Agents of the Empire: Hard Targets #1 is a great first issue in the new series for Cross. With both the Empire and Boba Fett involved things are never what they seem and it's essential that Jahan Cross start realizing that sooner rather than later." - Omnicomic 

Star Wars: Blood Ties—Boba Fett is Dead #1

"Star Wars: Blood Ties - Boba Fett Is Dead" is unashamedly an entertaining book. The narrative force moving forward relies on a structure we've seen before but it is fun seeing it in this setting. Tom Taylor finds something of interest in every scene to ensure you actually haven't seen all of this before. If you like Star Wars this is a nice and easy way to dip into the comics and have a good time." - Comic Book Resources 

"Probably by now, you’re tired of me praising the genius of the team behind this comic (if you’ve been following my reviews for his work on Invasion – Revelations, you already must think that i am actually Tom Taylor’s publicist). Just go out and get it and read it. and then thank me. Grab either the Scalf cover or the variant David Palumbo one – while I like Palumbo design, the Scalf cover (or the first page, a full panel of smouldering Fett armor) is likely destined to be poster material. and I’m not even that big of a Boba Fett fan. Go read it." - Big Shiny Robot 

Star Wars: Darth Maul—Death Sentence #1

"Death Sentence #1 manages to walk that fine line between exposing the character and keeping enough hidden behind the curtain so that the illusion isn’t spoiled.

Writer Tom Taylor quickly sets up Maul’s current predicament – he and his brother Savage Opress find themselves with a massive bounty on their heads – while managing to re-establish why Maul is such a badass in the first place." - IGN

"Darth Maul finally receives his proper due in Star Wars – Darth Maul: Death Sentence. For too long, Maul was simply a bogeyman figure for fans to wonder and speculate upon. Writer Tom Taylor lets the now cybernetic Sith Lord cut loose in a glorious display of rage and hate. The art by Bruno Redondo is very expressive and is a strong fit within the Star Wars universe. Known characters appear as readers expect, but without relying on heavy photo referencing. The more I think about it, the more I enjoy this book. The creators have found the balance often lacking in most Star Wars products. They've managed to create a comic that reads as a dangerous tale of revenge, while maintaining an all-ages appropriate tone." - Newsarama 

"For fans of the franchise, this is meaty, fun stuff to read, and for people not as enmeshed in the property, there's bad guys being bad in the most deliciously fun way possible. Can't beat that, and good work to Tom Taylor for making the brothers such a credible and enjoyable threat." - Comic Book Resources 

Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #1

"I really enjoyed this issue. Haden Blackman’s writing is top notch here. Agustin Alessio’s art does a good job of setting this book apart from the others on the shelf, but still feeling like Star Wars. They have crafted a story of an idealistic cadet being tested on his first day, not only by his own physical limitations, but by his bonds of friendship and his sense of duty and honor." - EU Cantina

"In all, I can definitively say that this is the best Star Wars comic that I’ve read in quite a while, minor artistic shortcomings aside." - IGN  

Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi #1

 "Overall, Star Wars Dawn of the Jedi: Force Storm #1 is a very good comic. Simple, but effective. However, the main reason why you should pick this is up is because THIS is how it all began. THIS is the first chapter in the Star Wars saga. THIS is how the Jedi form. If that's not reason enough to check this out, I don't know what is." - Comic Book Movie

 "Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi – Force Storm #1 (what a mouthful) captures what makes the Star Wars universe special, and is worth a look for any Star Wars fans." - Major Spoilers

Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi—The Prisoner of Bogan #1

"There was a lot of setup in this issue, but I really enjoyed getting some back story to the characters.  There was little action, but there looks to be plenty of it coming up.  The question really is who all will be involved in the fighting and what side they will take in it." - VG Revolution 

"After months of waiting, it was well worth it! With that being said, we give this issue 5 out of 5." - Roqoo Depot 

Star Wars: Knight Errant—Escape #1

"Coming into this with no knowledge of the first two arcs, I thought I may have a problem understanding some of it, but no - the characters and motivations are given just enough details that I was never wanting for more. As a starting point for Knight Errant and Kerra Holt, Escape does a good job and earns 4 out of 5 stars." - Major Spoilers 

"No time is wasted on Star Wars: Knight Errant – Escape #1, and I believe we’re in for a fun ride filled with heroic deeds, hurtful betrayals, and unexpected reunions in the upcoming issues." - EU Cantina 

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic—War #1

"A very welcome summary of the Old Republic on the inside front cover brings you right into the action, and action there is aplenty from scriptor John Jackson Miller: Jedi versus Mandalorians!" - SciFi Pulse

"A good start, especially for new readers. Miller mixes some action with the guy who doesn’t want there to be any bloodshed, and manages even to throw in some humor: “Why does everyone I help punch me in the face?” muses our hero. Just keep on helpin’ people, Zayne Carrick. Eventually, they’ll realize they’re better off on your side." - Big Shiny Robot

Star Wars: Lost Tribe of the Sith #1

"A good start – Spiral #1 sets us off on an adventure and drops a mystery on us at the end – Who are the Doomed?" - Big Shiny Robot 

"Recommended for die-hard Star Wars Expanded Universe fans of the highest Jedi order, or fantasy geeks who’d mod a lightsaber into their Skyrim save-game if they could." - Comic Bastards

Star Wars: Purge—The Tyrant’s Fist #1

"All in all, this comic is better than your average Star Wars book. First off, it’s got characters that you CARE about. Not some Jedi from a video game that took place 5,000 years before the movies. Second, it seems that there was a lot of effort put into this book to make sure it was extra good. Guess what? Mission accomplished." - Geeks of Doom

"Star Wars: Purge - The Tyrant’s Fist" #1 is a great character study for Vader by presenting a challenging and complex problem for him to solve. The use of Major Namada as the narrator brings an external view to proceedings while also helping build toward the final sequence that sets up the next issue’s conclusion to this tale. The Star Wars universe is so rich and wide. Stories like this make fans appreciate all that can be covered in the "Star Wars" universe with so many great characters." - Comic Book Resources

To Hell You Ride #1

 "The messages and messengers are clear in To Hell You Ride, and the horror is that so many characters refuse to heed them: death, greed, environmental and spiritual devastation. The symbolism is especially poignant in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, the BP Oil arraignment, and the tumultuous political sphere of our past Presidential election." - FearNet

"It’s going to get bad and people are going to die. I’ve got to know where this is heading. Only one thing is for sure: The past is a bitch and it’s riding a horse." - SciFi Pulse 

"While looking for something new on the stands, I came across To Hell You Ride #1. Admiring the cover and curious by the title, I decided to give it a try..Talk about rolling the dice and coming up a winner!" -iFanboy

Michael Avon Oeming’s The Victories #1

"This is perfect for fans of the superhero genre that are tired of the carefully-manicured storylines that the "Big Two" provide. No punches are pulled here as Oeming brings some absolutely satisfying brutality to the story and art. And speaking of the art, this is some of the better work of Oeming’s career as he has added a new dimension of atmosphere and ambiance to his already stellar pencil work." - Complex Magazine 

"The Victories is very different from your typical superhero book and more than likely when it finishes its story it will be something that no one else will be able to replicate. It falls into that great creator owned realm of books that everyone loves/talks about, but that no one else can touch. The Victories is in its own class and you’re not likely to see repeats any time soon." - Comic Bastards

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Thanks for ending your year with "Dark Horse in the Headlines." We'll see you next week. Same time, same channel. \m/