TimeZone Comic Book Challenge & Reviews This Week

    First off, I gotta say I love off kilter comics that aren't your average Marvel or DC comics. They're refreshing and offer a new storyline. Not to say that the regular old Batman isn't cool, it is, but sometimes it's nice to change it up a bit. So if you've never tried something outside your Marvel or DC Comics safety net, then try it to this week.

    With challenges of every kind happening lately, I challenge all my readers to pick a new comic from a comic book publisher that isn't by Marvel or DC. Just this once! I can promise you won't regret it. Branch out your reading, and pick something from another company and give it a shot. The very least pick up one of the comics I'm reviewing. You never know, you may like them!

    Image's Wayward #1 has been boasted as a Buffy-esque comic, which I can see. Here's what I like about it: the main character Rori Lane (half Irish, half Japanese) moves to Japan and is thrown into a whirlwind situation on her first day. She thinks the monsters she saw, and the strange girl that came to her rescue were all part of her jet lag. Or is it? Without giving too much away, you have to check this book out if only for the mere fact that it immediately catches your attention. Rori also possesses a special power that she's unaware of. All stories begin with either someone returning from a journey, or start with someone going on a journey. I know I can't wait to go on this journey with Rori Lane, and see what kind of world is really existing in Japan.

    The second comic I had the liberty of reading was Hero Cats of Stellar City by Action Lab. I cannot tell you how adorable this comic is. It's title is pretty accurate. This is a story about cats that are superheroes, but no one knows it. The comic is told through the eyes of Cassiopeia, the main cat, and all her friends: Midnight, Belle, Rocket, Rocco, & Ace. It's not your average super hero comic book, but who wants average when you can dream up the impossible? I do think it's cute how Rocket thinks he's an alien cat, Belle can read minds, Midnight the Paws of Justice, Rocco is simply just a cuddly cat, and Ace is the leader. The art is just as compelling as the story. I'm definitely sticking with this comic to see where it goes.

     So I challenge all readers to pick up a comic this week from another publisher you normally don't read. Then I want you to come back here, or visit us on Facebook and tell us about it. Be sure to challenge all your friends who read comics to try something new, or get the ones who don't read comics to try at least 1. You can find all your comic book needs at Timezone Gaming in Fords, NJ. Don't forget to mention you read the blog, too!

New Comics Review: Robyn Hood, The Fade Out, Little Nemo

This is an interesting week for comic books. Three new titles hit the shelves, and are quite interesting to say the least. From Zenescope we have Grimm Fairy Tales Robyn Hood #1, IDW's Little Nemo Return to Slumberland, and Image's The Fade Out.

Grimm Fairy Tales Robyn Hood has gotten it's ongoing series after it had a 5 issue comic book set that took off well. The story so far is that Robyn Locksley, a New York native, was brought to the realm of Myst to save Nottingham from evil. Now in her ongoing series, Robyn has teamed up with a witch, Marian Quin, and returns to her hometown. (If you haven't caught on already, Robyn Hood is a woman in these stories.) Okay, here's what makes this an awesome comic: Robyn is sarcastic and witty, she's best friends with Marian, Marian possesses magical powers being a witch and all, there's humor, and lots of butt kicking. This is definitely a story you can sink right into. Robyn and Marian run an investigation service for "unusual emergencies," and when a wiccan named Sam comes to them for help, the girls are thrust into a magical crime scheme. There's a drug being sold on the streets, that's not your ordinary drug. It's clearly magical, and it sucks the soul out of the user. Someone called The Priest is making sure it's sold on the streets because he's harvesting souls for something, but what? Read it and find out!

Now everyone remembers the old movie Little Nemo Adventures in Slumberland. Well, he's got his own comic book now. Princess of Slumberland wants a playmate, so her servants try to bring Nemo back to Slumberland. One problem: he doesn't want to go. He doesn't even remember Slumberland or the Princess. He begrudgingly goes, but every time they try to bring him back, he wakes up. Will Nemo ever reach Slumberland? We'll know in issue #2.

Finally there's The Fade Out. I have to admit, at first the story is a bit confusing, which could be because the main character starts out hungover and confused about the previous night. Although, what makes this a great read is that it's done as a film noir. It has that old Hollywood feel. You know, the classics like Casablanca...that's the sort of style this has, which is great. It's a breath of fresh air. The story is about a group of people that work on a film: Charlie the screenwriter, Earl the movie star and womanizer, Val the starlet, Gil, a drunk writer, Dotty who's a publicist, and Phil the head of the studio security. The story opens up with Charlie, suffering from an intense hangover and unsure of what happened the previous night. He tries to remember the party he went to, but he can only remember a fight between two other people, and helping Gil who was drunk and in the back alley. When Charlie finds Val's dead body, he quickly wipes away all traces of himself and hightails it out of there. At this point it's safe to assume it was Val's house. Much of Charlie's memory is like a thousand pieces to a puzzle. He's told by Phil to deny that Val was at the party that he can't even remember. So now the studio is covering up what happened. Charlie reads the police report that claims Val committed suicide, which is not how he found the body. Charlie clearly has found himself involved in a murder, which is being covered up. Why? He even finds women's underwear in his pocket, but he has no idea how, or who's they are. One guess is that they belonged to Val. It's like a classic Whodunnit, but when you can't remember the night before and wake up next to a dead body, the odds don't look good. It's worth a read, so check it out!

You can find all these comics and others at Timezone Gaming in Fords, NJ.

DC Comics Take A Selfie

Yes, you read it right. DC Comics came out with Selfie covers this month for their comics. Not all the comics have Selfie variants, but we're taking a look at a few that come out tomorrow Wednesday, August 13th, 2014. You can find these and other comics at TimeZone Gaming in Fords, NJ.

Justice League United #4 features Supergirl, Stargirl and Miyahbin. They're striking the usual selfie pose like most teenagers do with their bestie's, whatever that means. Stargirl is holding bunny ears behind Supergirl's head. Miyahbin is striking a normal pose, which is what I usually do when people say "do something funny for the picture." What's wrong with just smiling for the camera? Mind you, Supergirl is smiling, but it looks like she's trying too hard. We can all relate to this selfie picture. The awesome part is the background. The girls are clearly in space because you can see the Earth and the surrounding universe. Pretty neat!

Batman #34 is actually comical. Obviously a kid who's a fan of Batman managed to get a quick picture in with him. Although, Batman looks kind of put off by it. Photo bomb much? I can see how Batman isn't much of a photo taker. Why so serious, Batman? Gees!

Green Lantern Corps #34 is...odd. Not sure what DC Comics was going with for this cover. It's like one of those bad pictures you take trying to get a good one, but you're just that terrible at taking selfies. We'll say it's the "I Suck At Selfie's" selfie, cause you know there are those.

Batgirl #34. Now, I'm partial to Batgirl, but who wouldn't be? She's awesome and kicks ass. Her selfie is confusing. Why does she have all those Batman comics on the floor? Do I sense a crush on the infamous Batman? Possibly, but what about the motorcycle? It's indoors obviously, but in a room with comics? DC will have to explain this one, cause it leaves much to be desired!

Superman Wonder Woman #11. Okay, now I'm not a fan of Superman, and Wonder Woman I have to be in the mood for, and I normally hate selfies, BUT I have to admit this cover is freaking cute! Yes, cute! It's the typical selfie picture of a boyfriend and girlfriend, but what's adorable about it is that there are kiss marks all over Superman's face. This cover won me over.

Harley Quinn #9. Oh Harley! Is there anything you do we don't like? Nope! Almost every cover with her on it so far has been incredible, but I love the concept for her selfie comic. She's framing herself and her pet beaver. Nothing about this cover makes sense, but nothing ever makes sense with Harley...or does it? You decide! This is my favorite selfie cover so far.

What do you think of DC Comics Selfie Variant covers? Let us know in the comments below!

New Comics Review: Jennifer Blood and Masumi

With DC Comics and Marvel deep into comic issues, this week we'll take a look at indie comics. So many people don't realize the amazing comics that are by other companies, with the exception of The Walking Dead. Indie comics are usually rated mature, which isn't a bad thing. It can often be quite refreshing to see some more adult themes. Two new comics out tomorrow August 6th at Timezone Gaming are:

Jennifer Blood by Dynamite appears with it's first issue. It's written by Steven Grant, and art by Kewber Baal. Speculation around the Internet leading up to Jennifer Blood's release, has been that she looks like a female Punisher. Well, I can attest to that. I was excited for this new comic, merely for the fact that it's a woman who looks like she kicks ass! Who wouldn't want to read that? Now days comics are embracing women and girls as their audience, so it makes perfect sense to bring more female characters into the fold. Now Jennifer Blood was a normal woman, married and with children, only she was murdering vigilante at night. In the opening we learn she also killed her husband, but we don't learn why. She's been on the run, and presumed dead. While in hiding, she discovers someone posed as her, which will now cause authorities to hunt her down. By the end of it Jennifer comes out of hiding, and we can only imagine where she'll be headed. One of the catchy elements to this comic is that Jennifer narrates throughout the issue. We get a look inside her head and emotions. I give it a 10 on a 10 point scale.

The second comic on the review list is Masumi Blades of Sin #1. It's published by Zenescope, presented by Grimm Fairy Tales, and written by Joe Tyler, artwork by Sergio Osuna. The Forward explains that Masumi Yamomoto that was trapped in a hellish dimension for about two hundred years. Now she's returned to earth in attempts to begin a new life. Well, just like with any story, her past comes back to haunt her when she finds out the man she loves was killed by a demon named Legion. She defeated Legion, but it merely trapped him within her samurai swords. She is sworn by the laws of the Yamomoto Clan to make sure Legion never escapes. This is also reflected in the cover, because her samurai swords show what looks like the reflection of demons. It's pretty cool if you ask me. Now, the one thing that's similar to comics we know is that Masumi has white streaks in her hair like Rogue, but...her main color hair is black. I can live with this, even though it bears resemblance to Rogue. I dig Rogue, so Masumi should live up to that, or better! Once the action starts, and it starts almost immediately, Masumi explains that her ancestor weakened Legions power by dividing it up into Deadly Sins. Okay...that's cool. I didn't expect that. Seven of these were let loose into the world, while the eighth was infused in her swords. The sins are Sloth, Gluttony, Lust, Greed, Pride, Envy, Wrath, and the one fused into Masumi's blades is Despondency. Masumi's family was also killed because of Legion, but a cousin of hers still remains. When Masumi visits her, she finds out that there is more going on than meets the eye. This comic is packed with beautiful artwork, an intriguing story that keeps you wondering what will happen next.

Definitely pick up both Jennifer Blood and Masumi this week. They may only be a short series, but still worth the read! It's especially good if you don't want to get too deep into a series, (like DC Comics New 52 that are up to issues 32 already.) Give them a shot and try something new. You might surprise yourself.

Till next time geek on, my friends!

New Comics: Low and Grimm Tales of Terror

    This week I'm reviewing two new comics Low and Grimm Tales of Terror. These comics hit the shelves tomorrow Wednesday, July 30th at TimeZone Gaming. As you know, each week I review new comics that come out every Wednesday. If you want to request a review of a specific comic, then send us a message or comment below.

    Low is written by Rick Remender, and art done by Greg Tocchini, and created by the both of them. Low is published under Image Comics, so naturally I had to take a look at it. It's set somewhere in the future, and the sun continually expands causing the earth to slowly be consumed. Humans have retreated to the deepest depths of the ocean in search of a permanent home. The cities under the sea are vast and protected by radiation shields. We're introduced to a family that for generations has been dedicated to searching for safe places to live on earth. They are the Caines, and out on a mission where they also begin training their children, they are caught in a trap and forced to give up their blood bonded weapon: a suit that only works for the blood of a Caine. Now the lives of the Caine children are at stake. I definitely recommend picking up this comic. There's no telling where it will lead. With the sun destroying the earth with each passing second, and dealing with an alien race, the Caines and the other humans must find a way to survive. It's a different take on an apocalyptic scenario, so I dig it. I think you will too!

    Next up is Grimm Tales of Terror. Published by Zenescope Grimm Tales of Terror is indeed terror-ific! Written by Ralph Tedesco, and artwork by Antonio Bifulco. Many people are used to the Grimm Fairy Tales comics that re-vamped old fairy tales we knew as children. Now they're back at it again only this time it's about horror stories. The first story makes a nod to Edgar Allen Poe and his book The Tell Tale Heart, although it's left up to the reader to find the connection between the famous story and the one being told in the comic. It's not clear who the woman is in the beginning, but she seems to know a man (Richard) that bumps into her, although he doesn't know her. She makes some cryptic comment about him having to handle the funeral arrangements for his wife Linda. Richard is confused and the woman dodges his questions by telling him a story. She tells him a tale of a woman who thought she killed her husband because he "changed." Well, that's intriguing to say the least. We don't learn why or what caused him to change, but we get to see the monster he's become. It's a quick horror story, but has a great twist. When we come back to Richard and the woman, it ends quickly, but not before they throw in a twist in that plot as well. This is a must read for any horror fan.

What do you think? Will you be picking up these comics this week? If not, then what other comics have caught your eye that releases tomorrow? Let us know your feedback in the comments below.

Till next week...

New Comics: Storm, Doctor Who, & Supreme Blue Rose

Today is New Comic Book Day! So you know what that means. I grab all the comics off the shelves and bury my nose in them! Three comics to specifically look at this week are Storm #1, Doctor Who 10th Doctor #1, and and Supreme Blue Rose #1. I love picking up new titles, so all of these are promising stories that I'm subscribing to!

    First up is Storm #1

    You should know that Storm hasn't always been a favorite of mine. (Hold your stone throwing till later). I have to admit that Marvel did her justice. In the past she's been painted as the do-gooder; always following protocol and never breaking the rules. Now, even though she was very similar to Jean in those aspects, in this comic the Storm we know truly develops into an inspiring woman. I can honestly say I'm impressed, which isn't always the case with comics. I know, I know, you're all thinking I'm a picky comic book reader, but with everything changing in the comics industry it can be hard to fall in love with a comic book. I can now say I'm in love with Storm. Not only is she badass, but she's determined, and determination goes a long way as a superhero.

    Second up is Doctor Who 10th Doctor #1.

    Now, if you know your Doctor then you know how eccentric they can be. This comic was a bit slow in pacing, and I expected to see more of the 10th Doctor, but he was only on a few pages. This issue more or less started with the story of his new companion Gabriella, a young woman living in New York City trying to find her true calling, but is ultimately dragged down by following the customs of her Spanish culture. She's a dreamer, but she's stuck helping out with her family businesses. At the very end of the comic is when she meets the Doctor, but their introduction is on a train...with a strange monster in human form. Who? What? We won't know till the next issue. I'm on the fence about it, but am willing to give it another go before I resign from this series. Also, keep in mind that Doctor Who 11th Doctor came out today as well. Two different doctors, in two different comics. So don't judge one versus the other or let it deter you from reading the 11th Doctor comic.

    The third title I read was Supreme Blue Rose.

    It's a bit odd, and shifts from a dream to reality. We get introduced to Diana Dane, an unemployed journalist, who's dreams are vague and confusing. In her dream she's told to not trust someone named Darius Dax, and that's the message she needs to remember. When Diana wakes up she's convinced it's all nonsense, and when she goes for a job interview she meets a man...Darius Dax. He hires her to investigate everything she can about a strange object and a man connected with it. He offers to pay her a hefty amount that she can't refuse. Upon accepting, Diana meets a man who's true face is visible to her, while others see him as just an average human. His name is Reuben. Learning that Reuben is her bodyguard, Diana questions whether or not she made the right choice. It's safe to assume our heroine is in deep, and even though she knows she's in for it, the money is too much to pass up. I'm giving this comic a few more issues to see how it shapes up, so it's worth looking into. 

Review of Spider-Man 2099, Spread & Chastity

Tomorrow is the release of new comics and with that means Review time! This week I'm reviewing a few new comics. Tomorrow we see Miguel O'Hara, the Spider-Man from the year 2099 return in his own title. We're also taking a look at Spread, an apocalyptic story on earth, and Chastity, a story about a teen who's dream of being an Olympic athlete is crushed, and she resorts to reading books about vampires only to realize vampires are far from a creepy fairy tale.

First up is Spider-Man 2099. Now I was never a true Spider-Man fan, but this comic is proving to be worth the read. It has a Terminator feel to it. Miguel is sent to the present to save his grandfather, only he's being hunted by an agent of T.O.T.E.M also known as Temporal Oversight Team Eliminating Mistakes. The agent was sent to destroy Spider-Man, but the question is why? It's also looking like Miguel's cover will be blown as Elizabeth Allen tries to unmask Spider-Man.

Next up is Chastity. The story sets up Chastity by showing how much she loved being a gymnast, but when she falls and tears her ACL, Chastity is forced to rethink her dreams of being an Olympic athlete. She resorts to spending her recovery time reading books. She indulges in a popular vampire novel, hoping they weren't sparkly and glittering in the sunlight, as some recent novels have portrayed them. After Chastity skips school to go to a book signing, she finds out that vampires are in fact real, and she and her family are attacked. The ending has quite the twist. I didn't expect it to be as good as it really is. Chastity is a character that is identifiable with. She has an appreciation of great literature, and is cynical about the fantasy of vampires.

Last on the list is Spread. It's published by Image Comics, which definitely has a factor here. If you love the Walking Dead, then you want to subscribe to Spread. It's an apocalyptic world in which strange monsters roam the earth. A man, who seems nothing more than that has bloody tentacles shoot out of his eyeballs and at the tips of them are mouths. Intrigued yet? Spread takes the Apocalypse and gives it a whole new meaning. A man named No (I know, that's an odd name), is on his own surviving until he meets a woman who's dying. She tells him of Hope, and that he needs to save her. Turns out Hope is an infant, who possesses strange powers. Hope is the only one who posses a threat for the Spread. I have high Hopes for this comic! If it's anything like Walking Dead, then I'm sure the fandom will catch on.

Will you be checking out any of these titles? If not, which ones? Don't forget to check us out on Facebook for all your comic book news, and if you want a place to indulge in your comic book obsession!