X-O Manowar #18

The Visigoth people now find themselves in more danger than they could imagine. Having the assembled forces of the United Nations and NATO ready to launch a full assault on them if not only because X-O Manowar is so full of pride on top of his pedestal. Now we get to see the man inside the indestructible Manowar armor vulnerable when the world is against him. Of course this doesn’t mean he won’t go down without a fight!

Aric has pissed off the world and he just doesn’t care. Robert Venditti’s characterization of him is so unique because of his ignorance towards the consequences of his actions. Something we can understand and sympathize with as we see what his family and people went through all those years ago. Though he faces dangers from the outside and inside his own kingdom. The Russians are preparing to fight back, and his own people aren’t too happy with their living conditions when exposed to the luxuries of the outside world. Venditti is seen to be carefully constructing the descent of everything Aric has tried to accomplish and keep it as engaging as it can be. Can’t fault Aric for his intentions, but his approach and attitude is wrong.

The first attack that just very well may lead us straight into Unity. Aric now knows that he will have to fight for what he thinks is his own. Him and his people who he has to also fight to regain trust as their supposed King. What was diplomacy has now turned into war, one which Harada is now ready to step into. Lee Garbett is very capable of handling a lot of what goes on in these pages and that is something to appreciate when there is so much action, and much more to be expected as this story progresses. If you are interested in Valiant’s upcoming crossover event, Unity, this is a must read to understand what will lead to this monumental clash of Valiant’s strongest against the X-O Manowar.

Score: 8.5/10