Writer: Matt Kindt
Penciller: Trevor Hairsine
Inker: Ryan Winn
Colors: David Baron
Publisher: Valiant Comics
Price: $3.99

It’s been awhile since I’ve read the first volume Divinity, and I still haven’t got around to reading the second volume. So, I went in blind reading Divinity III Stalinverse, and was surprised how good it was. The story follows Director Colin King, as he goes and assesses each of the different communist heroes such as Bloodshot, and X-O Manowar. The story is solid, and opens up some interesting changes to these characters. The narration used in this title shows how each of the characters deal with threats in their own way, like how Bloodshot quells insurgents or how X-O Manowar fights creatures from the Deadside. Kindt throws in a few surprises along the way, and delves into the question of morals within this new world. He even gives us a timeline early on, and how events in history were changed before the story. Kindt’s writing was on point, and get you engrossed into how the next issue will unfold. The pacing was fine, and the changes of perspectives does expand the world of the story.

Artist Trevor Hairsine and inker Ryan Winn, do an admirable job of capturing this alternate world. I like the look of the characters, as the changes are very minimal, but adds to the Russian theme going on in the story. The action was handled well, but I did wish there were more of it. Seeing Bloodshot walk like a terminator, and shrug off explosives was great, but I did want to see how he dealt with the insurgents. The art isn’t bad, but it does look a little rushed in a few panels, and some of the characters faces look a little off. David Baron colors look amazing, and bring some life to this changed timeline. The color change on the dialog boxes was clever, and the color scheme on the outfits look awesome.

Divinity III Stalinverse is a good set up issue for what’s to come. The solid story and writing makes this title a very interesting read. The art isn’t bad, but could be improved upon, and the colors make this issue standout. I’m definitely excited for the next issue of Divinity III Stalinverse, and the tie-ins.

4 Mother Russia’s out of 5