MANILA, PHILIPPINES — House of the Dragon and Rings of Power are some of the current fantasy shows fans are talking about, yet there are high-quality fantasy comics that rival anything you’ll see on the television screen. Here’s our list:
Arrowsmith: Behind Enemy Lines (Writer: Kurt Busiek. Artist: Carlos Pacheco)
Fletcher Arrowsmith fights in World War One where the battle is waged with magic. Yet despite the captivating magical wonders he experiences when he goes incognito, writers Kurt and Carlos depict war as even more hellish with the use of magic. Ever wonder what you would get if you merged Saving Private Ryan with Lord of the Rings? Arrowsmith would be the answer!
King Conan (W: Jason Aaron. A: Mahmud Asrar)
Conan has everything a powerful barbarian could desire: a kingdom to rule, riches, and a son he dearly loves. And still, none of it can quell his thirst for adventure, putting him in direct conflict with his duty to his family and the crown. What seemingly looks like a long drawn-out epic on paper is far from what writer Jason has in mind for readers; his script throws us knee-deep into the bloody fray (Mahmud going all out with the glorious bone-crunching violence!), making us question how Conan has gotten into deeper peril. It’s a surprisingly emotional journey filled with sorcery and the undead.
Seven to Eternity (W: Rick Remender. A: Jerome Opena)
In the world of Zhal, the majority of all the people have surrendered their free will, in exchange for protection and security, to the cunning Mud King. Only Adam Osidis and the Mosak (this world’s Jedi Knights) stand between the Mud King and total world domination. Rick sublimely marries real-world issues with the fantastical, making this story highly relevant to readers while Jerome delivers breathtaking visuals and eye-catching character work.
Echolands (W: J.H. Williams III/W. Haden Blackman. A: J.H. Williams III)
If you’ve read Sandman Overture, Promethea, and Batwoman, then you’re familiar with J.H. Williams III’s chameleonic skill at emulating different art styles and merging them into one seamless tapestry. It’s an art style that is perfect for his first creator-owned title (with Blackman) where a thief and her merry band of mystical misfits are on the run from a powerful wizard who rules a patchwork world where vampires, robots, and celestial beings coexist.
