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Image Comics reviews 10/28/26 – Void Rivals 35

Jeffrey Lyles , , , , , ,

Void Rivals 35 is a terrific example of why this title has been so fun and stands alongside the other, more established brands of the Energon Universe with no problem.

Predacron’s arrived on the mysterious planet gunning for ROM, who’s been aiding Solila, Darak, Pythona and her Cobra-La Royal Guards. Skuxxoid made a last-minute arrival on last issue’s cliffhanger once again proving to be the series’ unpredictable wild card. Skuxxoid gets some tremendous showcase moments in Void Rivals 35 proving that in the right hands, even a jokey throwaway supporting character can become a rich, thoughtful and sympathetic fan favorite.

Void Rivals 35 finds the various parties in the midst of all kinds of conflict with ROM and Predacron battling it out while Pythona reveals her ace in the hole. For observant readers, writer Robert Kirkman also references Star Brigade for another subtle GI Joe nod.

void rivals 35

The beauty of this issue is the incredible mix of personalities on display and how smoothly Kirkman handles this diverse blend of characters so seamlessly. Darak and Solila might have a much larger supporting cast, but they remain a focal point although the Handroid getting limited “screen time” was a little disappointing.

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Beyond the face off with Predacron, there are a pair of supporting characters who make their return although their allies might not be as enthusiastic to see them. Akronus debuts his Junion-influenced new armor to the disgust and outrage of Pythona. Kirkman explores more of the theme of Cobra-La’s disdain for technology here in what could be a fascinating cultural subplot for many months to come.

Proximus also arrives with Ultum in tow. The last time Solila and Darak saw Proximus — back in Void Rivals 8 — it was as enemies, so they aren’t sure what to make of this reunion. That’s especially true when Proximus explains his deeper connection to Solila.

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Artist Conor Hughes is so dialed in now with Kirkman that he’s able to take the visuals to another level. Void Rivals 35 has some memorable pages including the battle with ROM and Predacron, Skuxxoid’s solution to the conflict and the intense emotions as the returning characters appear. Still, despite the more action-heavy moments, Hughes still delivers touching, emotional sequences just as, if not stronger. Hughes is fully locked in ensuring that Void Rivals looks amazing every month.

Colorist Patricio Delpeche keeps a brighter color palette going through Void Rivals 35. This arc is not some dark and bleak backdrop and Delpeche proves that bold colors can be equally dramatic in telling the story. Letterer Rus Wooton always keeps the reading experience engaging with the bombastic sound effect fonts and variety of fonts for the distinct cast members.

Void Rivals 35 ties up one conflict while setting the stage for some very intense moments and reunions to come.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Photo Credit: Image Comics

After reading Void Rivals 35, check out Void Rivals Volume 5: The Quintesson War on trade paperback on Amazon.

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

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