Happy 600, Green Lantern! What an incredible milestone, and it’s been a long time since we’ve seen a number like this on a Lantern book. The last big legacy number was Green Lantern Corps #224, back in 1988. Since then, relaunches and renumberings have reshaped the line, so reaching #600 feels like a true celebration of everything that’s come before. If you’re curious how DC landed on that legacy count, their editorial breakdown is worth a look.
DC
To honor the spirit of the Corps, and with Kyle Rayner stepping into the spotlight for the next phase, I teamed up with fellow AIPT reviewer and Kyle superfan Michael Guerrero to break down this oversized issue. The story unfolds across four distinct parts, each contributing to the larger legacy of the Green Lantern mantle. Michael will cover the opener and closer:
“I Love L.A.” and “Light in the Darkness”
Thanks for the introduction, Chris. It’s the top of the ninth, and our torchbearer steps up to the plate with the bases loaded. Hal is off on a journey of his own, and Guy and John are dealing with their own situations (seriously, go read Green Lantern Corps). That leaves Kyle Rayner as Earth’s primary Green Lantern once again. If you’ve been waiting to see where Kyle’s story goes next, look no further than Los Angeles. This opening story blends present-day action with reflections on Kyle’s past, particularly his Odyssey era, while establishing his new mission: tracking down escaped alien convicts. And who better to team up with than the Fastest Man Alive?
DC
Jeremy Adams and Xermánico give Kyle a vibrant, action-packed return to Earth that feels like both a homecoming and a fresh start. Romulo Fajardo Jr.’s colors pop off the page, matching the energy of Kyle’s constructs and the bright promise of this new chapter. And yes, Kyle’s new suit stands out. While the issue doesn’t yet explain the change, it aligns perfectly with his identity as an artist entering a new phase of life. More than anything, this story serves as an excellent jumping-on point for new readers while rewarding longtime Kyle fans with a clear sense of direction and purpose.
The final story, “Light in the Darkness”, reunites Ron Marz and Darryl Banks, the creators of Kyle Rayner, for a heartfelt tribute. Set at an unspecified point in Kyle’s career, the story follows him mentoring two rookie Lanterns on an early mission. This chapter plays like a love letter to the character, celebrating not just his role in the DC Universe but his impact on readers over the years. While it doesn’t drastically reshape continuity, it doesn’t need to. Instead, it delivers something just as valuable: a simple, uplifting reminder of what Kyle represents. Banks’ art brings back that unmistakable ’90s DC energy, filled with bold lines and expressive storytelling that longtime fans will instantly appreciate.
– Michael Guerrero
DC
“City of Angels” and “Brighter Day”
The second and third segments dive into the origins of Kyle Rayner and Hal Jordan, weaving them into the larger narrative so the issue feels cohesive rather than fragmented. Kyle’s new origin story, “City of Angels”, features art by V. Ken Marion, whose style perfectly complements the idea of a younger Kyle finding his voice. Jeremy Adams brings depth to Kyle’s early life, highlighting the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household while chasing creative dreams and navigating relationships. The emotional grounding here adds weight to Kyle’s journey and calls back beautifully to his earliest appearances, even if I still miss that classic Nine Inch Nails shirt.
Hal’s origin, “Brighter Day”, unfolds as a story told to the Krona-created Hal clone, offering a reflection on what makes Hal the “Greatest Green Lantern.” Drawing from Emerald Dawn and Secret Origin, the story reinforces Hal’s fearlessness by examining the trauma and determination that shaped him. It also expands on his complicated relationship with his family and his drive to surpass his father’s legacy. The segment culminates in two stunning full-page spreads, Hal receiving the ring and a visual “greatest hits” tour, brought to life by Dan Jurgens and Norm Rapmund.
– Christopher Franey
Overall, Green Lantern #600 succeeds as both a celebration and a launching point. It honors the past, embraces the present, and sets the stage for the future, especially with Kyle Rayner stepping back into a central role. For longtime fans, it’s a rewarding reflection on legacy. For new readers, it’s a welcoming invitation to jump in. The light burns bright at 600, and it’s only getting stronger from here.
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