While most of the Marvel Rivals Infinity Comics lean into what is happening in the game, Marvel Rivals: Duel of Kings #1 breaks that pattern. This issue is a small continuation of the Namor/Jeff the Land Shark subplot from Marvel Rivals #1 where they team up to try to rule the world. Tensions between Namor and Black Panther are high as they try to figure out how to split resources between Wakanda and Atlantis. Jeff gets into his usual mischief while trying to steal chrono-vibranium, a mix of vibranium and chronovium, an in-game explanation for the mixed up realties. T’Challa is wary of Namor’s intentions, especially after Wakanda gets attacked. T’Challa suspects Namor of staging an attack on Wakanda to impress him but Namor uses Shuri to cover for him before he escapes with Jeff and his heist.
Marvel
While this issue is a one-shot, it complies issues #25-#30 of the Marvel Rivals Infinity Comics. This issue doesn’t follow the seasons of Marvel Rivals like previous issues, but Paul Allor still writes an entertaining story that adds to the lore of the Marvel Rivals universe. Allor manages to expand on the voice lines and dynamic between Namor and Black Panther in the game and the fondness that Namor shows toward Jeff. As someone who occasionally plays Marvel Rivals, Galacta’s narration seems perfectly placed in all the right places, even if they seem like they’re interrupting an important moment. Jeff’s chaotic presence feels familiar to the way he operates in the game and lightens the mood in scenes with heavy tensions between Namor and T’Challa. Princess Shuri is a supporting character in this issue despite not being in the game, but it’s a welcome change to see her and T’Challa working together.
Marvel
Despite the issue being drawn by two artists, Salvador Espin and Jethro Morales, it’s very difficult to tell who is drawing what page. The only tell between the artists is the way Galacta is drawn, but it’s a small change that doesn’t distract from the story. Jeff’s costume is a new one but perfectly captures what his mission is, and how he goes about it. Espin and Morales, along with colors by Dee Cunniffe captures Wakanda in a beautiful way and brings you into the world of Marvel Rivals. The change from an infinity comic to a single issue comic book is done with minor empty space left on the pages.
Marvel Rivals: Duel of Kings #1 is a fun issue that takes a break from the usual structure of Marvel Rivals comics and adds to the lore between Namor and Black Panther. Allor’s writing provides fun breaks that focus on Jeff to break the tension between characters. Stunning art by Espin, Morales and Cunniffe brings you into the world of Marvel Rivals.
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