The Forged forges forward with the start of a new arc, deepening and expanding what we know of our characters and their world. The Forged #7 sets the stage for an exciting second chapter full of action and intrigue as readers see what sets Scimitar-3 apart from other Forged teams.
In this issue, the Forged team of Scimitar-3, including Hap, Pusher, Crazy Jo, Harpo and leader Victory, are summoned alongside two other forged teams to learn more about the creatures they encounter in T-Space. The oversized 64-page issue works wonders, letting readers sink their teeth into the world around Vic and her team.
Issue #7 allows readers to explore the world of The Forged, giving us our first look at other Forged teams and ultimately asking readers whether Vic’s love of her squad is a strength or weakness when it comes to war and politics. The strength of Forged continues to be the dense world brought to life by creators Greg Rucka, Eric Trautmann and Mike Henderson. The realm of Her Eternal Majesty, the Empress, feels like the best combination of familiar and new, mixing understood sci-fi tropes with great characterization, an exciting and unfamiliar world and terrific action.
The characters of Scimitar-3 appear on the surface to be semi-archetypical, with your classic quiet sniper and hot-headed brawler, for starters. But masterfully, Rucka and Trautmann, our series writers, allow our leads to grow beyond these moulds, creating deep and engaging characters you can root for. This works exceptionally well in this issue when you put them side by side with other forged teams, highlighting just how different our leads are compared to the “default”.
The book features art by Henderson, colors by Nolan Woodard and letters by Ariana Maher, who have breathed life into a beautifully distinct world with their tremendous work. The design of the Forged suits and characters is another perfect balance between familiar and new. They are simple in design but vibrant and distinct in action. The letters are fun throughout, and the book’s overall feel is like the best old-school sci-fi action movie.
While full to the brim of exciting action, the heart of Scimitar-3 is never lost in the noise. The whole team has done a terrific job of elevating these characters into distinct individuals who you fear for when they’re in danger, which is no small task. More than ever, issue #7 raises the stakes for our team and makes readers feel like no one is safe. Plus, the foundations of an exciting political B-plot are bubbling just below the surface and are as engaging as the action in T-Space.
The Forged #7 continues the series’ trend of impeccable balance, bringing together exciting action, art, story and characters into a delightful sci-fi romp with plenty of heart and stakes, sure to keep readers hungry for more.
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