Challengers of the Unknown continues to show a different side of DC Comics, one that makes the suped-up heroes a bit more grounded. A team of scientists with powers, Mr. Terrific is slowly imprisoning each one for fear a now-dead Darkseid is weaponizing them. In Challengers of the Unknown #3, Prof Haley takes center stage along with Ray Palmer (The Atom) in an adventure that further reveals a larger plan may be afoot.
Challengers of the Uknown #3 is very pulpy in an adventure story sort of way. Christopher Cantwell has our heroes go to a part of the world where dinosaurs roam free. Swamp Thing also protects it. Before they embark, there’s a nice reminder Prof Haley is respected, but he’s also on a short leash as Mr. Terrific is suspicious of all the Challengers.
Once through the story’s setup, the adventure on the jungle island is dangerous and enlightening. Outside of dinosaur attacks, Anthro and Embra show up with some shockingly smart brains. It’s a bit of a mystery, which ties directly to Prof Haley in a fascinating way. Once revealed, Cantwell reveals quite a responsibility for Prof Haley, as well as an ability that may even surpass Metron.
Just another day at work.
Credit: DC Comics
That responsibility is tied to a cosmic-level new character, masterfully drawn on an epic scale. Sean Izaakse and Amancay Nahuelpan share art responsibility, and it’s hard to gauge who is drawing what. Both offer similar detailed styles that superhero comics are known for.
The creative team is doing something most comics aren’t doing these days: Offering classic pulp adventures enjoyed in a single issue. The events of this issue could have spanned a few, but it’s nice to know we’re getting it all in one issue here.
The structure of the story is a bit predictable at this point. We know Mr. Terrific is watching the Challengers, and for each issue, he seems to put one after the other in a cell. That predictability makes closing the issue fairly evident from the get-go, although the next issue promises some shake-ups.
Challengers of the Unknown #3 continues to deliver fun, globe-trotting adventure with a pulpy edge, balancing mystery, action, and high-concept sci-fi. While its structure is starting to feel formulaic, the introduction of new cosmic elements and strong character moments keep it engaging. If you’re a fan of classic adventure storytelling with a modern DC twist, this issue is well worth your time.
You must be logged in to post a comment.