I’m starting to like every story with a Rai in it. This may be because I’m getting more into Sci-Fi comics or because of the general idea I’m in each of them throughout the Valiant universe. Whatever the truth may be they don’t bother me as much as they did in the past.
This time, we get a little bit of information about where Rai actually comes from. His origin, or at least the incarnation we see in this issue is on full display. It was a classical explanation, with no real surprise or innovation, but as I’ve said with other Valiant Comics, it is done in a way that isn’t boring or overly cliche.
However, I do have to say that it was far too short for me; I would have preferred something a little longer and more developed, as I’m still asking myself what really happened between what we see at the beginning of this issue and the present day of that universe. I guess we’ll see more in future issues and it does say something that I want more.
The pace is the same as previous issues; Fast and comfortable reading, although in the double sequence, between the rebel group and the talk of Rai, it was somewhat slow. It felt like a kind of energy slump compared to the rest of the comic, but nothing that kills the book.
About the general story idea, this time it is more developed and extended. Up to this point, it has been very clear who is who and their roles, but it still surprises me to see new characters show up and how they interact with the rest of the cast. Maybe there are too many of them for some peoples liking, but I guess it is just because of the crossovers going on right now.
The art was very dark this time, I’f even go as far as saying gothic. There were a lot of blue and cold tones that made me feel like I was in that desolated place, and the contrast made during the brief fight we get was just amazing. Rai #16 has a clear lack of action, but as the background story is front and center it’s not a big deal.
The inks are one thing that didn’t impress me all that much in this issue, although the style employed is excellent and looks really good. When paired up with the coloring, it added to the large number of special effects and the mandatory Sci-Fi touches we always find in these sort of issues., but alone is was a bit lacking.
What did look great and that made me look more into the panels was the lettering. It mixes naturally with the art and the overall story. It neither bothers the eye nor makes the images look heavy. In fact it’s quite the opposite as they fit their place just right and suit every element.
I’m not going to say that Rai #16 disappointed me, but this issue was a little weak in comparison to the others, both in story and art, although I must admit both were good in general terms. The ending is promising as it sets the ground for something better and so I will be waiting just for that.
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