Here are some major titles you can look forward to while you wait for your next-gen console.

The Last of Us

If Naughty Dog’s next release isn’t already on your radar, it should be. They are already making waves by taking a decidedly dark tone with their narrative and setting. The graphics, voice-work, and gameplay all also look to match up to the standard of quality we’ve come to expect from the legendary Sony developer. You can join Joel and Ellie on their perilous journey across a cordyceps-infested United States early this summer.

See the newest gameplay

Release Date: June 14

Splinter Cell Blacklist

Sam Fischer is back with more high-tech espionage and lethal assassination missions this summer. But while the single-player campaign is sure to provide thrills, the real reason you should be excited is the revamped Spies vs. Mercs multiplayer. Check out the trailer if you need some convincing.

Release Date: August 20

The Bureau: XCOM Declassified

XCOM: Enemy Unknown was a breath of fresh air in an industry saturated with First-Person Shooters. It’s combination of base-management and tactical turn-based combat hit the sweet spot as you attempted to save the world from alien invasion. The Bureau underwent a transformation from FPS to squad-based 3rd person shooter and now looks to translate what worked well in Enemy Unknown into a more action-based experience. Keep an eye on this one.

Watch the gameplay trailer

Release Date: August 20

Grand Theft Auto V

The newest entry in Rockstar’s flagship looks to maximize what is possible on current-gen software. The return to San Andreas and its surrounding area promises plenty of exploration, action, and mayhem. You can even dive underwater to seek out the ocean’s secrets and find some sunken treasure!

It’s Grand Theft Auto. Need I say more?

Watch the trailer

Release Date: September 17

Beyond: Two Souls

Heavy Rain set a new bar in interactive storytelling when it came out back in 2010. Now David Cage and his team at Quantic Dream are looking to raise it again. Beyond: Two Souls tells the story of a young girl as she goes through life with a spectral companion at her side. The graphics are second to none and players will be able to again choose the way the narrative unfolds.

Watch the gameplay trailer

Release Date: October 8

Watch Dogs

Watch Dogs is an open-world title that aims to do something different. Instead of simply carrying a firearm to do your dirty work, information is your primary weapon. You can hack databases for more information about your target, mess with traffic lights to create a diversion, and manipulate mechanized roadblocks to stop your enemies in their tracks. What we’ve seen so far is impressive and there is still a mysterious multiplayer component that has yet to be fully revealed.

Watch the trailer

Release Date: November 19

What games do you want to play before you make the shift to next gen?

1. More Sharing

Sony’s biggest revelation from their PS4 reveal was the share button. We finally have a full commitment by a hardware company on sharing content with friends via their console.  Yes there have always been 3rd party devices that allowed screen sharing and/or video sharing but this generation I want it to go even further.  I want seamless streaming to friends consoles.  I want my friends to be able to see what I see and I don’t want it game specific which brings me to number 2…

2. Homogeneous Experience

One of the big failings of this generation took place with Sony.  They decided to let console makers build their own online infrastructure.  This was a disaster.  With this console generation we need a consistent experience and expectation not only from online but from every aspect.  Microsoft successfully did some of this with Xbox Live but I suggest they take it a step further by taking the responsibility of codes and passes out of developers hands and putting it into the hardware and operating system.

3. Speed

I’m not talking speed of games or even RAM, that will come no matter what. I’m talking speed and fluidity of navigation. One of the most annoying things with current consoles is moving between apps, games, and waiting for things to load. If the big console makers can make it seamless jumping between apps, menus and games then they can have my money.

4. AI

Yes I want pretty graphics, but more than that I want smart opponents and NPCs.  We need to put the horsepower in these machines, not into fog or reflection but into making sure military guard #3 doesn’t keep firing his gun into the corner.  If you want true immersion there needs to be a dedication to creating characters that can react as realistically and consistently as possible.

5. Pretty Pixels

And of course, we want pretty games.  This is a sure thing but it couldn’t be kept off my list.  Each generation brings us prettier and prettier graphics and while I expect this leap to be less impressive than the last, I still love playing in pretty wonderlands.

Well, there you have it.  Those are my expectations for next gen consoles.  Most will happen but not all are a sure bet.  If a console maker is able to hit all of these, then I will gladly throw my money at them as I yell, “Take it ALL!!”

Ultimately though, expectation and reality have to come together. After I finished the game I, like many other gamers, had to answer the question, “Did it live up to the hype?” I think that it did, but not quite in the way that I expected. Allow me to explain.

Narrative

Ken Levine is without a doubt one of the best storytellers in the videogame industry right now; it’s almost cliche to bring it up at this point. However, if you were like me and followed Bioshock Infinite throughout its development, you discovered that what was revealed about the story and the world leading up to the game’s release were very different from the actual experience. Much was made about the topics of religion, labor and unionization, racism, and xenophobia and while each of these topics makes an appearance in the story, they ultimately serve as a backdrop to the personal story of Booker and Elizabeth. This is to the game’s credit. Rather than attempt to focus on each of these heavy themes, Levine manages to juxtapose them in just the right way so that they add to narrative without over-complicating it. The story is so layered and well-woven that a huge portion of the fun is discussing your thoughts on it with friends over social media and in web forums after you beat it.

Recorded side-stories are also back, this time in the form of Voxophones, collectable audio players that clue you in to some of Columbia’s hidden secrets. In fact, you’re probably doing yourself a disservice if you don’t take the time to find them, as they help explain some of the deeper meanings in the game’s story.

There is plenty more that I could write about what Ken and co. have managed to accomplish, but you are better served to just experience it for yourself. You can hear more of The Weekly Blend’s thoughts on it in our Bioshock Infinite SpoilerCast.

Design

One of the best things about playing Bioshock Infinite is exploring the world. Columbia is incredibly rich and detailed that you will find yourself stopping every few minutes to stop and admire a statue, advertisement, or store front. Sometimes it will even happen in the middle of a battle. Like in their previous game, Irrational has demonstrated a commitment to making art take front and center and allowed their creative team to explore every facet of their chosen direction. It is especially interesting that they picked an era of time that not many people use in entertainment media (1912), but also added their own Steampunk veneer.

However, you can also level a certain amount of criticism as well. In stark contrast to the original Bioshock, the level design is fairly linear, taking you from one moment to the next. It feels like there is a little less freedom to wander than there was in Rapture. There are also times you will forget that you are in a city in the sky; a little too often for my taste. Some of the floating “islands” are massive and there is also a good deal of time spent indoors. However, the moments when you are outside and feel like you are 20,000 feet up are breathtaking.

Gameplay

The gunplay in the game is a vast improvement from the original and you definitely feel more in control of your weapons. The sound quality and on-screen animations have been increased as well, giving your guns that much-needed punch. A hit indicator in the crosshairs is also a welcome addition. Unfortunately, the weapon selection seems fairly neutral with a simple assortment of pistols, assault rifles, shotguns, sniper rifles, and rocket launchers. Gone are the different ammo types and you are now limited to carrying only two weapons at once, Call of Duty-style. Weapon upgrades can be purchased, but more often than not they are simple augmentations such as increased damage.

Gear is where you will find the best chance to modify your gameplay style. Different hats, vests, pants, and boots grant you various abilities such as the chance to stun enemies, chain your attacks, or regain health. They are found in the environment and are acquired randomly so each player will find them at different times.

The real difference in combat comes from Vigors and it is nice to see that we weren’t simply given a reskinned version of the plasmids found in Rapture. Even a similar one like Shock Jockey plays differently from its counterpart in Bioshock and all of them provide for some unique and entertainment moments in the heat of battle. You can also combo them together for increased effectiveness (try combining Bucking Bronco and Undertow near the edge for a one-hit kill).

A brand new addition to the franchise is the skyline system, which essentially serves as a personal roller-coaster. You get a great sensation of speed and it can be exhilarating to fly from point to point along the rails. The mechanics work well and you can actually control your speed and direction with a few simple button presses. My only complaint is that the skylines were used to little in combat as there are only a few major points in the game where they are employed to their highest potential.

You can’t talk about this game without mentioning Elizabeth and her ability to open tears in the world. While this is a critical and incredibly interest component of the narrative, in combat it feels a little weak. There are essentially a few kinds of items that Elizabeth can bring through tears to aid you in battle – ammo, health, automated guns, cover, skyhooks, and allied heavy hitter enemies. The trick is you can only have one tear open at a time and it ends of feeling a little gimmicky. While the options are useful in combat, the implementation isn’t as creative as some of the early trailers promised it would be.

Conclusion

Bioshock is a landmark game, especially in terms of storytelling, character development, themes, and the richness of the world. While the actual gameplay isn’t quite as interesting or varied as its predecessor, with the help of the skyhooks and new vigors it still manages to be entertaining and worthwhile. This game is a must-buy and will set the tone for narratives in videogames for years to come.

I see the current divide in the way the two hardcore console developers approach as extremely enlightening. On one side is Microsoft. I often times begrudgingly drop my $40-$60 a year to make sure I have a consistent online experience. While 5 years ago I was happy to do this, over time the only value Xbox Live Gold gives me is simply access. The subscription is a barrier and provides no advantage for me other than letting me continue down a path I already had gone down.

Conversely you have Sony who has decided to make their paid online service additive. They have added value to my online experience instead of creating a paid barrier to entry. Online services are free, though limited compared to Microsoft, what they have done is created an enticement to pay. So far that added value has included regular discounts, free games weekly and exposure to new games I may have overlooked previously. I now regularly play discounted indie games or free games I had missed.

The idea of creating barriers to previously free things is one that has creeped it’s ugly head into a lot of things this generation. For instance, companies like EA and Ubisoft, created online passes or subscription programs that required you enter codes to be able to play their games online. They essentially took a service away by creating a barrier. (Ed Note: EA recently announced they were abandoning this method) I suggest that game developers and console makers adopt the Sony model and add value to buying their games new or paying for a service. Give players something that will keep them loyal and willing to pay money rather than make them feel like you are extracting it from them. This has been a model used by Valve on the software side for years, and it has been widely applauded. Not only that it has lead to a near cult-like devotion.

So as we look out on the PS4 and next Xbox, the question remains, will console makers and game makers be additive or barrier in their approach? And more importantly, what will we, the gamers, demand and expect?

Both issues are great, however it’s very cool to be back in current times and seeing our Ninja Turtles kicking some major Foot Clan butt! None-the-less it does jump back in time for a few pages here-and-there but never dawdles or get’s bogged down in narrative -like issue #1 seemed to slightly struggle with. I was a little disappointed that the issue didn’t touch on the cliff hanger ending that part 1 had, however it seems that both time-frames will draw closer together and eventually, hopefully fill in all the holes and questions that it asks.

As as always, the art and writing are well done, giving each character their own feel and tone while making sure that such stark differences in settings between Feudal Japan and present day New York city all feel like they come from the same world. A special shout-out to Joao Vieira for his amazing color work too!

With the announcement of the Micro-series #9 taking on the back-story of Krang and the next few issues after that taking on even more villains (one could only surmise that the Shredder will be next), it wouldn’t be a stretch to see the separate series’ extrapolate on each-other’s stories to create a more cohesive story-line. However, if you’re not a huge reader or wanting to purchase every issue of TMNT currently coming out that could pose a problem for casual readers.

If you are a TMNT fan though, all three of these series, TMNT ongoing (2011),TMNT: Micro-Series and TMNT: Secret History of the Foot Clan are highly recommended as they blend the old TMNT lore with a fresh, exciting and new take on our old friends! Personally, this storyline is actually my favorite version!

TMNT: Secret History of the Foot Clan #2, written by Mateus Santolouco & Erik Burnham, art by Mateus Santolouco, colors by Joao Vieira, letters by Shawn Lee

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The Death of the Family story arch has been one of the best, most intense reading experiences I’ve had in comics. The amount of crazy the Joker brings to the table in this story is so twisted and beyond anything I’ve ever read about him (a small rival might be when the Joker killed Jason Todd, Red Hood).

With one issue left in this story arch the reader can only speculate what Snyder has in store for the Bat Family, but i can say us that this issue was a bit of a disappointing lull in the story. Sure there were some fun moments, a flaming horse, Batman punching a horse in the face, Batman riding a horse, Mr. Freeze freezing a horse …seemed like a lot of horse-type stuff (my wife would be upset) …but I guess the Joker really likes to …HORSE around (sorry, I can’t resist a good pun)! Oh and let’s not forget a live human tapestry! But other than a few cool moments, the issue really doesn’t DO a whole lot to move the story forward.

It was nice to see what came of the Penguin, Two-Face and Riddler however it wasn’t anything of interest -Introducing these other villains was pretty gimmicky since it didn’t have a whole lot of purpose.

Lets not forget the art! Gregg Capullo has again shown how great of an artist he is, his detailed yet disturbing display of the Joker and his antics have been nothing short of stellar. Of course this series has been way above par for the course and a single issue that offers the reader some downtime can actually be nice. I may have come down on this issue a bit hard but don’t let that scare you off, this issue was still fun and I can’t imagine the the finale being anything less than astounding.

Batman #16 is written by Scott Snyder, art by Gregg Capullo, colors by Jonathan Glapion

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There is something fascinating about the unique blend of writing and still-frame art coming together that delivers an incredible experience – and comics have some of the best writers and artist around. Reading some of the higher quality comics is somewhat akin to walking through an art gallery while being narrated by Morgan Freedom…ok, that’s a little hyperbolic. Even so, it’s a small wonder that Hollywood continues to draw inspiration and source material from the comic world.

The cream rises to the top, though, and my colleagues and I decided to whittle down our choices for the Top 5 Comic Issues of 2012. This year has also been unique for me as I usually don’t read issue to issue; I prefer trades. However, thanks to the wonders of the Comixology app, I’ve been following several storylines. These are the ones that stood out the most:

5. Hawkeye #1Matt Fraction’s take on the un-super member of the Avenger is a fun and refreshing direction to take, especially for hardcore fans who are chest-deep in capes and cowls on a weekly basis. Essentially, we get to follow a somewhat down-on-his-luck and mopey Clint Barton through his everyday life away from the Avengers. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t get into trouble, though. The rest of the series fell off a bit for me as it went, but issue #1 was different enough for me to take notice and deserves a place on this list.

4. Batman AnnualI had no idea what an annual was and totally missed out on the release of this issue among the New 52 Batman arc. It is essential reading for the simple fact that it takes a well-known Bat-villian and makes him even more sinister in the best way possible.

3. Avengers vs. Xmen: Infinite #6AvX was a summer blockbuster event of epic proportions, with each issue trying to outdo the next. Infinite #6 departed from the norm and dialed down the bombastic tone to focus on main antagonist Cyclops’ motivations. The digital-only issue also made great use of its platform, delivering a psuedo-motion comic experience.

2. Thor #3Thor has never really been on my radar, not counting the recent titular movie and The Avengers, so I’m as shocked as anyone that it’s this high on the list. I recent checked out the Marvel Now series based on the recommendation of the guys over at the Comic Sans podcast and I couldn’t be more impressed. The art and storytelling are both top-notch and the approach to the epic, space-faring narrative is incredible, spanning 3 time periods. Of the four issues that are out so far, #3 is by far my favorite for several reasons, not least of which being the following panel:

1. Batman #13Joker is over-used. The main Bat-villain seems to play a part in just about every story arc in Gotham ever, and while he is a compelling character and often has great moments, I wasn’t really that excited for his return. Scott Snyder changed all that. He took once of the most menacing, frighting, and purely psychotic villains Batman has ever had to face and upped the ante. In fact, he upped it to the point where even the Joker’s own lover and Overly Attached Girlfriend, Harley, is frightened of him. While many people cite what goes down at the police station as their favorite moment, it was Harley’s scene in the factory, as well as in the epilogue, that made this my favorite issue of 2012.

DC

BATMAN #16

WRITER: Scott Snyder
PENCILS: Greg Capullo

From the DC website
“DEATH OF THE FAMILY” continues!
Batman heads into his showdown with The Joker as the madman’s plan is finally revealed – in Arkham Asylum!
It all lead’s into next month’s terrifying conclusion!
And in the backup story, in the midst of The Joker’s assault on Batman and his allies, get a secret glimpse into what started The Crown Prince of Crime on his horrifying journey!

Sam’s notes: Snyder and Capullo have redefined the Joker in a way that no one expected. One of the best Batman runs in years continues. Highly recommended.

MARVEL

CAPTAIN AMERICA #3

WRITER: Rick Remender
PENCILS: John Romita Jr.

From the Marvel website
1930: Witness the birth of a legend! How did Steve Rogers, a 98 lb weakling, earn his courage?
NOW: With the fate of a world hinging on his victory Captain America must defeat the barbarian lord of the Phrox!
MEANWHILE: Arnim Zola’s plans move forward, cursing Steve Rogers for years to come.

Sam’s notes: It’s nice to see Cap going in a new direction in this series, a very comic book feel to the story. Worth a look.

DARK HORSE

BLACK BEETLE #1

WRITER: Francesco Francavilla
PENCILS: Francesco Francavilla

From the Dark Horse website
Black Beetle’s investigation of two local mob bosses is interrupted when a mysterious explosion murders them and a pub full of gangsters-taking out most of Colt City’s organized crime in one fell swoop. Who could pull off such a coup, and what danger might that murderous bomber do to Colt City and Black Beetle?

Sam’s notes: Francavilla takes on writing and art duties on Dark Horse’s newest pulp hero. Highly recommended.

–

http://twitter.com/SamLacina

I was actually lucky to be able to track down a copy in one of my two local stores (Thank you Danger Room Comics) since it’s virtually sold out everywhere else …and in short, I’m very glad I did. This is the Star Wars comic I have been waiting for.

The series picks up right after the events of Yavin IV between Star Wars: A New Hope and Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back, and explores the struggle of both the Rebel Alliance attempting to find a new base and the Empire scampering to reorganize after the destruction of their first Death Star. What’s great about this series is that it affords the opportunity to take a deeper look at the motivations and feelings of many of the main characters that the fan-base has come to know and love. This particular issue touches on most of the main cast, Luke, Leia, Han, Chewie, Darth Vader and yes, even Wedge Antilles -Don’t get too attached though, I’ve heard through the rumor mill not to count on such a wide swath of characters in future issues, and will be narrowing it’s focus (and it’ll be even better for it).

With such great exploration of characters and story by Brian Wood and supported with beautiful art by Carlos D’anda & Gabe Eltaeb I can’t recommend this series highly enough to any Star Wars fan out there -not to mention that the $2.99 price tag that comes with a free digital download for each of the first 3 issues, makes it difficult to argue about putting it on your pull-list. Make sure to track down issue #1 and at least give this series an honest go!

Star Wars #1 is by Written by Brian Wood, art  Carlos D’anda, colors by Gabe Eltaeb and cover by Alex Ross

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This miniseries has breathed fresh air into the dated villain of Shredder and his clan. Part 1 pulls no punches as it shows the origin of the Foot and their leaders beginning; not to mention showing how bad a** the Shredder really is. Since TMNT has never really delved too deep into this history it’s great to see how it all comes together. As a side-note, if you haven’t read TMNT #5 (2011 ongoing) I would avoid reading this until you’ve read up to at least that point.

The plot is great, however boarders on being too mystical, although if you stick through it the payoff is amazing and serves to tie the series together -though it does serve to raise some questions about some possible holes in the story. I won’t go into detail though in order to avoid any possible spoilers. I’ll just say that it in no way has detracted from the ongoing story and that even with the possible plot holes it creates, it does more positive than negative things for the story.

Santolouco’s and Burnham’s writing fits perfect with the tone of the TMNT ongoing series while Santolouco’s and Vieira’s art, in my opinion, actually exceeds the the ongoing’s art (at least since Dan Duncan has left).

The Secret History of the Foot is a brilliant addition to the TMNT series and is highly recommended for any fan!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secret History of the Foot Clan #1 Written by Mateus Santolouco & Erik Burnham, art by Mateus Santolouco, colors by Joao (Azeitona) Vieira and letters by Shawn Lee.

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I would have loved to include the final panel of this issue, however it’d be pretty spoiler-heavy and only serve to ruin it for any reader still waiting to catch up -I will say that the shear presence that it creates rivals the sprawling panel from issue #3 that has received such high acclaim.

I do have to say that although Jason Aaron is writing a GREAT story, Ribic’s art and  Svorina’s colors are what really clinch it as my top current series. I found myself studying each panel’s colors and lines on every page. I admit, I’m a sucker for art, but without any hyperbole I can say that these books contain some of the coolest and well colored illustrations I’ve seen in a while!

Written by Jason Aaron, art by Esad Ribic, colors by Ive Svorcina

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I had been reading and hearing a lot of people saying that they’ve loved the new run and I would just blow it off, but after hearing that it’s gotten especially good in the past couple issues I decided to give it a shot and WOW I was not disappointed.

I was a bit lost in the story as a major disaster had just happened but I was quickly caught up to speed on what is an awesome story arch that involves multiple big-name Justice League members, and it then introduces you to a character I had no familiarity with, Aquaman’s brother!

The art is outstanding, consisting of a lot of shading (which I’m a big fan of), great color and some really cool character design!

This is one series I may have to go back and catch up on.

Aquaman #15: Written by Geoff Johns, Pelletier and art by Thibert

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Taken from the children’s book of the same name, the Hobbit follows the story of Bilbo Baggins at a much younger age. He faces the decision to leave the shire and take off on a journey that will shape who he is and will shape the future of those around him forever. On his journey, he is tested and exposed to things of wonder he never thought existed. It is truly a story of discovery.

Let me start by saying I have never read the source material or seen any of the cartoons spawned by the book. I am also not The Lord of the Rings aficionado that others I know are (I’m looking at you Lasse Lund). That said, I thoroughly enjoyed the original trilogy despite its flaws of bloated story telling and melodramatic acting. This first journey holds many of the same problems. Jackson loves his sweeping vista shots and uses them ad nauseum. While they are beautiful it seemed like overkill and many of the shots could have been taken directly from The Lord of the Rings trilogy. In many ways some of the wonderment was lost due to having already been exposed to Jackson’s realization of Middle Earth.

That said the movie is beautiful, well shot and a fun journey. Jackson has captured the look and whimsy of the world in a way that it makes you feel like places like the Shire and Rivendale actually exist in some distant land.

Now one of the more controversial steps Jackson took in his adaptation of the fairly short children’s book was to stretch the story over 3 long movies. He was able to do this by adding in threads of other Tolkien writings that tie the story into the future events of The Lord of the Rings. And for the most part he is successful. Sure there were times I just wished he’d move the story along, and yes the aforementioned sweeping vista shots were used too many times, but I never was truly bored. Even the opening act which mainly takes place in Bilbos small home, and which lasts nearly an hour, was filled with so much fun and unique characters, that I never was bored. I’m sure this was partly due to the fact I had no idea what was going to happen next. And because is was my first time meeting the many new characters and motives.

One major flaw that does come out the decision to combine different Tolkien works to lengthen the experience, is the tone of the movie. It often feels like the movie can’t decide if its a light hearted kids movie or an epic journey that will change Middle-Earth forever. This makes moments that I’m sure are perfect for a children’s story feel out of place. Just one such example was a specific moment when Bilbo faces down a trio of trolls that reminded me of the three stooges. While it was a fun sequence it quickly switched to a scene where Bilbo and company were being chased by vile blood oozing orcs. It just felt awkward and I can’t help think that setting a tone for the movie and sticking to it would have helped the movie feel more cohesive.

That said journeying back into the world of Middle Earth was nothing short of delightful. The characters, story and setting make up for the few shortfalls in pacing and tone that the movie struggles with. I am now putting the next part in the story of Bilbo Baggins at the top of my ,use see movies next year.

Frame Rate
I’ve decided to add my thoughts on frame rate since its been quite the controversy. You see,the Hobbit is one of the first movies to be filmed at 48 frames per second, twice the speed of other films. I saw the movie at the “normal” 24 frame speed because that was the only non-3D version offered in my area. For the most part it was fine and looked like every other film. That said it did have a few moment of stuttering issues in large sweeping pans and some CG had a slight stutter. Its caused by a problem with shutter angle when you downscale frame rates from the source material. Honestly most people won’t notice the slight stutter but I thout I’d mention it.

It’s a simple concept really, “what does an Avenger do when he’s not being an Avenger?” Since Clint has no real super-powers he’s one of the few heroes that is a simple man once he takes off the uniform. Almost every one of the issues starts with Clint setting out on a goal (e.g. labeling and organizing his arrows or setting up his DVR), and then the adventure that ensues because of it.

This latest issue was the crowning achievement of the Hawkeye series so far. Having a cameo by Tony Stark in the issue too is a great way to remind us that these men are exactly that, men. The underlying issue for Clint as him and Tony struggle through the process of installing his DVR comes to pass as Clint refuses to throw out his old system just because it’s broken and cobbled together. It’s a metaphor for himself. Here’s a man struggling to maintain his usefulness to the Avengers and society as he ages.

I believe this series could be a great exit for Hawkeye as we know it. Possibly becoming a lead in S.H.E.I.D. or what-not, but an exit none-the-less that leads to him becoming Clint Barton, leader of men. It’s readily apparent in every issue as he finds that he is an example to the tenants of his building by just being himself. It’s beautiful. You don’t have to don a costume and bow to be a hero. You can be one by being a friendly, helpful neighbor.

I know I’m not alone in saying this, but if you’re not reading this series, you’re really missing out on some wonderful story-telling and art. Speaking of which, Aja’s art is outstanding. He keeps it simple which matches the story telling, but (like in the picture here) has fun and in some panels even pays homage to old side-scrolling Marvel games! It’s brilliant, engaging and a lot of fun.

Hawkeye #6 written by Matt Fraction, art by David Aja, colors by Matt Hollingsworth and letters by Chris Elipoulos

I’ve never thought about the Batman/Robin relationship in the metaphoric sense until this issue when it’s brought to “light” by the Joker and frankly, it blew my mind. The amount of depth the Joker is able to get to is by far-and-away some of the most creative and horrifying truths to the Bat-Family and us as the reader. (START SPOILER) As the Joker cradles a dead Robin during his dialogue with Damian it became apparent to me how sick and twisted his mind is; however as the conversation continued it also showed the pure genius behind him (END SPOILER).

The art in this issue takes it up a notch, I’d even say that Gleason’s art is beginning to rival Capullo’s. Damian’s character has a perfect balance of a small child, however his posture and presence gives you the sense that there’s more too the 10-year old child as you move from one panel too the next. A great example of this is in the set I’ve included at the top. On the flip-side I was stunned by the “turned my frown upside-down” and “pez” moments, both grossly and artistically. I can’t even put into words how grossed out, yet intrigued I was.

The entire Batman series, Batman, Nightwing, Batgirl, Batman & Robin, and Red Hood and the Outlaws has become must-reads for me as every issue reveals another horrifying yet amazing truth behind the Joker and the Bat-Family. I’ve never read anything as deep as this in a comic and I cannot wait to see how this story-arch ends.

Batman & Robin #15 is by Peter Tomasi with art by Patrick Gleason & Mick Gray

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This series has been by far the most action-packed and well-written in the New 52 DC line-up. Having followed Batz through the Court of Owls and now into the midst of the re-introduction of the Joker, this series has not rested in the slightest.

It’s interesting to see the evolution of the series as Snyder first introduced a brand new villain for his first arch and now has reverted to Batman’s oldest and well-known foe, Joker. This beautiful dichotomy has really read well since both are mysteries Batman has struggled to solve, and in all reality, he hasn’t fully unraveled the the Court of Owls yet. You have to wonder if he’ll be able to figure out what the Joker has in store for the Family as well.

Greg Capullo’s art continues to amaze as I struggled to not snap pictures of every gorgeous page, and then attempted to narrow down my favorite non-spoiler panels. His beautiful lines make for some truly grotesque scenes -even my wife was grossed out by panels but couldn’t seem to look away from his art. Bravo.

This series can’t be recommended enough. Make sure to have your local comic shop put this on your pull-list.