Archie and the gang are back with the second issue of this new run for Oni Press! This time Archie gets his priorities mixed up after he was a server at a Riverdale High School reunion. Trying to figure out the true meaning of life has him not studying for an exam and going to a movie with Betty instead. As his mix up continues, he ends up botching it with the test and Betty. Meanwhile, Jughead also ponders the meaning of life and we get to know the homes and families of Riverdale.
Archie #2 – Written By Ben H. Winters – Art By Fábio Moon – Colors By Jason Wordie – Letters By Andworld Design – Edited By Bess Pallares – Published By Oni Press
Credit: Oni Press
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
WRITING:
This issue focuses on the meaning of life and what Archie and the gang interpret that as being. Ben H. Winters does an awesome job of setting this up with a high school reunion. Allowing Archie and the gang to see what happens with adults that they don’t normally have contact with. Listening to two people who have a completely different view on life confuses Archie, and in true Archie fashion this leads to mishaps and hilarity. Winters really gets the essence of the Archie franchise and even though the story is updated we get the same great messages as the original series always gave. As the issue plays out and Archie makes his mistakes, his parents finally reveal the real answer. Winters interjects this easily and without having to shoehorn this in. This allows for the story to be fun, as well as still carrying great morals.
On top of the main story, we get another entry into Jughead’s Diary. Much like the main story, Jughead deals with the question of what life is. But this plays out in a very Jughead way. Staying true to not only the character but also keeping the fun and entertainment coming. Not to mention there is a surprise ending to this that will pay off in a future issue. Lastly, Winters gives us a look at some of the homes and families of Riverdale. This helps build up the world without sacrificing main story space for it. A truly ingenious choice which will pay off dividends as the series goes on.
ARTWORK:
The artwork in this issue captures the look and feel of Archie, well also updating it to modern times. Fábio Moon does an excellent job of giving us the world and characters we are familiar with, well at the same time updating them to today’s standards. The mix of nostalgic character and set designs, with some modern touches feel like a breath of fresh air. Moon makes Riverdale and its inhabitants come to life on every page. Jason Wordie’s colors also give the updated nostalgic vibe to the artwork. The familiar color schemes instantly trigger your brain to recognize them; well the expanded color pallet also says that this art is modern.
CHECK OUT MY REVIEW OF ARCHIE #1
Final Thoughts:
Archie #2 is another fun and thoughtful installment that proves this new run understands what makes Riverdale special. Ben H. Winters balances humor, heart, and meaningful lessons as Archie and Jughead wrestle with the meaning of life in their own distinct ways. Fábio Moon and Jason Wordie complement the story with artwork that feels nostalgic yet refreshingly modern. With strong character moments, clever world-building, and a surprise that promises more to come, this issue is an easy recommendation for longtime fans and new readers alike.
FINAL GRADE: 9.4/10
Let me know your thoughts on Archie #2 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
