TERRORBYTES #3 (Mad Cave Studios)

A man is sentenced to prison without knowing what his crime even was. But, the lesson he will come to learn is that sometimes you can’t change the system, you must fit into and work with the system.

Terrorbytes #3 - Written By Mark Russell – Art By Alberto Ponticelli - Colors By Ellie Wright – Letters By Carlos M. Mangual - Edited By Mike Marts - Published By Mad Cave Studios

Credit: Mad Cave Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

STORY OVERVIEW:

A group of robots are searching a post-apocalyptic city and come across a strange screen. When one of the robots’ interfaces with it, it discovers it’s a journal of a long-gone prisoner. The prisoner whose name is Ezra explains how he was arrested and convicted of a crime without knowing what he did wrong. He explains how he learns how the prison is in order and how it actually works. He also figures out that the prison is geared towards keeping you incarcerated forever, through owning more time when you can’t pay. So, he comes up with a plan for him and his four other cellmates to escape. Will his plan work or will he learn a different life lesson all together?

WRITING:

This issue offers a powerful message that encourages readers to reflect on a variety of topics. Mark Russell skillfully presents a story that provokes thought and challenges readers to consider their own experiences. Throughout the narrative, the struggle against a system of injustice is a central theme, highlighting how attempts to confront such a system often lead to even greater adversity. This idea resonates universally, as many can relate to the feeling of being defeated by forces beyond their control.

Another notable theme in the issue is the tendency to become lost in distractions. The story addresses how easily individuals can lose focus, caught up in the conveniences of the world. Despite these significant messages, the issue remains highly entertaining, blending its deeper themes with an engaging plot and a compelling twist that keeps the reader invested throughout.

ARTWORK:

The artwork in this issue is striking and plays a crucial role in immersing readers in the story's unique setting. Alberto Ponticelli skillfully depicts the bleak environment of the prison, effectively conveying the sense of despair and hopelessness that Ezra experiences. The illustrations vividly bring out the emotional weight of incarceration and the struggle it creates for the protagonist.

Ponticelli also excels in the scenes featuring the robots as they interact with the journal, expertly portraying the post-apocalyptic world in which the narrative unfolds. The futuristic style and atmosphere of the artwork enhance the sense of time and place, making the setting feel authentic and engaging.

Ellie Wright’s coloring further elevates the visual experience. Her work complements Ponticelli’s art, ensuring that each image stands out and captures the reader’s attention. The colors are carefully chosen to match the mood and tone of the story, helping to make every panel memorable and impactful.

Final Thoughts:

Terrorbytes #3 is an entertaining and thought-provoking issue. Terrorbytes is becoming one of the best anthology series on the shelves and this issue is yet another solid entry in the series. If you are looking for some good one and done stories that carry a message, you should think about picking up a copy at the LCS this week.

FINAL GRADE: 9/10

Let me know your thoughts on Terrorbytes #3 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!