TITANS #31 (DC Comics)

The Titans might be Earth’s last hope.

With the events of DC K.O. unfolding, Darkseid’s return feels inevitable. Nightwing, Beast Boy and Raven are all off planet. Starfire is back on Tamaran. Cyborg was eliminated in his attempt for the crown of “Absolute Champion”. This leaves Arsenal and Donna Troy to hold down the fort.

Too bad nobody told them that Grail was en route to celebrate the dark lord’s return, and she didn’t come alone.

TITANS #31 by John Layman, Pete Woods, & Wes Abbott spirals out of control from the events of DC K.O.!

Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening now!

TITANS #31 by John Layman, Pete Woods, & Wes Abbott (DC COMICS)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Layman hits the ground running for this latest tie-in. After the brief recap of where everyone is, the story speeds into Grail’s attack. It is presented with a feverish pitch. Donna Troy's response fires up the defensive plan. Readers watch as the pair try holding their own against the overwhelming odds. Knowing the odds are not in their favor, Layman never lets the heroic notion escape the pages. It does come to a halting moment as one succumbs to the odds. This fallout leads to an interesting proposition which has a few directions to grow. The same can’t be said for Nightwing and Raven.

The battle of Gemworld slides further away from victory. Jinx’s manipulations are easily handling the non-powered vigilante. Where this portion finds its strength is in the never-ending conflict between Raven and Terra. If familiar with Titans Lore, this is a true “Fight Forever”. Layman presents it with the “desperate times” theme in his writing. Readers watch as Terra keeps her intentions close to the vest. It’s what makes her such a unique character to the Titans. The fallout reveals its’ true nature as events sink further into hopelessness. Where this all goes from here remains to be seen.

READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!

Woods opens with a strong full image of the team in action. The glimpse of better days switches into the dire present fast. Grail makes her presence known via half page panel. It is responded to by Troy and Arsenal with a full page battle cry. The action gets very chaotic as the numbers game takes over. Readers watch as the strikes come very fast at the pair. The same vibe is aslo noticeable on Gemworld.

Nightwing’s sparring with jinx becomes overmatched rapidly. It does concede to Raven and Terra’s dialogue. Their intense dislike shines on each panel. This helps to set the stage for their attempt to slow down Jinx. Coloring makes many of these panels jump out before its’ thunderous conclusion. The near full shot ushers in an uneasy fallout. Readers don’t wait long to see how events play out here. A full page image cements how fast hope is slipping away. It compliments the Earth dilemma as the Titans feel the weight of failure getting heavier.

FINAL GRADE: 8.3

Things go from bad to worse for all the Titans as Darkseid’s forces impose their will. Layman’s writing leans into the classic Titans lore for its’ strongest moments. Woods brigns the action with energetic panels that push the heroes forward. A very steady issue that sets up more for down the road.

Let me know your thoughts on Titans #31 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!