Zero Instance #1 (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS)
For many players, the world of MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) games means so much.
It can offer opportunities for friendship. In some cases, a door to escape from reality. There’s many good opportunities to be had.
But what happens when the game crosses over to real life? For Rhys, he’s about to find out.
ZERO INSTANCE #1 by Frank Barbiere, Stephen Rhodes, Vic Malhotra, Lauren Affe & Taylor Esposito (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS) begins its’ thrilling horror saga.
Let’s take a closer look at what unfolds here.
ZERO INSTANCE #1 by Frank Barbiere, Stephen Rhodes, Vic Malhotra, Lauren Affe & Taylor Esposito (COMIXOLOGY ORIGINALS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Barbiere & Rhodes open with a more adventurous feel as the group of players head forth in their quest. The mood is more light-hearted as the squad gets caught up in their mission. Once they defeat the impossible boss, the writing moves the cast into the real world. Rhys is a lost soul who finds motivation in the game. His banter with his family conveys the real world problems aren’t for him. His new rogue might have something to say about this.
Readers watch as a new form of danger levels up. The tone begins to chill as haunting dialogue takes over. It gets interrupted by more of Rhys’ objections to normalcy. The story does a bit of jumping as the MMO themes rise once more. Rhys’ talk with his family comes of rocky in stages but his sole focus is on topping his gains with the game. This leads into a peculiar closing act. When word of the group’s win spreads, the push to conquer the last feat begins. The writing shows how there are new and deadly elements now in play. The result teases more with an exclamation point finish. Suffice to say, there are many moving parts here.
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Malhotra & Affe play into the game’s fantasy aspect early and often. Braxir’s full page image brings out some evil overtones. It is countered by the raid group ready for combat via full shot. Panels fill with quick action until the game ends with a shocking outcome. Another solid full page shows the victors claiming the spoils. It provides a great pivoting point before heading into the more calm state of the real world.
Rhys’ average day is more grounded with wanting more. His interactions lead to frustration of yearning to get back to the game. Speaking of which, Affe’s coloring tones welcome Braxir back with a devilish feel. His attack on a new group shows his delight in taking them out. Panels swing back to the real word as new elements come into scene. Rhys’ family time is filled with clashing ideals as his dad isn’t as accepting of his dreams. This leads into the next round of gaming. The latest match carries an uneasy sense as things become different very fast. This moves events into a shocking finish with a statement making final full page. Curious to see how this evolves from here.
FINAL GRADE: 8.6
Perception isn’t always reality as Rhys finds out in this haunting new story. The writing teases the blur between dreams and deadly consequences. Malhotra & Affe tease the horror in the midst of impressive images. There’s no need to reboot your system after seeing what unfolds here.
Let me know your thoughts on ZERO INSTANCE #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
