Aphrodite IX 5 review

The last issue’s ending was quite the cliffhanger. The genetically enhanced humans were under attack from the cyborgs after three of their four leaders were assassinated. Aphrodite, a cyborg assassin from the past, managed to partially gain control over herself and stabbed the green spot on her cheek, somehow knocking herself out. That’s where this issue began. The first four issues were awesome, so let’s see if this one satisfies.

This issue was slightly disappointing, but still good. Aphrodite’s self-inflicted stab wound severed the connection to her cybernetic handler and she immediately regained some of her memories. Despite being hated and hunted by the genetic humans, she manages to inspire their last remaining leader to lead a counter attack. Aphrodite herself charges in, guns blazing. The battle seems to end far too quickly however, and the genetic humans don’t seem to do all that much.

The remainder of the issue finishes up the plotline while leading into the next story arc. It’s decent and throws in a few ideas for future storylines, but there isn’t all that much suspense yet. The character drama feels a bit rushed, but it still works. The real highlight of this issue is the artwork though. Every panel has a painted feel to it, and sometimes the character and environmental detail almost looks real. There’s a good use of blurry backgrounds that give a real sense of motion. This is easily the best looking book I picked up this week.

While this issue was disappointing, it’s still worth reading for anyone who’s read the first four issues. The concept of this series is simply awesome – a post-apocalyptic war between cyborgs and genetically enhanced humans, starring a character from the past with touches of both. If that sounds the least bit interesting, check this series out.