Much like the Doctor himself, the Doctor Who Classics Series offers a glimpse into the past. In this case, its a recolored reprinting of an older story. Whether you’ve read it before or haven’t, its certainly an insightful look into the various comics of the past.

First, the official description from IDW:

IDW’s newly recolored reprints of classic Doctor Who tales from years past, this time featuring the SIXTH DOCTOR, concludes! The Doctor, Peri, and Frobisher deliver a present to a jazzy birthday bash, only to unleash a self-replicating robot that threatens the planet in “The Gift.”

If you’re familiar with this story, then nothing has changed except the updated colours. If you haven’t, its certainly an interesting read. The plot relates back to some older science fiction concepts, and shows signs of its ageing at times. For example, not many comics today would feature a wise-cracking talking penguin, but somehow Doctor Who Classics Series 4 #6 pulls it off in a the cheesy, hilarious manner the older series were known for. After all, this is based on a tv show originally known for utilising ‘men in rubber suits’ fairly regularly.

The plot and setting itself is also alittle more on the ‘unbelieveable’ side; its not something that would stand well as a modern and new comic. Yet it provides a refreshing look at the past, standing out from its modern counterparts distinctly.

Likewise, its older age means an older Doctor. In this case it is the sixth incarnation. Every Doctor Who fan has a favourite Doctor; which one that is will drastically alter your perception of this individual title. Whether he’s your favourite or not, the sixth certainly has his uniqueness, and its shown in varying success here.

If you’re not a fan of the sixth Doctor, or the earlier TV shows, then there are still some advantages to this title. Primarily, this is because, as a comic, it can avoid some of the budget and practical issues that were common in the original show’s production. Namely, this includes various robots and the talking penguin.

In short, its classic Doctor Who. If this is something that interests you, the new colouring makes an old favourite much more distinct and clear; well worth adding to your collection.

3.5/5