My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic #26 Review


The Cattle Rustler arc comes to a close! Does Sheriff Applejack and the rest of the ponies deliver a solid conclusion? Let’s take a look.

Here’s the official description from IDW:

All plans to stop the Cattle Rustler gang have failed! Hope seems to be in short supply in the small town of Canter Creek. Luckily a new sheriff is in town? Applejack!

The previous issue established the story very well. The ponies are always ready to help others in need, which is one of the many reasons why they’re some of the most likable characters in existence. This issue sees them devise a plan to make sure Longhorn and his Cattle Rustler Gang don’t take over Canter Creek. While not quite as incredibly written as #25, it’s still another fun read.

MyLittlePony26-coverBOnly Katie Cook can have the ponies devise such a comical plan that it actually works on paper. This is both good and bad depending on how you look at it. Longhorn for the most part was established as a competent, calculating villain, but here he approaches near Scooby-Doo level type of antagonist. Still, he has some memorable dialogue. One of the most hyped things about this issue is that Applejack becomes sheriff. This does happen, but it isn’t made to be a big deal as it should have been. It was definitely a missed opportunity for something very cool.

Andy Price once again delivers some impressive art. My favorite panel is the facial expression Applejack makes when she says, “Wait a minute, I have an idea.” Absolutely priceless. The main cover by Price is a humorous and excellent Western-style piece. Cover B by Agnes Garbowska is pretty nice. While not as visually striking as the main one, it’s appealing for those wanting to see the ponies in a Lone Ranger-like setting. The RI by Chan Chau is the odd one out; it has nothing to do with the story and the way Rainbow Dash is drawn makes her look like a stallion.

Overall, a solid conclusion. While I would have liked to see more of Sheriff Applejack and perhaps a less comical story, it’s nonetheless another fantastic read from beginning to end.

OUR RATING
9
  • +Great Writing
  • +Great Art
  • +Putting ponies in a western setting is ingenious
  • -Applejack as a sheriff wasn't as explored as it should have been

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