Continuing the sci-fi crossover, Star Trek/Doctor Who Assimilation 2 #5 does a great job of bringing the two franchises together, whilst continuing the plot. Surprisingly, this is a very tense issue, without featuring much in the way of action.
First, the official description from Image:
The two greatest science-fiction properties of all time cross over for the first time in history, in STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION/DOCTOR WHO: ASSIMILATION2! Captain Jean-Luc Picard faces one of the most difficult decisions of his life, but the fate of the galaxy may depend on it! Can the Doctor convince him to make the correct choice?
The main appeal of this issue is the suspense. The previous issue left the Borg asking for help from Picard, which was refused. This issue deals with the Doctor’s attempts to convince him otherwise. This gives the issue great scope for character development. Various characters from both Star Trek and Doctor Who get a better fleshing out or an appearance here. Most importantly, the title takes time to explain Jean-Luc Picard’s personal history with the Borg; something I’m sure most Next Generation fans will know, but something that needs explaining to Doctor Who fans, if only for context. Still, its told effectively, highlighting depth to a character some might not be familiar with.
Furthermore, I’m not sure what it is but the art work seems a little tighter. Maybe I’m just getting used to the style, but the characters are much more in keeping with their physical appearances. Picard and the Doctor are much more defined. It’s never been hard telling who is who, but now they seem to resemble their respective characters much better.
Near the end, however, the title does bring the two universes together. Its not entirely sure if these planets all exist in the same universe, of it the Tardis is hopping between the two (since its been made clear already that Star Trek and Doctor Who are two separate universes) yet planets such as Vulcan from Star Trek and Raxacoricofallapatorius from Doctor Who are shown, plus a few more. Obviously readers of one franchise might not recognize the others, but it again adds depth to both backgrounds. Given the time travel and alternative universe nature of this title, some confusion can be expected as normal.
In short, this is a great issue that gives readers plenty to look into, whilst providing a lull moment to build up suspense and tension.
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