Another week, another sampling of 2000AD. This weeks issue continues the variation and new talent shown in previous issues.

First up, as always, is Judge Dredd. This follows the latest plot. There honestly isn’t much in the way of development or character. There have been better issues of Dredd in 2000AD. The art in particular is difficult to grasp. I know Dredd’s always had issues in the chin department, yet in some of the panels it borders on the ridiculous.

Moving on from this is The Red Seas. This series is certainly interesting. Set in a universe with magic and other bizarre abilities, its hard to understand the ‘rules’ of this setting, but that adds to the charm. The exposition helps where it can, yet in other places it is simply hilarious. Just wait until you read about the turtle.

Likewise, there’s also the continuation of Aquila. This series is also interesting, although this segment does little to build on the latter. The back-story is certainly there, and the set up for the following issues certainly adds tension and drama. As I said last time, its inclusion in a mostly scientific focused magazine is questionable, but its a more than worthy addition.

The Grievous Journey of Ichabod Azrael also continues.  A difficult, yet fascinating concept to explain, Ichabod Azrael is full of tension and atmosphere. This current segment continues from the last, with Azrael set to die again. Ending on a good cliff hanger, this issue explores the aspect of what happens when Azrael, who can’t die thanks to the absence of Charon, is killed.

Finally, there is the continuation of Lenny Zero. This title stands out in 2000AD as being unique and fleshed out well. You could argue that its borrowing of the mega-city one setting makes this easier, but its exploration of the underground criminal world is a fresh take, not in the least because its not from the eyes of a Judge. It certainly has more depth and exposition than this weeks segment of Judge Dredd.

In short, this issue builds on a lot of new titles. Its one flagship inclusion, Dredd, certainly falters in comparison, but it all makes for a good read.

3/5