Harbinger: Omegas #2 Review

What will Harada do now that he’s seized control of the U.S.S. Bush? Read on to find out.

The official description from Valiant:

Toyo Harada strikes back!

In the aftermath of the tragic firestorm between the world’s most powerful omega-level psiot and his wayward heir, casualties were claimed on both sides. Now, the last remnants of each opposing force – the Harbinger Foundation and the surviving Renegades – have been shattered and driven deep underground. But Toyo Harada – newly exposed as the world’s foremost superhuman – has no one left to stop him…and his greatest work can finally begin…

Toyo Harada continues to reign havoc over the U.S.S. Bush, as the rest of the world look for Peter Stanchek, the only psionic that could possibly stop him. Having gotten off to an amazing start, Harbinger: Omegas continues to intrigue in it’s second of three issues. It does however lack the sheer energy and intensity of the first, feeling more like a bridge between the enthralling introduction of the opening issue, and the ultimate clash between Harada and Peter.

Joshua Dysart has been doing a fabulous job of writing Harbinger over the last couple of years, with the former Unknown Soldier writer making it one of Valiant’s top series. Having set the premise in the opening issue, Dysart spends more time at delving into Harada’s thoughts and plans, with his narration giving depth to the story. Despite this the lack of appearance from Peter, and overall time bidding did mean that the issue felt a little dull at times, feeling rather slow.

Rafa Sandoval continues to work on the art for this mini-series, with the former Catwoman artist once again producing exquisitely detailed visuals. Having a very emotional vibe throughout, Sandoval managed to capture the depth of Dysart’s script perfectly, as despite some of the facial expressions feeling stiff, the general atmosphere was enthralling. He also manages to turn what was generally a slow paced issue, into something a little more lively, with his layouts being very eye catching. Joining Sandoval we get bold inks from Jordi Tarragona, and vivid colours from Ulises Arreola.

Harbinger: Omegas #2 may be a lot slower than the opening issue, but the wonderful narration and thrilling set-up makes it a must have for Valiant fans. Recommended.