Rogue Trooper #2 Review

After a successful, atmospheric first issue, Rogue Trooper #2 has a lot to follow on. These early issues can make or break a title, so where is this title going?

The official description from IDW:

The legend begins! Genetically engineered to wage war on a poisoned planet, the G.I.s were wiped out during their first deployment against the Norts. But one lone soldier survived the Quartz Zone Massacre, and his Souther creators want him back… dead or alive! IDW is proud to re-introduce Rogue Trooper in this all-new series!

In short, I’d say this issue is a success. It takes the atmosphere from the first issue, such as the sense of loneliness, the various war themes tied into the setting and the mysterious gunman element, and continues to wrap it up in a grungy, bleak landscape. These elements work well and Rogue Trooper #2 reads well, looks great and offers a well thought-out product from start to finish.

A large part of this is down to the writing. Blue/Rogue is an odd character, as he is alone aside from various talking weapons. Luckily, Brian Ruckley introduces other people and opens up some great dialogue without losing the sense of isolation in the process. The ensuing action is also tense and dramatic, rather than just a cheap excuse for guns and explosions. Ruckley gets the setting and keeps the point of view very much on the titular character.

Visually, the title also holds up well. Alberto Pontecelli has a well defined style and, as seen in this issue, a flare for small environments and complicated action panels. This is heightened by Stephen Downer’s colors, which contrasts the bleak greys and greens with the bright smurf blue of the protagonist. It’s an odd combination but it offers something different and highlights the unique aspects of the hero. However, while the range of colors aren’t diverse, the lighting and shadows make it less noticeable.

All in all, it’s a very solid product and shows plenty of hope for the series ahead. It keeps to all the hall marks that make Rogue Trooper great, but it always makes sure to be interesting and gripping at all times.