REVIEW: DC Mech #6
DC Mech #6 sees the Justice Squadron finally working as a team against the massive front of Darkseid’s forces.
DC Mech #6, “Finale” is out, and even though this is the last issue of the initial mini-series there’s still a lot more this take on the DC Universe has to offer. The story definitely comes to an end and if this is all we get, it was well worth the ride, but hopefully there’s more on the horizon.
But before we get into the ins and outs of this issue, let’s appreciate the cover art. Baldemar Rivas depicts a harrowing scene of Apokolips about to devour Earth while our heroes helplessly watch on. Using practically four colors, Rivas is still able to make an impressive colorful cover. Having Earth in Darkseid’s literal clutches is such a great visual for the final confrontation within the issue itself.
The variant by Ricardo Lopez Ortiz is something straight out of an anime scene. Our heroic mech pilots, beaten and bloodied, look on with desperation and determination. A scene like this usually takes place right before the heroes rally for another round with their overpowered opponent which is quite fitting for this issue as well.
Dan Mora finishes out his schematic themed variants by showcasing Darkseid. As the covers suggest, Apokolips is revealed to transform into a super giant mech capable of destroying planets. Mora lays out some of the devastating power this mech can produce while a menacing Darkseid stands pridefully in front of it.
The remix variant of this cover takes the central image, tilts it to one side, and recolors it in purple. It’s interesting how those changes alter the feel and dynamics of this cover and it’s safe to say this version is much more striking.
Artist Baldemar Rivas and colorist Mike Spicer do a masterful job capturing all the elements of the final battle with Darkseid this issue. Inserting small panels of inside the cockpits instead of simply using word bubbles adds to the dynamic feel of the action sequences. The scope of scale they bring to the different sizes between the mechs and how they interact with everything is truly impressive. Nothing seems disproportionate and the vividness of colors grasps your attention and doesn’t let go.
Kenny Porter, lettered by Tom Napolitano, delivers a high stakes conclusion to this thrill ride of a series. DC Mech #6 sees the Justice Squadron finally working as a team against the massive front of Darkseid’s forces. Since Porter is playing on certain anime tropes, there is a slight bit of predictability that befits this final battle. That being said, there’s no shortage of edge-of-your-seat action and cool reveals that keeps the tension high.
The fate of all life on Earth rests in the hands of this ragtag bunch of pilots and every moment feels crucial. Even with this being an end to this particular series, Porter sets up multiple story threads that could easily lead to more delving into recently designated Earth-28. Here’s hoping this isn’t the last we see of this alternate Earth.
