REVIEW: 'Katabasis' #1 by Damien Becton, Rodrigo Rocha, and Salvador Pomar

Katabasis #1

Writer: Damien Becton

Artists: Rodrigo Rocha, Salvador Pomar

Letters: Dezi Sienty

Publisher: Blackbox

Release Date: December 18, 2024

Cover Price: $9.99

Demons can't get into Heaven, Angels can't get into Hell but Juniper can. Juniper was once the deadliest mercenary on Earth, but then something went wrong. Now, trapped in a vegetative state on Earth, she's tasked with using her skills to save a soul from the Underworld. Realizing she doesn't need permission to play God anymore, Juniper decides to take matters into her own hands. Should they go to Heaven or Hell? Or is there another option?

Score:

★★★★1/2 (4.5/5)

Katabasis #1 kicks off with intense action as Juniper, an assassin, attempts a daring rescue in the land of the living. This sets the stage for her journey into Purgatory, where the mythology of souls and the realms of Heaven and Hell is unveiled. Juniper possesses the unique ability to traverse these realms, opening up rich storytelling possibilities.

The narrative expertly weaves Juniper’s tragic backstory with her emergence as a powerful warrior adept at battling demons. Accompanied by the angel Zadkiel, who assigns her missions, Juniper displays a tough exterior but a protective instinct, especially towards two young girls who play a crucial role in the story.

The artwork is striking, depicting a transformed Juniper in Purgatory, adorned with scars and a fierce costumed look. Her powers are visually captivating, utilizing shadows and teleportation, enhancing the comic's dynamic action sequences. The monsters in Purgatory are hideously designed creating a frightening sequence of rampaging beasts. Rocha's ethereal depiction of Purgatory and Pomar's vibrant colors create an intriguing and dangerous fantastical aesthetic.

Katabasis #1 delivers an action-packed narrative, introducing a compelling new character and thrilling fight scenes. It's a fast-paced launch with an action title full of promise that hits the ground running.

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