World War V and Werewolf by Night Deliver Chilling Horror

2024 is more than halfway through, and so far, it’s been a significant year for comics across the board. This trend shows no sign of slowing down, especially considering this week’s new comics. In the latest episode of ComicBook Nation’s The Pull List, the hosts discuss and break down some of the week’s most anticipated releases. This includes the latest in DC’s Absolute Power and Marvel’s new era of X-Men. This week also features a horror double-header with DC vs. Vampires: World War V and Werewolf by Night. Additional discussions cover a wide range of books, including a major reveal in Iron Fist.

It’s not exactly Halloween yet, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a few of the scarier sides of the comic universe while we wait. This is true for both DC and Marvel this week, as DC releases its latest entry in the DC vs. Vampires saga, World War V. Meanwhile, Marvel brings back Jack in Werewolf by Night, and both are first issues, though they serve different purposes in the grand scheme of things.

DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1 catches readers up on the fragile truce between humanity and the vampires, ruled by Barbara Gordon. However, not all is well within the Vampire conclave, as Damian Wayne is attacking his kind and threatening their empire. He isn’t exactly a defender of humanity either. This push and pull between factions make the issue and this universe compelling, especially as an unexpected ice age forces alliances and assumptions out the window in a quest for survival. This makes World War V a great first issue, but it’s more rewarding if you’re already invested in the world and its characters. It is new reader-friendly, but those who followed along previously will get more out of it.

Werewolf by Night serves as a complete onboarding for new fans and those who might only know the character from the MCU’s special presentation. Jack Russell gets a big introduction for fans old and new, along with his world and supporting characters. The issue even incorporates Blood Hunt and deals with its immediate consequences, making an intriguing setup to build upon, especially with Elsa Bloodstone and The Hood involved.

The latest releases in X-Men’s From the Ashes era and DC’s Absolute Power event are also notable. This week sees two new books for these respective stories. Despite some disappointment with the X-Men relaunch, both X-Men #2 and X-Factor #1 move things in the right direction. X-Men #2 offers an energy boost, and a Juggernaut Railgun adds to the excitement.

On the Absolute Power front, Task Force VII #4 is a rare miss for the series. While it’s okay, it doesn’t add much to the larger storyline, even though Failsafe remains a compelling character. In contrast, Green Lantern #14 is significant for the event and enriching for the characters and world. If you pick up one tie-in this week, make it Green Lantern.

This week’s comic releases include:

• DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1
• Werewolf by Night #1
• X-Factor #1
• X-Men #2
• Task Force VII #4
• Green Lantern #14
• Iron Fist 50th Anniversary Special #1
• Vengeance of the Moon Knight #8
• Spider-Boy #10

Trade releases to watch this week include:

• Superman: Lost
• Wonder Woman: The Adventures of Young Diana TP
• Blue Beetle Vol. 1: Scarab War! TP
• Batman / Superman: World’s Finest Vol. 3: Elementary TP
• Rare Flavours TP

It’s a packed week for comic book fans, filled with thrilling new releases and ongoing stories that are hard to ignore. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting into these series, there’s plenty to look forward to and enjoy.

Source: ComicBook