Invasion is imminent! Hostile forces have overtaken a remote moon and are in the midst of uncovering a secret base that holds the key to a delicate intergalactic alliance. It is up to superhero Anvil Liza to thwart the enemy’s plans and in the process maintain balance in the universe.
Launched via Kickstarter, Stellarlands is an exciting new homegrown sci-fi comic book series. Headed by writer Max Ferrada and artist Ben Worrell, issue one follows Anvil Liza (alias Daffney), a superhero sent to a forgotten moon to retrieve important intel before an alien army can find it. But, of course, intel isn’t the only thing she finds there.
Without giving too much away in terms of story, it’s a really solid read. Clocking in at 52 pages, Stellarlands #1 reveals plenty about the universe we’re set to explore, while tugging on darker themes alongside the expected fun that inevitably comes with superheroes vs aliens.
Advertisements pop up amongst the action too, a nice touch that brings to mind the commentary of projects like Borderlands, Invincible, and even Mass Effect – “I’m Anvil Liza, and this is my favourite store on this abandoned moon” really wouldn’t be out of place here. The final ad – for a state of the art rehab facility – is especially poignant, adding even more depth to the unfolding narrative.
The art is great too, and I particularly loved the blues and greys of the snow covered moon, contrasted against the bright orange of Anvil Liza’s supersuit – not to mention the explosions and blaster shots that seem to naturally follow her wherever she goes.
Stellarlands #1 is a promising start for the series, and with issue #2 already on the way, now’s a great time to get a head start on an exciting Aussie indie title.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Stellarlands #1 is out now, with issue #2 coming soon. You can grab a copy from ComX HERE. Digital versions are also available on Kindle/Comixology HERE.
Stellarlands credits:
- Author: Max Ferrada
- Artist: Ben Worrell
- Colorist: Wilson Go
- Letters: Es Kay
- Editor: Katrina Roets
