War has broken out across the universe, and in the strategic stronghold of Upentia, tensions are rising between the human soldiers and the indigenous Atolans, forced to seek their protetction from the attacking Eritraxians.
In the midst of it all, a young soldier named Caladin meets M’Kali, a local. Brought together by the devastation of war and the seeming indifference of those waging it, a bond is formed. But when Caladin sees an opportunity to atone for his mistakes, he faces a heartbreaking – and potentially universe-changing – decision.
Set in the same universe as Stellarlands #1 (read our review HERE) but able to be read as a standalone, Stellarlands #2 is the latest from Max Ferrada (writer) and Ben Worrell (artist). It’s another engaging issue from the creatives, exploring the civilian cost of war, and asking who really shoulders the blame when things go wrong. Spoiler alert: it’s rarely who it should be.
Stellarlands #2 is a tale of stolen moments, of sacrifice, and of how simply living life can be an act of resistance. It also boasts a much more heart-warming ending than that of issue one. But, don’t be fooled – getting there doesn’t hurt any less.
In terms of series continuity, it’s more than possible to read this story as a solo issue; but readers will certainly benefit from the backstory laid out in the first issue, particularly when it comes to the universe’s corporate sponsored superheroes, and its overall history with the Eritraxians. It’s also very good, so there’s that too.
The signature art style remains strong, and the use of colour again tells its own story. The harsh yellows of the army scenes, set against the sharp whites of the higher ups. The darker hues of the city itself, where the blue Atolans fit in so much easier than they do on the brightly lit bases where Caladin spends his days. And the final scenes, where these colours are repeated but shown in harmony, instead of juxtaposition – it’s honestly quite lovely.
There’s a whole universe just waiting to be discovered in the Stellarlands series, and now’s definitely the time to jump on board.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Stellarlands #2 is out now. You can grab a copy from ComX HERE. Digital versions are also available on Kindle or Comixology HERE.
Stellarlands credits:
- Author: Max Ferrada
- Artist: Ben Worrell
- Colorist: Wilson Go
- Letters: Es Kay
- Editor: Katrina Roets
