Void Rivals #13
Review
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist: Lorenzo de Felici
Publisher: Skybound
Release Date: October 23, 2024
Page Count: 32
Format: Single-issue
Void Rivals #13 launches an intriguing new story arc that expands the series' scope while deepening its connections to the broader Energon Universe. Though light on action, the issue excels at world-building and character development, setting the stage for the coming cosmic-level shift.
Void Rivals #13
ReviewWriter: Robert Kirkman
Artist: Lorenzo de Felici
Publisher: Skybound
Release Date: October 23, 2024
Page Count: 32
Format: Single-issue
Void Rivals #13 launches an intriguing new story arc that expands the series' scope while deepening its connections to the broader Energon Universe. Though light on action, the issue excels at world-building and character development, setting the stage for the coming cosmic-level shift.
I’ve said this many times, but it’s still incredible to witness the work being put into Skybound’s Energon Universe. After over a year of solid releases, from Transformers to G.I. Joe, the imprint has grown into much more than just nostalgia bait. Even with so many great titles already available, it’s always a treat to return to the comic that started it all—Void Rivals by Robert Kirkman and Lorenzo de Felici. This ongoing sci-fi fantasy series stands out for its rich world-building and compelling cast of characters, with each issue peeling back another layer of its fascinating universe. Now, as the series begins its third story arc, where does the narrative go from here—especially as things heat up across the other corners of the Energon Universe?
Keep on reading for my review of Void Rivals #13!
Overview of Void Rivals #13
With the goal of uniting the people of the Sacred Ring in mind, Darak and Solila reluctantly part ways. Solila embarks on a quest to uncover the true meaning of her sacred key, while Darak returns to Agorria to prepare his people for the monumental changes ahead. However, Darak’s homecoming is far from welcoming as he’s immediately brought before his father, who isn’t thrilled to see his banished son. As both sides of the Sacred Ring brace for an uncertain future, the delicate balance of power begins to shift.
Image: Skybound
Review
Void Rivals #13 kicks off the series' third story arc with multiple plotlines in motion. With Darak and Solila going their separate ways, the narrative shifts between characters, even giving us a glimpse of what Premiere Zalilak is doing behind the scenes. Robert Kirkman does an excellent job of balancing these different threads without things feeling too overloaded. Interestingly enough, even Skuxxoid’s side story gets some development through a single-page cutaway that spotlights his latest exploits. Though the issue is light on action overall, it does what it needs to build the stakes for this new arc, focusing more on character development and intrigue.
The contrast between Agorria and Zertonia is a central theme in this issue. The back-to-back scenes in these two cities highlight their stark differences in both culture and ideology. It’s interesting to see how each side fears the prophesied "unity" they’re working so hard to avoid. While Darak’s father is determined to prevent unity at all costs, Zalilak’s plans remain mysterious but seem to suggest a different approach. The issue’s final pages effectively set the stage for intriguing developments moving forward.
Image: Skybound
Lorenzo De Felici’s artwork also continues to shine in this series. Seeing Agorria and Zertonia in the same issue highlights how distinct these two worlds are, and Patricio Delpeche’s colors beautifully enhance these contrasting settings. This issue reminds me of how the artwork makes the series so exciting to explore, as every corner of it feels so richly detailed, especially with so many moving parts in a single issue.
My only gripe with this issue is the cover’s misleading focus on Pythona. While she does make an appearance, her role is far less prominent than the cover suggests, limited to the opening pages. As exciting as it is to see ties to G.I. Joe begin to weave into the Void Rivals story, I hoped for more substance in this new development. However, knowing this series, it’s likely building up for a long-term payoff, so we’ll have to wait and see how this plot thread evolves.
Image: Skybound
Final Thoughts
Void Rivals #13 marks an intriguing turning point for the series, expanding its scope while staying true to the character-driven storytelling that has made it a standout in Skybound's Energon Universe. By focusing on Darak and Solila’s unique journeys, Kirkman and De Felici craft an issue that feels both intimate and epic in scale.
As the series progresses, it’s clear that Void Rivals is about more than just the conflict between two rival factions—it’s about challenging deeply held beliefs and the painful process of forging a new path. The groundwork laid in this issue promises exciting developments ahead, solidifying Void Rivals as a cornerstone of the Energon Universe and a must-read for fans of this exciting new corner in Image Comics.
Why You Should Read Void Rivals
- Masterful world-building that expands with each issue, revealing new layers of a complex universe
- Lorenzo De Felici's stunning artwork brings alien worlds and characters to vivid life
- Integral to the development of Skybound's ambitious Energon Universe