Sud666's Reviews > Kingdom Come

Every once in a while you run across a truly spectacular comic book. This is certainly the case with Kingdom Come. Wonderful story, great artwork, and a thought-provoking premise.

This may strike many as the same basic idea behind Injustice. I'd say Injustice borrowed the concept from this far better work.

It takes place in the rather nebulous "Elseworlds" universe of DC. But do not hold that against it. In this dystopian branch of the timeline, society has become progressively morally decayed. The traditional values of the Superheros such as Superman and Wonder Woman were seen as outmoded and behind the times. A new breed of villain required a new breed of super-hero. Enter Magog. Magog kills where Superman does not. In light of the fickle public's reaction the old-breed retire.

This is the setting for the main story which takes place decades later- the time of the super-hero is now. The grand-children of the old heroes and villains have now spread out amongst humanity and are rather common (a strange jab at the sheer number of different comic heroes of today's comic market?). Violence is rampant and these beings fight for the sake of fighting without a care for the "lesser" humans around them. A dying man makes an apocalyptic prophecy and it ushers in the return of the old heroes. But power does corrupt no matter who wields it and for what purpose. Even the good and the brave are not immune. That's all I shall say.

If you've not read this truly great comic- do so. Waid deserves credit for a thought-provoking tale. From start to finish this is a serious look at the powers of these beings and the potential consequences of such power regardless of the morality underpinning it. Few comics manage this. The artwork? Gorgeous! Beautifully painted scenes really capture the grandeur of this story. Highly recommended.