G-Men United #5 - G-Man Comics

G-MEN UNITED No. 5, November 2024

Financed through the crowdfunding platform “Kickstarter” to the tune of $5,033 back in August 2024, those 77 backers who pledged for Issue Five of “G-Men United” were probably almost overwhelmed by the quality of the various stories contained within this anthology comic book. In fact, many doubtless found it difficult to find anything to criticise when it comes to the forty-page periodical’s considerably-sized content, courtesy of some pulse-pounding penmanship by the likes of Rik Offenberger, Chris Squires, Jim Burrows, and Eric N. Bennett.

However if pushed, many a bibliophile may well point to the tome’s narrative concerning Agent Squires and Kid Terror as the 'cream of the crop', due to their paths intermingling with the short-lived plots of several of this publication’s adventures – starting with the wonderfully written “Generation Gap”, where the duo’s humour-filled banter with one another proves incredibly entertaining, and impressively also continues to progress this title’s ongoing storyline involving the fascist criminal mastermind, Rothlander; “This is music.? I thought you ran over a cat!”

Following on from this tongue-in-cheek tale is the much more serious “Temptation”, in which Offenberger manages to cleverly show the significant difference in morals between the aforementioned non-powered F.B.I. operative and the slightly shady protagonist Mateo Martinez. Featuring some awesome layouts by Samir Simao, which genuinely help emphasise the pair’s disparity, it soon becomes incredibly clear just why Squires was asked to mentor the late Jamal Rashed’s vengeance-obsessed son, as opposed to an overtly violent super-hero who debatably kids himself into thinking he can use the ‘good graces’ of his department’s arch-nemesis against him.

Lastly, this comic’s final yarn once again taps into the naïve jesting of the young, by depicting Kid Terror, All-American Kid and Pollita confronting the reasonably formidable Firebomb in Washington D.C. To be perfectly honest this is a pretty straightforward affair, where the adolescent trio are badly underestimated by their fiery foe. But despite such relative simplicity, Bennett’s script once again serves to show just how trustworthy Agent Squires is as a role model for the G-Men’s upcoming generation, as well as how proud the man can be of the kids' achievements when they skilfully apprehend their opponent using combined tactics and teamwork. Furthermore, who can’t love the ever-effervescent Mary Willams Tapia been dynamically drawn by Joshua 1:9 Holley excitedly shouting “Pio! Pio!” in every other panel..!?!

The regular cover art to "G-MEN UNITED" #5 by Dave Matsuoka

Highlight #4 - G-Man Comics

HIGHLIGHT No. 4, November 2024

Considering just how many super-powered characters Gilbert Monsanto throws at his audience in Issue Four of “Highlight”, it’s rather impressive that the periodical’s thirteen-page plot still manages to make the titular character its focal point. Indeed, arguably many a writer may well have succumbed to all sorts of temptations with so large a cast, and relentlessly flung their readers all over the place with a plethora of head-swirling origin stories; “From across all realities, they come. They are their worlds’ most brilliant minds.”

Happily however, the former chief instructor for Whilce Portacio’s comic creation school in Manila controls just such an urge by largely concentrating upon some of the issues Highlight is currently struggling with as a visitor to both our dimension, and the human form. Furthermore, the opening sequence contains some ominous foreshadowing as to what the hero’s future might hold, and this mysterious potential attack upon his life rather intriguingly sits at the back of the bibliophile’s mind throughout the rest of the publication.

Of course, the best part of this comic is unequivocally Red Halo’s ability to surround her comrade-in-arms with a small army of “selected detectives from different corners of the created realities”. This so-called League of the Minds conjures up an almost insurmountable number of questions as to just who each colourfully-costumed protagonist is, and the promise that these queries will be answered in the forthcoming battle for the persistently tormented Multiversal-Man’s sanity should have onlookers hooked for a fair few more future instalments to come.

Rounding off this particular publication is Monsanto’s secondary yarn “Welcome To The Jungle Dark!”, which depicts the always foul-mouthed Sgt. Flag and Joe Dragon desperately attempting to rescue a congresswoman from a mythical land just outside Beringan city . Gilbert does a good job in penning some nice verbal interplay between this tale’s leads, and also manages to pencil some cracking splash pages to boot – most notably a pin-up just before the adventure starts which showcases the artist’s ability to imbue all his figures with resonating dynamic life, and an inventively angled illustration which shows the two G-Men tackling a forest full of wonderfully imaginative Mushroom Men.

Story & Art: Gilbert Monsanto, and Story Assist & Letters: Eric N. Bennett

Sgt. Flag #4 - G-Man Comics

SGT. FLAG No. 4, November 2024

Arguably focusing more upon the trials and tribulations of a reality television show filming crew rather than this comic’s titular character, Rik Offenberger’s script for Issue Four of “Sgt. Flag” quite wonderfully captures all the restrained frustration found inside a super-hero having to do his difficult day-job under the scrutiny of the media’s spotlight. Indeed, such is Rob McFarlane’s increasing infuriation with Will White and Marcus Sherlock’s constant questioning and criticisms, that by the time the colourfully costumed Federal operative encounters an old Afghanistan veteran-turned-weapons dealer, the protagonist's barely contained fury is truly palpable to the reader; “There. Is that enough PG-13 for ya..?”

Likewise the audience should enjoy a fair amount of tongue-in-cheek humour, courtesy of some great one-liners from the rather straight-faced Agent Squires. Much of Christopher’s complaints about the naïve movie-makers exactly mirrors Flag’s own reservations. But when the security G-Man suddenly starts unfolding a giant inflatable splat calculator at the scene of a suicide bomber, and then later gets grumpy when the “idiots” misinterpret his request to prepare themselves for an attack by readying themselves to just film it, it’s surely going to be hard for many a bibliophile not to start laughing at the highly-trained martial artist’s evident impatience.

Equally as well done as all this twenty-page periodical’s pulse-pounding set-pieces, is the American author’s ability to make its more quieter moments feel just as authentic. This prodigious penmanship is perhaps best seen either when White and Sherlock decide to interview some of the other licenced meta-humans who work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation - so as to obtain a better picture as to what McFarlane’s team-mates think of working alongside him - Or after the pair verbally criticise Flag for “drinking on the clock” and for once, the former U.S. Marine Corps sergeant opens up as to the pressure he faces “Every. Single. Day.”

Finally, a considerable amount of this publication’s success also rests upon the shoulders of Gilbert Monsanto, who seemingly pours his heart and soul into making this book feel like a docuseries of some kind. The freelance artist is excellent in imbuing all the high-octane moments with plenty of explosive bang for the buyer’s buck. However, it’s the little things, such as Director Jameson’s obvious doubts as to the bankability of his department’s so-called social media superstar which help make each cast member’s motivations and physical behaviour much more believable.

The regular cover art of "SGT. FLAG" #4 by Stefani Rennee

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #9 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 9, November 2024

For those comic book fans who thoroughly enjoy their senses being smacked straight on the snout just as soon as they open up their latest read, Rik Offenberger’s narrative for Issue Nine of “Simon N. Kirby: The Agent” should land very well. Indeed, combined with an absolutely outrageous mass fist-fight which occurs inside a criminal-laden Tiki Bar towards the end of the publication, this twenty-page periodical’s beginning is arguably pure perfection – and should genuinely draw a sigh of exhilaration from any perusing bibliophile as alleged team-mates Sergeant Flag and Vencejo stand toe-to-toe with one another trading punches.

Just as exciting however, has to be this edition’s covert operation to locate the nefarious Tiki Man and bring “the Kingpin of the Underworld” into custody for questioning. Focusing on the feminine wiles of a disguised Pocahontas, this admittedly dialogue-driven sequence is packed full of tense, threat-laden verbal exchanges, and does a marvellous job in highlighting both how nasty a villain the mask-wearing hoodlum can be, as well as just how close to a painful demise the young Federal Agent actually gets; “Why don’t you come over to my table while I figure out what to do with you. I insist. If I decide you’re trustworthy, I’ll let you leave.”

Of course, probably the most eye-catching event within this comic is the aforementioned smackdown on the drinking club’s malodourous occupants by the titular character’s numerous comrades-in-arms. This rather one-sided battle was clearly a great chance for Offenberger to pen some of his creations (alongside others) having a blast whilst thumping a good dozen roughnecks in the mouth, and the American journalist appears to grab the opportunity with great gusto.

Prodigiously cramming all these adrenalin-fuelled antics into the confines of each printed panel is Gilbert Monsanto, who masterfully manages to capture the look and feel of the medium’s Bronze Age with sensational aplomb. Whether it be Rob McFarlane’s colourfully-costumed alter-ego genuinely appearing to be about to smash the reader straight in the face with this comic’s opening splash page, or the closely-confined combat between The Agent and the Tiki Man in a night-time alleyway, the artist manages to bring every movement to dynamic life with his top-tier pencilling.

The regular cover art of "SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT" #9 by Stefani Rennee

Invictus: Outrage #4 - G-Man Comics

INVICTUS: OUTRAGE No. 4, November 2024

For those bibliophiles unfamiliar with the events leading up to Jim Burrows’ script for Issue Four of “Invictus: Outrage”, the Editor-in-Emeritus quickly puts them in the picture with a comprehensive summary on this comic’s inside front page. This succinct ‘scoop’ proves absolutely essential to any reader ‘not in the know’, as once the action starts - courtesy of the Minions deciding they can do without murderous member Brut rather than have the central protagonist wrongfully imprisoned - the audience are thrown head-first into a rolling sea of numerous characters, political intrigues and fast-paced fist-cuffs.

Arguably the most beguiling of these head-spinning shenanigans is all the double-dealing taking place between the hyper-influential Midnight Blue and her killer cronies, who quite surprisingly appear to have some sense of moral obligation despite brazenly brutalising to death any “out of control” super-powered vigilantes they deem corrupt. This genuinely adds some enthralling depth to the former model’s personality, as well as an extra element of complexity to the world which the mogul is so desperately trying to disagreeably manipulate in her favour; “Some idiot framed Outrage! And MB News has to cover it! I have to! That idiot needs to be caught. Eliminated.”

Furthermore, this twenty-page periodical’s policing procedure sub-plot will almost certainly throw many in the audience a complete curve-ball, once it’s been revealed just how well played the likes of Falcon’s Federal investigators have been by the storyline’s central villains. Indeed, this surprising switcheroo is marvellously penned by the American author, and should cause much gnashing of teeth in some quarters at the sheer injustice of Agent Jardin’s initially-compelling case being completely dismissed ‘out of hand’.

Energetically pencilling all of these sense-shattering scenarios is Gilbert Monsanto, who truly seems to step up his game when it comes to sketching the obligatory slug-fests in this publication. Of particular note has to be the cruelly clinical demise of the Enforcer, whose neck is cold-heartedly snapped like a chicken wing by the behemoth Brut, and Outrage’s subsequent battle against the purple-hued monster towards the comic’s conclusion. In addition, the Pasay City-born freelance illustrator’s colour work is top notch, and helps add an almost ethereal sheen to Moneypenny’s computer-generated physical form.

The regular cover art to "INVICTUS: OUTRAGE" #4 by Gilbert Monsanta

Lynx #5 - G-Man Comics

LYNX No. 5, August 2024

Tackling the rather enthralling (and arguably disconcerting) question as to whether a known child killer should “face the justice system or street justice”, Rik Offenberger’s narrative for Issue Five of “Lynx” quite understandably contains some deadly serious set-pieces. True, the American author does inject this comic with the occasional moment of humour, such as when Mateo Martinez wishes he owned an actual ‘Lynxmobile’ with which to drive into action. But the central theme ensures that much of what takes place within its twenty-pages is delivered with plenty of gravitas and solemnity.

For openers, the relationship between the colourfully-costumed Federal Agents and Police Department appears to be as prickly as a reader might expect, especially when the titular characters are authorised to take over a local officer’s investigation. This tension is so well-written its palpability quite literally leaps off the printed panels, and it should come as absolutely no surprise to the audience that the disheartened cop turns to some distinctly shady help in order to rectify the situation; “Mascaras Asesino is killing kids in the neighbourhood and you’re drinking coffee. I don’t want your money, and we aren’t friends.”

Equally as well penned though is debatably the handling of Hombre Pinata, who considering is dressed like a walking, papier-mâché container crammed full of sweets, is completely convincing as the resident vigilante who is determined to ensure that Columbia Height’s latest mass-murderer doesn’t slaughter any other adolescents. In fact, Jorge Pérez’s colourfully-costumed alter-ego, and his no-nonsense ‘rule of law’ will doubtless resonate with many a bibliophile whose own faith in their judicial system has taken a bit of a battering.

Undeniably doing their part to help Offenberger sell the sheer brutality of “Retribution” are Alan Faria and colorist Teo Pinheiro, who together provide this publication with plenty of beguiling visuals, including somehow imbuing the aforementioned Senor Pinata with all the physical heft of a genuine neighbourhood heavy. In addition, it will be difficult for some in this comic’s audience not to wince when Pérez attacks “the man who killed Ricardo Tapia’s daughter” with a barb-wired baseball bat, and quite literally puts the sports accessory right through Asesino’s torso.

The regular cover art to "LYNX" #5 by Alan Faria

G-Men United #3 - G-Man Comics

G-MEN UNITED No.3, October 2023

Containing five stories, or six if the rather mischievous Editor-in-Chief is to be believed in his foreword, there can surely be little doubt that Issue Three of “G-Men United” certainly gives plenty of bang for its buck. Indeed the anthology comic is an excellent example of Rik Offenberger’s ever-expanding universe, with all manner of imaginative costumed crime-fighters, demi-gods and deities depicted battling fire-breathing dragons, fending off murderous forest beasts, and even becoming the centre of attention for an unscrupulous boss of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; “She could be the world’s greatest champion, or the end of all life on Earth. I’m only going to have one chance to win her trust.”

Foremost of these adventures though is undoubtedly “Fire!” which sees the Agent cajoling poor Maya Santiago into mentoring the potentially deadly Atomik Bombshell. Penned across just eight pages, this yarn does an excellent job of showing the super-heroine’s nervousness at tackling such a great responsibility, as well as quickly hurling the audience into a seriously high-octane scrap against an impressively sketched giant winged serpent – complete with Sister Flag trying to blow the mythical beast away with a hand-held bazooka.

Somewhat slower paced, simply on account of Taranis excitedly showing his beloved Dara the splendour of his “long-missed home”, Avalorr, is Eric N. Bennett’s fantasy-based tale “The Eyes of Esh-Kar”. Rather intriguingly touching upon the central protagonist’s chauvinism, or perhaps his lady’s ungratefulness at being rescued just prior to her being mauled to death by a sharp-toothed monster, there’s a fair bit of character development to be found within its dungeon & dragons-flavoured doings which helps bring artists Ron Williams and Victor Raniery’s wonderfully sketched medieval metropolis to vibrant life.

Lastly, many a bibliophile may well be enthralled by the third instalment to “The Night Lili” due to the ongoing narrative quite neatly dealing with both the aftermath of the True Knight’s injuries battling against a dark-hearted demonette, as well as setting the super-heroes up for a rematch. Initially, this refight appears to be a bit of a one-sided affair, courtesy of Red Halo’s involvement. But all is not what it seems when it's revealed that the original Astor’s body is disconcertingly “beginning to be someone” else, and resultantly the nefarious Lili can’t simply be banished to another realm just yet.

The regular cover art of "G-MEN UNITED" #3 by Stefani Rennee

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #8 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 8, May 2024

Having previously established Doctor Rottman as a criminal stooge of the fascist corporation Rothländer Industries, Rik Offenberger’s high-octane opening to Issue Eight of “Simon N. Kirby, The Agent” probably put a fair few of the comic’s eighty-eight backers in something of an awkward frame of mind. For whilst the skeletal-looking scientist arguably receives some ‘just rewards’ at the hands of the bloodthirsty Brotherhood when the far right terrorists mercilessly blow up his A.I. research facility and plug him with a barrelful of bullets, many a bibliophile will probably still go on to cheer the tiny alien Ariel-51 as the little green extra-terrestrial subsequently attempts to save his fiendish friend’s life.

Impressively however, such an intriguing play on the reader’s emotions doesn’t stop there either, as the American author cleverly places the evil Murder Hornet at the centre of the explosion’s aftermath in the guise of an ‘avenging angel’. This role enthrallingly traps the audience between momentarily supporting either the band of merciless militants who gunned down “Mister Skeleton”, or the cold-blooded killer Henry Rothländer – neither of whom actually display even the slightest modicum of human decency or kindness.

Adding another layer to these sense-shattering shenanigans is the handling of the titular character and Sgt. Flag, who together provide this rather serious twenty-page periodical with some much appreciated humour and action. The two crime-fighters genuinely appear to bicker with one another like an old married couple whenever they’re given any leisure time. But when the chips are down, and Kirby is cruelly shot straight in the chest by an unseen assailant, there can be no doubting the strong bond between the colourfully-costumed F.B.I. agents; “Rob, I left my shield in the back seat, Can you grab that for me.? AGCK!!”

Perhaps this book’s biggest asset though lies in all the Machiavellian machinations which Offenberger weaves into his narrative and lurks just beneath the surface. On the face of it, this publication’s plot could simply be seen as a straightforward tale of ‘tit-for-tat’ policing, where having committed a horrendous crime the “mostly ex-military” members of the Brotherhood are lawfully detained by the United States’ security service. Yet such a view genuinely does the publication’s penmanship a great disservice, as the likes of Director Jameson and Rothländer continue to confound the G-Men with their whimsical web of treachery, misdirection and murder.

The regular cover art of "SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT" #8 by Gilbert Monsanto 

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #7 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 7, October 2023

Arguably depicting one of the most disagreeable characters in Rik Offenberger’s fictional roster, Issue Seven of “Simon N. Kirby, The Agent” certainly must have made it plain to the seventy eight backers who supported “G-Man Comics” successful "G-Men Unleashed" Kickstarter in August 2023, that things at the Federal Bureau of Investigation were not going to run all that smoothly under newly appointed Director Jameson. Indeed, as the titular character himself states to a bemused Agent Squires early on in the tale “He’s trying really hard to make me dislike him.”

This tension between Agent Kirby and Sgt. Flag with their “new boss” really is incredibly well-presented by the American author, courtesy of some seriously sharp-tongued exchanges between the three men. Of particular interest though is the FBI’s senior leader openly boasting to the Agent about his close, special relationship with the fascist criminal industrialist Rothlander. This arrogant admission appears to be a blatant attempt to goad the G-Men squad’s colourfully-costumed supervisor into directly challenging Jameson’s top position within the security service, and smacks of the freshly-appointed director wanting to have someone much more loyal to him running his field missions.; "You act like you have a choice! That's an order, marine!"

Also providing this twenty-page periodical with another intriguing hook is the arrival of the Boo Crew, and the mistaken belief that the spooky-looking antagonists were robbing a bank – as opposed to them simply wanting to register as super-heroes and the staff freaking out at their ghastly appearance. Apparently based upon a brand of Monster Cereal from the Editor-in-Chief’s childhood, there’s a genuine sadness to the unfair predicament of the vampire, ghost, werewolf, mummy, and Frankenstein’s Monster lookalike, even if they do eventually live up to their Silver Screen cinematic counterparts towards the end of the story when physically pushed into a corner.

Desperately trying to squeeze all these sinister shenanigans into a single instalment is Gilbert Monsanto, who does a top job pencilling Jameson as an egotistic dictator that seemingly goes well out of his way to stir things up within his own department. Furthermore, the illustrator does a smashing job of adding plenty of detail to even the smallest of his panels, not least of which is the director’s coffee cup having a hornet on it – which foreshadows "Murder Hornet 2.0" shockingly joining the G-Men at the publication’s cataclysmic conclusion.

The regular cover art of "SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT" #7 by Joshua 1:0 Holley

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #6 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 6, May 2023

For those bibliophiles unfamiliar with events leading up to the death of Terror Noir, as depicted in Issue One of “Lynx”, this particular twenty-page periodical’s premise of exploring its aftermath and wrapping up “the mole storyline with Michael Infantino” might seem a little daunting. But whilst this “kind of buddy cop movie version” comic initially focuses upon the quite literal demise of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Interim Director. It soon sets this ongoing narrative aside in favour of a genuinely pulse-pounding piece which sees both Agent Kirby and Sgt. Flag battling more rambunctious robots than a reader will find at the Wolfsburg Volkswagen Factory in Germany.

Indeed, having disconcertingly disclosed the treacherous Jameson as Murder Hornet’s latest pawn inside America’s domestic intelligence and security service, Rik Offenberger suddenly completely changes the atmosphere of this book into a far more tongue-in-cheek affair, with Rob McFarlane’s colourfully costumed alter-ego genuinely providing a fair few belly laughs throughout its remaining storyline; “Ha! Are you @#$%£ing me?! General Nuisance?! That has to be the worst @#$%£ing code-name ever!”

Just as clever though, has to be the American author’s ability to surprisingly revert this publication’s tone back to a much more serious one, following the titular character’s somewhat shocking capture by “a massive quantity of androids.” Initially, Simon N. Kirby’s battle inside a Seabucks Coffee house appears to be going so well that his regular comrade-in-arms is shown actively trying to drag the fight out because he's enjoying it so much. However, once a modern-day Nazi officer arrives with an army of mechanical thugs in tow, the ‘sport’ in the superheroes’ predicament is quickly replaced by concern, and a shockingly solemn defeat.

Notably “making the eye candy” for such a roller-coaster of a comic is Alan Faria, who does a tremendous job of pencilling some truly jaw-dropping fight sequences - such as when Sgt. Flag seemingly completely loses it whilst slicing through his robotic attackers with a giant double-handed sword. In addition, the Brazilian artist does a stellar job in illustrating the sheer size of General Nuisance’s base of operations, and the subsequent carnage that ensues when the rest of the G-Men arrive to rescue their incarcerated leader.

Writer: Rik Offenberger, Artist: Alan Faria, and Letterer: Eric N. Bennett

Lynx #4 - G-Man Comics

LYNX No. 4, May 2024

Whilst Issue Four of “Lynx” may well carry the name of Mateo Martinez and Maya Santiago’s alter-egos across the top of its cover, Rik Offenberger’s script for “Broken Wing” is most definitely all about the enthralling origin story of Vencejo and Pollita. In fact, in many ways, the titular characters are arguably portrayed as the ‘bad guys’ in this book, due to the super-duo disconcertingly bringing the aforementioned unregistered vigilantes into custody; “Let him go and I’ll go into foster care. Don’t punish him.”

Equally as disturbing though, has to be the decidedly underhand behaviour of Director Jameson, who disagreeably uses the ‘father/daughter’ bond between his two current captives to his advantage. Both Vencejo and Pollita’s backstories are extremely heart-wrenching, and despite the minor becoming a crime-fighter at an incredibly young age, it is difficult not to have great sympathy for their predicament with the Authorities. Resultantly, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s leader forcing Lynx to swear loyalty only to him if he’ll release his prisoners smacks of pure evil, and seemingly does not bode well for anyone concerned with the future of Washington DC's caped agent's programme.

Somewhat surprisingly given all these serious shenanigans, this twenty-page periodical also contains some genuinely laugh-out-moments, most notably the running gag of Mateo needing to get a “cup” after an enraged Pollita kicks him squarely in the nether regions. In addition, there’s some wonderful tongue-in-cheek fun to be found with this comic’s opening action sequence as the quite literal firebug Fuego realises he’s clearly bitten off more than he can chew by confronting Martinez, and weirdly attempts to take some moral high ground over the protagonist’s willingness to risk people’s lives simply to take the villain down.

Visually adding an incredible amount of ‘bang for your buck’ in this publication are Alan Faria’s layouts, which are absolutely crammed full of dynamic action – even when Ricardo Tapia is simply feeding his adolescent protégé at McTasty’s and discovers the homeless girl can’t yet read. The Brazilian illustrator also imbues the luchador Vencejo with all the aggressive angst an audience might expect from a man whose own beloved child was brutally murdered by cold-blooded racketeers, and this helps generate plenty of sympathy for the rogue vigilante when he’s later ambushed by the G-Men.

The regular cover art to "LYNX" #4 by Alan Faria

G-Men United #4 - G-Man Comics

G-MEN UNITED No. 4, May 2024

Definitely providing this anthology comic with a strong opening is Rik Offenberger’s insight into just how well liked a super-hero can actually be by their fellow team-mates, when even Meredith Fremont’s foster parents never dared tell her “no” for fear of the emotionally volatile crime-fighter accidentally killing them! Indeed, despite much of this eight-pager demonstrating just how deadly Atomik Bombshell’s powers can be, especially when facing three highly impotent members of the eco-terrorist group Cilantro, the real story is how difficult the likes of Lynx finds it working alongside someone who can generate, manipulate and absorb deadly radioactive energy without a moment's thought.

Much more stately and majestic is Eric N. Bennett’s “Tales Of Otherworld”, which proves to be a predominantly dialogue-driven visit to the High Court of the Gods of Avalorr. Full of all the ritualistic pomp and ceremony a reader might expect from such a medieval-flavoured gathering, this particular yarn ends on a cracking cliff-hanger as King Nuada Silverhand’s guards are suddenly assailed by an army of flaming Fire Trolls just as the royal household’s formalities are finishing; “To Arms! Avalorr is under siege! Aenyr has returned -- And the walls of the city burn!”

Surprisingly serious for a storyline pencilled by cartoonist Joshua 1:9 Holley, “Adoption” does a good job of mixing up the tongue-in-cheek antics of Pollita and Kid Terror as they struggle to behave whilst on Agent Squires’ watch, with the judiciary drama of Vencejo attempting “to adopt an eight-year-old girl who isn’t a relative.” Well-penned by Offenberger, this light-hearted look at a serious subject matter also shows just how deviously demanding and disconcertingly manipulative the FBI Director, Peter Jameson can actually be too.

Lastly this book contains a good old-fashioned punch-up involving Taranis and the Norse God of War, Tyr. Unlocked as a mini-comic bonus during the publication's successful Kickstarter in February 2024, this no-nonsense adventure is written/drawn by Lee Gaston, and initially pits the two deities against one another, before pairing them together when a giant-sized Jötunn decides to invade Midgard. Filled full of jaw-wrenching fists straight to the head, and an impressive team effort against a colossal-sized foe, most bibliophiles will surely enjoy just sitting back so as to let this formidable bout of fisticuffs take them on an entertaining ride.

The regular cover art to "G-MEN UNITED" #4 by Ron Williams

Sgt. Flag #3 - G-Man Comics

SGT. FLAG No. 3, October 2023

For those comic book fans who want to simply enjoy a titular character essentially going on a twenty-page killing spree then Rik Offenberger’s narrative for Issue Three of “Sgt. Flag” should definitely fit their bill, courtesy of Rob McFarlane’s solo suicide mission aboard an alien spacecraft. True, this publication doesn’t resultantly contain too much in character development for the “one-man extraction team”. But it does rather delightfully depict a super-hero who for once actually “enjoys the violence as much as the reader does”, and quite novelly relishes the challenge of facing almost certain death too.

Furthermore, in between the high octane action sequences and increasing extra-terrestrial body count, this periodical does quite surprisingly still manage to show some deeper insights into its secondary cast – most notably Christopher Squires, who genuinely appears to care for the smart-mouthed gunslinger so much that he actually attempts to persuade Flag into refusing Simon N. Kirby’s assignment. Indeed, considering just how loyal the F.B.I. operative has been to the G-Men’s leader in past storylines, his sudden willingness to rebel against his boss' wishes produces a genuinely shocking moment.

Of course, all eyes will predominantly focus upon McFarlane’s desperate attempt to reach both the space invader’s hangar and engine room, before facing the disconcertingly mysterious Alien Singularity who kidnapped Atomik Bombshell. This series of head-long “Bonsai!” battles does not disappoint, with the protagonist impressively utilising all manner of man-made firearms and witty wisecracks, as well as the little yellow spacemen’s own advanced weaponry, against his would-be assailants; “More bugs! And it’s not even my birthday!”

Ultimately, such an intense rodeo of a ride in a comic debatably lives or dies on the quality of its artwork, and Gilbert Monsanto's dynamic drawings do not disappoint. There’s a palpable energy to the freelancer’s pencilling which really adds to such instances as Sgt. Flag’s less than subtle infiltration of the UFO, the visible concern Agent Squires has for his comrade-in-arms, and even the draining physical cost to Mummy Girl’s utterly exhausting teleportation tricks. In fact, the illustrator’s double-splash of Rob gunning, kicking and crushing his abundant foes simultaneously is well worth the cover price of this book alone.

Written by: Rik Offenberger, Art by: Gilbert Monsanto, and Letters by: Mike W. Belcher

Sgt. Flag Meets Tomorrow Girl #1 - G-Man Comics

SGT. FLAG MEETS TOMORROW GIRL No. 1, June 2024

Potentially viewed by some as just a straightforward, tongue-in-cheek romp “across the Indieverse” which highlights the super-heroic rosters of several other self-publishing authors, Rik Offenberger’s narrative for Issue One of “Sgt. Flag Meets Tomorrow Girl” is arguably so much more, largely thanks to the comic’s insights into the likes of Christopher Lewis Squires and Mummy Girl. Indeed, the Federal Bureau of Investigation operative and his four thousand-year-old comrade-in-arms debatably steal this book’s show, with the perplexing pair sticking together through ‘thick and thin’, even after they’re seemingly stranded for all eternity in the Superverse.

Much of this attraction is undoubtedly due to the strong sense of loyalty displayed by Agent Squires, and the heavily-bandaged undead Egyptian’s willingness to sacrifice her supernatural life essence so as to get their profoundly fatiguing joint mission completed. Coupled with some enjoyable, cheeky banter between the duo towards the periodical’s end, and this mutual respect for one another’s strong sense of professionalism and honour quite literally leaps off the printed page.

Rivalling this ‘double act’ though are the titular characters, who provide both a brisk, whistlestop tour of “G-Man Comics” more enigmatic and mythical realms, as well as some genuinely laugh-out-loud one-liners; “Leave me the %@!£*$ alone! I gotta job to do!” The ever foul-mouthed Rob McFarlane proves especially grumpy during the twosome’s furious, headlong chase to capture the fiendishly fast Cockroach, and few bibliophiles will surely fail to take a modicum of pleasure from Sgt. Flag rather satisfyingly winding the criminal teleporter with a brutal blow to the belly, when he finally catches him up.

Probably this publication’s biggest draw however, may well lie within José Henrique Pereira’s marvellous layouts. Richly coloured by Teo Pinheiro, Hique’s prodigious pencilling appears to incorporate as many elaborately attired caped crime-fighters as the Brazilian can muster within each individual panel, and resultantly generates a vibrant, heavily-pigmented feast for the audience’s eyes. In addition, the merging of Tomorrow Girl’s Manga-looking world with the much more traditional sketched style of McFarlane’s universe is achieved with plenty of panache and aplomb, making neither protagonist jarringly stand out whilst residing within the other crusader for justice’s respective dimension.

Written by Rik Offenberger, with Jim Burrows & Eric N. Bennett contributing

Sgt. Flag #2 - G-Man Comics

SGT. FLAG No. 2, May 2023

In many ways a straightforward no-holds barred scrap between the titular character and Pteranodon-like super-villain Omicronbie, Rik Offenberger’s script for Issue Two of “Sgt. Flag” still manages to provide the ex-sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps with some enjoyable development. In fact, “Virus” seems to show a genuinely remorseful aspect to the ordinarily arrogant special agent’s personality, whether it be his sorrow at seeing the grotesque, crucified corpse of a dead comrade-in-arms, or slightly tongue-in-cheek acknowledgement as to Christopher Squires’ comprehensive clean-up operation following the hero’s most recent mission; “Sorry, didn’t know you were so touchy about the kid.”

Equally as intriguing as Rob McFarlane’s growth though, is the brief insight into the sadly short-lived career of Mister Mystery and the mask-wearing operative’s decidedly deadly first encounter with his eventual murderer. Looking somewhat like an amalgamation of the Green Lantern and Riddler, the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) operative’s special abilities are surprisingly never shown on the printed page. However, even in this comic's fleeting flashback, the predominantly jade-coloured character should still create a few exciting possibilities as to his crime-fighting capabilities in the mind of the more imaginative bibliophile.

Ultimately however, Offenberger’s “love to letter to my favourite Nineties’ comics, with all the macho action that made them famous” succeeds thanks to its breathtakingly frantic finale in which Flag appears to be repeatedly cornered by his would-be-killer, only to snatch up yet another well-placed firearm or grenade. This chase sequence, claustrophobically contained within the gung-ho G-Man’s rental home is absolutely captivating, and will surely force any reader encountering it to hold their breath quite literally until McFarlane has smashed through the building’s upper-floor window and subsequently blown it sky high with a spectacularly 'loud' splash-page explosion.

Of course, adding much of the dynamism to these marvellous moments is Gilbert Monsanto, whose phenomenal pencilling really adds a dangerous raw edge to both Rob’s attitude and belligerent behaviour. The former chief instructor for Whilce Portacio’s comic creation school in Manila makes it crystal clear with his sketching that a foul-mouthed Sgt. Flag is purely out for revenge, and cares little for the chaotic collateral damage his hot-headed plan will cause – except perhaps the non-return of his security deposit.

The regular cover art of "SGT. FLAG" #2 by Mike Gustovich

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #5 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 5, June 2022

Providing an intriguing insight into the technological development of Simon N. Kirby’s cutting-edge super-suit inside the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Washington D.C. field offices, Rik Offenberger’s script for “Aktion!” must have ticked a lot of boxes for comic book fans who simply enjoy pulse-pounding pugilism and decidedly dirty treachery. In fact, this twenty-page story is arguably pretty much faultless as it quickly grabs the reader by the scruff of neck just as soon as disloyal laboratory assistant Mark Hollister cold-bloodedly murders poor Doctor Haas before the scientist has finished calibrating his latest ceramic trauma plate prototype.

Delightfully though, this publication isn’t simply about having the Rothlander Industries insider tackle the G-Men’s Quantico-educated leader in a one-on-one fist-fight either, with the Swastika-wearing Nazi villain soon being swapped out for the much more formidable Tigerstrike. Able to withstand an early onslaught by a number of the Agent’s best operatives, this villain’s assault upon the best the Super Service can provide is impressively mesmerising, especially once it becomes clear that Tony Tarantino’s striped alter-ego isn’t at all phased by the sizeable number of Kirby’s fellow protagonists confronting him; “Like the man said, I could do this all day!”

Ably adding plenty of “Thwamm!”, “Thwomp!” and “Waauugghh!!” to these Caped Agent Program proceedings are the prodigious pencils of Alan Faria, which do a great job in both depicting the sheer busyness of the brutal battle and the plethora of colourfully-costumed combatants it contains. In addition, the artist is very good at illustrating the sheer sense of betrayal upon the “third-generation” F.B.I. Special Agent’s face and the hero’s determination to best the Aryan Alliance’s disagreeable weretiger before he makes a bold escape underground.

Slightly more tongue-in-cheek is Offenberger’s “Twenty-One Candles”, an eight-pager whose opening birthday celebration scene and subsequent dance sequence at Club Baby Seals noticeably contrasts with the distinctly serious nature of this comic’s main narrative. Proficiently sketched by Dean Juliette, this tale provides plenty of spotlight upon some of the G-Men’s female members, such as Pocahontas, Maya Santiago, and the original Bette Noir. But suddenly turns disconcertingly dark upon the arrival of the colossal Xadrian and the mad deity’s grisly demise via Atomik Bombshell’s deadly microwaves.

The regular cover art of "SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT" #5 by Alan Faria

Sgt. Flag #1 - G-Man Comics

SGT. FLAG No. 1, April 2022

Impressively funded in just eleven minutes as part of the publisher’s 2022 “Rise of the G-Men” Kickstarter, this comic certainly places its audience up to their necks in adrenalin-fuelled violence and some utterly insane firefights. Indeed, as opening issues go, this first instalment of “Sgt. Flag” definitely must have left a lasting impression upon any bibliophile lucky enough to purchase a copy, with Rik Offenberger’s two stories showing just how versatile, and down-right deadly, the smart-mouthed FBI operative can be when it comes to gunning down either a gang of gun-toting gangsters or a deadly super-villain.

First up is arguably the more intriguing (origin) tale “Semper Fi!”, which does a great job in depicting the pulse-pounding pandemonium surrounding Rob McFarlane’s reassignment to President Trump’s recently reactivated Caped Agent Program from an undisclosed modern-day battlefield. Energetically sketched by Gilbert Monsanto, this twenty-page plot hooks the reader straight from the start, and simply doesn’t let them go until The Agent’s latest recruit smashes his way out of an exploding building with the battered banker he was sent to rescue; “Oof! You here to help me or hurt me?!”

Somewhat more leisurely paced, at least at the beginning, is “Two Of A Kind!”, which is co-authored by Gregg Whitmore. This much shorter adventure, confined to the interior of the Beaumont Building, has a distinct “Die Hard” feel to it as the titular character and Wildcard blast through a veritable army of armed hoodlums to reach the skyrise building’s ground floor. Such relentless gunplay, even when prodigiously pencilled by Bobby Ragland, could potentially become a little tiresome after a while. But the outnumbered pair’s ‘back and forth’ banter manages to keep everything entertaining.

Perhaps therefore this publication’s sole quibble lies in the portrayal of McFarlane himself, who seemingly swears at everyone and everything throughout his action-packed exploits. True, no actual expletives are on show. But coupled with the marine’s evident overbearing arrogance and chauvinism, this almost relentless assault upon the sensibilities for the entire duration of the comic could potentially cause some readers to dislike Offenberger's colourfully-costumed creation – especially when so much of the chaos being caused is seemingly due to Sgt. Flag’s poor judgement in the first place.

The regular cover art of "SGT. FLAG" #1 by Gilbert Monsanto

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #4 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 4, December 2021

Initially presenting itself as a sort of ‘buddy cop’ comic book, courtesy of some tongue-in-cheek humour as the overly familiar “Sergeant Flag convinces Agent Kirby to go on a fishing trip” with him, this twenty-page periodical probably wrong-footed a fair few of its audience when writer Rik Offenberger suddenly ramps up its seriousness a third of the way through his narrative. Indeed, the moment its titular character is shot through the side with a particularly medieval-looking crossbow bolt the entire mood of this tale palpably changes to an enthrallingly grave and tense battle to save Simon’s fast-fading life; “G-Men are on the way for extraction. I just need to keep you alive ‘til they get here.”

Of course, that isn’t to say that most bibliophiles won’t enjoy this yarn’s preamble as alongside a drunk Rob McFarlane’s shocking shenanigans inside his best friend’s home, and an insane battle against a Tyrannosaurus Rex at Logan International Airport, the American author also pens an absorbing backstory to the cold-hearted Canadian criminal Metis. However, once the murderous “private caped security” arrives at Northern Pike and start blazing away at their targets with a boat-busting bazooka, it soon becomes clear that this comic’s central protagonists are genuinely in deadly danger.

This almost palpable sense of menace is furthered by Offenberger’s ability to quickly add another couple of extra layers to Flag, swiftly moving the gun-toting, smart-mouthed stereotype into a tactically aware combatant, who not only cares for his comrade-in-arms, but also has a history with the maniac trying to blow them to itsy-bitsy pieces. The notion that Dark Warrior personally wants to end McFarlane makes their woodland-based conflict even edgier, especially when its revealed that the masked killer will probably walk free from whatever happens anyway on account of him having a Central Intelligence Agency contract.

Similarly as scintillating as this book’s plot is Alan Faria’s artwork, which does a terrific job in depicting both the physical humour of its aforementioned opening sequences and its subsequent pulse-pounding action. The Brazilian appears particularly prodigious at pencilling the persistent agony etched across Kirby’s face as he bravely soldiers on despite his side wound causing him excruciating pain, and certainly takes centre-stage with his large panels portraying the likes of Bandolier, Critter Queen, Martial, Sidereal, Woolgatherer and Wukong - The Monkey Prince arriving en mass.

The regular cover art of "SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT" #4 by Alan Faria

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #3 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 3, May 2021

Arguably featuring two of the most utterly bizarre super-villains in comic book history, Rik Offenberger’s plot for Issue Three of “Simon N. Kirby, The Agent” certainly must have well-pleased the hundred and eighteen backers who brought the publication to life via Kickstarter in March 2021. True, its readers definitely need a strong willing suspension of disbelief to accommodate Doctor Stephen Rottman’s explosively insane origin story. But the notion of a heavily-moustached skeleton resizing his hapless assistant to that of a pesky insect is precisely the sort of Stan Lee silliness which made the Silver Age of Comics such a sensational success.

Equally as unlikely is tiny Ariel’s ability to pilot a teeny flying saucer straight into Simon Kirby’s bedroom, courtesy of a partially-open window, and then drag a diminutive, dangerous-looking brain analysing machine through the fast asleep Agent’s inner ear canal. On the face of it such a scene is rather ludicrous, however, combined with a little tongue-in-cheek humour as the green-skinned intruder smugly gives his emaciated master a satisfying thumbs up, and it’s hard to think of a better way of subsequently informing this publication’s audience as to just how its titular character eventually became an FBI operative.

Of course, possibly the most memorable moment of this twenty-page periodical is the G-Men’s battle against a brain nightmarishly crammed full of zombies. Completely surrounded by the hungry Undead and already savagely bitten on the arm, things look desperate indeed for Lynx's team member Maya during this colossal bout of fisticuffs as the grisly ghouls’ large numbers threaten to completely overwhelm the Agent’s “Dream Team”; “Gamester King. You take the hundred on the left. I got the right! Scarlet Shield, keep us protected.”

Packing each prodigiously pencilled panel with plenty of ‘bang for your buck’ is Alan Faria, whose eye-catching series of splash pages towards the very end of this book contain an incredible amount of flesh-chomping detail. In addition, the Brazilian artist makes Ariel’s penetration of Kirby’s brain all the more squeamish with a disconcertingly well-drawn criminal interloper literally punching his way into the protagonist’s grey matter with a gleeful smile all over his face.

Writer: Rik Offenberger, Artist: Alan Faria, and Letters: Eric N. Bennett

Simon N. Kirby, The Agent #2 - G-Man Comics

SIMON N. KIRBY, THE AGENT No. 2, October 2020

Pitching the Agent into a titanic head-on tussle with the ultra-violent alter-ego of Henry Rothländer, Rik Offenberger’s script for “Sting Of The Murder Hornet” surely must have delighted the 130 backers who ‘helped bring this project to life’ on the crowdfunding platform, Kickstarter. Indeed, this twenty-page periodical’s plot is arguably faultless with its entertaining mix of decidedly deadly night-time doings, political double-dealings and a noble stand against the despicable fascist ideology of the Third Reich; “I don’t kill kids, even punks, for the crime of graffiti.”

Foremost of this book’s successes must be the novel idea of the comic’s central antagonist using a doppelgänger to persistently keep the American authorities at bay, whenever the billionaire industrialist crosses the line and savagely mistreats the street-level criminals who prove such an anathema to his prejudicial philosophy. This ploy proves particularly fruitful following Hornet’s epic fisticuffs with Simon N. Kirby in Boston, when a badly battered Rothländer is just able to swap places with a fully fit Jeffrey Schmitt to avoid incarceration.

The ultra-rich arms dealer’s money-driven manipulation of the American justice system is also intriguingly penned and doesn’t bode well for the future of the Agent, despite him being “a third generation F.B.I. special agent with five years of service to the Bureau.” Debatably one of this publication’s most shocking moments comes when Henry callously stabs Mateo Martinez within an inch of his life, after the feline-themed crime-fighter aggressively objects to Hornet’s treatment of two adolescent shoplifters. Initially, it appears that the legally registered super-hero will be imprisoned for life for attempted murder, but the white supremacist’s lawyer is incredibly slick at using the legislation to condone her client’s near-lethal conduct rather than condemn it.

Similarly as sense-shattering as the penmanship though, is Alan Faria’s awesome-looking layouts, which grab the reader’s attention straight from this issue’s outset and simply don’t let them go until the title’s cataclysmic cliff-hanger of a conclusion. Clean-lined, dynamically drawn, and absolutely packed full of pulse-pounding action, the Brazilian artist’s style wonderfully captures all the storytelling success of the Bronze Age of Comics with Kirby’s initial savage beating by Rothländer proving to debatably be the highlight of the book.

Writer: Rik Offenberger, Artist: Alan Faria, and Letters: Eric N. Bennett