Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: Joe Keatinge
Art: Khary Randolph, Emilio Lopez (colours), Russ Wooton (letters)
Release Date: 16th December 2015

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Arriving a bit later than expected due to the creative team’s hectic schedules, the bittersweet final issue of this current Tech Jacket run has finally landed, and picks up one year after the climactic battle to save the universe from the insectoid swarm that posed a very real existential threat.

A very relaxed looking, bearded Zack (who bears a striking resemblance to the current iteration of Bruce Wayne), has seemingly retired from active Tech Jacket duty, been separated from the armour, embraced the idea of a polyamorous relationship, and features in a line of action figures modelled after him and the other central characters in the story. As the issue progresses we witness how Stanley’s mergence with the Colossal turned the tide, and how his robotic corps ultimately replaced the Tech Jackets as Galactic Guardians.

Joe Keatinge weaves his magic once again, as he says goodbye to a series for which he clearly has a great deal of affection. His ability to balance the grandiose spectacle of an epic space battle for the universe, and the emotional drama of its consequences on the main characters, has been a key factor in the success of this series. Many themes have been explored over the course of the run, but perhaps the most prominent has been that of becoming, and it’s fully reinforced in this finale. The idea of embracing the unknown and using the curveballs life throws at you to build a stronger version of yourself. Of going beyond your perception of what is possible, and quite literally in Zack’s case, reaching for the stars.

It’s a very positive message that captures the heart and mind, and it’s fully realised in the body created for it by Khary Randolph and his ever-impressive partner in colours, Emilio Lopez. Although on duty in Gotham City at the moment, it’s great to see the pair haven’t taken their eyes off the ball, evidenced by a stunning cover image, and equally impressive interior work. It was nice to see Khary turn his hand to a rural setting and more sedate character work, before treating us to more of those trademark splashes, filled with his sleek, slick, and sexy character designs. The Stanley/Colossal gestalt is simply ridiculous, and puts him right at the top of the list of ‘guys who should be drawing Transformers’.

As one of my favourite books of the last two years, I’m obviously sad to see the series come to an end, but so happy to see the team finish their arc on such a high note. Although the issue has the feeling of a goodbye, it does leave the door ajar for others to take up the reigns, but they have a hell of a set of boots to fill.

Rating: 5/5.

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The Writer of this piece was: Martin Doyle
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You can check out more of Martins reviews and thoughts on random retro things over at Retromuse

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