Shadowpact?

[Fatguy]

I heard this series got off to a rocky start, but I havent heard anything since shortly after the first couple issues. I am into quirky characters and VERY into supernatural stories, so I wanted to hear some opinions, if anybody is reading the book that is ;) Is it worth hunting down back issues, or maybe just going from a certain jump-on point? Or is it an avoidable series?

Opions are appreciated, you beautiful people.

[Count Vertigo]

so far I'm enjoying it. Seeing the new age of magic is interesting but I would like to see more emphasis on horror and more magic stuff.

I just wish they would give back Detective Chimp his coat and deerstalker cap!

[shaxper]

I think the first story arc was terrible, but the series has really begun to come back after that. I really think you can start with the most recent issue and forget everything that came before it.

[Hulkamaniac]

I actually love it, Ragman is my boy and this tiltle totally got me back into Blue Devil! But if your on a budget you can easily just start to hop on with the current issue.

[Jack Zodiac]

I think the first story arc could've standed a bit more depth. Both in the plot and the characters. It seemed to rely more on drawing in people who read Day of Vengeance than introducing new readers to the group. The past three issues have been great, though. The plot's coming along, but the characterization's what's really shining through now. Willingham's done an awesome job with Blue Devil and Detective Chimp, who were probably easier to make popular than the rest of the cast (Daniel's veen used a lot more than the rest of the cast, and who wouldn't like a talkin' chimp in a deerstalker?). On top of that, he's making the lesser-knowns like Nightmaster and Ragman more popular (which is great, because Ragman is a really original character). Hopefully we'll see his takes on Enchantress and Nightshade soon, both of whom have been used a bit more than the rest of the cast.

Overall, I think the book has a lot more potential than I did three issues ago. The plot's getting rollin' and the characters are starting to come together as a team. I hope this book sticks around for a while.

[moon knight]

I did not like the first 3 issues, but the storyline is progressing much better than the first 3 and I love the charaters. I am looking forward to the next issue.

[The Shadow]

I haven't read number 6 yet but I liked the first five issues.

[G. Wayne]

It's meandering along quite well after a bit of a rocky start. No can't miss plots in the grand scheme of things yet, but it's worth it if you can pick it and enjoy the exploits of bunch of largely unknown characters.

Agreed that the first arc left a lot to be desired. My only real complaint right now is with some of the character redesigns, but as has been stated, the characterizations are worth it.

[Zero Hunter]

You know I really like the concept and the characters of this book, but I am dropping it with issue 6. The writing is sort of just meandering all ove rthe place. The art is so below par that it is what has killed my enjoyment. It is just awefull. Its a shame really since I had such high hopes for this series.

[SKETCHSANCHEZ]

I think the first story arc could've standed a bit more depth. Both in the plot and the characters. It seemed to rely more on drawing in people who read Day of Vengeance than introducing new readers to the group. The past three issues have been great, though. The plot's coming along, but the characterization's what's really shining through now. Willingham's done an awesome job with Blue Devil and Detective Chimp, who were probably easier to make popular than the rest of the cast (Daniel's veen used a lot more than the rest of the cast, and who wouldn't like a talkin' chimp in a deerstalker?). On top of that, he's making the lesser-knowns like Nightmaster and Ragman more popular (which is great, because Ragman is a really original character). Hopefully we'll see his takes on Enchantress and Nightshade soon, both of whom have been used a bit more than the rest of the cast.

Overall, I think the book has a lot more potential than I did three issues ago. The plot's getting rollin' and the characters are starting to come together as a team. I hope this book sticks around for a while.

Couldn't have said it better myself, agreed 100%.

Enchantress is one of my faves so I too hope to see him flesh her out more. The artist keeps changing, but we've seen Cory Walker twice so I hope he gets the regular gig, I love his work. I know he couldnt keep up the monthly grind with Invincible, but I'm hoping he's grown and changed since then on that front.

[Scott Taylor]

I'm enjoying it, its got great characters. As to the individual stories, well, they so far haven't been much to write home about. But there is an overall story arc going on that has promise. one thing about Willingham - he sets up things way in advance. So I am fully expecting the overarching story to continue to pick up steam.

[jerrymcl89]

I wish Enchantress would go back to wearing the pointy hat.

Other than that, I think the book is starting to pick up steam.

[Fatguy]

Ok, thanks guys. I was able to find #4, 5, and 6 last night and just finished reading em. I thought it was pretty good. It was definetly better than expected, and I LOVE the concept of Ragman, he's my favorite so far. Enchantress seems very cool as well. I'll check it out from here on in, seems my cup 'o tea ;)

Thanks for all the opinions.

[swinebread]

I've enjoyed this title from the beginning and I’ve been following them since “…Vengence”

I can understand that this title is not everybody’s ‘cup of tea’ but almost no one is saying why they think first issues are bad. I’d appreciate some examples so I can get some perspective of what you are talking about, since I personally, find them quite enjoyable and the art for me is really fun.

[Damo]

Shadowpact owns... provided they never again let Chimp in spandex. That's just wrong.

[K'Nort]

I thought Enchantress was distractingly out of character in this last issue. She was being helpful to teammates, for crying out loud. Male teammates!

But overall, I'm still enjoying the book. I have to admit I'd be pretty ambivalent if they cancelled it, but I'm getting my $3 worth in the meantime.

[Fastballspecial]

I have all 8 issues so far and have been enjoying it. The art is the only area that is below average, but I figure sinces its a new book with low circulation they took what they could get I guess. I really enjoyed issue 8 the origin of Ragman clothes. Never knew it. Thats what I am enjoying about this book and the Trials of Shazam. Its a new magical universe in DC and Shadowpact is right in the thick of it. I too would like to see more Enchantress;)

[FanboyStranger]

The first arc was poor, mostly because Willingham's art didn't fit right with the story, but each successive issue has been pretty solid, expanding the wider story while focusing on a single character. The problem I have with it is the inconsistant art. They need to find a strong fulltime penicller, and a reliable backup artist for gaps.

[ExoKnight]

Shadowpact is starting to pick up nicely, slow start but finding it's voice. Quirky character but interesting ones. Detective Chimp being my favorite. When I first read Day of Vengence mini-series I wasn't sure I would like DC, but he has grown on me. Looking forward to his one-shot in Jan.

Also the series is about to have Demon appear in a three-parter where new members will be joining.

DC seems to be pushing the series. They had a short story in the Holiday Special and also appeared in the issue of Checkmate. I recall them making appearance somewhere else but I can't recall what series it was.

[GeorgeG]

OYL they were stuck in a zit. Literally. That's all anyone needs to know.

[titanfan]

I thought Enchantress was distractingly out of character in this last issue. She was being helpful to teammates, for crying out loud. Male teammates!

Her personality has been totally retconned. I have no idea how she's supposed to act anymore. (Other than she loses in when she uses her powers too much)

I thought he got Nightshade wrong in the mini, but she's been more like herself in the regular series. (I don't know if I like her basically being a Green Lantern type character though)

This series is solidly middle tier for me. I am intrigued by the current storyline. I wouldn't go out of my way to hunt for the back issues though--well chances are they won't be hard to find, so why not...

[Gozwald73]

I wish Enchantress would go back to wearing the pointy hat.

Other than that, I think the book is starting to pick up steam.

I soooooooooo agree! BRING BACK THE POINTY HAT!!!!!!!!

[JonBidinger]

How could Shadowpact appear in 52 if they spent the year in the blood sphere?

[The Shadow]

How could Shadowpact appear in 52 if they spent the year in the blood sphere?

*cough*GLITCH*cough*

Best not to ask questions ;)

[Taskmaster]

How could Shadowpact appear in 52 if they spent the year in the blood sphere?

I just figured that they didn't go into the Blood sphere until later that month or the next and THEN spent a year in it, it's not like the current DCU is narrowed down to a specific month like 52

[Indigo Al]

You could do worse for a fun DC team book....(see Justice League).

I'm just wondering how Valda the Iron Maiden got transported to our time from the Carolingian Age, and will she join the pact?

[rerun]

Think it's a fun read. Big fan of Ragman now. The beginning was OK but seems to have found its voice (as someone else said). I think it'll be getting much better.

[shaxper]

I think Willingham's writing is still a bit inconsistant. There are great issues and there are super terrible issues. But his characters have real charm. Each time he's devoted an entire issue to developing a single character, it's been completely worth it. Blue Devil, Ragman, and even Detective Chimp stand out to me as very real and highly quirky one of a kind characters. You can't mistake them for any other dime-a-dozen hero out there. Willingham still needs to develop the rest of the team a bit better (and he's taking an awfully long time to do it), but the title has real promise. Oh, and I love the idea of the bar. Don't know if that was Willingham's creation or not, but it's quite charming.

I think the real problem with this title was that Willingham chose the wrong arc to start with. It was boring, anti-climactic, full of continuity glitches, and did nothing to establish the characters, but once we got beyond that first arc, things began improving tremendously.

[Jack Zodiac]

Y'know... I don't know about the bar. If it was Willingham's idea, then kudos to him, because it's been used pretty fairly by at least three other writers in three other titles. If it wasn't his idea, I'd bet money on it being one of the many ideas Morrison threw at editorial.

[MAK15]

I dont like detective chimp's new outfit.
but everything else about it is nice

[RichStanz]

You know I really like the concept and the characters of this book, but I am dropping it with issue 6. The writing is sort of just meandering all over the place. ... Its a shame really since I had such high hopes for this series.

Personally, I didn't mind the first storyline, but with each ensuing storyline, I have gotten more disappointed.

I like the individual issues that have focused on Ragman and Blue Devil, but the book still isn't giving enough characterization, in my opinion.

I picked up Day of Vengeance on the intrigue of the premise. Counting that mini-series, this team has been around for 14 months, and I don't really know a lot about them. Nightmaster is still a blank slate to me, and he has been sparsely used in the last few issues. Enchantress and Nightshade are just kind of there.

If you were unfamiliar to the DC magic universe, like I was, this series doesn't satisfy your curiousity - not b/c of impenetrable contonuity, but because nothing amazing truly happens in it.

D of V established at least 4 very interesting plotlines, that I was looking forward to: 1.) Who would be the new Dr. Fate? 2.) What is going to happen with the Spectre? 3.) What is going to happen with Shazam? 4.)What role will Shadowpact play as the "new laws of magic" are written?

That last point practically screams "premise!" and its honestly been so underexplored in this book. Since the first storyline has wrapped up, it feels like every plot has been Dr. Gotham (an under-explored main villian) throws a new evil, magical being at the Shadowpact, who for some reason are separated and/or disorganized, in attempt to distract them while he plans for his grand return. It has about as much depth as an episode of the Power Rangers. Each issue is just about the "monster of the month."

The problem is that Willingham is a FANTASTIC writer. "Fables" is comic book art. And you know, Shadowpact is still an amazing concept for a team. And everytime they display the Oblivion Bar on panel, you get a glimpse of pure imagination.
But for all the wild, fun frenzied energy that "D of V" brought in introducing a new status quo for DC magic, none of it is in this book.

The Dr. Fate plotline is being resolved in its own mini-series (5 issues in 2 months - something I can't throw money at) which will feature members of Shadowpact. I see no reason why it couldn't have been resolved in their own book.

The Spectre is being addressed in 2 of his own mini-series, with back-up stories by Brian Azzarello that, in my opinion deliver far much more entertainment, as he uses Dr. 13 to examine the weirder corners of DC supernatural.

And Shazam is being handled in his own mini-series. "D of V" established so many plot threads that I (maybe naively) assumed would be addressed in "Shadowpact." But instead I would have to buy 4 books (5 once the Fate event happens) if I wanted the complete story. And they all have great creative teams involved. But I can't afford that many new books.

And seems like when the dust settled, Willingham was left to write about the scraps with some really engaging characters that can't quite live up to their potential.

I'm ready to drop this book, but I'm not sure sure if I should stick around for this Demon storyline. It seems like the story this book should have had months ago.

[Bloody Thumb]

Is this the first time the Bar has shown up in DC comics? I just wonder because Marvel did essentially the same idea in the Mid Ninties in it's ghost rider series. Both companies useing a similiar idea like that for similiar purposes makes me think the idea actually probably began some where else.

[Belfast_Fanboy]

Yeah like in a Image or Dark horse comic lol no i think the bar has been around before i seem to vaugely remember it in the back of my mind and im not really a big DC reader before this past year or 2?

[Jack Zodiac]

Nope. First time the bar showed up was Day of Vengeance.

[shaxper]

Personally, I didn't mind the first storyline, but with each ensuing storyline, I have gotten more disappointed.

I like the individual issues that have focused on Ragman and Blue Devil, but the book still isn't giving enough characterization, in my opinion.

I picked up Day of Vengeance on the intrigue of the premise. Counting that mini-series, this team has been around for 14 months, and I don't really know a lot about them. Nightmaster is still a blank slate to me, and he has been sparsely used in the last few issues. Enchantress and Nightshade are just kind of there.

If you were unfamiliar to the DC magic universe, like I was, this series doesn't satisfy your curiousity - not b/c of impenetrable contonuity, but because nothing amazing truly happens in it.

D of V established at least 4 very interesting plotlines, that I was looking forward to: 1.) Who would be the new Dr. Fate? 2.) What is going to happen with the Spectre? 3.) What is going to happen with Shazam? 4.)What role will Shadowpact play as the "new laws of magic" are written?

That last point practically screams "premise!" and its honestly been so underexplored in this book. Since the first storyline has wrapped up, it feels like every plot has been Dr. Gotham (an under-explored main villian) throws a new evil, magical being at the Shadowpact, who for some reason are separated and/or disorganized, in attempt to distract them while he plans for his grand return. It has about as much depth as an episode of the Power Rangers. Each issue is just about the "monster of the month."

The problem is that Willingham is a FANTASTIC writer. "Fables" is comic book art. And you know, Shadowpact is still an amazing concept for a team. And everytime they display the Oblivion Bar on panel, you get a glimpse of pure imagination.
But for all the wild, fun frenzied energy that "D of V" brought in introducing a new status quo for DC magic, none of it is in this book.

The Dr. Fate plotline is being resolved in its own mini-series (5 issues in 2 months - something I can't throw money at) which will feature members of Shadowpact. I see no reason why it couldn't have been resolved in their own book.

The Spectre is being addressed in 2 of his own mini-series, with back-up stories by Brian Azzarello that, in my opinion deliver far much more entertainment, as he uses Dr. 13 to examine the weirder corners of DC supernatural.

And Shazam is being handled in his own mini-series. "D of V" established so many plot threads that I (maybe naively) assumed would be addressed in "Shadowpact." But instead I would have to buy 4 books (5 once the Fate event happens) if I wanted the complete story. And they all have great creative teams involved. But I can't afford that many new books.

And seems like when the dust settled, Willingham was left to write about the scraps with some really engaging characters that can't quite live up to their potential.

I'm ready to drop this book, but I'm not sure sure if I should stick around for this Demon storyline. It seems like the story this book should have had months ago.

I can't say that I haven't had many of these thoughts myself, and you state them quite well. However, while the title has consistently lacked an engaging premise since Day of Vengeance concluded, I've found the characters endearing enough to make up for it. While Nightmaster has been woefully ignored for most of this run, I think we've gotten a pretty good sense of most of the other characters, particularly Blue Devil and Ragman (both of whom received their own single issue stories). I think Willingham is taking too long to establish these characters succesfully, and I agree that he's taking his sweet time reintroducing a premise (what's so significant about the name "Shadowpact" anyway? It was eluded to many times in the earlier appearances, but has been virtually ignored since). But, despite all of this, I LIKE the characters. In fact, I like them enough to suffer through the tired premise of the underdeveloped enemy putting them through trial after trial. A lot is happening in the magic area of the DCU right now, and I still have faith that Shadowpact will be at the core of at least some of it. The title is taking it's time, but it has grown on me. I'm feeling these characters far more than I did in that first story arc, and I'm curious to see how they continue to grow together and as individuals. These characters still entertain me each issue, and I'll stick by them for that. But if they aren't doing it for you, then it just may be your time to bail.

[Schornforce]

Is this the first time the Bar has shown up in DC comics? I just wonder because Marvel did essentially the same idea in the Mid Ninties in it's ghost rider series. Both companies useing a similiar idea like that for similiar purposes makes me think the idea actually probably began some where else.

There was a similar bar in Chris Claremont's "Sovereign Seven" which was sort of a nexus of realms/worlds/whatever, IIRC. It wasn't the same bar, however.

[DMike]

It's also pretty reminiscent of the Worlds' End Inn from the Sandman story of the same name, where people travelling between worlds or realities would be able to have shelter or stories or refreshment on their way.

[Jack Zodiac]

Also, in "City of Heroes," there's an interdimensional rave club called Pocket D. :p

[Indigo Al]

I liked the latest issue, with the Demon. But now I'm worried - is Shadowpact being cancelled with # 10?

[Thnikkaman]

It's already solicited through #12.

[Apathy Boy]

What was the name of the magic bar in the original BOOKS OF MAGIC mini-series by Neil Gaiman? Was that the Oblivion Bar?

[Indigo Al]

What was the name of the magic bar in the original BOOKS OF MAGIC mini-series by Neil Gaiman? Was that the Oblivion Bar?

Nope, that was called "Bewitched", it was in San Francisco, and it was owned by Phantom Stranger/Tim Hunter foe Tannarak (i think?).

[FanboyStranger]

"Oblivion" was a bookstore in the original Nightmaster stories. (Late '60s- early 70s, hippie interest in Tolkien, "books can take you places" mentality.) As far as I can tell, it last appeared in Millar's Swamp Thing run as part of the "Trial by Fire" arc, but the Nightmaster was appearing in Steve Seagle's Primal Force at around the same time (the two stories kinda contradicted each other, leading to another DCU/Vertigo rift, which was unfortunate as Millar tried hard to have his Swamp Thing grounded in the DCU.) Rook changed it to a bar sometime before Day of Vengeance, a good move in my opinion.

[drwho]

Compared to the first issue would you all say that this book has improved a lot? I haven't touched it since the number one.

[jerrymcl89]

Compared to the first issue would you all say that this book has improved a lot? I haven't touched it since the number one.

I think it's been much better since the first three-issue arc ended. Although I do think it seems to be better in the issues that focus on one character. I don't think Willingham has entirely gotten the team dynamic to click.