I'm not saying this will be for everyone, but it's worth a peek for the hardcore Marvel fans out there.ĭear Mr. This is one that I wouldn't mind looking at again, and I'm definitely looking forward to getting my hands on the spin-offs from this and reading about more of this pocket universe. It was varied enough to feel fresh, but there were enough familiar elements to the cast that I got to do that geeky little smile/nod thing quite a bit. In my opinion, Neil Gaiman did a great job with this retelling. Of course, their backstories are quite different, but everyone (with a few exceptions) is recognizable pretty much immediately. So, basically, this is our Marvel characters in 1602.

Something happened that caused the superheroes of our time to be born hundreds of years early. If you don't already know, the premise is this: And I'm mentioning that now because I don't think a casual graphic novel reader will enjoy this as much as someone who knows all of the characters. However, I simply hadn't read enough comics at that point to fully understand everything. It felt like a very cool What If kind of thing, the art was pleasant, and I understood most of what I was reading. Marvel 1602 is not only a simple and brilliant concept it is a thoroughly enjoyable graphic novel all round.ħ/10 Not only a simple and brilliant concept, it is a thoroughly enjoyable graphic novel.I read this back in 2009 and liked it quite a bit. This graphic novel will without a doubt satisfy fans of Marvel and Gaiman alike, and those outside of that bracket will still find a riveting read containing a healthy dose of magic and politics. Kubert's illustrations are wonderfully coupled with the colouring work of Richard Isnove, who completes the Gothic look of the graphic novel.

The art serves to give the reader an atmosphere, a sense of time place and largely mood. The beauty of this concept is that they are still the same characters, with all the quirks comic book fans love no character has been compromised, they simply have been moved in time.Īndy Kubert's art sets a dark tone for a plot full of political intrigue. And Daredevil, naturally is no longer a Hell's Kitchen lawyer/vigilante, rather he is a bard and a spy for Sir Fury. For instance Nick Fury of SHIELD, is now Sir Nicholas Fury, head of the Queen's intelligence organization. This hypothetical is explored in Gaiman's trademark manner using a mix of history and mythology to bring new elements to the characters, while still ensuring that they retain their defining qualities.

Marvel 1602 is a great read for Marvel and Gaiman fans alike (it's a real treat, if like myself you are a huge fan of both) which presents a rich concept to explore: What would Marvel superheroes have been like in the 17th century? Illustrated by Andy Kubert Digital painting by Richard Isanove

Marvel 1602 complete