Advance Review — Kirkman’s Writing Tightens Up In ‘Invincible Universe: Battle Beast’ #4

Despite being a relatively new series, until now Invincible Universe: Battle Beast followed an all-too familiar routine: incredible visuals from Ryan Ottley but tepid writing from Robert Kirkman. But now in the fourth issue, that dynamic has changed.

Kirkman’s writing has gotten marginally better largely by introducing a new character in this installment. Wagulla is a hideous sorceress who ensnares Battle Beast as he is on the hunt for more prey. Clearly a carnivore, she carries on a conversation with the characters even as she is seasoning them for dinner. Yes, she has a wit and tone similar to the sarcastic ship’s computer and the innocent Prince Salaka, but there’s a quality about Wagulla that lifts the entire story.

Kirkman also crafts an amusing scene at the issue’s start where a would-be battle humorously turns into a love fest. It’s well written and also paid off with Ottley’s strong pencil work.

The bigger issues with Kirkman’s writing remain lurking in the background, though. Battle Beast is on a quest to die heroically in combat, but he cannot find a foe who can come close to achieving that task. We need to see our heroes suffer and overcome obstacles on their journey. Instead, the Beast just slashes his way left and right through opponents. Kirkman does leave us some hope, though, that a new big bad worthy of Battle Beast will soon be arriving.

That’s needed not just from a story perspective, but because it gives Ottley more to work with. The artist didn’t need this series to prove how great he is at drawing all manner of monsters. But he has consistently overdelivered in these first few issues. This chapter though doesn’t feature much carnage, which will leave readers craving more.

With consistently strong writing, that craving may pay off.

Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #4 will be available in comic shops and on digital platforms on Wednesday from Image Comics.