By Larry Jorash —  Just when we thought the world was done with new high fantasy space operas, Tim-21 returned — a brought a new genre with him. Descender — the Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen hard sci-fi story — has been back for 12 issues now, taking familiar touches from the previous book and lacing them with high fantasy. All the while this extraordinary universe is still embracing and welcoming us in with wildly brilliant covers by Nguyen; and fabulous water-colored brushstrokes that trail between pages. 

This issue opens in monologued fashion with a splash of poetic symmetry. This issue has a softer tone than previous incantations, and much slower pacing; which isn’t necessarily a drawback. We deal with a significant reunion between characters so the unique pacing is helpful in guiding us page by page. 

Isolationism is a common theme with Lemire in his writing ; the idea or belief of oneself being or feeling utterly alone; even despite physical company or companionship. It is a common, hidden feeling shared by many and this issue taps into that vain. Lemire is a masterclass at making us feel deep patterns of empathy for those tortured souls in his pages.

It seems that 2020 is the Year of Designers, and Steve Wands is tragically unsung for his designs and layouts on this title. This universe has always displayed immense care and thought into the artistic styling and symbolism. This definitely helps it to stand out on shelves; but it absolutely helps it to stand out in memory. Nguyen & Wands deserve high praise for this issue in particular; specifically the opening sequence.

Overall: This powerhouse creative team continues to put out the best high-fantasy space opera on the market. Slow build, but fruitful depth.  Rating: 8.5/10

Ascender #12

Ascender #12
Writer: Jeff Lemire
Artist: Dustin Nguyen
Lettering & Design: Steve Wands
Publisher: Image
Price: $3.99
“THE DIGITAL MAGE,” Part Two Last issue saw the return of the beloved Driller, and now another fan-favorite DESCENDER character is set to return…but have they been forever changed? Find out!
Release Date: September 2, 2020
Buy It Digitally: Ascender #12

Read more great comic book reviews here!

Larry Jorash resides in Central Florida managing a comic book shop and coaching youth sports. In his spare time he enjoys watching ice hockey and reading. You will almost never find his hand vacant of coffee. Find him on twitter: (@theREALlarbear)