Random Order Comics and Games #5

Posted: Tuesday, February 10, 2004
By: Darren Schroeder

Cover of Random Order Comics and Games #5 Creator(s): James West
Publishers: Random Order Creations (Self Published)
From: USA
Price: $2 (US)

Steeped in the mythos of various role-playing games and legends, this collection pits gods against tricksters, monsters against young travellers, heaven verse hell in our own minds, along with a Christmas role-playing module and some sketches.

Tangled Wood Two weary adventurers happen upon a house in the woods. The owner of the house, a voluptuous woman invites one in for something more than tea and cake. The themes of honour and loyalty are well presented with a narration that is dramatic without seeming overdone. The action is skilfully heightened by some exciting "edits" between panels.

Wall Around Asgard A playful fable where the narrator learns something about himself along the way when he tries to trick an old man and finds himself at the wrong end of the trick. Furry fans will appreciate the characters.

Heaven and Hell Short little meditation on the causes of the good and bad in life.

Both of the longer stores have strong, well thought out plots that are created with cleaver use of voiceover and parallel actions. They have a drive that gets your attention and takes you along for the ride. Layout and text make a snug fit and it all means that the themes come across clearly and entertainingly.

In a Word: Planned.



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