Advance Review: ‘Usagi Yojimbo: Ice & Snow’ #2

Usagi Yojimbo: Ice & Snow #2 is a masterclass in sequential storytelling. Stan Sakai continues to amaze with his ability to craft complex and engaging stories that feature rich characters, stunning artwork, and heartfelt moments.

In this issue, we follow up on the two stories introduced previously: first focusing on Jei and Keiko’s usurping of a band of outlaws and then Usagi and Yukichi’s run in with an evil spirit while seeking refuge from the freezing conditions. Sakai does a masterful job of balancing action and suspense with humor and character development across both stories.

Jei and Keiko's portion of the story is particularly well-developed in this issue, as Jei continues to amass more trust by wielding his supernatural powers and showing no mercy to those who try to stand in his way. Keiko’s blissful ignorance while eating peacefully as the action happens around her is pure hilarity. Sakai is building the duo up as a major threat to Usagi and Yukichi and I can’t wait to see what happens when their paths eventually cross.

As you can expect from any of Sakai’s books, the artwork in this issue is simply breathtaking. The linework is crisp and expressive, and Sakai’s ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and other visual cues is unmatched. The action sequences are dynamic and exciting, especially during the back half of the issue focused on Usagi and Yukichi.

Overall, Usagi Yojimbo: Ice and Snow #2 is a wonderful follow-up issue after a successful debut for this next arc in Stan Sakai’s seminal rabbit ronin series. We get great plot development, as well as exciting action and humor that balance the issue wonderfully. For those who have yet to jump into the world of Usagi Yojimbo, these first two issues serve as the perfect starting point.

Rating: 9/10