I'll admit that I'm a bit biased when it comes to the Barbaric universe. Michael Moreci's creation has been one of my favorite projects since it debuted in 2021, and I've loved every entry so far. But trust me when I say that this week’s Barbaric: Born in Blood #1 is another absolute banger! The duo of Owen & Axe have basically become comfort characters for me at this point. Their relationship is pure comedy gold, and I can't get enough of seeing these two together.

The issue’s cold open "recap" was a hilarious way to bring readers up to speed on where the story left off and the awesomeness doesn't end there. Moreci continues to perfectly balance his satirical writing w/ classic elements of the sword & sorcery genre. Axe is as blood-thirsty as ever (he may actually need help), Owen is his miserable, disgruntled, yet heart-of-gold self, Soren's one-liners are hilarious, & Steel rounds out the core four-some with outlandish buffoonery. But it's not all jokes. Moreci also lays the groundwork for an intriguing plot w/ a new side-quest that will seemingly bring Owen face-to-face with his Barbarian past.

As expected, Nathan Gooden's art continues to be a bloody good time (sorry, had to go there!) & his approach has truly become a calling card of the Barbaric universe. His illustrations bring the world to life and Fabiana Marques’ colors make them pop in all their blood-spattering beauty.

Overall, I'm so happy to have more Barbaric in my life & I'm totally along for the ride! At this point just pump any new Barbaric story into my veins & call it a day.

Rating: 10/10