If you’re reading this Peach Momoko series expecting a “traditional” X-Men comic, you’re in it for the wrong reasons. Ultimate X-Men is a wonderfully constructed coming-of-age story using teenage angst & adorable drawings to deal w/ some very adult topics.

I’ve been so impressed w/ how Peach keeps this slow-burn build up going w/o things feeling weighed down, & this issue was no exception. She’s resisted the likely urge to give Hisako a “training montage” to quickly get the young mutant comfortable w/ her powers. Instead, we’re going amazing character development & what I’d think is one of the more realistic examples of someone coming to terms w/ being mutant. On top of it, Hisako’s interactions w/ the antagonistic shadow figure add a layer of horror & suspense to keep the tension high.

Mei needs to be protected at all costs. She is one of the best new characters introduced in the Marvel Universe & I hope she can make the jump to 616 at some point to keep her around, similar to Miles Morales. She is such a breath of fresh air & provides the perfect balance to Hisako. Her confession to not studying had me cracking up! These two together are such great pairing. We also got to see more of this version of Nico & while she’s still a tad underdeveloped, what we know so far is enough to keep me highly intrigued.

I feel like I’m beating a dead horse at this point, but Peach’s art is sublime. She’s created the most distinct environment in this new Ultimate Universe, to the point where it feels like it’s operating in a whole different plane of existence. From the creepy shadows, to the moody rain storms, to Hisako’s vibrant armor, Peach has fill this book with visuals you won’t soon forget. I also love the Lexicon she uses at the end of each issue. It’s more Peach art & a history lesson in one!

Rating: 9.5/10