X-Wing Rogue Squadron #34 [Mandatory Retirement (Part 3 of 4)]

Story: Michael A Stackpole
Pencils: Steve Crespo and John Nadeau
Inks: Chip Wallace and Jordi Ensign
Colors: Dave Nestelle
Covers: John Nadeau
Editor: Peet Janes

The stranded Rogues seek help from the New Republic to get home with Pestage. During a dog fight, a Rogue is lost... Reviewed 11/01/98 Story This issue is made of the greatness that will be greatly missed on a monthly basis. Stackpole uses his tremendous gift for dialog to its fullest here. The Imps remain worthy antagonists, but there's not much new to their greed and infighting so their reduced role is welcome. The treat is the various discussions on the differences between the philosophy of the Empire and the New Republic. These are far more philosophical than standard comic book fare, and they make the story uniquely Star Wars (as opposed to generic sci-fi stories stuck into the SW universe). As promised, the title is indeed going out with a bang. Art Once again, the 'best of both worlds' team of Crespo and Nadeau has produced a great looking book. A dialog-driven comic is much harder to do well than an action-driven one, but this title does not suffer. The poses and facial expressions lend more than talking heads. I'm also very happy with the rendering of Leia and Wedge... neither of whom look exactly like the actors that play them, but both of whom capture the essence of these characters. Aside from the compelling conversation, the two pages of dog-fighting the best I've seen in a while. I hope for a little more next issue. Conclusions There isn't a single page of this issue that isn't wonderful. From writing to pencils to inks to colors, I simply have no complaints. 10/10. Heartily recommended.
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