Fanboys Anonymous

Cyclops is in a precarious position.

The young mutant made a critical error last issue, which saw the Starjammer and its crew overcome by the dread pirate Valesh Malafect. Now Corsair is in the brig, the Starjammers are adrift in space, and Cyclops has been adopted into Malafect's crew. It seems like only a matter of time before this powder keg explodes around Cyclops.

Cyclops #7 picks up both the pace and drama of the story. John Layman's first issue into the series was somewhat flatter than expected, but with issue #7 we see a little more pizzazz. While we will certainly see some plot development during the ongoing story, the main narrative is straightforward.

This is an audience-friendly story. The ability to jump in at any point makes this book a plus, especially for young readers. This also matches the style artist Javier Garron brings to Cyclops.

A new love interest for young Cyclops?

Under the artistic guidance of Garron the main characters take on a friendlier appearance. Cyclops himself appears even more youthful in form and expression; more so than the serious version we saw as Russell Dauterman depicted during the first arc. However, this development in the series can be a little jarring at times.

Layman is building up to the Black Vortex event but has time to develop his characters. While it is certain Cyclops will have a role in the event, it isn't clear how this will pan out just yet. Given this, I am optimistic that the series will continue its ascent and bring us some dynamic storytelling. The seeds of this can be seen in Cyclops #7.

We are introduced to the crew of the Desolation, Malafect's ship, which has the pirate captain's own daughter among its crew. Vileena, who acts as Cyclops' guide and go-between for the other crew members, leaves a lasting impression on our titular hero.

Cyclops has to become a weapon to survive

As the story unfolds, we get to witness some of the key characteristics for which Cyclops is so well known. Planning and tactical skills are forefront, and a dramatic show of his optic blast reminds us that while he may look younger, he is still a force to be reckoned with.

Garron uses some dynamic panel arrangements to good effect, particularly those involving an exchange between the captured Corsair and his son. It is during these pages we also get to see the magnificent holding cell. The colors here by Chris Sotomayer pop out, and his skill remains a focal point for the series as a whole.

Sotomayer's colors are vivid and upbeat but don't pull away from the story. Rather, they enhance it with an exotic quality. Space travel and interaction with alien creatures has no bounds, so the artists can bring some flare to how they want to tell this type of story.

We want this series to move forward, and while it is booked in to at least May 2015, that seems like a lifetime away just yet. There seems to be a lot more story to be told by Layman and Garron here. I will be coming back to see how it goes, will you?

Cyclops is a setting for space battles

Let us know what you thought about this month's issue of Cyclops and leave a comment below or follow us on Twitter and post a message there.