So, let’s talk Helm #1. I went into this knowing nothing, but loving the art I had seen on twitter. (I follow A LOT of comic folks over there) Because I went into reading this first issue without any prior knowledge, I did not know that this was a D&D story. That’s Dungeons and Dragons for those not in the know. How did I find that out, you might ask? The end matter of this first issue is chock full of information for a DM. So, you should know, going in (since I didn’t) that having D&D knowledge might help you enjoy this story.
I enjoyed the story without it.
Also, look at these alternative covers!! Didn’t I say the art was gorgeous?
So, in this case, Helm is Helm Greycastle, the leader of a band of fighters. (that guy featured on the blue cover) He is joined by his orc wife (?) Vola, a Dwarf named Oskar Frostbeard, and two ladies; Enxina and Shava Nailo. (I don’t know enough about D&D to guess their roles)
Right, to the nitty gritty. The story seems to be about the group led by Helm, going to retrieve a stolen Dragon Child, who was taken by the Jaguar Knights from Tenochtitlan, a Mexican city. There are warring factions and a prophecy going on, and of course this means a fight. Taking out the whole D&D part (bear with me, don’t get mad) this story set within the Aztec Empire is fascinating. I don’t think that time period/people get enough nerdy love and I am so glad to be seeing it here, even if I’m feeling a bit lost.
Since this is a first issue, it’s mostly just setting up the characters and such, but it is definitely interesting enough to keep me excited for what is coming next. The emotion comes through really well, and the writer and artist do a very good job of pulling a reader in.
Helm #1 released today, April 28th from Top Cow Productions.
