THE NEW GODS #9 Review

• Written by: Ram V

• Art by: Pye Parr, Evan Cagle

• Colors by: Pye Parr, Francesco Segala

• Letters by: Tom Napolitano

• Cover art by: Nimit Malavia

• Cover price: $3.99

• Release date: August 20, 2025

The New Gods #9, by DC Comics on 8/20/25, sees the New Gods face new and old enemies in the vastness of space. As the Nyctari close in, a new hero is forced to take up an old mantle.

First Impressions

The comic's pace is electric from the very first page, pulling you into a world already at war. The narrative unfolds with a series of high-stakes reveals and character moments that feel both fresh and true to the source material. It’s a compelling read that manages to balance action with intricate world-building.

Recap

In the previous issue, Orion found himself struggling with his identity as the son of Darkseid. He grappled with whether he was a hero or a villain and if he would be able to live up to the legacy of his father. He ultimately decided to forge his own path.

Plot Analysis

The story opens with a grim reflection on loss and survival. A mysterious narrator, marked by tragedy and shaped by Darkseid’s violent quest for power, recounts how the Nyctari's invasion changed them forever. Grayven is compared to a brother, both molded by war and the relentless churn of conquest. The narrative sets the stakes: the gods have escaped, monumental cities like Sur Tuin have fallen, and the Nyctari are hunting down refugees with relentless energy-tracking ships.

As the Nyctari expand their grip, a Green Lantern named Raker Qarrigat sends a desperate warning across the stars. With Wolsoon cut off, he alerts all listening Lanterns about the Nyctari's plans and their pursuit of the gods fleeing from New Genesis. Forager, a member of the bugs, teams up with Raker, explaining how the Lanterns’ rings double as communication tools, which have been jammed ever since Darkseid’s death. The pair scheme to use patrol ship rifts to send out messages, all while the Nyctari keep chasing any hint of resistance.

Meanwhile, Orion, offered the role of Highfather, steps forward to lead the survivors while refusing old titles or symbols of authority. Taking the name Oathmaker, he vows to guide his people through conflict and darkness, seeking hope even as the floating city of Sur Tuin lies in ruins. There's open talk among the gods and their allies about their flaws, the realities of divinity, and the brutal cycles that have shaped them all. Serifan, another survivor, offers a little warmth, sharing past scars and hinting at deeper stories—especially those connected to Scott Free.

The tension peaks as Raker and Forager, with help from the sentient intelligence Mother, manage to send out a clearer warning. The Justice League is tipped off that the Nyctari are coming to Earth, just as plans are put into motion for a counterattack. A child named Kamal finds himself torn between the expectations of war and his desire for family. The issue ends with alliances shifting and betrayals looming, as key characters maneuver for control while the ominous threat of the Nyctari edges ever closer to Earth.

Detailed Review

Writing

The writing in this issue is dense but purposeful, effectively using flashbacks to provide backstory and context for the present conflict. The dialogue is exposition-heavy, particularly in the opening pages, but it serves to build the mythology of the new villains and establish the stakes. The narrative successfully balances multiple plotlines, from Orion's journey to the Green Lantern's struggle and the Nyctari's sinister plans.

Art

The art is vibrant and dynamic, with a visual style that blends classic comic book aesthetics with a more modern, expressive feel. The use of color is particularly effective, creating distinct moods for different scenes, such as the eerie, ruined landscapes of Sur Tuin and the verdant fields of the Green Lantern's world. The character designs are unique and detailed, and the action sequences are fluid and easy to follow.

Characters

The character development for Orion is a central focus. He is shown to be a character still grappling with his lineage and what it means to be a hero. New characters like Grayven and Forager are introduced with clear motivations and a sense of history. The Nyctari are established as a clear and present danger, and their leaders, with their focused and single-minded pursuit, provide a compelling villainous presence.

Positives

The comic's greatest strength is its ability to create a "lived-in" world rich with potential. The narrative weaves together disparate elements from different corners of the DC universe, making the conflict feel expansive and significant. The pacing is a particular highlight, moving briskly from one plot point to the next while still allowing for moments of character reflection and exposition. It’s a compelling and satisfying read that leaves the reader wanting more.

Negatives

The main drawback of the issue is the expositional dialogue, which at times feels a bit heavy-handed. While it’s necessary to establish the plot and stakes, some of the conversations feel more like information dumps than natural interactions between characters. The focus on multiple plotlines also means that some scenes feel a little rushed, as the comic tries to cram a lot of information into a limited number of pages. The end result is a narrative that can be slightly confusing for readers not already familiar with the wider context of the New Gods' universe

About The Reviewer: Gabriel Hernandez is the Publisher & EIC of ComicalOpinions.com, a comics review site dedicated to indie, small, and mid-sized publishers.

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Final Thoughts

The New Gods #9 is a commendable comic that demonstrates a clear, coherent, and engaging plot progression. The art is phenomenal and its synergy with the narrative is highly valued. The creativity in its world-building and character development earns it high marks for its originality. While the exposition can be a little clunky and the pacing can feel a little rushed, the issue is still a banger that delivers a solid, satisfying read.

7/10

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