The Good
It’s hard to believe that Damian Wayne has been dead for almost a year and a half. We know Batman will be getting a Robin by the end of this story arc. The big question is which Robin? ROBIN RISES: OMEGA serves several purposes. Continuing from this month’s BATMAN AND RA’S AL GHUL #32, we get to see what happens after the big cliffhanger from that issue. The way the issue is set up, if you’re not completely up to date with the current events involving Batman and Robin, you’ll find out everything you need to know.
Peter Tomasi and Andy Kubert give us a full recap of Damian’s life and death and connection to Batman. In some ways, it’s a reassuring feeling seeing some of our favorite pre-New 52 moments with Damian and others cemented into New 52 continuity. The issue isn’t all recap as once everyone is brought up to speed, the action kicks in full force. Batman is fighting for possession of his deceased son’s body. You can see how completely driven he is and seeing him fight with some allies is cool to see. It’s not often Batman gets to be involved in a full scale battle like this. Kubert gets to cut loose and it’s a sight to see.
The stage is set for what will definitely be a crazy ride. We've seen hints of this story involving Apokolips and that opens a new door to how this story could play out. The great thing about this story is we have no idea how it will end. We know there will be "a" Robin but we're left on the edge of our seat wondering and hoping to see the return of Damian somehow.
Kubert's art is always a joy to see. The detail is amazing. Jonathan Glapion's inks are tight, highlighting that detail even more. Brad Anderson's colors shine and the flashback scenes have a nice soft touch to them.
The Bad
As great as the recap is, it last seven pages. Yes, they are seven great pages with Kubert art but for those of us already up to date, it's a little unnecessary.
It feels a little strange what the connection to Apokolips is. It's nice to see the connections with another series. There is some mystery as to Ra's al Ghul's connection and how he obtained a certain object but I assume that's something we'll find out more about as the story unfolds.
The Verdict
The story that no Batman and Robin fan can miss begins here. Actually, it began a year and a half ago. We've seen Batman try to deal with the death of Damian and the lengths he would go to to try to bring him back. A new chapter begins here. Peter Tomasi and Andy Kubert lay it all out for new and continued readers. We get some big action as things heat up with a new kink thrown into the mix. There's so many characters and a lot of fighting thrown in here. You won't want to miss how this story begins. Thankfully we'll only have to wait until next week for the next chapter.