This week’s comic book reviews spotlight a powerhouse lineup of the most popular new releases hitting shelves. Fans are buzzing about the emotional intensity of Absolute Batman #19 and the stylish crime‑drama energy of Catwoman #86. Action surges with G.I. Joe #21, Godzilla: Infinity Roar #3, and the mind‑bending horror of Ice Cream Man #45. Indie and superhero readers alike are flocking to Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #8, Nightwing #137, and the high‑speed thrills of Racer X #6. Add Radiant Black #41, and you’ve got a must‑read slate dominating this week’s best comic books.
1. Absolute Batman #19
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Scott Snyder
- Artist: Nick Dragotta
- Cover Artist: Nick Dragotta
- Official Summary: Poison Ivy proved to be just one of the many horrors within the bowels of the ARK M facility, and as Joker sets his sights on Absolute Batman, he enlists Dr. Jonathan Crane. While Bruce Wayne aligns with Barbara Gordon, new alliances form and a new arc begins with major villain debuts.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: First comic book review up is Absolute Batman #19. Absolute Batman #19 showcases its bold narrative as it delves into new alliances and villain debuts within the ARK M facility, particularly highlighting Poison Ivy and Scarecrow. This issue, marked by its adrenaline-pumping pacing and major plot developments, demonstrates a purposeful build-up towards something larger in the Batman mythos. While character development takes a backseat, the inventive artwork by Nick Dragotta and Scott Snyder’s strong writing keep readers engaged with unexpected twists and a high-energy atmosphere, solidifying its status as a standout in the DC lineup.
Buy Absolute Batman 19 on Amazon
2. Catwoman #86
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Tini Howard
- Artist: Stefano Raffaele
- Cover Artist: David Nakayama
- Official Summary: Selina Kyle’s grip on Gotham’s underworld is tested as dangerous players emerge and alliances begin to fracture, forcing Catwoman to make bold moves to stay ahead of escalating threats.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Next is Catwoman #86. Selina Kyle faces mounting pressures in Gotham’s underworld as new threats and fractured alliances challenge her position. The narrative of Catwoman #86 shifts into a darker noir tone, highlighting Black Mask’s relentless pursuit of Selina’s remaining assets. This installment portrays a violent and suffering-laden tale amid beautifully rendered characters, as Catwoman, stripped of allies, battles a powerful evil she believed was behind her. The chapter exudes an intense atmosphere reminiscent of a Michael Mann film, marking a gripping escalation in the story.
3. G.I. Joe #21
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Writer: Joshua Williamson
- Artist: Tom Reilly
- Cover Artist: Tom Reilly
- Official Summary: As the Energon Universe conflict intensifies, the G.I. Joe team faces a critical mission against Cobra forces where every decision could shift the balance of power and test the team’s unity.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Third on our weekly comic book review list is G.I. Joe #21. As the Energon Universe conflict escalates, the G.I. Joe team embarks on a pivotal mission against Cobra, testing their unity. This series iteration, particularly notable for integrating Scarlett, showcases thrilling combat, especially during Cobra Commander’s attack on The Arashikage, thanks to Williamson’s dynamic storytelling and Reilly & Loughridge’s vibrant artwork. G.I. Joe #21 honors a classic moment in the franchise while offering a mostly silent and action-driven narrative. Although this issue is one of the most exciting yet, it suffers from a lack of clarity regarding the Energon sword, leading to some confusion in an otherwise strong storyline.
4. Godzilla: Infinity Roar #3
- Publisher: IDW Publishing
- Writer: Tim Seeley
- Artist: Nikola Čižmešija
- Cover Artist: Kael Ngu
- Official Summary: KNULL X GODZILLA: ALL-OUT ASSUALT ON ASGARD! GODZILLA’s rampage has reached the Rainbow Bridge as THOR leads an army in Asgard’s defense! As chaos erupts, KNULL slips away to enact a secret plan to spread his symbiotes across the galaxy – will the All-Father, ODIN, be able to stop him as Kings and Gods collide? Meanwhile, across the cosmos, DOCTOR DOOM has enacted a secret plan of his own that could tip the scales – but in what direction, no one knows!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Rounding up the fourth spot, Godzilla: Infinity Roar #3. In “KNULL X GODZILLA: ALL-OUT ASSAULT ON ASGARD,” Godzilla attacks Asgard, prompting Thor to defend the realm. While chaos ensues, Knull plots to spread his symbiotes throughout the galaxy. Meanwhile, Doctor Doom has his own secret strategy that may influence the conflict. Issue #3 reveals Knull’s plan to destroy the universe, with heroes distracted by Godzilla, leaving Doom as a potential savior.
Buy Godzilla: Infinity Roar 3 on Amazon
5. Ice Cream Man #45
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Writer: W. Maxwell Prince
- Artist: Martín Morazzo
- Cover Artist: Martín Morazzo
- Official Summary: Quiz Custodian Impose Custodies? A voyeuristic, Hitchcockian homage wherein we watch as a wheelchaired watch-man watches the windows of a weary world of wahoos, wackos, and wannabes.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Our number five comic book this week is Ice Cream Man #45. Ice Cream Man #45 is a Hitchcockian homage that creatively uses the comics medium to deliver a haunting, experimental story. The issue features a wheelchair-bound watchman observing a bizarre world, enhancing the story’s tension and mood. While the conclusion may not resonate with all readers, the compelling journey and layered ideas make it a noteworthy installment in this anthology series, serving as an excellent entry point for newcomers seeking a brief thriller.
Buy Ice Cream Man 45 on Amazon
6. Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #8
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Writer: Robert Kirkman
- Artist: Ryan Ottley
- Cover Artist: Ryan Ottley
- Official Summary: Battle Beast vs Colossus…AND Juggernaut? Juggernaut and Colossus want to celebrate their family reunion by killing Battle Beast…before he gets to kill them. Plus, what is the Viltrum Empire planning?
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: The sixth comic book review is Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #8. Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #8 features a high-action showdown with Battle Beast against Juggernaut and Colossus, emphasizing character development and thrilling moments. While story progression is minimal, the focus on action provides an exhilarating experience, appealing to fans of violence and entertainment. The comic retains its style of bloody violence and dark humor, satisfying reader expectations for spectacular battles and visuals. Ryan Ottley’s dynamic artwork further enhances this installment, although it may not fulfill those looking for deeper themes.
Buy Invincible Universe: Battle Beast 8 on Amazon
7. Nightwing #137
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Tom Taylor
- Artist: Bruno Redondo
- Cover Artist: Bruno Redondo
- Official Summary: Haunted by a deadly highway collision, Nightwing restlessly hunts for clues in the ghost stories of Blüdhaven. When a deadly standoff besieges Blüdhaven Bridge, Dick Grayson might not be in the best state of mind to tackle it. Luckily, the World’s Greatest Detective has come calling…
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Seventh is Nightwing #137. Nightwing faces psychological turmoil following a traumatic highway collision while investigating ghost stories in Blüdhaven. The situation intensifies during a standoff at Blüdhaven Bridge, where Dick Grayson’s mental state is questioned. This compelling issue marks a profound chapter in Nightwing’s life, illustrated brilliantly by Cowan and the art team, depicting Grayson’s guilt and frustration. The narrative promises to deepen his character, as “The Crossroads” presents new challenges he must navigate. Readers who enjoyed “Crash Out Nightwing” will find this installment particularly engaging.
8. Racer X #6
- Publisher: Mad Cave Studios Comics
- Writer: Mark London
- Artist: Nicolas Salamanca
- Cover Artist: Nicolas Salamanca
- Official Summary: An outlaw race in the desert pits Racer X against the deadliest engine ever built, and the mob that wants it unleashed on the X Circuit. As the GRX makes its bloody debut at Death’s Bend, Racer X counters with a revolutionary new machine designed not just to win, but to survive. Betrayal, industrial espionage, and lethal ambition collide in a race where momentum kills, survival is victory, and some wins cost more than anyone can afford.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Making up our eighth comic book review is Racer X #6. An outlaw race in a desert features Racer X facing off against the deadliest engine, the GRX, as it makes its brutal debut at Death’s Bend. Racer X presents a new machine engineered for survival in a landscape rife with betrayal and industrial espionage. The narrative escalates the tension and stakes, intertwining high-stakes racing with heavy drama. This installment enhances the appeal of the Speed Racer Universe, making it essential reading for fans of the series who have yet to dive into this spin-off.
9. Radiant Black #41
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Writer: Kyle Higgins
- Artist: Marcelo Costa
- Cover Artist: Marcelo Costa
- Official Summary: Horizon is Chicago’s hero, but the secrets waiting in a lab outside the city tell a different story. To get them, Radiant Black will need the help of an infiltration expert—if he and SHIFT don’t kill each other first.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Let’s go to our ninth comic book review which is Radiant Black #41. Horizon is celebrated as Chicago’s hero, yet hidden secrets in a lab challenge this perception. Radiant Black must enlist an infiltration expert to uncover them, navigating the complex relationship with SHIFT. Issue #41 presents a heist theme, focusing on the tension between the two characters while foreshadowing an intense conclusion.
Buy Radiant Black 41 on Amazon
10. Storm: Earth’s Mightiest Mutant #3
- Publisher: Marvel Comics
- Writer: Murewa Ayodele
- Artist: Lucas Werneck
- Cover Artist: Mateus Manhanini
- Official Summary: To save STORM from THE WAR ABOVE ALL, a mysterious entity abducts ORORO out of the Multiverse completely. STORM must find her way back to EARTH-616 by any means necessary.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Finally, our list of comic book reviews this week ends with Storm: Earth’s Mightiest Mutant #3. To rescue STORM from THE WAR ABOVE ALL, a mysterious entity abducts ORORO from the Multiverse. STORM must find her way back to EARTH-616. The series is highly praised, with a rating of 9.5/10, highlighting its beautiful writing, stellar art, and engaging storyline that explores themes of sacrifice. The review expresses frustration with its limited-series format, noting the effective narrative twists that keep readers hooked for future issues.
Buy Storm: Earth’s Mightiest Mutant 3 on Amazon
Quick Buying Guide: This Week’s Best Comic Book Picks
Not sure where to start with this week’s stack? Use this fast guide to zero in on the right issue for you.
- Best Overall – Absolute Batman #19
A flagship Gotham tale with big stakes, sharp art, and broad appeal. If you only grab one book, make it this. - Best Investment – Invincible Universe: Battle Beast #8
Fan-favorite character, brutal cosmic action, and strong long-term collector upside. Ideal for readers and speculators alike. - Best for Story – Nightwing #137
Character-driven, emotionally grounded, and perfectly paced. A great entry point for anyone craving rich superhero storytelling. - Underrated – Racer X #6
High-octane racing drama with stylish visuals that’s flying under the radar. A smart pick if you want something different. - Character Spotlight – Catwoman #86
A sleek heist vibe that digs into Selina’s motives and moral gray areas. Perfect for character-focused readers. - Sleeper Pick – Ice Cream Man #45
Surreal horror, experimental storytelling, and haunting themes. This one lingers long after you close the issue.
Also worth a look this week: G.I. Joe #21, Godzilla: Infinity Roar #3, and Radiant Black #41
for extra action, kaiju chaos, and modern superhero drama.
What comics are you buying this week? Let us know in the comments below!
