JUSTICE LEAGUE PART 1: FRANCHISE AMERICA!
Since their 1960 inception the Justice League have been the premiere organized crime-fighting unit. Offering selections of some of the DC Universe's finest heroes, the JL's recruitment philosophy has varied to include; regional concern, covert operations, villain-centric obstacles, and the goal to assemble the cream of the crop. The latter arguably makes up the most famous incarnation of the League, constructed to represent versions of the leading corner posts of the DCU, and colloquially known as "the big seven."

Despite their eclectic origins, the Justice League remains popularly associated with it's foundations in the United States. Last year we paused to consider what might truly be possible for the team if they were to reinstate the now defunct branch of Justice League International. While considering this, the Infinite Wars constructed a draft of potential members for our own international team.

Since then; Final Crisis has plunged the entire DC multiverse into chaos, forcing the many factions of heroes and villains to unite their powers as a single force, not just for good in their world, but all fifty-two key worlds!

Overwhelming odds were thwarted as the heroes marched against a Darkseid victorious, and reversed their fates! Though the harrowing events of the Final Crisis were smoothed over by the Miracle Machine's ability to grant a single wish (to Superman), the DCU remains a changed world. Among the apparent casualties of Final Crisis; Martian Manhunter, Hawkman, Hawkgirl, and Batman. Joining them soon in their absence will be Superman, who opts to take a little time off-world to foster a new Kryptonian society in the post-New Krypton Super-titles.

With all of this new information at hand - including the stakes and relationships raised in Final Crisis - we take opportunity to revise our previous thoughts about a possible Justice League reinvention. In fact, in this universe that has overcome the endless armies of great evil, we now see the need to amass great good as well. Thus, throughout February, we reveal to you just one possible plan for a Justice League suited to every occasion, as inspired by Final Crisis!

This week we begin with the obvious: the Justice League of America.
Despite being geographically restricted to the most populated hub of superhero activity, we have to recognise that the JLA are the best known version of the team, regardless of locale. I rather like to think of this team as being as internationally accessible as DC's comics, even if their membership and promotion is bloated with reference to their most immediate sanction.

In keeping with the tradition of "the big seven"; our JLA does it's best to build on the forces assembled during Final Crisis, while also representing the traditional cornerstones of the DCU. Everyone on this team should carry a certain weight, which was something worth considering while balancing the various factors, including attempts to account for the skills lost with Batman and Superman.

Wonder Woman (Diana)
Alt. Affiliation: [Amazons]
First Appearance: [All-Star Comics #8]
Year One: [1941] JLA Year: [1960]
Cumulative Rank: [#15] Win Percentage: [54.55%]
2006: [#115] 2007: [#43] 2008: [#7] 2009: [DNR]

With her Trinity teammates out of the picture, it stands to reason that now would be the time to allow Wonder Woman a bigger piece of the spotlight. We've discussed in the past that, despite her apparent qualifications, the situation never quite arises for WW to emerge as a leading force for good.
In a situation of finality that acknowledges the absence of her fellows, (including emotional favourite and unofficial 'heart of the league,' Martian Manhunter), I can think of few others with enough weight to rally the spirits of a new group.

While she might've been the least redeemed casualty of the Anti-Life Equation, Wonder Woman cannot be underestimated! An asset for both her physical and mental prowess, the all-star line-up of the League should provide an arena where Wonder Woman can be free to shine in both respects, without being marginalized to occasional scenes of punching and/or mothering.

Green Lantern (John Stewart)
Alt. Affiliation: [Green Lantern Corps]
First Appearance: [Green Lantern #87]
Year One: [1971] JLA Year: [2003]
Cumulative Rank: [#31] Win Percentage: [100%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [#139] 2008: [#16] 2009: [DNR]

The Alpha Lanterns were created to be an incorruptable force beyond the measure of an average Green Lantern, but during their investigation into the murder of Orion, weaknesses were exposed as the New Gods sought new form.
Any extra-terrestrial arrogancies must surely have been lost after Darkseid's interest in Earth turned the Corps themselves into an instrument of destruction that very nearly created catastrophe on a universal scale!

With a renewed respect for terran threat; I'd like to think the Guardians might initiate John Stewart into the League as an official liaison between the Corps and Earth's superheroes. This not only gives the League a much-needed cosmic awareness, but also a uniquely versatile power in the field. We all know the Lantern ring is the most powerful weapon in the universe, but that power is only as good as the will of the wearer, and as we saw in Final Crisis, John Stewart's will is iron clad!

Flash (Barry Allen)
Alt. Affiliation: [The Speed Force]
First Appearance: [Showcase #4]
Year One: [1956] JLA Year: [1960]
Cumulative Rank: [#29] Win Percentage: [100%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [#38] 2008: [#63] 2009: [#2]

Barry Allen might've spent the last twenty-three years on the bench, but somehow during his return in Final Crisis, it felt like he'd never been away.
That isn't a glowing review of the decision to bring the character back from death, but rather an acknowledgment of the unique insight the character provides.

In representing the tradition of the League and the useful representation of a speedster, it stands to reason that this group would take the A-lister. I'm a little reluctant to write Wally West off all together, but since Infinite Crisis, it's been a rough ride for the legacy hero, both on and off the page!

Getting back up to speed with the world he left behind should be a breeze for the fastest man alive. His experience with bizarre circumstances and seniority is also an attractive prospect for a team balancing the old with the new. Like GL, he fullfils a staple requirement of the big seven formula, and brings a uniquely powerful ability to a team sure to butt heads with top-tier terror.

Captain Marvel (Freddy Freeman)
Alt. Affiliation: [Marvel Family]
First Appearance: [Whiz Comics #25]
Year One: [1941] JLA Year: [NA]
Cumulative Rank: [#290] Win Percentage: [50%]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [#336] 2008: [#134] 2009: [DNR]

Those out of the loop should know that Freddy Freeman ain't no junior, anymore! When the Wizard Shazam was destroyed by the Spectre, the power and responsibility he shouldered was passed on to a successor handpicked as his champion of Earth -- Billy Batson! Captain Marvel's resulting absence had to be accounted for, leading to a competition trial that eventually allowed Freddy Freeman to step into a role he had been groomed for, for years!

As Jr, Freddy racked up plenty of miles of experience, but as the new big red on the block, there's bound to be an air of uncertainty about the character. It stands to reason that the Marvel Family, worthy of spotlight in Final Crisis, should be spoken for in this assembly of DC powerhouses. After playing an important role in the Anti-Life resistance, Freeman seems more than ready to step up accordingly!
Among other skills; Captain Marvel's strength of Hercules provides valuable back-up in the brute force stakes, filling in for Superman.

Mr. Miracle (Shilo Norman)
Alt. Affiliation: [New Gods]
First Appearance: [Mister Miracle #15]
Year One: [1973] JLA Year: [NA]
Cumulative Rank: [DNR] Win Percentage: [DNR]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [DNR] 2009: [DNR]

Having previously served as a stand-in replacement for Scott Free; Shilo Norman is much more qualified for full admission into the League than some might think.

With motherboxxx and a unique array of gadgets in tow; Miracle provides an interesting substitution for the absent Batman. Interestingly enough, one of Norman's great claims to fame can be that of escaping from the predicament that currently positions Bruce Wayne somewhere outside of time and space as we know it. Darkseid's Omega Sanction, the "death that is life," seemingly took Batman's life, but as Shilo Norman can attest, there's much more to it than that!

After playing a vital role in Earth's survival during Final Crisis; I think it's fair to recognise the unique role Mister Miracle can play. As a hero walking between the worlds of men and gods, his insights become far more than the simple pageantry of an escape artist, entering into the true realm of impossibility.

Zatanna (Zatanna Zatara)
Alt. Affiliation: [Sentinels of Magic]
First Appearance: [Hawkman #4]
Year One: [1964] JLA Year: [1978]
Cumulative Rank: [#63] Win Percentage: [66.67%]
2006: [#12] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [DNR] 2009: [DNR]

When her role in altering the memories and mental capacity of villains was exposed, Zatanna's relationship with the Justice League deteriorated. Weighed down by the burden of her near limitless skills, Zatanna embarked on a journey of self-discovery, finding her way into the life of Batman shortly before his apparent death in Final Crisis.

The culmination of Darkseid's global domination, Batman's death, and maybe even a Shilo Norman delivered glimmer of hope, would surely be enough to inspire Zatanna to return as a vital component within the League.
Her vast mystic capabilities and connections to the realm of magic and occult provide the League with important knowledge, and defense, against threats with the potential to defy the very logics that empower the other heroes.

Zatanna would return to the League as a matured hero, ready to face her past, and move into the future freed of it's burden. In a team with only two heroes who experienced her secret past, Z has plenty of space to reconcile in her own time.

Atom (Ray Palmer)
Alt. Affiliation: [Challengers]
First Appearance: [Showcase #34]
Year One: [1961] JLA Year: [1962]
Cumulative Rank: [#102] Win Percentage: [50%]
2006: [#68] 2007: [#86] 2008: [DNR] 2009: [DNR]

After aiding Jimmy Olsen (and Orion) in their final battle against Darkseid [Countdown #2], Ray Palmer was unwittingly a catalyst for everything that came about as a result of Darkseid's fall from New Godhood. I don't know if he necessarily has anything to atone for, but I just thought I'd get that in.

As a seasoned member, Atom returns to this big picture League with a recent tour through the multiverse under his belt. As Final Crisis showed us, it isn't just his matter-altering white dwarf technology that makes him a superhuman asset, either. The scientific knowledge that unlocked those powers has been called upon by the League many times previous, even by Batman, whose intelligence would be well accounted for by the reinitiation of Ray Palmer!

Unique perspectives seem to be the throughline of this particular grouping, and while Atom represents another senior hero whose stature within the superhuman community is worthy of note, he also observes that not seen by others -- threats that might emerge on a subatomic level! It's handier than you'd think!

NEXT WEEK: The Justice League franchise branches out to resist!

SPIDER-MAN versus MENACE
Menace Over Manhattan (Marvel)
Where: Amazing Spider-man #585 When: April 2009
Why: Marc Guggenheim How: John Romita Jr

The Story So Far...
In a world where Peter Parker's secret identity has been restored; the web-swinging bachelor finds his alter-ego the prime suspect in a spate of serial killings. Connected to the murders by the presence of his custom homing devices -- spider-tracers -- Spidey becomes a wanted man like never before, all the while trying to fight to protect the city.

The New York mayoral race provides the stage for Spider-man to face-off against the latest in a long line of legacy inheritants of Green Goblin tech! Having troubled Spider-man for months, the self-described "Menace" takes the opportunity to challenge a mortally wounded Spider-man to a rematch by attacking a rally for candidate, Bill Hollister!

Suffering a gunshot wound to the shoulder, and extreme fatigue as result of his recent adventures, Spider-man enters the fray at a distinct disadvantage - something Menace is ready to take full advantage of!

Tale of the Tape...
Strength: Spider-man 5 (Superhuman)
Intelligence: Spider-man 5 (Professor)
Speed: Spider-man 4 (Olympian)
Stamina: Spider-man 5 (Marathon)
Agility: Spider-man 5 (Cat-like)
Fighting Ability: Spider-man 3 (Street Wise)
Energy Power: Menace 4 (Arsenal)


- A bite from a radioactive spider should have killed highschool nerd, Peter Parker, but instead it would irradiate his own blood, granting him extraordinary powers.

After turning to a life of profit, Peter is inspired to use his gifts for the greater good when his decision to allow a burglar to escape leads to the murder of his adopted parent and uncle, Ben Parker.
Ben's sage-like advice, "with great power comes great responsibility", becomes a mantra for Parker as he becomes Spider-man!

Spider-man possesses the proportional strength, speed, and agility of a spider. Adding to his arsenal is a precognitive spider-sense that warns him of pending danger. Self-made mechanical webshooters round out Spidey's abilities, allowing him to ensnare opponents in a variety of modes; travel through the city by web-line; and form basic constructs based on the available quantities of his own formula of web-fluid.

- Upon his return to New York from a lengthy absence in Europe; Lily Hollister found in Harry Osborn a kindred spirit. The pair formed a close relationship, but when a suspicious Hollister began investigating the concern her boyfriend had relapsed into drug addiction, she discovered a secret far darker!
Within the hidden journals of Harry Osborn she discovered his history as the second Green Goblin. Seeing an opportunity to secure her father's role as mayor and win his adoration, she followed instructions to discover the hidden sanctum of Norman Osborn. There, she accidentally exposed herself to an experimental form of the serum responsible for empowering two generations of Osborns.

This new version of the serum embued Lily Hollister with the ability to transform at will into her alter-ego - Menace! Adding stolen equipment from the Green Goblin's arsenal to her own powers of superhuman strength, Hollister found an even greater tool in her pursuit of approval, beginning a campaign that included the misery of Osborn's former nemesis, Spider-man.

Math: Spider-man Ranking: Spider-man (#2)

What Went Down...
Fighting to remain conscious, Spider-man swings his way to the Hollister election rally, where he finds Menace in the process of bombarding crowds with pumpkin explosives from atop a stolen Goblin Glider! Spidey intervenes as best he can.

The flying tackle disrupts the smooth trajectory of Menace's glider, but fails to do any real damage, instead offering the villain proximity to land a few blows into Spidey's injured shoulder! Hanging on with his good arm, the web-slinger finds himself thrown through scaffolding on a nearby construction repair site.

The damage of his landing forces a dazed Spider-man to exert precious energy -- and web fluid -- to maintain the integrity of the planks and pipes suspended on the site. His efforts, though short term, provide the crowds below necessary time to escape harm. The same cannot be said for Spider-man, who plummets down with the wreckage of the imploding structure!

Emerging from the rubble, Spidey is greeted with an unforgiving straight jab!
Apparently plotting on the fly, Menace informs Spider-man he will have the company of the city's finest, rather than the grim reaper. With the villain looming over him, Parker makes an effort to swipe his foe with a backhand, but is too sluggish to connect. Drawing his wounded arm back in it's makeshift sling, he tries to fire off a round of webbing as a distraction, but again is too slow.

Menace pounds a fist deep into Spidey's wounded should, taking advantage of his stunned state to drive a couple of knees right into his face, before finishing the combination with a devestating super-human blow to the stomach!

Despite his whispered objections; Spidey is too exhausted, brusied, and bloodied to resist as Menace clutches him by the throat and lifts his body off the ground, squeezing until he goes completely limp. Unconscious, Spider-man is left to the arriving police, as Menace flies away with a sinister cackle.

The Hammer...
Given the relative imbalance between the success rates of heroes and villains; there's something very fun about initiating Menace into the ranks, with a win!

In 2008 we took a break from Spider-man in soft response to the decision to restructure the character's history in Brand New Day. The plot proved offensive not just for it's basic intentions, but also, execution, which saw Spider-man make a faustian pact with Marvel's noted devil deceiver, Mephisto, in order to save the life of his Aunt May.

Quite frankly, after forty-five years, I probably could've done with offing the old bat. Again. Once and for all. Dead.

Admittedly, notions of a "Spider-Boycott" were as much founded in criticism as they were an effort to pick-up stray hits from like minded readers. 2009 presents an opportunity to forgive, forget, and reinstate the character in conversation with a renewed perspective.

This issue isn't the first time I've sampled the post-BND world of Amazing. The temptation of classic Spider-man villains returning to the series, (New Ways to Die), was too much a lure to resist. While the single issue I got my hands on did not contain action sufficient to meet our site review requirements, it was an enjoyable read, as expected.

Now that the series appears to be finding it's footing in a post-BND landscape, I couldn't argue that the book isn't solid. There's something fitting about expecting Spidey's adventures to unfold three times a month, as if the comics were doing as well as they were during the nineties (ala; Maximum Carnage).
The content of issues benefits greatly from modern sensibilities, delivering that flowing excitement without the frustration of cross-title interruptions, or hiccups from multiple creative teams contributing to a single story. John Romita Jr, in the issue in reviewed, is as effective as he's ever been, delivering pencils that are sure to tittilate fans of his work, even if those offended by BND.

Top 25 Lethal Foes
#1 Venom
#2 Morbius
#3 Mephisto
#4 Doppelganger
#5 Mr. Hyde
#6 Eddie Brock
#7 Scorpion
#8 Sandman
#9 Tombstone
#10 Shriek
#11 Vulture
#12 Dr. Octopus
#13 Stilt-Man
#14 Kingpin
#15 Kraven
#16 Mysterio
#17 Green Goblin
#18 Carnage
#19 Shocker
#20 Chameleon
#21 Hydro-Man
#22 Hammerhead
#23 Boomerang
#24 Demogoblin
#25 Electro2009 is said to be a more dedicated return to the villains that made reading Spider-man in the past so enjoyable. Cinema favourite, Dr. Octopus, is set to appear as the first in a string of prominent returns, following on from a gradual trend that seems to have provided encouraging boosts from dipping sale.

There's something about the atmosphere of the book, and that same promise, that brings back gushing memories of the series of the late eighties [ie; Spectacular Spider-man #142]. It is here I would just about cast my net to capture the definitive period in Spider-man's history -- a time when the Lee/Romita soap drama fused with modern superhero sensibilities to give us some of the most iconic moments in the character's history. A period where Peter Parker had grown in-fiction as a man, and developed further as a character. Of course, this is also a stinging reminder of how we've arrived at this historically inspired period of Amazing Spider-man.

That period can be well remembered for the excitement of the Spider-Marriage, which served as catalyst for classic, powerful dramatic tension, which has since been undermined.

The undeniable foreword of every issue will always be the frustrating circumstances which brought us here. Revisionist history like the revelation that Harry Osborn's death was faked by his father and Mysterio - to whisk him away into rehabilitation in Europe - would be so much more forgivable if it weren't attached to the awkward and lazy metafiction involved in Mephisto as a reality-altering deus ex machina.

There's nothing about this issue that couldn't have been achieved through a simple creative shake-up. The introduction of this new villain, while nothing we haven't really seen before, manages to be quite welcome. Curiously similar to the Ultimate vision of Norman Osborn's serum-enhanced Goblin; Menace explores a conceptual facet of the character that hasn't found it's way to the Spider-man books before. As it is on the page, it represents an evolution of the Goblin serum, and the manner through which it can be utilized. With rumors of Harry's consumption of said formula, I eagerly anticipate how his inevitable return to the dark side will impact the book in the coming months.

The familiar seems to act in polar opposite to everything promised by early pitches of Brand New Day, similar to the Ultimate comics again, in it's failure to maintain dedication to a confident new vision. Frankly, that literal representation of the classics is a strong positive in this instance. The collision of old, new, and friendly storytelling, actually represent the type of idea I might have suggested in response to the claim a complete new "Ultimate" beginning was necessary.
Qualms with both the Ultimate titles and BND might miscast me as a curmudgeon fearing change, but I hope my issues with context can be recognised upon closer inspection. Particularly as defending the presence of characters like Mary-Jane Parker actually hinge on defending change!

Fanciful superheroics that place our star in peril -- in a construction site battle, no less -- are timeless concepts that deserve the weight of consistent fiction.
Fortunately, as we divorce ourselves from the negative past, "consistent fiction" is exactly what seems to be being presented here. Multiple B-plots simmer away like modern-classics, promising hints of all the mayhem that's sure to come!

Have I missed Spider-man in 2008? Not particularly.
Will I now doggedly pursue the book in 2009? Probably not.

I will, however, feel much better about talking to you about Spider-man comics in the future. Room for improvement, but a pleasant read all the same. Hopefully some time during the year we'll get a chance to talk more about developments.

The Fight: 4.5 The Issue: 4

Shocked and amazed? Not entirely convinced this review wasn't written by a happy drunk? To get the full scoop you'll have to settle for picking the three-times weekly issues off stands! "Character Assassination" is still under way, but you can try your luck at pre-ordering the hardcover, settle for any number of the other collections featuring issues reviewed on the Infinite Wars! By using purchase links in our store, or anywhere else on the site, you help sponsor future entries, whilst getting the same great service and price you already would've. Be sure to stay tuned for the shipping lists for more info in the collected story. With great cashflow must come great purchases!

SHIPPING LIST: FEBRUARY 04, 2009
You can probably find complete shipping list updates on most major comics sites. Consider this an opportunity to either do all your info-shopping in the one place, or get a speculative perspective on what might be worth checking out. These are untested reads. Secret Wars on Infinite Earths can offer no guarantee or endorsement of quality. These are simply titles that may be of potential interest. Some items may ship late.

The Infinite Wars now has a gift shop!
Now you'll find Amazon purchase links to hardcovers, trade paperbacks, and other collections, not only on regular entries -- but also new releases at the bottom of the Shipping List, and now a whole catalogue of potential purchases via the Infinite Wars: Amazonian Gift Shop. [Men are also welcome!] By shopping with Amazon via our purchase links, you not only find yourself a great deal, but also sponsor future entries on the Infinite Wars.


READ THE PREVIEW - VISIT THE SITE - BUY THE COMIC
The Independents...
DEC082227 BAD DOG #1 (MR) $3.99
DEC083914 BOYS #27 (MR) $2.99
JUL082194 DARK IVORY #4 (OF 4) $2.99
NOV084313 DRAGONBALL COMPLETE SERIES 16 VOLS BOX SET (RES) $114.99
NOV084314 DRAGONBALL Z COMPLETE SERIES 26 VOLS BOX SET (RES) $185.99
SEP082248 DYNAMO 5 #19 $3.50
DEC082237 JERSEY GODS #1 $3.50
JUL082204 MADMAN ATOMIC COMICS #13 $3.50
OCT080018 MYSPACE DARK HORSE PRESENTS TP VOL 02 $19.95
DEC082226 SOUL KISS #1 (OF 5) (MR) $3.50
DEC084165 TALES OF TMNT #55 $3.25

The Corporates...
NOV082400 AGE OF SENTRY #5 (OF 6) $2.99
DEC082328 AGENTS OF ATLAS #1 DKR $3.99
DEC080193 BANG TANGO #1 (OF 6) (MR) $2.99
DEC080125 BLACK LIGHTNING YEAR ONE #3 (OF 6) $2.99
DEC082322 DEADPOOL #7 DKR $2.99
DEC080130 EL DIABLO #6 (OF 6) $2.99
NOV082378 IMMORTAL IRON FIST #22 $2.99
DEC080135 MIGHTY #1 $2.99
DEC082380 OFFICIAL INDEX TO MARVEL UNIVERSE #2 $3.99
DEC080139 SECRET SIX #6 (ORIGINS) $2.99
DEC080142 TERROR TITANS #5 (OF 6) $2.99
DEC082348 ULTIMATE WOLVERINE VS HULK NEW PTG #1 $2.99
NOV082375 X-MEN VS HULK #1 $3.99

The Spotlight...
- DEC080117 ADVENTURE COMICS #0 (ORIGINS) $1.00
The modern reconstruction of the Legion of Superheroes as a franchise has to be one of the most intriguing situations at either of the big two publishers. DC wheel out a precursor to the relaunched Adventure Comics series, featuring not only a reprint of the Legion's first appearance with Superboy, but also one of the first of the line-wide Origins & Omens back-ups. Not the most spectacular book on shelves, but well worth the price of admission -- $1!

- DEC082362 ASTONISHING TALES #1 $3.99
Why this isn't just a continuation of Marvel Comics Presents, I can not begin to imagine. Essentially continuing the anthology format for the company, the book immediately boasts the same expectation of slightly left-of-field stories featuring a range of characters from the top of the Marvel pantheon, right down to the lower ranks. Off the bat we've got a little Wolverine, a little Iron Man, and a little trip to the Mojoverse with Cannonball and Sunspot, apparently. A welcome slice of variety from the company, but a very unnecessary relaunch. What-ever happened to that indie-cred variation on the anthology format?...

- AUG080118 FINAL CRISIS LEGION OF THREE WORLDS #3 (OF 5) $3.99
That Legion restructure mentioned earlier? Following on from a recent arc in his Action Comics run, Geoff Johns continues to redefine the Legion right here. Important to Final Crisis only for it's explanation of Superman's absence during Darkseid's takeover; the most important names printed on the book are Johns and Perez! The writer delivers a tour de force of subjects he's tackled in the past few years, converging on the 31st Century as familiar ground to support an introduction to the wide cast of the Legion's insular world. Superboy-Prime's epic saga continues, as does that of the Green Lantern corps, and Superman himself, all detailed expertly by comics' living legend, George Perez! I really don't have enough room here to gush over how great a series this is! Review(s) pending!

- DEC082321 PUNISHER #2 DKR $2.99
The first issue of yet another restart for Frank Castle offered an interesting enough premise, (Punisher v Sentry), but failed to really get airborne (figuratively speaking, of course, given the nature of the guest-star). Throwing Punisher into the Dark Reign scenario that is the current Marvel Universe certainly does promise a strong high concept, but it looks like a string of near-misses might continue to be in Castle's future, as he chases what I expect will be a meandering mystery sub-plot, amidst failed attempts to make a lasting dent on Norman Osborn and his big-time allies.

- DEC082395 WAR OF KINGS DARKHAWK #1 $3.99
For those who don't know: Darkhawk was one of the extreme stars of the 1990s.
Like any good hero of the age, Darkhawk not only had "dark" in his title, but was also prone to moody grim scenes as he grappled with evil in his spiked, metallic suit of alien armor. The character now squares up for a revamp akin to his New Warriors teammate, Nova, joining the cast of the cosmic epic, War of Kings. I couldn't make any kind of guarantee of quality here, but at $3.99, a complete reprinting of the character's 1991 first-issue isn't a bad sweetner!


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Know Your Trade...
DEC082455 AVENGERS NIGHTS OF WUNDAGORE TP $16.99
NOV084313 DRAGONBALL COMPLETE SERIES 16 VOLS BOX SET (RES) $114.99
NOV084314 DRAGONBALL Z COMPLETE SERIES 26 VOLS BOX SET (RES) $185.99
DEC082458 MARVEL EUROPE TP (MR) $14.99
NOV082434 MMW AMAZING SPIDER-MAN TP VOL 01 $24.99
OCT080018 MYSPACE DARK HORSE PRESENTS TP VOL 02 $19.95
DEC082462 PUNISHER MAX TP VOL 11 GIRLS IN WHITE DRESSES (MR) $16.99
OCT080227 SAGA OF THE SWAMP THING HC BOOK 01 (MR) $24.99
NOV080184 TANGENT SUPERMANS REIGN TP VOL 01 $19.99

MONTHLY PUNCH-UP #38 (February 2009)
Folks, this is where the Infinite Wars as a concept really gets exciting! Having finally completed our look at the characters that led Season 2008, we get a chance to unfold into a month free of prediliction.

Way back in December 2005, the site was founded on a simple concept: review and discuss superhero comics, using the fights contained within as the glue that holds everything together. A Comic Book Fight Club through which we could cast a new light on the combative element of super-heroes, whilst still engaging in the usual fare of topic and thought.

As much as February offers an opportunity to open up the forum to a diverse cast of characters, we simply cannot escape certain scenarios of interest.
While the hype might've lost some of it's lustre in the lead-up, February spiritually remains the property of Street Fighter!

The already acclaimed arcade hit, Street Fighter IV, brings the brand home once again, hitting consoles worldwide through February. Coinciding with the game's home release will be a brand new four-issue SFIV mini-series from UDON comics, as well as a cinematic return through the January 27 release of the Kristen Kreuk-headed martial arts pic, Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li.

The renewed freestyle approach to content on the Infinite Wars will no doubt come to include a brief glance at Street Fighter, as well as topics hanging over from the end of last year, such as the hotfire of debate that is - Final Crisis!

---

POINTS
[091/172]
[016/424]
[013/1479]
[009/161]
[005/1977]
[004/1192]
[002/1507]
[000/208]
[000/1527]
[000/1740]
[000/510]
[000/1173]
[000/1740]
[000/1536]
[000/1740]
[000/1097]
[000/1740]
[-02/1181]
[-04/857]
[-04/2005]
[-05/1109]
[-05/2137]
[-05/1561]
[-07/1408]
[-07/1438]
[-08/1892]TEAMS
#1 Justice League
#2 Green Lantern Corps
#3 Dark Illuminati
#4 Secret Avengers
#5 Secret Six
#6 Interpol
#7 Shadaloo
#8 Fantastic Four
#9 Guardians of the Galaxy
#10 Birds of Prey
#11 Justice Society
#12 MI:13
#13 Shadow Cabinet
#14 Shadowpact
#15 Thunderbolts
#16 Outsiders
#17 Super Young Team
#18 Dark Avengers
#19 Astonishing X-Men
#20 X-Force
#21 Earthrealm Defenders
#22 Sinestro Corps
#23 Uncanny X-Men
#24 Mighty Avengers
#25 Special Forces
#26 Lady Liberators2009 Fantasy League...
Last year we introduced a Fantasy League designed to make use of the cumulative rankings sustained by the site, while also drawing influence from the weekly spotlight, and sources of inspiration, to create a currency surrounding the movements of characters.

After inviting bloggers and readers to sponsor teams of their own selection, we spent the year tallying points and declaring winners.
Ultimately, the Infinite Wars, for all intents and purposes, is a flawed machine. As much as we drift to reflect issues of topical concern, the site remains an objective exercise in personal interests. Those playing at home, with no efficient method of trading, could ever hope to utilize an understanding of rules to win. Long story short: the playing field felt less than even.

To avoid dashing the hopes of the enthusiastic few who took us up on our wacky competition, this year we put the screws to the companys. Instead of pitting personally drafted groups against one and other, our month-to-month numericals now intend to cast a skewed reflection of the performances of teams currently in publication.

What do we hope to achieve from such an exercise?
Hey, what is with you and objectives, man?! Can't you just have fun?!?

Okay, so maybe this isn't the section to win over the comics intelligencia, finally boosting our frankly pathetic, and inaccurate, Technorati authority rating. That's okay! I like to think we can pride ourselves on maintaining a healthy balance of intelligent critique and old fashioned, schoolyard fun.

This year, the basic set-up is a little different.
Teams start with an allowance of 3515 points; five times value of the top ranked character. Five characters suitable to the team are drafted at a cost derived from their cumulative ranking at the end of Season 2008. 703 characters, means #1 is worth 703pts, working downward to #703, valued at 1pt. This new rule not only offers an immediate reflection of value, but handicaps league leaders.
This year, unranked characters will cost 355pts, a fraction over mid-range.

Subsequent points are awarded based on results throughout the month.
25pts for a win, 7pts for an assist, 5pts for a loss, and 10pts for a draw.
Additional bonuses of 5pts are awarded for spotlights in the shipping list, and other articles sporradically featured throughout the site. As with last year; the final contributor to monthly scores is the cumulative super stock, which will provide literal additions and substractions to reflect the movement in ranking.

The teams are:
Astonishing X-Men: Cyclops, Emma Frost, Beast, Armor, Storm
Birds of Prey: Oracle, Huntress, Misfit, Lady Blackhawk, Manhunter
Dark Avengers: Spider-man, Ms. Marvel, Hawkeye, Wolverine, Ares
Dark Illuminati: Norman Osborn, Dr. Doom, Sub-Mariner, The Hood, Loki
Earthrealm Warriors: Raiden, Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Sub-Zero, Johnny Cage
Fantastic Four: Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, Thing, Franklin
Green Lantern Corps: Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Kyle Rayner, Guy Gardner, Kilowog
Guardians of the Galaxy: Star-Lord, Adam Warlock, Drax, Rocket Raccoon, Quasar
Interpol: Chun-Li, Guile, Charlie, Cammy White, Thunderhawk
Justice League: Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Black Canary, Hawkgirl
Justice Society: Flash, Powergirl, Green Lantern, Wildcat, Stargirl
Lady Liberators: She-Hulk, Valkyrie, Thundra, Tigra, Hellcat
MI-13: Captain Britain, Spitfire, Pete Wisdom, Blade, Black Knight
Mighty Avengers: Wasp, Hercules, USAgent, Scarlet Witch, Jocasta
Outsiders: Owlman, Geo-Force, Black Lightning, Creeper, Metamorpho
Secret Avengers: Luke Cage, Spider-man, Wolverine, Iron Fist, Ronin
Secret Six: Catman, Deadshot, Scandal, Ragdoll, Bane
Shadaloo: M.Bison, Sagat, Vega, Balrog, Seth
Shadow Cabinet: Icon, Hardware, Blitzen, Donner, Iota
Shadowpact: Blue Devil, Zauriel, Detective Chimp, Enchantress, Nightshade
Sinestro Corps: Sinestro, Mongul, Fatality, Kryb, Yellow Lantern
Special Forces: Jax, Sonya Blade, Cyrax, Kenshi, Stryker
Super Young Team: Most Excellent Superbat, Big Atomic Lantern Boy, Shy Crazy Lolita Canary, Shiny Happy Amazon, Well-Spoken Sonic Lightning Flash
Thunderbolts: Paladin, The Ghost, Black Widow, Ant-Man, Mr. X
Uncanny X-Men: Cannonball, Colossus, Dazzler, Nightcrawler, Karma
X-Force: Warpath, Archangel, X-23, Wolfsbane, Domino

Due to the ever changing landscape of superheroics, and characters who hold membership with multiple groups, we will attempt to maintain a delicate balance between accuracy and suitability. Again encouraging some sense of interactivity, it is strongly encouraged for readers to use the comments section to suggest appropriate trades, and/or the inclusion of new teams.

To make the Fantasy League more managable, there may be a culling process in the future months, that eliminates some teams. Once again, be encouraged to make your thoughts on the subject known in the comments section.

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Wall Street War Journal: Market Analysis...
"Amazing" Sales Fig.
#545 124481 (+24.11%)
#546 136109 (+9.34)
#547 108485 (-20.29)
#548 105122 (-3.1%)
#549 101112 (-3.81%)
#550 90874 (-10.12%)
#551 88084 (-3.07%)
#552 89835 (+1.99%)
#553 82648 (-8.00%)
#554 81072 (-1.91%)
#555 86902 (+7.19%)
#556 78458 (-9.72%)
#557 77057 (-1.79%)
#558 76966 (-0.12%)
#559 74206 (-3.59%)
#560 74012 (-0.26%)
#561 72372 (-2.22%)
#562 71409 (-1.33%)
#563 70792 (-0.86%)
#564 68882 (-2.7%)
#565 69182 (+0.44%)
#566 68912 (-0.39%)
#567 68130 (-0.13%)
#568 93395 (+37.08%)
#569 77950 (-16.54%)
#570 82479 (+5.81%)
#571 73682 (-10.67%)
#572 75164 (+2.01%)
#573 82550 (+9.83%)
#574 69069 (-16.33%)
#575 68913 (-0.23%)
#576 68956 (+0.06%)
#577 76625 (+11.12%)
#578 66564 (-13.13%)
December 2008:
#579 69784 (+4.84%)
#580 62979 (-9.75%)
#581 64961 (+3.15%)
Adjustment: (-2.41%)A new year of Infinite Wars presents a brand new day!
Our year-long Spider-Boycott is officially at an end, but the ebb and flow of sales on Amazing Spider-man remain a topic of interest. Particularly now that we have a year's worth of sales statistics from which we can draw conclusions.

Turning to the month-end adjustment, we see a continued decline in sales, dropping two percent on the final issue shipped during December. Worried readers can take some bittersweet comfort in the knowledge that this sort of minor decline isn't unusual for any comic book in the modern era.

Promising, in fact, is the isolated rise in sales for #581, which begins a Dan Slott/Mike McKone Harry Osborn story. Granted, after the success of the films, this recently resurrected character is surely of interest to many readers, but I wouldn't have expected a two-parter to enjoy that kind of boost based purely on the character and creative team.

To that end, the (web-)swinging pendulum of sales might be further indication of the title finding it's readership.
That kind of stability is sure to be read as a positive, particularly with evidence shown that the right story can provide a solid boost. We saw this most prominently through New Ways to Die, boosted by the return of Eddie Brock and Spidey's first confrontation with Norman Osborn and the Thunderbolts since his government promotion.

Likely as a result of this, Marvel have announced intentions to bring back the pantheon of classic villains to the pages of Amazing in 2009. First on the slate, nd sure to draw a crowd, is Dr. Octopus, who follows welcome late '08 headliners, like; Scorpion, Shocker, and Molten Man.

To be reflected in next month's sales data, the Obama issue of Amazing Spider-man, which continues Marvel's latest trend of capitalizing on the meteoric rise of the new US President as a pop culture icon. President Obama has appeared as a character in several issues of Marvel's major line-ups, even finding himself at odds with the recently appointed head of HAMMER, (SHIELD's replacement), Norman Osborn.

In financial news; amidst a well publicized financial ordeal, Midway Entertainment finally filed for bankrupcy. Though dramatic, the move actually ensures Midway's ability to continue on with slated projects, including the next core instalment of the Mortal Kombat franchise. Despite being met with mixed critical response, Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe was a moderate sales success for the company.

Downloadable content for the shallow versus DC game seems increasingly unlikely, guaranteeing increased scrutiny of any future projects. Unflattering speculation could suggest a quick cash-in on the way, but given the direction of the series, a more invested approach would likely prove wise. No doubt it is a subject that will be of interest as the gaming season rolls on to major events.

Next month: the final figures for Final Crisis roll in.

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Season 2009: January Top Five...
2008 has cast a long shadow over this year's comics. The approach of the major two publishers sees heavy flow-on from recent years, extending their headlining events across the line. Marvel's Dark Reign spinning out of Secret Invasion promises a villainous shake-up in the heirarchy of the Marvel Universe. Elsewhere, DC grapples with a world in which their heroes were taken to the brink of defeat [in Final Crisis], challenging the future to not only come up with new heroes, but also face the dark twisted return of the old!

Season 2009 offers up a mixture of the old and new as we head into our first Top Five ranking session of the year. An old faithful provides the double-header to kick the year off, but with so much uncertainty in both the DC and Marvel camp, who knows what lies ahead?

For the Infinite Wars, it seems DC are primed for another strong year, bouncing off the highly controversial creative success of Final Crisis, to line-up another strongly influencial year of editorial storytelling. The organic progression of radical plotlines in the DCU seems to contrast against Marvel's awkward shift into the Dark Reign conceit, but, despite it's unfortunate origins, the House of Ideas puts forward a strong case for reinvention in '09.

#1 Batman (-) (35) (DC)
Features: [42] Last Opponent: [Superman]
Win Percentage: [73.8%] Cumulative: [#1]
2006: [#1] 2007: [#2] 2008: [#1]

The true fate of the Dark Knight remains subject to speculation as his adventures navigate aspects of the surreal, and reactions to his absence. Batman RIP presented a harrowing tale of psychological warfare perpetrated by the Black Glove organization, that brought Batman close to death, but was this the case, or simply a result of his Final Crisis end, which concluded with a zap from Darkseid's Omega Sanction: the death that is life!

As per the mythology, it seems Batman has been trapped in another life, sent through time and space. While he dwells in a cave in the past (and/or Earth-51), it seems unlikely the character's dominance on the Infinite Wars will be at all interrupted. The characters long shadow has set into motion events that will define a large portion of DC's 2009 headlining titles. The question of how the Batman will involve himself in future affairs - such as The Blackest Night - remains a subject of intrigue.

Upon reading the recent first issue of "Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?," I continue to wonder if this, and the initial Batman RIP tale, weren't actually symptoms of the Omega Sanction, or alternatively, Batman's strange incarceration during the earlier portions of Final Crisis (in the Evil Factory).

In other mediums, Batman remains a hot property.
2009 will no doubt be a year of speculation, as Heath Ledger contends for a post-humous Academy Award, and people eagerly anticipate a possible sequel to 2008's, The Dark Knight. Much like the film; the upcoming action-adventure game, Arkham Asylum, promises to be an exercise in breaking ground with the character, pushing the expectations of comics properties in video games. Also enjoying plenty of interest in the latest animated series, Batman: Brave and the Bold, which teams Batman with heroes from across the DCU in a series informed by a wide variety of influences. Tongue-in-cheek in it's humor, the show might harken back to the silly old days, but in it's way, the show is not without charm.

#2 Flash (new) (DC)
Features: [4] Last Opponent: [Wood King]
Win Percentage: [100%] Cumulative: [#29]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [#38] 2008: [#63]

His second-issue return in the pages of Final Crisis sent a shockwave through the DC Nation, but with minimal impact to follow, the true resurrection of Barry Allen seems to lie ahead in Rebirth!

Though a surprise entrant into the Top Five this month; Geoff Johns' anticipated return to the speed force makes a Flash ranking suitably topical, as Flash: Rebirth promises to be one of the major events coming from DC in 2009!
Serving a similar purpose to the franchise re-calibration as Green Lantern: Rebirth, this new series promises to assign a much needed, iconic new status quo to the world of the Flash. This comes after the bungle of key characters in the aftermath of Infinite Crisis, which ultimately left Wally West in the lurch, and Kid-Flash Bart Allen a big money return in the deadpool.

Unfortunately, despite being an icon in those all important early days of reading, very little of Barry Allen remains accessible in the Infinite Wars Secret Library. Which means it's unlikely the speedster will maintain his position, at least not until later in the year, when "Rebirth" might find it's way to the site.

#3 Kung Lao (new) (Midway)
Features: [1] Last Opponent: [Shang Tsung]
Win Percentage: [100%] Cumulative: [#243]
2006: [DNR] 2007: [DNR] 2008: [DNR]

Given the fact the character died five hundred years before present Mortal Kombat mythology, it's a highly unexpected entrance into the top five by one of the series' greatest legends!

Neither of the two Kung Laos logged an appearance in either mid-nineties Mortal Kombat film, save for an obscure reference to the lineage of series hero, Liu Kang. This "Great" Kung Lao was famously introduced through the backstory of Mortal Kombat, where he reigned briefly as Earth's champion, before being ousted by series big-bad, Goro.

Kung Lao's reign as champion became the subject of live-action series, Conquest, which managed to squeeze an inordinant amount of MK lore and Playboy models into forty-five minute flip-fests. As tempting as it might be to make some effort to map these appearances, I think readers got more than enough of the franchise during our extensive coverage of MKvsDC in 2008. While unlikely to get the same treatment, it seems reasonable to assume this year belongs to Street Fighter.

#4 Hulk (+1) (14) (Marvel)
Features: [27] Last Opponent: [Rulk]
Win Percentage: [59.3%] Cumulative: [#5]
2006: [#6] 2007: [#10] 2008: [#5]

Hulk Vs propels the jolly jade giant into Season 2009, but it's the slightly less admirable storytelling of Jeph Loeb's Hulk that secures his place in the Infinite Wars Top Five -- for now...

An apparent stint with the Mighty Avengers aside, there seems to be little of note in Hulk's immediate future. The momentum the character gained in his return to Earth in World War Hulk is all but lost, squandered as his rampage becomes confined to a series shared with an overgrown meme (Rulk).

#5 Iron Man (-2) (17) (Marvel)
Features: [28] Last Opponent: [Dr. Doom]
Win Percentage: [64.29%] Cumulative: [#3]
2006: [#3] 2007: [#11] 2008: [#3]

Even more deliberately discarded than Hulk; Iron Man becomes a victim of a specific changing of the guard. Having flown the flag for Marvel since the 2006 Civil War, it's now Iron Man's time to suffer the indignity of his perceived crimes. This kind of turmoil traditionally gives a hero a great opportunity to shine, but with a feature sequel still a year away, it might be a chance for Tony Stark to take some time off in the Infinite Wars.

Like the DC counterpart he's been measured against so much in the past year [Batman]; Iron Man has a new animated series in his future. Armored Adventures rolls out a parade of classic Iron Man villains, many of which were introduced to cartoon viewers in the early nineties. Prominent additions include, not surprisingly, a movie-inspired entry for Obadiah Stane, aka; Iron Monger.

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Super Stock: Cumulative Rankings...
For those coming in late: the Infinite Wars was founded on a concept of reviewing superhero comics through the battles displayed within.
Results are tallied to form both annual rankings, and a cumulative tally.
These rankings bare no concrete value, but provide fun with lists and statistics on the site. The following reflects the months changes in the cumulative ranks.

1. Batman (-) (DC)
2. Spider-man (-) (M)
3. Iron Man (-) (M)
4. Superman (-) (DC)
5. Hulk (-) (M)
6. Wolverine (-) (M)
7. Captain America (-) (M)
8. Mr. Fantastic (-) (M)
9. Daredevil (-) (M)

Flash enjoys a burst,
jumping into the 2009 top five!
[Secret Origins #32]10. Thing (-) (M)
13. Luke Cage (-) (M)
14. Black Adam (-) (DC)
15. Wonder Woman (-) (DC)
16. Sub-Mariner (-) (M)
17. Ryu (-) (C)
19. Flash (+1) (DC)
21. Shang Tsung (-2) (Mid)
23. Catwoman (-) (DC)
24. Thor (-) (M)
25. Hawkman (-) (DC)
27. Green Lantern (-) (DC)
28. Nightwing (-) (DC)
29. Flash (+16) (DC)
30. Phantom (-1) (KFS)
40. Robin (-1) (DC)
48. Dhalsim (-) (C)
49. Ken Masters (-) (C)
50. Johnny Cage (-) (Mid)
52. Aquaman (+1) (DC)
54. Red Hood (-) (DC)
58. Dr. Doom (-) (M)
67. Green Lantern (-) (DC)
78. Guile (-) (C)
83. Green Lantern (-) (DC)
96. Sagat (-) (C)
98. Hawkeye (-) (M)
100. Ronin (-) (M)
103. Fei Long (-) (C)
132. Akuma (-) (C)
134. Ganthet (-) (DC)
135. Sayd (-) (DC)
150. Doppelganger (-) (M)
151. Sakura Kusagano (-) (C)
174. Superman (-) (DC)
176. The Hood (-) (M)
184. Rose (-) (C)
200. Morph (-) (M)
229. Metamorpho (-) (DC)
243. Kung Lao (new) (Mid)
245. Chun-Li (-1) (C)
246. Ms. Marvel (-1) (M)
250. Gambit (-1) (M)
259. Sinestro (-1) (DC)
261. Superboy (-1) (DC)
278. Vega (-1) (C)
283. Harley Quinn (-1) (DC)
288. Poison Ivy (-1) (DC)
290. Hercules (-1) (M)
293. Spider-man (-1) (M)

Hush tastes defeat,
only to plummet down the rankings!
[Detective Comics #850]300. Wingless Wizard (-1) (M)
304. Two-Face (-1) (DC)
305. Lex Luthor (-1) (DC)
311. Cheetah (-1) (DC)
313. Joker (-1) (DC)
335. Alfred Pennyworth (+47) (DC)
341. Com. Jim Gordon (-2) (DC)
350. Bucky (-2) (M)
400. Dr. Mid-Nite (-1) (DC)
412. Scar (ammend) (DC)
413. A-Bomb (new) (M)
416. Dracula (-3) (M)
441. Balrog (-2) (C)
450. Lobo (-2) (DC)
455. Kingpin (-2) (M)
456. Lady Deathstrike (-2) (M)
500. Giganto (-2) (M)
501. Harry Osborn (-2) (M)
527. Loki (-2) (M)
540. Mongul (-2) (DC)
550. Saviour (-2) (DC)
555. Gouken (-2) (C)
556. Black Hand (-2) (DC)
600. Kid Impala (-2) (DC)
650. Sindel (-2) (Mid)
659. Shadow Thief (-2) (DC)
670. Rulk (new) (M)
671. Wood King (new) (DC)
672. Sabretooth (-4) (M)
683. Hush (-251) (DC)
689. Solomon Grundy (-5) (DC)
700. Rhino (-5) (M)
701. Iron Patriot (-5) (M)
704. Zangief (-5) (C)
705. Quicksilver (-5) (M)
706. Magneto (-5) (M)
707. Dan Hibiki (-5) (C)
708. Lizard (-5) (M)

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The Hammer...
The catch-up continues as the Infinite Wars endeavours to maintain a standard quantity of content, while also reaching for real-time posting again. It's been several months that we've been dated a couple of weeks off the pace, but I would ask that you take note of the presence of regular updates, regardless of their post date.

February offers a chance to take a look at some of the stories of 2008 that we otherwise didn't talk about. Among the vital inclusions in the coming months will be Final Crisis -- a controversial story that split the readership between it's status as a defining moment in modern comics, and an allegedly "confusing" romp through a DC Universe gripped by armageddon.

If you wish to support the site - which is greatly appreciated - be sure to pass through the Infinite Wars gift shoppe, or one of the many Amazon purchase links provided in our catalogue of reviews. By making your purchases this way, you help sponsor future content. For double karma -- follow the links below to purchase my first venture into creating superhero comics! A true product of an education in this wonderful medium we all know and love!

READ THE PREVIEW - VISIT THE SITE - BUY THE COMIC
- Mike Haseloff; War Monger-in-Chief
Mike Haseloff, watches the watchmen!

January Hit Count: [10245/187102]* (+1.9%)
* Hitcount reflects some content dated December.