Review by Ian Keogh

Breaklands Volume 1: The Chase offered something slightly new to the world of superheroics by having characters with super powers inhabiting an apocalyptic future. The exception seemed to be athletic and gymnastic leading character Kasa Fain until the discovery of her actually being what’s referred to as a “null”, someone able to cancel the powers of others. And not only that, she can prevent technology working. She’s successfully rescued her young brother, but that’s not the story’s end…

Justin Jordan opens The Citadel by explaining just why the Fain family is so important to the powers that be, and then tours around the supporting cast. Some are powerful enough to take on armies single-handedly while others have to be more creative in their dealings, all of them occupying a dystopian future western.

While still loving a straight line, Tyasseta’s still angular art now incorporates more curves. The scenery is plain by definition, so the art shines via sheer volume of people and forms of technology. Character designs from the opening volume still serve well, and much is added by colourist Sarah Stern, especially when powers are being used.

Two effective new villains are introduced, one on the world-shattering scale, the other just a thorough nuisance without a conscience, while a former threat becomes a friend in what’s a topsy-turvy world. Jordan isn’t big on explanations beyond what you see happening, but there’s a pulp feel to Breaklands, meaning the pace is fast enough to distract from the one-dimensional personalities, and there’s always something going on.

By the time The Citadel finishes one crisis has been averted, one major revelation has dropped and another crisis is forthcoming, but you’ll have to wait for Season Three to see how that plays out. The digital conclusion is already available, but Jordan and Tyasseta aren’t greatly concerned about a print schedule, which runs roughly four years behind online publication.