Review by Frank Plowright

After their introductory titles, the Valiant of the 1990s didn’t launch new characters directly into their own series, but trialled them with guest appearances alongside established properties. It’s why action super spy Ninjak’s collection begins with two very ordinary issues of Bloodshot. Anyone reading those many years later might wonder why it’s worth continuing.

There’s considerable improvement once we reach the opening issues of Ninjak’s first solo series from 1994. Mark Moretti is in charge and while he doesn’t entirely dispense with the superhero trappings, he crafts missions more in keeping with a covert ninja agent. Additionally, as he’s so long been a Marvel executive, it’s easy to forget that not only was Joe Quesada an artist, he was a very good one (sample art), and he draws Ninjak’s first solo appearances.

Relatively early in his career, Quesasa over-complicates the art over three chapters, being too fond of small insert panels and distracting designs, but the application, enthusiasm and sheer talent shine through, and his presentation of a glamorous world convinces. Furthermore, he’s constantly evolving and the storytelling clarifies. Moretti’s art doesn’t aim for Quesada’s decorative qualities, but it’s solid and imaginative, while Andrew Currie is the best of the other then new artists employed, not over-reaching, and delivering clear pages without any doubt as to what’s happening.

What’s happening is debonair agent Colin King, a freelancer reluctantly co-opted into working for the British secret services, either dealing with threats or acquiring information. Moretti casts King in the James Bond role when out of costume, seducing a female double agent before getting down to business, and as a blur of action efficiency when masked and using his swords. The subsequent writing team of Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning are more interested in posing problems, such as having Ninjak’s possibilities limited in dealing with a plane hijacker.

This has now dated, particularly some attitudes, but there’s still entertainment to be had for readers who enjoy a spy thriller.