Gunslinger Spawn-TPB Volume 2

Todd McFarlane is a man known for shooting straight from the hip. So, when he unveiled his plans for the Spawn Universe in early 2021, he didn’t mince his words when explaining his hopes for Gunslinger Spawn ‘’I want him to make Spawn look like a boy scout!’’. The intention was clear. Gunslinger Spawn was set to become a surly, no-nonsense bad-ass addition to the world of Spawn comics. And in the opening six issues, the 19th Century cowboy burst back into the middle of Mc Farlanes three decades-long saga showing a complete lack of concern, and occasionally, outright contempt for regular Spawn characters. In true Clint Eastwood style, Gunslinger never missed a beat on his mission for revenge while facing demonic enemies, chugging back whisky, blasting dust clouds into the air on his motorcycle, and throwing in the occasional good deed.

This second collection rolls straight on from the opening roller-coaster ride as we join Gunslinger still with a razor-sharp focus on avenging his loved ones. With a handful of nasty villains now being aware that Gunslinger is on the scene and making waves in the broader battle for ultimate domination, they spare no amount of effort trying to get him out of the picture. Word has also got around that he’s not exactly the strongest Hell Spawn, and Gunslinger is quickly faced with a variety of threats, old and new.

However, not being the type to let something like strength stand in the way of his thirst for vengeance, Gunslinger uses his bravery and cunning to face his enemy’s head on. Pushing forward and eventually meeting up with Al Simmons and his team. The chemistry here between Gunslinger and the classic Spawn cast elevates the centre of the book as he brings a light-hearted balance to Al Simmons’s stern and broody character. The fast-paced action that Spawn comics are known for is once again on fine display and the continued exploits of Gunslinger quickly burst into epic battles, with plenty more violence involving ropes, knives, and endless flying bullets to keep the blood pumping until the very last page.

Mc Farlene has been criticised for his writing style over the years, but it’s something that has only improved over time and fits his straight-to-the-point, laid-back cowboy like a hand in a glove. Also, revenge stories are evergreen for a reason, they generally keep you pinned firmly at the edge of your seat, cheering for the hero. Gunslinger Spawn is no exception. Mc Farlanes confidence in this world and no-nonsense storytelling combines with Booth’s phenomenal art in such a way that the straightforward narrative never loses your attention, and the central tale has you rooting for the Gunslinger to the end! My favourite aspect of Mc Farlanes storytelling is his exciting and unique bad guys. In Gunslinger he creates an increasingly impressive set of enemies for the hero to face as he refuses to give up on his mission.

Brett Booth’s hyper-detailed and vivid art style seems tailor-made for Spawn and its armour-plated Angles and Demons collection. Every belt buckle, flowing cape, and demonic figure are displayed beautifully, with intricate detail. So much so, I wanted to stop and examine even the most basic of panels.

Most importantly Booth’s art feels right at home with the bold action sequences that are the centre of the Cyber-Horror look that Spawn is so well known for. Staggered layouts and two-page spreads filled with chains, swirling energy beams & bloody fists pop off the pages and rival any of the classic battle scenes we’ve seen in Spawn comics over the years.

The color work form Ivan Nunes deserves a mention as we’re treated to another gorgeous display of Red, Black and Green Hell Spawns that shine through expertly colored pages.

The second collection of Gunslinger Spawn takes all the revenge-tinged adventure and kick-ass action from first six issues and ramps them up even further. The official bad boy of the Spawn universe proves there is no length he won’t go to in seeking vengeance. And, just like the many beloved cowboy hero’s who’ve come before, watching him inflict his ruthless form of justice is just so darn entertaining!

Writing – 4.5 Stars
Art – 5 Stars
Coloring – 4.5 Stars

Overall Score-4.5 stars!

Written by: Todd McFarlane
Art by: Brett Booth
Colors by: Ivan Nunes
Published by: Image Comics