New Metal Review - "In Monochrome" by Black Sites

Album Name - In Monochrome
Band Name - Black Sites
Genre - Heavy/Progressive Metal
Label - Mascot Records
Release Date - February 17th, 2017 
Line Up -
  Mark Sugar - Vocals, Guitars
  Ryan Bruchert - Guitars
  John Picillo - Bass 
  Chris Avgerin - Drums

Trying to put the label of a specific genre on a band can be quite hard at times. 'Black Sites' is such a band, which incorporates various influences in their music, creating a mixture of many genres in their sound. But at the end of the day, music is all about enjoyment. And this band has a cast of skillful musicians producing a unique metal experience that is bound to make you head-bang like a maniac and hit the repeat button as soon as the album ends.

New Book Review - 'Kings of the Wyld' by Nicholas Eames

Book - Kings of the Wyld 
Author - Nicholas Eames
Series - The Band #1
Publisher - Orbit

[ I had reviewed this one on April for fantasy-faction (review link). Here, I am just re-uploading it on my blog. ]

When I started reading Kings of the Wyld it was already quite hyped and I am someone who is rather uncomfortable dealing with stuff which accumulated hype overnight. Thus, I approached the book being extremely skeptical and had a nagging feeling in my gut that it was going to be overrated.

Boy was I dead wrong! This book deserves all the praise it’s getting and I expect more in the future.

New Book Review - 'Blackwing' by Ed McDonald

Book - Blackwing  
Writer - Ed McDonald 
Series - Raven's Mark #1    
Published By - Gollancz / Ace Books
 
Well, it seems last year had lots of good debut in the field of fantasy fiction. 'Blackwing' is yet another one, which can be termed as a post apocalyptic grimdark fantasy. This tell was very entertaining as the author used the first person narrative to approach the despair of an exhaustive struggle for survival, and created an interesting world and magic system to play with in the future.

Graphic Novel Review - Black Bolt Vol.1: Hard Time

Name - Black Bolt Vol.1: Hard Time
Published by - Marvel
Writer - Saladin Ahmed
Artist - Christian Ward
Letterer - VC's Clayton Cowles
 
Well, I have been waiting for something by 'Saladin Ahmed' for almost six years now, since my reading of his excellent novel 'Throne of the Crescent Moon'. So, I was quite excited when I heard about this new Marvel series by him. Then again, I was a bit skeptical regarding the small amount I knew about Black Bolt, as to me he always felt nothing more than just someone created to give the Inhumans an edge in the power gamble with his ability. But my fears were for nothing actually, cause this was remarkable storytelling using some small time characters and some new ones from the Marvel universe.

New Novella Review - 'All Systems Red' by Martha Wells

Novella - All Systems Red  
Writer - Martha Wells    
Series - The Murderbot Diaries #1     
Published By - Tor.com
 
This tells a story from the point-of-view of a robot or A.I. who has hacked into its governor software and has free will although it keeps the pretense of maintaining cover as a SecUnit for a planetary survey team for fear of being destroyed. But their mission doesn't go as planned and the team gets caught up in a conspiracy and finds out the truth about the planet they are in while trying to survive.

New Metal Review - "In The Passing Light of Day" by Pain of Salvation

Album Name - In The Passing Light of Day
Band Name - Pain of Salvation
Genre - Progressive Metal
Label - InsideOut Music
Release Date - January 13th, 2017
Line Up -
  Daniel Gildenlöw - Vocals (lead), Guitars, Lute, Bass (additional), Keyboards (additional), Drums (additional), Percussion (additional), Accordion (additional), Zither
  Léo Margarit - Drums, Percussion, Vocals (backing)
  Daniel "D2" Karlsson - Keyboards, Grand Piano, Vocals (backing)
  Gustaf Hielm - Bass, Vocals (backing) 
  Ragnar Zolberg - Guitars, Vocals, Keyboards (additional), Accordion, Zither

Near death experience has always been a great catalyst for the creation of great music. And the latest by 'Pain of Salvation' is another example of this fact. 'Daniel Gildenlöw' wrote beautiful lyrics depicting grief and sadness regarding the closeness of death among other such concepts. The progressive aspect of the band's instrumentation augmented by the exquisite transition between aggressive heaviness and emotional slower bits complement the lyrics making the whole experience rather poetic.

Best PC Games of 2017: Part 2 - Originals

This is the second part of my post for best PC games of 2017, focusing on original games. While not always exclusive for PC, these are games that can be enjoyed in a decent gaming PC.

These games are listed in order of their release date and not in any particular order of ranking.

Night in the Woods

Night in the Woods is a single-player adventure video game for Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, and PlayStation 4. It is developed by Infinite Fall, a studio founded by game designer Alec Holowka, and animator/illustrator Scott Benson. It is an exploration game focused primarily on story in which players control a cat named Mae, who recently dropped out of college and has returned to her hometown to find unexpected change. It was released for PC on February 21, 2017 on Steam.

[ A game dealing with lots of controversial issues, this indie gem is a soothing experience. ]

Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata is an open-world action role-playing video game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix for PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows. Nier: Automata is a sequel to the 2010 video game Nier, a spin-off of the Drakengard series. Set in the midst of a proxy war between machines created by otherworldly invaders and the remnants of humanity, the story follows the battles of a combat android, her companion, and a fugitive prototype. Gameplay combines role-playing elements with action-based combat and mixed genre gameplay similar to that of Nier.Upon release, Nier: Automata was given highly positive reviews, with critics praising the game's narrative, characterization, music design, combat system and usage of different gameplay genres. Criticism was leveled at the game's technical problems. The game released worldwide on Steam for PC in March 17, 2017.

[ One of the best RPG's of 2017. I have this for PS4, but the PC port should be just as good. A very fun experience with interesting setting, lovable protagonists and amazing storytelling. ] 

Tekken 7

Tekken 7 is a fighting game developed and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. The game is the ninth installment in the Tekken series, and the first to make use of the Unreal Engine. Set shortly after the events of Tekken 6, the plot focuses on the fights between martial artist Heihachi Mishima and his son, Kazuya. Across the series it is revealed the reasons why Heihachi tried to kill Kazuya when he was only a child as well as what happened to Kazuya's mother. Besides the main story, Tekken 7 introduces new elements for the fighting system such as the Rage and the Power Crush to increase the characters' powers. Tekken 7 had a limited arcade release in Japan in March 2015. An updated arcade version, Tekken 7: Fated Retribution, was released in Japan in July 2016, and features expanded content including new stages, costumes, items and characters. The same version was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in June 2, 2017.

[ While the PS4 version might be the best way to experience this one too, I have tried the PC version and its just as awesome. Being a fan of fighting games I can not help but enter this into my list. Tekken 7 is the epitome of 3D fighting games and the various unexpected DLC characters just adds that much more to this wonderful game. ] 

Pyre

Pyre is an action role-playing sports video game developed by Supergiant Games for Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS and PlayStation 4. The game takes place in a high fantasy setting. The player controls a character who has been exiled from society and quickly meets three other exiles. The three exiles discover that the player-character is literate and invites them to join their party, nicknaming them the Reader. The Reader aids the exiles and other exiles met during the course of the game in their travels through the land of purgatory as they look to cleanse their souls via defeating other exiles. The story is told through on-screen narrative passages that include a hyperlink-type system used by the player-character to explore the story further. In addition to guiding the exiles during "Rites" which resemble a sports game, the Reader must determine how to help support or improve the party, by performing activities such as scavenging for supplies, learning more of the world's lore, or mentoring the exiles to improve their abilities. It was released on July 25, 2017.

[ Latest entry by Supergiant Games is yet another unique experience. These guys really know how to create original stuff. ]

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, or simply Hellblade, is a cinematic dark fantasy/psychological horror action-adventure video game developed and published by Ninja Theory, Described by Ninja Theory as an "independent AAA game", it was developed by a team of approximately twenty developers led by the game's writer and director Tameem Antoniades, who had previously directed Kung Fu Chaos and DmC: Devil May Cry, with additional writing by Dr. Elizabeth Ashman Rowe, a university lecturer specialized in Scandinavian culture. Inspired by Norse mythology and Celtic culture, Hellblade follows Senua (played by actress Melina Juergens), a Pict warrior who must make her way to Helheim by defeating otherworldly entities and facing their challenges, in order to rescue the soul of her dead lover from the goddess Hela. It was released worldwide independently on Microsoft Windows and PlayStation 4 on August 8, 2017.

[ A game which doesn't seem much on the first glance, actually has a lot to offer. A truly remarkable emotional storytelling makes this one of the games to check out from '17. ]

Divinity: Original Sin II

Divinity: Original Sin II is a role-playing video game developed and published by Larian Studios for Microsoft Windows. The sequel to 2014's Divinity: Original Sin.As with Divinity: Original Sin, players can play fully solo with only one character in their party, or with up to three others. Several pre-made characters with backstories are available to the player. Players are also able to create a custom character, and choose their stats, race, gender, and origin story at the start of the game. They can recruit up to three companions to assist them although mods in the Steam Workshop exist which increase the maximum number of party companions. A skill crafting system allows players to mix and change their skills. The game also features a competitive multiplayer mode, where players are divided into two different teams and fight against each other in an arena map. It was released worldwide on 14 September 2017.

[ Some say this is one of the best RPG of all time! While I may not agree totally, this is one of the best games of this year and certainly the best PC exclusive on this list. This retains what the original did right and adds so much more complexity. ]

Cuphead

Cuphead is a run and gun indie video game developed and published by StudioMDHR. As the title character Cuphead, along with his brother, Mugman, one or two players fight a series of bosses in order to repay a debt to the devil. The game was heavily inspired by the rubber hose style of animation used in cartoons of the 1930s, such as the work of studios Fleischer and Walt Disney Animation, seeking to emulate their subversive and surrealist qualities. Cuphead was released on Microsoft Windows and Xbox One on September 29, 2017.

[ While I may have missed this one when I initially made my list for September, I knew I was gonna love this when I first saw this game. This will make you nostalgic if you grew up on old cartoons like me, game-play is enjoyable too. ] 

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is an action-adventure first-person shooter video game developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda Softworks. The game is the eighth main entry in the Wolfenstein series and the sequel to 2014's Wolfenstein: The New Order, set in alternate history 1961 America following the Nazi victory of the Second World War. The story follows war veteran William "B.J." Blazkowicz and his efforts to fight against the Nazi regime in the United States. The game is played from a first-person perspective and most of its levels are navigated on foot. The story is arranged in chapters, which players complete in order to progress. A morality choice in the prologue alters the game's entire storyline; some characters and small plot points are replaced throughout the timelines. The game features a variety of weapons, most of which can be dual wielded. A cover system is also present. Continuing from The New Order, the development team aimed to characterize Blazkowicz for players to adopt his personality. It was released on 27 October 2017 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, and is scheduled for release in 2018 for Nintendo Switch.

[ Might be the best first-person shooter of last year. Not PC exclusive, but the PC version does well in maintaining the chaos and the atmosphere. ]

Assassin's Creed Origins

Assassin's Creed Origins is an action-adventure video game developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft. It is the tenth major installment in the Assassin's Creed series and the successor to 2015's Assassin's Creed Syndicate. The game is set in Egypt during the Ptolemaic period (48 BC) and recounts the secret fictional history of real-world events. The story explores the origins of the centuries-long conflict between the Brotherhood of Assassins, who fight for peace by promoting liberty, and The Order of the Ancients—forerunners to the Templar Order—who desire peace through the forced imposition of order. It was released worldwide for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on October 27, 2017.

[ A setting that is very promising to say the latest. And this latest entry into the 'Assassin's Creed Franchise' does provide on the other aspects as expected of it. ] 

Middle-earth: Shadow of War

Middle-earth: Shadow of War is an action role-playing video game developed by Monolith Productions and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. It is the sequel to 2014's Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. Shadow of War continues the previous game's narrative, which is based on J. R. R. Tolkien's legendarium and set between the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Like its predecessor, the game also takes heavy inspiration from director Peter Jackson's The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings film adaptations. The player continues the story of the ranger Talion and the spirit of the elf lord Celebrimbor, who shares Talion's body, as they forge a new Ring of Power to amass an army to fight against Sauron. The game builds upon the "Nemesis System" introduced in Shadow of Mordor, allowing Talion to gain followers from several races of Middle-earth, including Uruks and Ologs, and plan out complex strategies using these to complete missions. It was released worldwide for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on October 10, 2017.

[ You know I love anything to do with middle-earth. This is the sequel of 'Shadow of Mordor' and does everything that game did and better. A game which will cater to any fan of fantasy setting. ]

PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds

PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) is a multiplayer online battle royale game developed and published by PUBG Corporation, a subsidiary of publisher Bluehole. The game is based on previous mods that were created by Brendan "PlayerUnknown" Greene for other games using the film Battle Royale for inspiration, and expanded into a standalone game under Greene's creative direction. In the game, up to one hundred players parachute onto an island and scavenge for weapons and equipment to kill others while avoiding getting killed themselves. The available safe area of the game's map decreases in size over time, directing surviving players into tighter areas to force encounters. The last player or team standing wins the round. The game was released for Microsoft Windows via Steam's early access beta program in March 2017, with a full release on December 20, 2017.

[ Another one that I had missed initially, this online battle royale took PC gaming by storm. While not for casual gamers, this one is quite fun after you get the hang of it. ]

New Metal Review - "Relentless Mutation" by Archspire

Album Name - Relentless Mutation 
Band Name - Archspire 
Genre - Technical Death Metal 
Label - Season of Mist 
Release Date - September 22nd, 2017 
Line Up -
  Oli Peters - Vocals
  Tobi Morelli - Guitars
  Dean Lamb - Guitars
  Jared Smith - Bass 
  Spencer Prewett - Drums

I still fondly remember the time when I was deeply in love with the music of 'Necrophagist'. That phase passed quite quickly and I never really got interested in any other technical death acts much (well, it's hard to after you listen to the best that the genre has to offer actually), but I never forgot 'Muhammed Suiçmez' and his excellent song-writing. It's been a long time, its 2017 and 'Archspire' has managed to make me relive that elation.

Best PC Games of 2017: Part 1 - Ports/Remakes

Now I am going to make another list that I can mostly base on my 12 month coverage. Although one this might include a few things I have overlooked in my list making throughout the year.

I will try to divide this list into two parts because once again PC has a lot of good remakes/ports this year. I will also try to focus on the games that are platform exclusive for PC or rather built for PC gaming.

This is the part one of my post for best PC games of 2017, focusing on the ports and/or remakes of old games.

These games are listed in order of their release date and not in any particular order of ranking.

Zero Escape: The Nonary Games

It is bundle containing the first two games in the series Zero Escape, which is a series of adventure games directed and written by Kotaro Uchikoshi. Each game in the series follows a group of nine individuals, who are kidnapped and held captive by a person who goes by the name "Zero", and are forced to play a game of life and death in order to escape. The gameplay is divided into two types of sections: Novel sections, where the games' stories are presented, and Escape sections, where the player solves puzzles in escape-the-room scenarios. The stories are affected by player choices, and include multiple endings. This bundle containing the first two games, titled Zero Escape: The Nonary Games, was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita in the West on March 24, 2017.

[ One of the best Japanese style adventure game of all time finally gets ported to PC. This is a brilliant game with elements of visual novel and puzzle mixed together to tell an incredible story. As a matter of fact I reviewed the first game for DS here (my review). I also bought the second one for my 3DS as well. ]  

Bayonetta

Bayonetta is a third-person action game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Sega. The game was originally released for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in Japan in October 2009, and in North America and Europe in January 2010. Bayonetta takes place in Vigrid, a fictional city in Europe. The game stars the titular character, a witch who is capable of shapeshifting and using various firearms. She also possesses magical attacks, and she can use her own hair to summon demons to dispatch her foes. The game features a rating system, which gives players a grade based on their performance, and a combat system that is similar to the Devil May Cry series. A port for Microsoft Windows was released in April 11, 2017.

[ I have been waiting to experience this hack & slash masterpiece for a long time and this one finally gets ported to PC. ]

The King of Fighters XIV

The King of Fighters XIV is a fighting game in The King of Fighters series developed and published in Japan by SNK. The game is notable as the first main-series The King of Fighters game rendered entirely in 3D, in contrast to previous installments which used 2D raster imagery. Critical reception to The King of Fighters XIV has been generally positive with video game publications praising its fighting system that would appeal newcomers and experts of fighting games. Nevertheless, it has also been criticized for its use of dated 3D models. It is developed for the PlayStation 4 released on August 23 in North America, August 25 in Japan, and August 26 in Europe. It was later ported to Steam for Microsoft Windows on June 29, 2017.

[ I am a fanboy of the 'King of Fighters Franchise', and have been for a long time. While this new entry might not be what I expected initially, it was quite an enjoyable experience and a Steam port just is just what a PC gamer like me was waiting for. ]

Ys Seven

Ys Seven is an action role-playing video game developed by Nihon Falcom and the seventh installment in the Ys video game series. It was released in Japan during 2009 for the Sony PlayStation Portable and was released by XSEED Games in North America on August 17, 2010, in Europe on November 3, 2010 and in Australia on February 20, 2013. The game was released for Microsoft Windows in China on June 20, 2012, and worldwide on Steam in August 30, 2017.

[ Latest Ys game to be ported to PC, and this series is something that is to experienced for any fans of Japanese RPG's. ]

.hack//G.U. Last Recode

Log back into the .hack//G.U. trilogy and return to “The World,” as Haseo tracks down Tri-Edge in .hack//G.U. Last Recode, now with enhanced graphics, improved gameplay, and brand new modes!
This collection includes all 3 original .hack//G.U. titles, Rebirth, Reminisce, and Redemption, all fully restored and remastered. As well as an all new exclusive 4th Volume: .hack//G.U. Reconnection.
15 years of .hack – Celebrate the 15th anniversary of the beloved global cross media franchise that first released in 2002
Fully restored – Graphically enhanced gameplay and cut scenes now in 1080p and 60fps
Improved system features – Enhanced battle balance and game pacing to provide an optimal experience for new and old fans alike.
It was released on November 3, 2017 for Microsoft Windows on Steam and PlayStation 4.

[ All 3 original .hack//G.U. titles packed together and published for PC. Not something I thought I would ever see, but a welcome opportunity to experience nonetheless. ]

Ōkami HD

Ōkami  is an action-adventure video game developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom. Set sometime in classical Japanese history, the game combines several Japanese myths, legends and folklore to tell the story of how the land was saved from darkness by the Shinto sun goddess, named Amaterasu, who took the form of a white wolf. It features a distinct sumi-e-inspired cel-shaded visual style and the Celestial Brush, a gesture-system to perform miracles. The gameplay itself is modeled off The Legend of Zelda, one of director Hideki Kamiya's favorite titles. The high-definition port was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in December 12, 2017 worldwide.

[ Ah, another gem finally comes to PC. And Ōkami is another long anticipated port as well. This one was one of most unique action-adventure of the PS2 era and is just as fun to play after all this years. ]

Best New Comics of 2017

Wow, I am onto May now, but still trying to publish my best of 2017 list.

Best new comics should be easy, because I did manage to post list for all 12 months of 2017 on my blog.

(PS: In no particular order of preference is this list created and only new series' that started being published in English for the first time were the main selection criteria.)

X-O MANOWAR
Format: Ongoing 
Writer: Matt Kindt 
Artist: Tomas Giorello
Publisher: Valiant Comics

WAR IS COMING!
Born under the oppressive thumb of the Roman Empire, Aric of Dacia learned warfare at an early age. It was amid such violence that he was abducted by an alien race. Forced into slavery, he survived where others perished. His escape would come from bonding with a weapon of immeasurable power: the X-O Manowar armor. With it, he returned to Earth...only to find himself stranded in the modern day.
But that was a lifetime ago.
Now, far from home on a strange and primitive new world, Aric has begun a new life. Liberated from his past, he tends to his crops. Free from war. Free from violence. Free from the armor.
But the machinery of death marches his way once again. Conscripted into an alien army and thrown into an unforgiving conflict, the fury inside him finds voice as he is forced to embrace the armor once more. With it, he will decimate armies, topple empires and incite interplanetary warfare as he rises from SOLDIER to GENERAL to EMPEROR to VISIGOTH. They wanted a weapon. He will give them war!

[ Well, I loved the previous X-O Manowar series, and this new series starts of just as well, if not better. ]

BLACK BOLT 
Format: Ongoing
Writer: Saladin Ahmed
Artist: Christian Ward
Publisher: Marvel Comics 

THE KING OF THE INHUMANS’ FIRST SOLO SERIES!
Black Bolt imprisoned! But by who? And where exactly? The answers to both will shock you! But to learn those answers, Black Bolt must first win a fight to the death with a fellow inmate — The Absorbing Man! Award-winning science fiction writer Saladin Ahmed (Throne of the Crescent Moon) crafts a story as trippy as it is action-packed, with truly mind-bending art from the one and only Christian Ward!

[ 'Saladin Ahmed' masterfully starts a solo series featuring one of the most powerful super beings from Marvel. This is a breathtakingly refreshing take on the much under appreciated character, to be precise. ] 

SHIRTLESS BEAR-FIGHTER 
Format: Limited Series (5 isssues)
Writer: Jody LeHeup
Artist: Nil Vendrell
Publisher: Image Comics

After being betrayed by the bears that raised him, the legendary Shirtless Bear-Fighter wanders the forest he's sworn to protect, fistfighting bears, eating flapjacks, and being the angriest man the world has ever known!
When wild-eyed, super-strong bears attack the citizens of Major City, Shirtless ventures into the human world to do what he does best...PUNCH THOSE BEARS IN THE FACE! But all is not as it seems. Someone is manipulating Shirtless...and only by confronting the demons of his past can Shirtless hope to save his future!
A heart-filled, hilarious, tall tale for the ages... you don't want to miss SHIRTLESS BEAR-FIGHTER! 

[ Wacky and hilarious stuff here. Just try this, I promise you will love it. ] 

DEFENDERS 
Format: Ongoing
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: David Marquez
Publisher: Marvel Comics

Daredevil! Luke Cage! Jessica Jones! Iron Fist! Individually, these four heroes have been on the front lines of the battle to keep the streets of the city safe and secure! But now, with a deadly enemy from the dim past making a major move to unite the underworld, they will need to become more - they will need to become DEFENDERS! Brian Michael Bendis and David Marquez unite to bring you the next great super-team, in the tradition of NEW AVENGERS!  

[ I might have started reading this a bit biased, specially after watching some of the MCU TV shows, but this series is a brilliant in its own right. ]

MECH CADET YU 
Format: Ongoing
Writer: Greg Pack
Artist: Takeshi Miyazawa
Publisher: Boom! Studios

Once a year, giant robots from outer space come to Earth and bond with young cadets from the elite Sky Corps Academy to defend the world from the terrifying aliens known as the Sharg. It’s a great honor to be chosen, but this year...well, the wrong kid was picked.
Greg Pak (Totally Awesome Hulk) and Takeshi Miyazawa (Ms. Marvel) team up for an action-packed adventure perfect for fans of Amadeus Cho and Pacific Rim!

[ Fun little series that became so popular that the publisher decided to make the planned mini-series into an ongoing. ]

REDLANDS 
Format: Ongoing
Writer: Jordie Bellaire
Artist: Venesa R. Del Rey
Publisher: Image Comics

A brand-new horror book from the minds of Eisner Award-winner JORDIE BELLAIRE (PRETTY DEADLY, Vision, Batman) and critically acclaimed artist VANESA R. DEL REY (ZERO, Scarlet
Witch, Constantine) brings you to the sleepy, sunny town of Redlands, Florida. The police are failing to maintain control of their old-fashioned town, and a coven of killer witches plan to take everything from them. This summer, hide your bibles. 

[ An interesting horror tale with exquisite art to boot. ]

MISTER MIRACLE 
Format: Limited Series (12 issues)
Writer: Tom King
Artist: Mitch Gerads
Publisher: DC Comics

From the team behind THE SHERIFF OF BABYLON and the Hugo Award-nominated writer of Vision comes a unique new take on one of Jack Kirby’s most beloved New Gods.
Scott Free is the greatest escape artist that ever lived. So great that he escaped Granny Goodness’ gruesome orphanage and the dangers of Apokolips to travel across galaxies and set up a new life on Earth with his wife, the former female fury known as Big Barda. Using the stage alter ego of Mister Miracle, he has made a career for himself showing off his acrobatic escape techniques. He even caught the attention of the Justice League, which counted him among its ranks.
You might say Scott Free has everything...so why isn’t it enough? Mister Miracle has mastered every illusion, achieved every stunt, pulled off every trick—except one. He has never escaped death. Is it even possible? Our hero is going to have to kill himself if he wants to find out.
Written by Tom King (BATMAN) and illustrated by Mitch Gerads (The Punisher), this is a MISTER MIRACLE unlike any you’ve read before. 

[ Hailed by most as the best series of 2017, this one deserves all the praise it gets. 'Tom King' does it once again and this time with the enigmatic character of 'Mister Miracle'. Every issue is a delight. ]

DOOMSDAY CLOCK 
Format: Limited Series (12 issues)
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Gary Frank 
Publisher: DC Comics  

DC Comics presents to you a 12-issue maxiseries from the critically acclaimed team of writer Geoff Johns, artist Gary Frank and colorist Brad Anderson. You are not prepared for what lies ahead within these pages, good readers. 

[ How can I not be interested in one of the most talked about series in a long while. Watchmen gets incorporated into the DC multiverse and so far this series is almost as god as the hype. ]

These 8 are the new comic series' that I would say are the best in what 2017 has to offer. Despite not making my final list there is some other stuff that I would like to mention that I really liked including - 'Extremity', 'The Old Guard', 'Royal City', 'Crosswinds', 'Secret Weapons' among others. But, you can't include everything and the above listed are the best in my opinion. 

Best New English Mangas of 2017

2017 had a huge list of mangas that started to be published in English for the first time. And it is literally a daunting task to sift through these and find out the cream of the crop.

But once again I will try to keep my list short, so that you won't be disappointed picking up any of these series'.

(PS: In no particular order of preference is this list created and only new series' that started being published in English for the first time were the main selection criteria.)

"Dragon Ball Super"
Written by Akira Toriyama
Art by Toyotaro
Published by Viz Media

Goku’s adventure from the best-selling classic manga Dragon Ball continues in this new series written by Akira Toriyama himself!
Ever since Goku became Earth’s greatest hero and gathered the seven Dragon Balls to defeat the evil Boo, his life on Earth has grown a little dull. But new threats loom overhead, and Goku and his friends will have to defend the planet once again in this continuation of Akira Toriyama’s best-selling series, Dragon Ball!
Having defeated Boo, Goku is starting to get bored with his life on Earth. His wife, Chi-chi, wants him to get a job, but all he wants to do is train and fight stronger enemies. Elsewhere in the universe, the God of Destruction, Beerus, and his attendant Whis are traveling from planet to planet in search of food and entertainment. After blowing up some hapless victims, Beerus is reminded of a man from his dreams with the moniker “Super Saiyan God,” or something like that... The God of Destruction sets his sights on Earth to track down this mysterious man! Maybe this will give Goku something to do?

[ Well, I have been a fan of Dragon Ball since my childhood and this is a new sequel written by 'Akira Toriyama'. I have bought the first two volumes as physical copies and loving it so far. ]

"Delicious in Dungeon"
Story & Art by Ryoko Kui
Published by Yen Press

When young adventurer Laios and his company are attacked and soundly thrashed by a dragon deep in a dungeon, the party loses all its money and provisions...and a member! They're eager to go back and save her, but there is just one problem: If they set out with no food or coin to speak of, they're sure to starve on the way! But Laios comes up with a brilliant idea: "Let's eat the monsters!" Slimes, basilisks, and even dragons...none are safe from the appetites of these dungeon-crawling gourmands!
 
[ A dungeon fantasy cooking hybrid manga, quite a unique setting indeed. Although I am yet to read the official translated release, I have read some of the fan translations previously and loved the unique humor. This one has won a few awards too. ]

"Golden Kamuy"
Story & Art by Satoru Noda
Published by Viz Media

A tale of high adventure and survival on the Japanese frontier!
In the early 20th century, Russo-Japanese War veteran Saichi Sugimoto searches the wilderness of the Japanese frontier of Hokkaido for a hoard of hidden gold. With only a cryptic map and a native Ainu girl to help him, Saichi must also deal with every murderous cutthroat, bandit and rogue who knows about the treasure!
Immortal Sugimoto, a survivor of the assault on 203 Meter Hill during the Russo-Japanese War, now scratches out a meager existence in the post-war gold rush in the wild frontier of Hokkaido. A chance encounter in the woods puts a map to a hidden fortune of Ainu gold in his hands, but Sugimoto is not the only interested party, and everyone who knows about the gold will kill to possess it!"  

[ Another award winning manga with a unique setting. It is strong historical manga with rich detail and it is quite apparent that the author has done his research. ]

"Land of the Lustrous"
Story & Art by Haruko Ichikawa
Published by Kodansha Comics

An elegant new action manga for fans of Sailor Moon and the litany of comics and animation that it inspired, Land of the Lustrous is set in a far future Earth, where humanity's distant descendants live on in a small group of sexless crystalline beings who must fight off an invasion from the Moon.
The young gem Phosphorite can't seem to do anything right. "Phos" has nothing but a big mouth and guts. Cinnabar, a classmate, is a loner, shunned by the other gems because of the toxins emitted from their body. But when they get together, they will learn that they both have an essential role to play in the fight against the Moonfolk, who are intent on coming to Earth to abduct the gem folk and destroy their world. A beautifully-drawn new action manga from Haruko Ichikawa, winner of the Osamu Tezuka Cultural Prize.

[ I was quite impressed by the first volume of this series and looking forward to the anime. An unorthodox manga focusing more on art to create the atmosphere and the setting is original too. ]

"Captain Harlock Space Pirate: Dimensional Voyage"
Written by Leiji Matsumoto
Art by Kouiti Shimaboshi
Published by Seven Seas   

In the face of an impending alien invasion by the beautiful and deadly Mazon, the decayed and weakened Earth has little hope of defending itself. While the planet's corrupt politicians ignore the growing threat, Tadashi Daiba is one of the few people left still willing to put up a fight. He's just one person, nigh powerless on his own -- until he joins the ranks with the greatest space pirate the world has ever known: Captain Harlock! Together with Harlock and his ragtag crew aboard the space battleship Arcadia, they will journey through space, fighting not only the Mazon, but other dark forces that threaten humanity's existence.

[ This is a retelling of Space Pirate Harlock's saga and it is done quite skillfully. I have read the first volume and interested following the story. The artwork is also quite gorgeous. ]
  

"To Your Eternity"
Story & Art by Yoshitoki Oima
Published by Kodansha Comics

A new manga from the creator of the acclaimed A Silent Voice, featuring intimate, emotional drama and an epic story spanning time and space...
A lonely boy wandering the Arctic regions of North America meets a wolf, and the two become fast friends, depending on each other to survive the harsh environment. But the boy has a history, and the wolf is more than meets the eye as well... To Your Eternity is a totally unique and moving manga about death, life, reincarnation, and the nature of love.  

[ A new manga from the writer of 'A Silent Voice', and yet another masterpiece of amazing storytelling. This guy is the real deal, it seems. ]

"Altair: A Record of Battles"
Story & Art by Kotono Kato
Published by Kodansha Comics

For generations the Turkiye Devleti and the Balt-Rhein Empire have stood in stern opposition of each other. Then one night, when an imperial minister is found assassinated, the two nations are plunged into a potentially explosive situation! As the generals of Turkiye's council cry for war, Mahmut comes to discover the devious truth behind the assassination! Thus the young pasha's battle for his country, peace and trust in his fellow man begins!

[ Another historical manga, and this one has a setting I never though I would see in this medium. A shounen manga focusing on the Ottoman Empire setting, this one is done quite well. Refreshingly original stuff. ]

Best New English Light Novels of 2017

And, here comes my list of the best new light novel series' that started getting published in English this year.

2017 had more than 30 new light novels that got released in English, but only a handful of these were worth mentioning in my opinion.

(PS: In no particular order of preference is this list created and only new series' that started being published in English for the first time were the main selection criteria.)

"Konosuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World!"
Written by Natsume Akatsuki
Illutrated by Kurone Mishima
Translated by Kevin Steinbach
Published by Yen Press

Game loving shut-in Kazuma Sato's life as a young schoolboy in Japan abruptly comes to an early end...or at least it was supposed to. When he opens his eyes, though, he sees a beautiful goddess that offers him a once in an after-lifetime chance to be reborn in a parallel world. The catch is that the world is violent and threatened by a growing evil! Fortunately, he can choose any one thing to bring with him. So he chooses the goddess, Aqua! And so his adventure with his gorgeous companion begins--if he could just get enough money and food to survive, keep his goddess out of trouble, and avoid grabbing the attention of the Demon King's army!

[ A very interesting concept making fun of the 'Isekai' genre that has gotten rather tiresome with so much effort going into it. It really is quite humorous with its approach. I have read the first one and loved it (my review). ] 

"Rokka: Braves of the Six Flowers"
Written by  Ishio Yamagata
Visual art by Miyagi
Published by Yen Press

In order to stop the revival of the Demon God, six heroes are to be chosen to save the world. Those chosen surely have great combat abilities, special powers, or have been intensely trained as Saints. Excellence and ability are supposed to be the calling card of the chosen heroes, but this ragtag band lived far from normal, peaceful lives before they came together to become heroes.
Hanz's mysterious assassin for hire trade. Mora and Chamo's daily life at the World Temple. Nashetania and the youth scheming to win her heart, Goldof. The one who lives her life as a demon thinking of her family, Fremi. And the boy who lives with only his dream in mind, Adlet.
Their true feelings and personalities all seem to have another side to them... They will all come together to battle mystery, reveal the past, and step into legends in this new exciting series!

[ I have heard of this one when the anime came out and never expected to see the light novel in English to be honest. But here it is and it seems to be quite a unique take on legendary heroes setting with a mystery twist. Something interesting among the generic stuff all around. ]

"Demon King Daimaou"
Written by Shoutarou Mizuki
Illustrated by Souichi Itou
Translated by David Musto
Published by J-Novel Club

Far in the future, Japan has become a land ruled by magic and those who wield it. Akuto Sai arrives at Constant Magical Academy—the most prestigious magic school in the world—for his first year of high school. The only student to pass the Academy’s intense entrance exam, he has his sights set on become a High Priest, the most powerful and virtuous magician in the land. However, when he arrives at the Academy, his future occupation is prophesied to be… The Demon King?! Now Akuto is the number one target on campus, and he must navigate his way with the help of his friends—a troublesome delinquent, a beautiful observer android, an honor-bound class representative, and a mysterious girl from his past—through the seedy underbelly of the world’s premier magic academy.

[ It is another light novel that I never thought of getting an official translation. This one from the time when magical schools were the popular setting of Japanese fiction. While I am not really iterested in the setting or the genres this series represents, my interest in this one was mostly due to this being one of the classic light novels, but it was rather fun as well. ]

"Infinite Dendrogram"
Written by Sakon Kaidou
Illustrated by Taiki
Translated by Andrew Hodgson
Published by J-Novel Club

In the year 2043, Infinite Dendrogram, the world's first successful full-dive VRMMO was released. In addition to its ability to perfectly simulate the five senses, along with its many other amazing features, the game promised to offer players a world full of infinite possibilities. Nearly two years later, soon-to-be college freshman, Reiji Mukudori, is finally able to buy a copy of the game and start playing. With some help from his experienced older brother, Shu, and his partner Embryo, Reiji embarks on an adventure into the world of Infinite Dendrogram. Just what will he discover and encounter in this game world known for its incredible realism and infinite possibilities?

[ Although this concept has been done to death, this one has executed a true RPG novel perfectly. And the main character is not ridiculously overpowered and is quite likeable. Any lovers of RPG should give this one a try. ]

"The Empty Box and Zeroth Maria"
Written by Eiji Mikage
Illustrated by 415
Translated by Luke Baker
Published by Yen Press

Kazuki Hoshino leads the easy-going life of a typical high school student--until the appearance of a new girl in his class turns his world upside down! Introducing herself with a promise to "break" Kazuki is abnormal enough to make an impression, sure, but why does she seem so familiar...?

[ Ah, the highest rated light novel of MAL finally gets translated. And it is well worth the wait as this novel is indeed a masterpiece of this particular medium of fiction. ]

"So I'm a Spider, So What?"
Written by Okina Baba
Illustrated by Kiryu Tsukasa
Translated by Jenny McKeon
Published by Yen Press

I used to be a normal high school girl but in the blink of an eye, I woke up in a place I've never seen before and-and I was reborn as a spider?! How could something that's nothing more than a tiny spider (that's me) possibly survive in literally the worst dungeon ever? Are there no rules? There should be some rules! Who the hell is responsible for this? SHOW YOUR FACE!  

[ While the setting is generic it has an unorthodox twist with a protagonist who is a spider, and she used to be a girl. It was fun to read her point-of-view and the author did manage to create something original. ]