Doom has had some masterpiece stories over the decades, as discussed last month, but those stories were always either one “graphic novel” or a limited, six-issue series. Until now. Kinda. What I thought was going to be a Dark Reign tie-in that would catalog tales of Doom versus the world – Osborn’s world – turned out to be a chilidish romp featuring everyone’s favorite web whackers, the Sinister Six.

And I am okay with that.

I immediately nitpick two things: the cover, and the continuity. The art, including that pathetic logo – Doom still doesn’t have a proper logo to this day – is a poor representation of the wonderful interior. Secondly, the sight of Kraven  (and obviously his presence in the interior) throws me off as to when this book occurs. Did they dare retcon Kraven’s Last Hunt for a few laughs? Is this supposed to take place in Marvel Adventures? Was Iron Man: Enter the Mandarin ever timelined, while we’re at it? I’m usually good at figuring (or not caring ab)out continuity for the most part, but this has me through a loop.

That said? This was loads of fun. The Sinister Six are the Secret Six of Marvel, coming as dysfunctional as they are endearing. It is also nice to see them given a task (assigned by Doom) that takes them out of their niche of trying to squish the spider. Tobin’s characterization of each member is spot on, and almost tricks you into thinking that Mysterio is cool just before reminding you he’s blowhard like the actors with whom he used to work on set. Kraven’s Engrishski is subtle and overused, delivering just enough amusement.

That said? This was loads of fun. The Sinister Six are the Secret Six of Marvel, coming as dysfunctional as they are endearing. It is also nice to see them given a task (assigned by Doom) that takes them out of their niche of trying to squish the spider. Tobin’s characterization of each member is spot on, and almost tricks you into thinking that Mysterio is cool just before reminding you he’s blowhard like the actors with whom he used to work on set. Kraven’s Engrishski is subtle and overused, delivering just enough amusement. The story itself is littered with enough moments of hijinks and hilarity to make me almost forget that Doom only appears for about 4% of the issue.

Not much to say about the art other than it is clean and bright, reflecting the tone of the book perfectly. Also appropriate for the book is each page being peppered with distinct facial expressions from everyone except Doom – which I mean as a compliment; finally, consistent masks are hard to come by.

Final thoughts? I wish this was actually a cartoon instead. This could easily be Marvel’s answer to Batman: Brave and the Bold with a tone that is fun for all ages and a look that is just as accessible. Still, I warmly welcome this new series and Doom’s role as a host for other villains to share the spotlight.