While I agree with the criticism that this storyline is taking a little time to get going, I don’t feel it is a detriment to, or defect of, the story. Fraction has introduced a lot of new characters in issues 25 & 26. He is clearly putting all of the pieces in place before the action gets going. And, he’s clearly taking his time in revealing all of the bells and whistles of the new suit, which is fine. No need to shoot his load all at once, and it helps to build tension.

Personally, I like all of the character moments, and I am genuinely intrigued by where things are going. And, HOLY CRAP!, I did not expect Tony to make the decision he made on the last page, but it was totally in character. Tony has never been one to be tied to the past when it stands in opposition to the direction he wants to go. I say, “bravo,” to Fraction for taking that “risk” with the Iron Man legacy. Hopefully, the fan boys won’t kill you.

The art is basically what we have to come to expect on this title. It is mostly above average, but there are the occasional panels that leave you scratching your head. People have claimed that it’s the coloring, or over-coloring, as the case may be. I don’t know what the issue is, but I have come to expect it on this book and it doesn’t bother me to the point where it takes away from the story. Your mileage may vary.

Overall, this issue is on par with all the others, even if it is a little “slow” for some people’s tastes. To me, it’s still the same awesome sauce as the first 25 issues.