As an already established reader, this one-shot could seem a bit dull, but in the context of what this issue is meant to do, it does a nice job.

To me, this issue was all about taking a quick pause to re-focus the audience on the series’ direction and character, Mark Grayson, after a chaotic year of events. Invincible has faced both World Conquest and the temptation of murder without a moment to catch his breath, yet, finally in this issue, he receives just that.

The title of “Invincible Returns” is not just a signifier for a costume change, but more of statement on the mindset of the character and the series. Kirkman takes Mark Grayson from an unstable position to now more of a place of certainty: a status needed for Invincible’s involvement with the approaching Viltrumite War.

For the established reader, I think this moment was a bit expected, but it was still an enjoyable read and a nice prelude to the Viltrumite War next issue.

I’m pumped.

P.S. Great Finch cover.