Did you enjoy Ironhide #1? Did it’s mix of great character, classic Transformer Autobots Vs. Decepticons action remind you of what is best in Transformers? Well, forget it. Issue 2 is nothing like it. Yes, that’s right. In this issue, writer Mike Costa, has discovered an entirely new kind of Ironhide awesome! How is that even possible?

Ever play with some G1 toys while watching X-files or maybe Donnie Darko. If so. Really? That’s nuts. If not you no longer need to! Ironhide two has achieved the perfect mix of surreal spookiness and Generation One fanboy pleasing.

After a illuminating and character grounding flashback, this issue takes off with the full force of the momentum that Ironhide #1 built up. It pulls you straight back in. This is about as engaging as these character pieces get.

You don’t have to be a long time fan of Ironhide to find this one man show entrancing. Every page engages. We all know what this seemingly younger Ironhide doesn’t about the modern fate of Cybertron and that’s what makes the suspense build. However, his journey is already evoking new questions about the Swarm infested dead zone the planet has become. Maybe we don’t know as much as we thought.

Not to mention the mystery of his seeming resurrection. Itself from a “death” that is not the one we remember.

Like it’s predecessor, you’ll blow through this comic in what seems like moments. The pacing is amazing, and like the titular character himself, you’ll find that even before you’ve assimilated the full scope of one meaning packed scene, you’ll be hip deep into the next.

Though this is a more character heavy issue, the several action scenes are not tacked on. Every moment of violence has its purpose, and moves the story forward, or evokes character.

Casey Coller’s art is a joy in every panel, ably colored buy Joana Lafuente. It’s crisp and clear, and so evocative that it probably could have told the story with out dialog, but its subtle enough not to get in the way. This is a team the comic franchise could do with more of.

Ironhide #2 is so involving you’ll be double checking the ads at the back to make sure there isn’t anymore of it. Then you may want to re-read it to make sure you didn’t miss anything. It leaves you starving for the next issue. This is a suspense driven mystery. The kind you fall out of your chair, while leaning into read.

Normally, I advocate IDW’s fast printing trade paperbacks for maximum story enjoyment, but this might be more fun to experience in real time with your fellow fans, especially since there have been continuity shaking consequences hinted at in the books future. If you like your comics spoiler free, now might be the time to pick up Ironhide.

Writer: Mike Costa
Art By: Casey Coller
Publisher: IDW
Cover Price: $3.99
On Sale: 06/03/10