Summary

• Kristoff and Cons deliver a Deathstroke fans have long desired, setting the stage for Slade Wilson to transition into DC's next anti-hero.
• Cons' stunning black and white artwork immerses fans into the high fantasy setting, giving Deathstroke an Odin-like presence.
• The synergy between Kristoff's writing and Cons' art makes Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 a powerhouse of storytelling brilliance.

WARNING: Contains Potential Spoilers For Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1!

DARK KNIGHTS OF STEEL: ALLWINTER #1 delivers an epic expansion of Tom Taylor’s high fantasy Deathstroke to the forefront for what promises to be one of 2024’s best comics. This narrative presents the version of Slade Wilson fans have long desired, transforming the iconic villain into a true anti-hero without sacrificing any of his inherent badassery.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 unequivocally shines as a standout gem in DC's 2024 comic lineup, delivering a Deathstroke that promises to be celebrated as one of the most memorable interpretations of the character to date.

Jay Kristoff and Tirso Cons have not only met but exceeded expectations in crafting a worthy sequel to Tom Taylor’s Dark Knights of Steel series, a task far from easy. With Allwinter #1, they capture the inherent magic and high fantasy aesthetic of Taylor’s world, making the Elseworlds instantly recognizable.

At the same time, they present a fresh Deathstroke-centric narrative, reimagining the coin-for-hire mercenary as a battle-weary Viking sellsword in a world stripped of all color and plagued by an icy curse. Kristoff and Cons bring something exceptionally unique with their premise, world-building, and art, yet their greatest accomplishment may be presenting fans with one of the best versions of Deathstroke comics has ever seen.

With his single eye, near inhuman muscular physique, and flowing, braided white hair, Deathstroke appears more akin to Odin himself than a mere sellsword.

Jay Kristoff Captures the Best of Slade Wilson with the Addition of Moral Complexity

Cover D 1:25 Qistina Khalidah Card Stock Variant for Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #2

If there's one thing Kristoff and Cons excel at, it's drawing fans into their narrative and leaving them grinning ear-to-ear. There is never a dull moment in the series, as it begins with Deathstroke killing Black Mask with a long-distance crossbow shot to the eye, immediately establishing Slade’s inherent badassery. This is further solidified when the mercenary single-handedly defeats a Kraken by literally jumping into the belly of the beast. Yet, Kristoff’s portrayal of Deathstroke goes beyond the expected formidability of the character and instead reveals a character grappling with regrets over his brutal, warmongering past.

Kristoff has also brought Deathstroke’s family back into the fold, specifically Slade’s ex-wife Adeline Kane Wilson. With Kane's introduction, it's now more likely that the moral complexity Kristoff has planted within Slade will fully bloom, transitioning the mercenary from villain to anti-hero. Furthermore, the DC writer has done wonders in bolstering Slade’s character with witty dialogue and dry humor, making for one of the most entertaining renditions of Deathstroke. This portrayal captures Slade’s grumpy old man vibes that fans have come to love. With the addition of Slade's newfound moral complexity, Kristoff presents a characterization of Deathstroke that has been yearned for for years.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter Elevates Deathstroke From Mercenary to Norse Legend in Stunning Art

Viking Slade Wilson Killing Jarl Sionis "Black Mask" Roman with a Crossbow

All the credit for the absolute brilliance of Dark Knight’s of Steel: Allwinter #1 cannot be solely attributed to Kristoff’s ingenious characterization, addictive premise, and snappy dialogue. Tirso Cons deserves equal acclaim for his stunningly rendered black and white artwork, which is integral to capturing the essence of the high fantasy setting. Cons's illustrations transcend mere portrayal; they showcase a metahuman level of artistic prowess, immersing fans deeply into the narrative. Each scene he crafts leaps off the page, vividly springing to life in the minds of readers and enriching the entire storytelling experience.

Every facet of Cons' art in Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 is truly commendable, but his depiction of Deathstroke stands out as truly awe-inspiring. With his single eye, near inhuman muscular physique, and flowing, braided white hair, Slade appears more akin to Odin himself than a mere sellsword. Cons captures Deathstroke in a way that is both ruggedly gorgeous and mythically powerful, elevating the character to new heights. His artwork not only complements Kristoff’s writing but synergizes with it, creating a dynamic duo that defines this comic as a powerhouse of storytelling.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 unequivocally shines as a standout gem in DC's 2024 comic lineup, delivering a Deathstroke that promises to be celebrated as one of the most memorable interpretations of the character to date.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 is available July 17, 2024, from DC Comics!