By Ed Sum
(The Vintage Tempest)
Dark Horse Comics
Spoiler Alert
Available Now
A lot of time has passed between issues one and two of Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons comic. In the second chapter, the events of the live-action season one have passed. Will is not on equal footing anymore, and his only comfort zone is in escaping to the world of Dungeons and Dragons. No reference to the cartoon is made, but I’m betting this reference is coming.
The tale by Jody Houser and Jim Zub is taking shape. The character study is strong as we learn how Will copes since freed from the Upside Down. He’s hesitant. His pals don’t fully understand all that’s happened. Readers are reminded about the encouraging aspects of why RPGs are good. The story is not like the early 80s movie Mazes and Monsters but I suspect the writing team is aware of it, and they want to chart a different course for this protagonist.
Next issue may well take place at another point in time. I’m guessing it’ll be between episodes instead, since by the latest season, the gang isn’t playing the game as much.
To see how Will clings to the game of Dungeons and Dragons is noteworthy. It’s his only means of escape and to make sense of what happened to him. But for the others, even in this issue, they are showing signs of wanting to change hobbies. This issue provides excellent food for thought. This publisher’s partnership with GametoGrow.org informs readers of the positive aspects to what this hobby can offer. This issue’s two-page spread is intentionally far more noticeable. It’s not about letting everyone now its possible to slay those metaphorical beasts, but also conquering the demons too.
