*I was sent an ARC of Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1 in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Oni Press and everyone involved for my copy of the graphic novel*
Synopsis:
In partnership with Massive Monster and Devolver Digital, the record-setting comic book expansion of Cult of the Lamb returns with its long-awaited, world-ending climax from writer Alex Paknadel (Astonishing X-Men) and artist Troy Little (Rick and Morty vs. Dungeons & Dragons)!
In the aftermath of their first and closest follower’s sacrifice, glorious but disillusioned cult leader Lamb continues to wage war against the remaining three ruthless Bishops of the Old Faith—but they lack the conviction to tend their growing flock back at the cult. More followers are rescued by the day, but with no one to indoctrinate them, Lamb’s power stagnates and the One Who Waits becomes weary of his earthly vessel’s resistance to the full power and responsibility of the Red Crown. When a challenger for the crown’s divine power emerges from within the cult, a violent schism further weakens Lamb’s crusade. Former vessel and kindly caretaker Ratau intercedes in defense of his dear leader, Lamb, who must finally decide if they will embrace the power of the Red Crown or abandon their quest . . . and their remaining, loyal followers.
Collects the two double-sized specials Cult of the Lamb: Schism Special #1 and Cult of the Lamb: Last Sacrament Special #1
Review:
After reading volume one almost two years ago, I was quite excited to check out Cult of the Lamb Vol. 2. I was intrigued to see if the pain points I had with the first volume were still present in volume two and sadly, they were. I actually think I enjoyed this one even less.
Much like volume 1, pretty much every page of Cult of the Lamb Vol. 2 was crammed full of characters, objects, actions and small details to the point that they are like reading what a headache feels like. I can appreciate the level of attention that went into each page, and the artist is very talented. This is a fun art style, but it’s way too much sometimes.
The story itself is one that feels a little complex to follow at times due to how the characters speak. I haven’t played the game so I don’t know if this is common for them but the language used could benefit from being a little simpler. I have a feeling a lot of it is religion-related, of which I have no knowledge. The Lamb felt very much like a secondary character in this volume and as I hadn’t re-read volume one to refresh my memory, I couldn’t remember what they were up to just before volume two. Lamb is a very morally grey character but this time they only seemed to care about their own agenda, which I suppose is exactly what a cult leader does.
The conflict happening within the cult itself was an interesting plot point but I can’t remember if this is something that started building in the previous volume. I think this gave Lamb a wake up call that was severely needed.
The plot was fast moving, which is something to expect from a graphic novel, so this is great. But it does also mean there was too much going on. This is a spoiler, but after the events of the first volume, I did not expect Lamb to defeat the other three bishops. It feels like the action was more thought out previously whereas this time, Lamb defeated their enemies swiftly and with little to no effort.
Overall, this was an ok read but not one I’d rush to recommend. aAybe if you’re a big of of Cult of the Lamb already – I can’t comment on how lore accurate it is to the game though.
Get your copy of Cult of the Lamb Vol.2 here:
*Kindle Ebook
*Paperback
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