Andrew Newton reviews Adventure Time #1 from Oni Press…
Adventure Time #1, written and drawn by Nick Winn, brings the same quirky, colourful, and heartfelt magic that fans of the show have come to know and love. The story ‘Best of Buds’ kicks off with classic Adventure Time fare, as the dynamic duo leaps into action to save the newly installed Computer Princess from the clutches of the evil Ice King. The premise is fun and familiar, but what truly makes the story stand out is the underlying theme of friendship and the unbreakable bond between Finn and Jake.
The art style, consistent with the show’s unique aesthetic, is playful and full of expression, with Winn perfectly capturing the charm of the characters and the magical world of Ooo. The action scenes are dynamic and exciting but the real strength lies in the moments between Finn and Jake, where their personalities and friendship shine through. The duo’s friendship is front and centre as they embark on a quest to find the legendary Enchiridion, a journey that promises both physical challenges and emotional growth for the two friends.
In addition to the main story, there’s a short backup feature titled Death and Tree Trunks written and drawn by Adventure Time writer/storyboard artist Derek Ballard. This short tale offers a change of pace, diving into the odd life of the small yellow-green elephant, Tree Trunks. Death and Tree Trunks is charming in its own right, with a more lighthearted tone following Tree Trunks as she tries to do everything she wants in the short time given to her by a bony chap.
Overall, Adventure Time #1 from Oni Press is an excellent start to what promises to be a fun, heartwarming adventure. With a great blend of humour, adventure and the core themes of friendship, this comic captures the essence of the beloved Adventure Time series and expands upon it in a way that feels both fresh and faithful. Newcomers to Adventure Time will be at a loss as to who is who and what is what, but for fans of Finn and Jake there will certainly be plenty to love. The backup feature also offers a great complement to the main story, rounding out the experience.
Rating – 7/10 – A lighthearted comic ideal for fans of Adventure Time. As Finn once said, “Let’s always be stupid, forever!”
Andrew Newton
