Andrew Newton reviews Rick and Morty vs. Cthulhu Deluxe Edition…
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if the scientific genius of Rick Sanchez collided with the eerie world of H.P. Lovecraft, wonder no more. Oni Press’ Rick and Morty vs. Cthulhu answers that very question. This latest comic, set in the bizarre universe of our titular heroes, delivers everything fans expect—quirky humor, sci-fi madness, and a whole lot of absurdity—while blending in the terrifying, mind-bending cosmic horror of Lovecraft’s Cthulhu mythos. This crossover event expertly merges two very different worlds, and in the hands of Rick and Morty creators, it feels completely natural.
The plot kicks off when an illicit sugar deal goes awry, and Rick and Morty return home hoping there are no repercussions. But when Rick’s investigations reveal something more sinister, the whole family finds themselves thrust into the Lovecraftian universe. As you’d expect, Rick’s sarcastic genius and Morty’s ever-present anxiety clash with the eldritch horrors they encounter, resulting in a rollercoaster of laughs, chaos, and the kind of existential panic only Rick and Morty can deliver. The sheer absurdity of these two worlds colliding is what makes this comic so delightful, maintaining the series’ signature dark humour while diving into the terrifying unknown.
Visually, the comic captures the weirdness of Rick and Morty while adding an eerie, psychedelic aesthetic that fits perfectly with the monstrous grandeur of Cthulhu and his cult of followers. The art style by Troy Little is both quirky and unsettling, and there are moments that will make you laugh out loud while at the same time keep you on edge as ancient horrors loom in the background.
One of the standout aspects of Rick and Morty vs. Cthulhu is how Jim Zub plays with the cosmic horror theme, taking Lovecraft’s mythology and flipping it on its head with the franchise’s signature irreverence (often poking fun at Lovecraft’s failings). While Lovecraft’s work often evokes a sense of despair and terror, Rick and Morty injects its usual cynical humour, turning the bleakness into a source of laugh-out-loud moments. The horror of Lovecraft’s works is often sabotaged by the ridiculousness of the duo’s antics, but there are still enough creepy moments to keep you reading.
If you’re a fan of both Rick and Morty and Lovecraftian horror, this comic is an absolute must-read. It strikes the perfect balance between the horror of the original source material and staying true to the zany, unpredictable nature of the Rick and Morty universe. Whether you’re here for the laughs or the chills (or both), this comic delivers.
Rating: 7/10
Rick and Morty vs. Cthulhu Deluxe Edition by Oni Press is on sale now.
Andrew Newton
