Running for 12 issues and one special, Dark Knights of Steel is among the most popular of DC Comics‘ modern Elseworlds. The fantasy-themed miniseries was a hit with fans and critics, with a sequel seemingly inevitable. Allwinter is that sequel, but it spins not one but two stories, which build upon the original setting.
The main story of Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 centers around an old mercenary called Slade the Deathstroke. An infamous slayer of monsters and men, Slade takes little joy in battle now and fights only for coin. It is for the sake of gold he takes on a quest from his old ally, Vandal Savage. This drags Deathstroke into a mission of mercy, which may tie into the magical cold that blights the land and leaches the color from the world.
If the original Dark Knights of Steel was DC Comics mashed up with Game of Thrones, Allwinter is DC’s take on The Witcher. The Norse mythology influences are strong in the script of Jay Kristoff. It is well-matched by the monochromatic artwork of Triso. There are many pages that are reminiscent of the manga Berserk, both in bloodshed and in vivid detail.
Allwinter introduces Aquaman to Dark Knights of Steel World
The backup story, Heir to the Sea, is a different tale. Set in the distant past of the original Dark Knights of Steel, the focus here lies on two knights, Jonathan and Martha. In the original series, they were aged warriors who became farmers and foster parents to many a young hero. Here, we see them in their prime, just before they meet their first adopted son, Arthur. We also learn of the wicked Emperor Manta, who seeks to destroy the “false heir” to his undersea kingdom.
This story is unsurprisingly closer in tone to the original series because it was written by Tom Taylor. The artwork by Riccardo Federici, with vibrant colors by Arif Prianto, is comparatively close to the first Dark Knights’ aesthetic. It is a slow-boiling story, but it promises to build up to something epic in future chapters.
Fans of the first Dark Knights of Steel will get the most out of Allwinter. However, it is surprisingly accessible to newcomers despite being steeped in the lore of the original Elseworlds. Regardless, fans of the sword-and-sorcery genre will find this book fantastic in every meaning of the word.
Grade: 5/5
Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
