“The Rules of the Game” Written by Tom DeFalco. Art by Ron Frenz; Rick Parker; & Bob Sharen.
“Cry of the Wendigo” Written by Charles Vess. Art by Charles Vess; Elaine Lee; & Rick Parker.
Cover Art by Scott Kolins.
SUMMARY:
Reprinting the two stories from 1986’s The Amazing Spider-Man # 277, Marvel Comics released this issue for May 1994. First up is “The Rules of the Game.” Reeling from Flash Thompson’s arrest after being exposed as the Hobgoblin, Peter Parker leaves a sympathetic Mary Jane to answer Matt Murdock’s desperate summons. Discovering that a depleted Murdock/Daredevil has hit rock bottom and is in hiding, Peter ignores his friend’s pleas to not interfere in his feud with “Kingpin” Wilson Fisk. Spider-Man (in his familiar red, blue, & black) seeks out Fisk for payback.
In “Cry of the Wendigo,” the next day has New York City caught up in a blizzard. Spidey (in his black-and-costume costume) tries rescuing a Canadian diplomat’s young daughter from armed kidnappers escaping through Central Park. Yet, a monstrous Wendigo is the unpredictable ghost in the bone-chilling wind.
REVIEW:
Though neither story is memorable, Marvel Tales # 285 still offers a good read. Matt Murdock’s guest presence frankly makes a more lasting impression than Peter’s juvenile retaliation tactics annoying the Kingpin. Still, “The Rules of the Game” is a nice reminder of Peter & Matt’s friendly alliance, as a little depth is added to their shared world.
While “Cry of the Wendigo,” has an intriguing premise, the twist that Spidey doesn’t actually encounter the Wendigo this time is something of a disappointment. Overall, the artwork supplies competent visuals, though the Peter briefly seen in “Wendigo” doesn’t resemble his character much. The cool cover image, otherwise, is this issue’s best asset.
For the Spidey faithful, Marvel Tales # 285 is at least a fine choice to share with curious pre-teen fans.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The “Bullpen Bulletins” column features a profile on penciller Mark Bagley, along with a Marvel monthly checklist. Also included is a full-page reprint of The Amazing Spider-Man # 277 cover by Charles Vess.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
