Written by Tom DeFalco
Art by Ron Frenz; Brett Breeding; Jose Rosen; & Nelson Yomtov
Cover Art by Scott Kolins & Jon Holdredge
SUMMARY:
Released by Marvel Comics for September 1994, “When Warriors Clash..!” is a reprinting of 1986’s The Amazing Spider-Man # 281. Several intertwined plot points are in play. At Coney Island Park, a mercenary Spider-Man & his tag-team partner, Silver Sable, are both already injured in their showdown vs. The Sinister Syndicate (Beetle, Speed Demon, Rhino, Boomerang & Hydro Man). Their only hope is the Sandman’s intervention, especially as he despises the dim-witted Hydro Man.
Meanwhile, in an effort to drum up business for his hoodlum squad, Jack O’Lantern abducts the suspected Hobgoblin, Flash Thompson, from the New York City jail. The real Hobgoblin & the Rose smell an opportunity to divert the authorities even further away from their criminal schemes.
As the Hobgoblin battles Jack O’Lantern over the latter’s unwanted interference, Flash makes a fast break to go on the lam. The Daily Bugle’s Robbie Robertson spots possible proof of a fugitive Flash’s innocence.
At Coney Island, Sandman is a formidable ally, but the 5-on-3 odds inevitably work against Spidey & Silver Sable’s injuries. A battered Spider-Man makes a desperate last charge against the Syndicate, including a fistfight with Rhino at point-blank range.
REVIEW:
One should consider the cover image this issue’s ideal money shot. Writer Tom DeFalco’s plotting impressively zips back and forth between Spidey’s battle royale and three related sub-plots without missing any beats. Supported by the art squad’s solid visuals, DeFalco coherently packs plenty into a single issue. As a satisfying mid-80’s Spider-caper, Marvel Tales # 289 is a worthwhile read in any comics collection.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
A full-page “Bullpen Bulletins” column is included. Created by artist Mike Harris & Tom Morgan, the original cover for The Amazing Spider-Man # 281 appears last in a full-page format.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
