We know the story of the Ghostbusters from numerous films, animated shows, and comics. But, what about that first year in business: Ghostbusters: Year One #1 kicks off the untold stories of our favorite paranormal investigators.

Written by Erik Burnham, Ghostbusters: Year One #1 focuses on the “newest” of the original Ghostbusters, Winston Zeddemore. Framed as an interview with a journalist writing a book, we get to learn some details about his experience joining the team.

Burnham adds in details that fit quite well with what we know. It’s a nice “in addition” as opposed to a retcon. We learn about what Winston was doing before joining the team and even get to see some more of the questions he was asked in his interview. But, most importantly, we learn more about him as a person and how he fit into the group and his training. It’s a great example of expanding a known universe.

The art by Dan Schoening with color by Luis Antonio Delgado is unique and stands out. It’s a style you don’t see elsewhere with a cartoon-like quality about it. Schoening’s style is one that you don’t see elsewhere and it’s hard to describe. There’s a slight homage to the cartoon series but at the same time it’s own style. What’s solid is it works for the ghosts. It doesn’t skew to horror but still fits that genre. Delgado’s colors are key with the ethereal popping from the page. Neil Uyetake‘s lettering is also key in giving the ghosts a voice to themselves through the lettering style.

Ghostbusters: Year One #1 kicks off what feels like could be a fun series. I also expect there’s more to what’s presented. The team has a nice grasp of fitting in new knowledge and deliver enough winks and nods for long-time fans. A must for fans of Ghostbusters or want a good chuckle.

Story: Erik Burnham Art: Dan Schoening
Color: Luis Antonio Delgado Letterer: Neil Uyetake
Story: 8.15 Art: 8.15 Overall: 8.15 Recommendation: Buy

IDW Publishing provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review