When it comes to Star Trek, I consider myself a fan. I’m definitely a more casual fan, having seen all of the films multiple times but when it comes to television shows, it’s more catching things here and there. It was never must-see tv for me. When it comes to the comics, that’s much of the same as well. I’ve enjoyed some here and there but it was never part of my regular reading. Having decided to roll the dice with Star Trek: Strange New Worlds – The Illyrian Enigma #1, not only am I hooked on this series but might need to go back and see what I’ve been missing with the television series as well.

With Una accused of unlawful genetic modification by Starfleet, Captain Pike sets out in search of evidence that could prove his first officer’s innocence.

Written by Kristin Beyer and Mike Johnson, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds – The Illyrian Enigma #1 keeps things simple in a lot of way. It has a laser focus. It does an excellent job of laying out the situation and giving us an idea as to who the important characters are for this story. But it does so in a solid way where things aren’t “explained” directly to the reader in long winded speeches that are out of place, instead it all flows organically as characters discuss things with each other.

The situation also gets at what makes Star Trek works so well. The social and political themes the series dives into have always been part of its core and this is no exception. At the center of the story is the fear of the unknown and prejudice against others. It’s simple yet very effective. The parallels to the real world are clear and simple taking on prejudice without much subtlety.

With just a cursory knowledge of the characters, mostly through trailers and promotional images, I could easily recognize the cast. Megan Levens‘ art captures the actors well making them all quite easy to figure out who’s who. Charlie Kirchoff provides the color and Neil Uyetake handles the lettering. The action is limited in the issue but the various debate between the characters is presented in an interesting and engaging way and you get a sense of the emotional charge of it all.

It’s not that hard to recommend Star Trek: Strange New Worlds – The Illyrian Enigma #1 for those that have already been watching the television series. It feels like a solid extension of it and that’s from someone who has never watched an episode. But, even for those that have never seen Strange New Worlds, the story is excellent with the socio-political underpinnings that makes Star Trek great.

Story: Kristin Beyer, Mike Johnson Art: Megan Levens
Color: Charlie Kirchoff Letterer: Neil Uyetake
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.0 Overall: 8.35 Recommendation: Buy

IDW Publishing provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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