The deadliest assassin in DCU history goes to the Next Level in Next Level: One Shot—and uncovers a conspiracy that will change everything. It unveils a web of super-powered lies that stretches throughout the entire DC Next Level cast of characters…and points the direction to war on the horizon. This epic issue tells you everything you need to know about what’s next for Next Level…if you survive the experience. Next Level: One Shot is an interesting one-shot that kicks off the next phase of whatever DC’s plans are.

Written by Gerry Duggan, Next Level: One Shot feels like the sort of issue that’s released just as a major event has ended and the new comics spinning out of it haven’t been released yet. The story weaves conspiracies and mysteries as Deadshot takes on the role of sort of hero, trying to figure out what’s going on and delivering clues to readers to put together.

Duggan does a good job of setting up what’s to come and introducing some of the stars of upcoming series. At the same time, the comic explains some of the current situations and statuses in the DC Universe. Superman missing is an example as it allows Deadshot to operate but also why he’s not around to help figure some of this out.

What’s teased and shown is explained enough but exactly how it ties into the bigger DC story isn’t clear. Without giving too much away, the comic has a vibe, as of now, that’s similar to Marvel’s “Secret Invasion” storyline but using well established DC properties. How it comes together will be interesting but how the numerous comics such as Vixen, Etrigan, Doom Patrol, and the New Titans tie into it all will be the real excitement. The comic sets up readers to not trust anyone but the few we’re shown and told we’re able to (but do you really trust that!?).

The art by Fernando Blanco is really good. With color by Jordie Bellaire and lettering by Buddy Beaudoin, the comic’s visuals feel like a good mix of action but also psychological thrillers. The visuals nail down the paranoia of it all and also deliver a ticking time element that’s not explicit but the comic’s pacing and the visuals, create it. There’s a rushed element of it all, and that’s emphasized by Deadshot’s actions which feel less planned out and more rushed. There’s a hurried element to it all and the art really nails that down.

Next Level: One Shot is an interesting comic that might get new readers interested in what DC has to offer and should excite current readers showing them what’s to come. It also ends on a rather tragic note in some ways that makes what’s to come feel all the more horrific. Overall, while it feels like odd timing as to when it’s been released, it does act as a nice entry into the next wave of releases to come.

Story: Gerry Duggan Art: Fernando Blanco
Color: Jordie Bellaire Letters: Buddy Beaudoin
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.35 Overall: 7.95 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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