Age of Reptiles: The Hunt

Writer/Artist: Ricardo Delgado

Publisher: Dark Horse, $17.95

Ricardo Delgado is probably one of my all time favorite creators, so right off the bat I’ll say that AoR: The Hunt is a fantastic comic and in my opinion one of the best silent comics ever created. I often find that the real test of a comic artist is the ability to tell a clear and captivating silent story. If a creator doesn’t need words to tell a story (even sound effects), then they have managed to break through any limitations they could possibly have in a visual narrative and can communicate their ideas perfectly. Now you combine this ability with Delgado’s natural sense of design and pacing you have a truly beautiful package.

The story is simple enough as you follow a young allosaur as it is hunted down by a pack of ceratosaurs. The progression of the story takes you to the point where the allosaur has aged to a mature adult and is able to defend itself and hunt on its own. The path of the hunt leads all the creatures to a hidden valley, where the story shifts its focus towards numerous different creatures.

I’m a big fan of dinosaur stuff in general and most other people who have kept that fascination through childhood that I show this to all tend to fall in love with it. I really can’t stress how beautiful the artwork is. Even if you ignore the storytelling aspect, the linework and the massive landscapes are breathtaking. Combined with the luscious colors of James Sinclair, the final product is something you’ll find yourself staring at as you break down the panels and take in all the details.

One of the main reasons I wanted to review this book was because the newest chapter of Age of Reptiles, The Journey, is scheduled to arrive in comic stores today. Since it has been years since Delgado’s last comic publication, I’m just excited to see this arrive and would like to see it get the attention it deserves.

If you like this then try: Age of Reptiles: Tribal Warfare, Hieroglyph, Tyrant

Related Links: Dark Horse