James Robinson and Greg Rucka have clearly spent a lot of time setting up the complicated politics and environment of New Krypton, but I'm not sure the payoff is worth it. This collection contains the conclusion of the World of New Krypton series, and it ends on a cliffhanger. I'm so annoyed that the story seems unfinished that I have a hard time looking back for the more self-contained elements of this trade.The book works best when it's throwing DC's space-based characters against the high and mighty Kryptonians. I would have loved to see Hawkman and Hawkwoman lead the Thanagarian assault, the fairly generic Hawks featured here just don't pack the same punch. Jemm Son of Saturn seems to have gotten a power upgrade (and an anger upgrade while he was at it). He doesn't do much except throw a tantrum, but it is neat seeing him again. Adam Strange actually hangs around for a few issues, and he's a nice comforting presence for Kal El.
For the entirety of this collection, Superman is dressed in his subdued military guild blacks. He's maneuvering around the unfamiliar world of Kryptonian politics as he fills in for the injured General Zod, and while this is new ground for Superman, it just doesn't grab me. Superman is cool because he's so far above the norm; having a ton of Supermen around dilutes the concept. How long has it been since Superman actually flew around Metropolis fighting criminals?
The art is pretty solid, with concept work from Pete Woods. Victor Ibanez picks up for him and keeps things looking consistent, but the guest-stars are the most interesting looking folks in the comic. Again, the only cool-looking Kryptonians are in the little-seen science guild. Too many people are just wearing black and gray!
Average
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