Nocterra is the new creator-owned series by a little-known indie writer by the name of Scott Snyder. We’re introduced to a world of everlasting darkness that slowly turns living beings into dangerous creatures, and the only way to survive is by staying close to artificial light. Like any post-apocalyptic series, humanity is forced to live in communities known as outposts, just barely safe from the monsters lurking.

The series revolves around Valentina “Val” Riggs, a ferryman who transports anyone and anything across the deadly dark roads in her hi-tech eighteen-wheeler. In this first issue, we learn more about Val and how the world came to be covered in shadows.

To put it bluntly, the story is awesome. There are many things to like in this series, starting with the concept. Snyder isn’t a stranger to world-altering events (DC’s Death Metal instantly coming to mind), so his experience in introducing us to a frightening, new world can be felt throughout the issue. The rules of the world and the players in this story are expertly interwoven through the narrative.

The concept behind the story is fascinating, as well. An everlasting night with no sun, moon, or stars, humanity has had to adapt to using light in creative ways, as light is the only way to fight off the creatures and live safely.

In a series where light and darkness play a significant role in the story, the artwork of Tony S. Daniel coupled with Tomeu Morey’s colors has to be commended. Daniel’s art is crisp and clean, even when the characters themselves are grimy, while the colors expertly play on the light and shadows, especially in the action sequences (using a flare gun in the dead of night, for instance).

Nocterra #1 is an excellent introduction to an exciting, new story by master storyteller Scott Snyder. The art is fantastic, and the story offers just enough mystery to leave you wanting more.

Creative team: Scott Snyder (story), Tony S. Daniel (art), Tomeu Morey (colors), Andworld Design (letters), Will Dennis (editor), Tyler Jennes (assistant editor), Emma Price (graphic design)
Publisher: Image Comics
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