Another week, another Archie digest. That is by no means a bad thing! I especially like what they’ve been doing lately. They have their cover story which is serialized over 3 or 4 issues, if you like that sort of thing, but then the rest of the book is chock full of “done-in-one” or single page gag strips. There is truly something for everyone. Take Archie & Friends Double Digest #5, it continues the “Adventures in the Cyber Realm” story that has been going on since #1. In this tale, Archie & the Gang are trapped in a video game reality created by Dilton. While that sounds a little tired, the execution is insane in the most awesome way possible. Where else are you going to have an ersatz Pokémon riding the hoverboard from Back to the Future II while battling enemies from the classic arcade game Burger Time?
Also in this issue is a story about the importance of recycling plastics. The Archie people have in the past had PSAs about PET plastic containers, so it’s no surprise that they’re returning to this subject, especially this close to Earth Day. I really don’t mind PSA comics as long as they flow naturally and aren’t just statistics thrown into a narrative. I have confidence in the talent at Archie, though. As someone much wiser than I said: “If you’re not careful, you may learn something before it’s done.”
ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #4
“Adventures in the Wonder Realm” Part 4.
“Adventures in the Wonder Realm” continue as Archie, Jughead and Betty fight for their lives against angry food and rock creatures standing between them and freedom! Will Veronica and their new friend Cheroby help the team in completing all the different levels? Or will they be lost in the Wonder Realm forever?
SCRIPT: Stephen Oswald
ARTIST: Joe Staton and Bob Smith
COVER: Joe Staton, Bob Smith and Tito Pena
Shipping Date: 3/23/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 3/30/2011
Newsstands: 4/12/11
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US