First Look: Usagi Yojimbo: Senso #1

This latest tale of the rabbit samurai Miyamoto Usagi marks his 30^th anniversary. Set 20 years in the future, Usagi is a general of Lord Noriyuki fighting against Lord Hikiji. But, in a science-fiction twist, a rocket crashes to earth and a new enemy emerges. This comic will reveal the final fates of all the Usagi characters and is written and illustrated by Usagi’s creator Stan Sakai.   See a preview for Usagi Yojimbo: Senso #1 and my reactions to it below.     I like the obvious exposition Usagi makes about Jotaru, but it does make this a little easier to follow for people who don't read the series... but the 30th anniversary story feels like it would be enjoyed more by people who are already fans of the characters and not newcomers to the series. Maybe the full mini-series will make it worthwhile for all.   The artwork is the usual black-and-white style Stan Sakai has used for Usagi Yojimbo and it's nice to see it back again even if some of the expressions hurt the tone of the comic, like Usagi's concern for his son on page 5, which looks so awkward it hurts the tension of the moment. I know Sakai can draw emotions better just by looking at the very last panel of the preview.   The first issue of this mini-series, Usagi Yojimbo: Senso #1,will be available on August 6^th, 2014 for $3.99.