Ahhh....a comic based on a toy-line...haven't seen that one before...! Super Friends #1, not to be confused with the old Super Friends cartoon featuring Zan, Jana, Marvin, Wendy, etc., is the newest entry in DC's revamped Johnny DC line aimed at younger readers. It follows closely on the heels of Tiny Titans, and the soon to be released Billy Batson and the Power of Shazam. This particular comic is based on the Mattell DC Superfriends toy line. The familiar DC characters are drawn more squat and round...nothing at all resembling the iconic animated Justice League characters.
The story is very simple, but not in a dumbed-down way. The story is broken into 3 chapters, seperated by an activity: maze, puzzle, and a JL viewer which invites the reader to cut out of the comic (making this an instant collectors item in mint condition, no?). The 'villian' is Professor Ivo and his robot Amazo, and his is eventually defeated by one of the most underated of the Super Friends, but you'll have to read it to find out.
This is squarelly written to be read to the 5 and under set, although i found it enjoyable as well (of course my wife claims this hobby of mine IS for 5 year-olds, but that's another Review...). The only drawback i see to this series is that it is to replace the most excellent Justice League Unlimited series..which is a shame!
The artwork is simplistic but is spot-on to the toyline, even using a certain Superman vehicle which is available at Toys R Us...
Story: 3 - Good
Art: 3 - Good
