Rick and Morty vs Dungeons and Dragons #2
Writers: Patrick Rothfuss, Jim Zub
Artist: Troy Little
Colorist: Leonardo Ito
Letterer: Robbie Robbins
Publisher: IDW/Oni
Review by Evan Maroun
Fans of DnD only have to wait until their next session to get their next chapter of the unfolding story. Meanwhile, the Rick and Morty fandom is still clamoring for that Season 4 date. Fortunately for both, Patrick Rothfuss and Jim Zub are here to provide another smartly-written care package of multi-dimensional shenanigans. With Rick and Morty vs Dungeons and Dragons #2 the team expands their adventuring party by two, with the addition of Beth and Summer in the mix.
The main reason that the first issue was such a treat was that Zub and Rothfuss prove that they aren’t only super knowledgeable about DnD and its finer details, but they also know how to write this dysfunctional family. Issue 2 is no different. Every piece of dialogue spouted from a stuttering or drooling mouth continues to feel natural and consistent. While much of the humor comes from the characters experiencing different aspects of DnD, it’s so smartly written that those unfamiliar with the game will still get most of the jokes. Watching Summer comment on the skimpiness of her default rogue outfit while Morty essentially gets pigeonholed into being the group’s healer is not only funny but hits that extra *relatable* mark for anyone familiar with the game.
One thing that was slightly disappointing was that the ending of the first issue doesn’t really pay-off here. It set-up a scenario and that’s quickly settled (although humorously). Overall, the plot beats of the first issue feel a little re-treaded here but with more party members to experience the Dungeoneering. But hey, isn’t that the best way to play after all? Luckily the scenarios in this issue are just as entertaining, if not more so. I just hope we start to see some sort of an overarching story pan out.
The look of the book still retains the show’s familiarity thanks to Troy Little. Outside of the occasionally slightly weird face, his emulation of the show is very close. Just like a DnD player, once he is able to stretch his creative muscles in the exotic environments and the action scenes, the fireballs come raining onto the page. Literally. Robbie Robbins once again has his work cut out for him with the lettering because while interactions are great, there are a ton of word bubbles in this book. He somehow makes it read seamlessly though, making sure the reader’s eye is never tripped up by their order.
Verdict: Buy it!
The creative team on Rick and Morty vs Dungeons and Dragons is a special one that makes sure fans of both leave happy, and more than that, constantly surprised by just how well the two mesh.
