WAR MACHINE #1
(April, 1994) "Something to Believe In." Cover art: Gabe Gecko. Script: Scott Benson/Len Kaminski. Art: Gabe Gecko/Pam Ecklund.
Jim Rhodes launches into his own series! Is this a good thing....or not? Rhodes has just parted ways with the recently "defrosted" Tony Stark (see Iron Man #s 284-289) and is seeking a meaning to the rest of his life. His girlfiend, Rae LaCoste, introduces him to Vincent Cetewayo, an advocate and activist for worldwide peace. He tells Rhodes he wants him to join him in WorldWatch Incorporated, an organization dedicated to Cetewayo's peace work. Jim is initially opposed to joining, but Cetewayo's kidnapping at the hands of brutal African dictator Eda Arul changes Jim's mind. When SHIELD and the Avengers refuse to do anything about the abduction (they're bound by UN rules against such action), Jim suits up as War Machine and heads for Arul's [fictitious] country of Imaya. He does battle with Imaya's air force, and a shot from one of the jets pounds Jim into the earth. He wakes up to find Cable looking after him, and demanding that WM withdraw. Of course, Jim refuses, so the duo do battle! It's an apparent draw....and then Deathlok shows up! Hooooo-boy!
Gecko's art is pretty tasty and the script is solid. The cover is a one-time black and white foil offering. What may make long-time Iron Fans squirm is the rather specious notion of Jim joining a group like WorldWatch in the first place. Still.....!
Hube's Recommendation: 3 Variable Threat Response Battle Suits!
