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Joe Kelly, Pepe Larraz, and the creative team drop us right into the middle of a galactic conflict in The Amazing Spider-Man #13. Peter Parker is still missing, light-years from Earth, after his defeat by the mysterious being, Hellgate. Knocked into space and far from the familiar streets of New York, Spider-Man has found himself embroiled in a cosmic conflict with the creatures rescued from Dr. Xanto Starblood.

This issue continues that journey with a bang. Spider-Man, Rocket Raccoon, and their motley crew are attempting a simple cargo delivery on the Gothon Conglomerate-controlled planet Gaileia 3. The initial plan, conceived by Rocket, was supposed to be a quiet job in this suburban space. The Gothons are weak, as their authority is shaky following the Galactic Council’s collapse, and they’re busy pillaging the planet’s resources. Rocket even planned a bribe, which he quickly regretted, realizing he’d rather keep his money than give it away to “idiots.”

A major point of contention quickly arises: Should the team take revenge on Dr. Starblood? He experimented on them after rescuing them from being lost, dying, or craving death in space. Raelith the Wretched is the most extreme, proposing torture combined with life-extending measures (she is a bit much, needless to say). Peter steps up, arguing for justice without torture or capital punishment, aiming instead for a chance to set things right.

At its core, this issue is about Peter Parker’s struggle to maintain his moral compass in a lawless galaxy. Peter attempts to lead by example, promising to fight and protect everyone, even telling them, “I’m just one of you out here…another lost alien.” He’s trying to embody meaning and justice in a chaotic setting, even if it feels crazy to a cynic like Rocket Raccoon.

All ethical debates are brought to a screeching halt by the sudden arrival of Black Dwarf, of the Black Order. Spider-Man, now in his technarachnid suit, faces one of the Disciples of Thanos. The battle is a stunning visual climax. Pepe Larraz’s art is dynamic, capturing the shift from dialogue-heavy debate to massive, explosive action. Marte Gracia and Erick Arciniega’s vibrant colors are essential for defining the cosmic setting, and Joe Caramagna’s lettering gives distinct voices to the chaotic cast. The fight ends on a real cliffhanger, promising plenty more cosmic Spidey action to come.

The Amazing Spider-Man #13 is a powerful continuation of Spider-Man’s journey far from home. It’s a gripping superhero adventure wrapped around a complex debate about morality and leadership. The issue is also surprisingly funny; the whole crew gave me a good giggle. If there’s one issue with this comic, it’s that it claims to be a “tie-in” to the current Imperial event, but barring one asterisk, it really isn’t. So, if you were looking for insight on the Imperial event, this isn’t the comic for that. Still, it’s a compelling read that sets up high stakes for the next issue.

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Joe Kelly, Pepe Larraz, and the creative team drop us right into the middle of a galactic conflict in The Amazing Spider-Man #13. Peter Parker is still missing, light-years from Earth, after his defeat by the mysterious being, Hellgate. Knocked into space and far from the familiar streets of New York, Spider-Man has found himself embroiled in a cosmic conflict with the creatures rescued from Dr. Xanto Starblood.

This issue continues that journey with a bang. Spider-Man, Rocket Raccoon, and their motley crew are attempting a simple cargo delivery on the Gothon Conglomerate-controlled planet Gaileia 3. The initial plan, conceived by Rocket, was supposed to be a quiet job in this suburban space. The Gothons are weak, as their authority is shaky following the Galactic Council’s collapse, and they’re busy pillaging the planet’s resources. Rocket even planned a bribe, which he quickly regretted, realizing he’d rather keep his money than give it away to “idiots.”

A major point of contention quickly arises: Should the team take revenge on Dr. Starblood? He experimented on them after rescuing them from being lost, dying, or craving death in space. Raelith the Wretched is the most extreme, proposing torture combined with life-extending measures (she is a bit much, needless to say). Peter steps up, arguing for justice without torture or capital punishment, aiming instead for a chance to set things right.

At its core, this issue is about Peter Parker’s struggle to maintain his moral compass in a lawless galaxy. Peter attempts to lead by example, promising to fight and protect everyone, even telling them, “I’m just one of you out here…another lost alien.” He’s trying to embody meaning and justice in a chaotic setting, even if it feels crazy to a cynic like Rocket Raccoon.

All ethical debates are brought to a screeching halt by the sudden arrival of Black Dwarf, of the Black Order. Spider-Man, now in his technarachnid suit, faces one of the Disciples of Thanos. The battle is a stunning visual climax. Pepe Larraz’s art is dynamic, capturing the shift from dialogue-heavy debate to massive, explosive action. Marte Gracia and Erick Arciniega’s vibrant colors are essential for defining the cosmic setting, and Joe Caramagna’s lettering gives distinct voices to the chaotic cast. The fight ends on a real cliffhanger, promising plenty more cosmic Spidey action to come.

The Amazing Spider-Man #13 is a powerful continuation of Spider-Man’s journey far from home. It’s a gripping superhero adventure wrapped around a complex debate about morality and leadership. The issue is also surprisingly funny; the whole crew gave me a good giggle. If there’s one issue with this comic, it’s that it claims to be a “tie-in” to the current Imperial event, but barring one asterisk, it really isn’t. So, if you were looking for insight on the Imperial event, this isn’t the comic for that. Still, it’s a compelling read that sets up high stakes for the next issue.