Titans #26 by John Layman with art by Max Raynor and Matt Herms is a breath of fresh air, a welcome detour from the relentless battle against Deathstroke and his crime syndicate. After the emotional and physical toll of that war, it’s the perfect time for a two-man side quest.
The issue kicks off with Beast Boy and Cyborg heading off on a side quest to check in on Gar’s first family: the Doom Patrol. The dynamic between Cyborg and Beast Boy is as infectious as ever, their banter lightening the tone and making their spontaneous road trip a joy to read. But this family reunion is cut short when the heroes find themselves trapped and hunted by the Zookeeper, with a few of the Doom Patrol’s members mysteriously missing.
This sudden shift in tone and the mystery of the missing heroes make for a compelling new arc. Layman uses this “break” to explore the lingering trauma from the fight with Deathstroke. We see the weight of this trauma on Cyborg, and his dialogue with Vanadia reflects the deep emotional toll of the conflict. It’s a poignant moment that gives the story some real depth, especially when it shows how some members are trying to break away and heal from their wounds.
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One of the most satisfying parts of this issue is the recognition the Titans receive. It’s a rare sight to see the Justice League or other major DC characters acknowledge the Titans’ importance. Here, we see Wonder Woman herself approving of Donna Troy’s leadership, which feels like a well-earned nod to a team that’s a fundamental part of the DC universe. For a team that’s often overlooked, this small gesture makes a big impact.
The art and colors in this issue are also a standout. Raynor and Herms deliver vibrant visuals that are perfect for the Doom Patrol’s eccentric style, and the full-page spreads are a great way to showcase the frantic action and intense moments, kicking off the events with a bang.
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Titans #26 successfully pivots from the large-scale battles to a more personal, character-driven adventure. Layman’s writing plays to the strengths of both teams, delivering a fun, wild ride filled with great team-ups, wild creatures, and plenty of witty banter.
‘Titans’ #26 Review: Family Reunion… With a Twist!
Titans #26 successfully pivots from the large-scale battles to a more personal, character-driven adventure. Layman’s writing plays to the strengths of both teams, delivering a fun, wild ride filled with great team-ups, wild creatures, and plenty of witty banter.
