X-O Manowar #3 Covers Part 1

 

X-O Manowar #3 Cover A by Christian Ward

While we await the stirring climax of Dennis Hopeless Hallum and Emilio Laiso's run in X-O Manowar #9, I'm looking back at how we got here. X-O Manowar #3 showcased Aric battling a Hawaiian volcano and a Southern California wildfire. It also featured the first appearances of Shanhara's new look and the nanite swarms, the latter being portions of the singularity that threatens New York City in X-O Manowar #9.

And then there's Yakiov. Yeah, you remember Yakiov. That crazy Ukrainian warlord, who's formed a personal obsession with our man Aric. Gotta love Yakiov...

Anyway, on to the covers. Christian Ward's Cover A reminds us of a significant moment in X-O Manowar #1, which is the reason Aric now resides in Tina and Desmond's home. It also pays homage to Superman's first appearance in Action Comics #1 back in 1938. Someone even calls Aric a superman in X-O Manowar #3!

I like all the lights shining behind Aric, and the blue wavy light distortion up front. I also like that he's so strong and confident that he's holding the car up with one hand. It's like he's getting reading to throw a long game-saving pass in a football game.

Incidentally, that's American football, for all you Valiant-loving international readers.

X-O Manowar #3 Cover B by David Nakayama

David Nakayama has done some terrific covers for Valiant recently. Some impressive examples include his covers for Rai #9 and Ninjak #1. The man has a gift for imbuing his covers with a strong 3D effect, as you can see.

The way Shanhara is unraveling (or reforming?) reminds me of a crucial moment when Aric is battling the wildfires, only to then be attacked by the nanite swarm. If you don't remember that scene, take a moment to give X-O Manowar #3 another read, as it's central to this run.

Sure, I'll give you a helping hand, Aric. Can you stretch a little closer to me?

 

X-O Manowar #3 Cover C by David Lopez

David Lopez's cover seems more conceptual than tied to story events. Still, it's interesting that he shows hints of red on Aric's shoulders, as well as a red reflection on his leg. So that could be hinting at the change to Shanhara's appearance that will occur in X-O Manowar #3.

Alternatively, combine the red accents with the green reflections on his side. That could suggest the wildfires and the green nanite swarm he battles in this issue.

Of course, X-O Manowar #3 came out on December 23rd last year. Why shouldn't Aric help usher in the holiday season? And if you don't have Cover C, or any of these three terrific covers, why shouldn't you hunt down a copy and place it under the Christmas tree for your favorite X-O Manowar fan?

Dragon Dave