Nova: Centurion (2025) #2 Review – Marvel Comics

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Writer: MacKay
Artist: Lopez & Fonte
Colorist: Iacono
Cover Artist: Cappucio & Rosenberg

Just wanted to share a little background on this article. The views expressed are entirely those of the author, and don’t necessarily represent the official stance of CosmicBookNews. I’ve been a long-time fan and reviewer of Marvel’s cosmic books – I regularly reviewed the ‘Nova’ series back in 2007 and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ in 2008, sending my feedback directly to the editors and creators. I’m really proud that Marvel has even used quotes from my reviews on their covers, in press releases, and in their solicitations – it means a lot that they valued my perspective!

Warning: Contains some spoilers.

Nova: Centurion #2 is a strong continuation of the story started in issue #1, expanding on the character of Richard Rider and making it even better. Writer MacKay has perfectly captured both the impulsive spirit of the original 1970s Nova and the more mature leadership qualities he developed later, creating a really engaging read. Fans who have been waiting to see Richard Rider regain his power since 2010 will be thrilled – and MacKay deserves the credit.

I’m glad the bomber jacket is gone – hopefully for good. It would have been distracting and gotten in the way of the excellent fight scenes. While I do miss the beard, the reason it was removed makes sense, and thankfully beards grow back! If Rich gets another beard, even just stubble, I’d like to see him adopt a more confident, resourceful attitude like Lucas Hood from Banshee, rather than the style of Jim Rockford from The Rockford Files. If we’re leaning into crime-drama themes, Hood’s darker personality would be a better fit and give the book a tougher edge, potentially attracting readers who don’t usually read cosmic-themed stories, like those who enjoy Banshee.

This issue featured a fantastic performance from the entire cast. The new character, Yr-Kett, a Kree Sentencer, is a brilliant addition – she’s strong, assertive, and captivating. As someone who loves classic tough female characters, I was immediately hooked. I’m hoping she’s not just a temporary character who will be quickly eliminated, as she’d be a great recurring presence and a potential romantic interest for Rich. A future scene of Rich and Yr-Kett waking up together would definitely generate buzz and reinforce the idea, playfully suggested by Cammi and Aalbort, that Rich has a thing for strong, independent women.

The dynamic between Aalbort and Cammi was really fun to watch, bringing to mind the relationship between Sugar and Job from Banshee. I wasn’t sure about Aalbort initially, but this issue really showed what a “Combat Accountant” should be. I especially enjoyed him working as a sniper, simply to ensure his client got paid – it was a perfect fit for the character. He’s completely amoral and focused only on the job, with no concern for honor, just getting results. And Cammi has really come into her own as a skilled and sophisticated thief. I’m excited to see more of her abilities. The scenes with the Worldmind and Rich felt very reminiscent of the show’s earlier seasons, from 2007 to 2010.

The villain Ravenous was convincingly depicted as strong and brutal, but also weakened by a lack of energy, mirroring the hero Rich’s own condition. It’s interesting that Ravenous drains energy, because the Nova Corps used to have warriors who could do the same. This makes me think the author might bring that older idea back to help Rich solve the problem he’s facing at the end of the issue.

Lopez and Fonte created stunning artwork for this issue. I especially liked the updated look for Rich, who was drawn with a strong, athletic build. Iacono’s coloring really made the art pop. The main cover, by Cappucio and Rosenberg, was a big step up from the first issue, featuring a dynamic fight scene. More covers like this would be great for attracting new readers.

Overall, Nova Centurion #2 is a welcome addition to the Nova universe, and I strongly recommend that Nova fans purchase multiple copies to support the series and ensure its continued publication. It shows real potential and deserves a lengthy run. However, to make that happen, the writer should avoid repeating common, overused storylines that have harmed previous Nova series. Specifically, please don’t diminish or kill off Rich Rider and replace him with a character who is simply a different gender or race. This approach has failed before, alienates fans, and won’t work any better now. Rich Rider has been a beloved character for nearly 50 years, and fans want to read stories about him, not someone else. New characters representing diverse backgrounds should be introduced alongside Rich, not as replacements for him. Marvel editors, please also maintain a consistent, realistic art style – the shift to cartoonish art hurt the 1976-1979 series, and we should avoid repeating that mistake. Furthermore, let’s stop repeatedly destroying Xandar and the Nova Corps for dramatic effect. It’s been done too many times. Let’s rebuild them and give Rich a large supporting cast to work with on a grand, galactic scale. And finally, please do not include Sam Alexander in this series – his presence has consistently harmed any book he’s been in.

Here’s to nearly 50 years of Rich Rider Nova! Long live Rich Rider Nova!

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2025-12-15 21:32