By Hunter T. Patrick

Flash War has not even started yet, and because of this issue, my current favorite Flash arc of this run (Button followed by Running Scared) might soon be getting replaced. This issue made me giddier than most all the issues of The Flash thus far. It felt like getting a wish list for everything wanted in a story and seeing it all come true and working as well as it does. Joshua Williamson’s Flash has always seemed to be a somewhat average comic with such greatness ready to spring out, and now it has and makes me eager for what is coming next.

Some issues I reflect on and think about one moment in particular that really stood out to me. This issue did not have one such moment, it had several. This issue had a dream team-up, a wonderful tragic realization, and helped show how Flash is such a different hero as compared to another in a great exchange between two characters that are major DC characters but are never often shown together. The best moment of the issue? The fact this is all prelude for what is to come. Flash War has been stated to be huge and we continue to see the impact it will have.

The artwork, especially at the start, looks great. Some moments do shine greater than others. It is not artwork that will win an Eisner, but if you are looking for artwork that shows of the speed force then this is a great way to go. The speedsters are given their own way of using the force and the artwork excels in showcasing that and the differences in characters. Just by looking at movements can you tell the speedster and that is absolutely wonderful. Each character does have their own unique look to them as well for the issue. With a bunch of different speedsters going to be featured in the coming issues, and with many having very similar costumes, let’s hope that there is a distinct look to them all and not the only difference is their face.

Whatever Flash War brings, it seems to be bringing a lot of change for the title that seemed to have a huge culmination in the last arc. If you are a fan of The Flash, any era, then you need to jump on and read this (and all the other Road to Flash War issues). Many fans argue who is the better Flash and it is time to learn who is the ultimate Flash (in the eyes of the creative team). There has never been a better time to be a fan of The Flash, with him not only having a TV show but also appearing in a movie. That is all Barry Allen (with Wally’s personality in the movie), and the real Wally West being absent (the TV show has the New 52 Wally). Let’s hope this means Wally will have his time to shine after a decade or so in comics. This issue helped show who the real winner is in Flash War, and that is the reader.

Score: 4/5

The Flash #46
DC Comics