Marvel’s League of Legends: Lux comic book review

Whether you’re a League of Legends fan or simply enjoy a well-crafted fantasy tale, this graphic novel is a must-read.

Marvel Comics have long showcased their prowess in crafting robust fantasy narratives with fascinating protagonists grappling with self-discovery. A prime example of this genius lies in their League of Legends (LoL) series. With characters like Ashe from Ashe – Warmother, Marvel paints a portrait of heroes struggling to reconcile their desires with the world’s demands.

The latest gem in the League universe is a graphic novel centered around Luxanna “Lux” Crownguard. Known as Lux, this Mageseeker from a privileged background has a secret of her own: she’s a mage struggling to control her own powers. Following an encounter with an imprisoned mage, branded a killer, Lux begins to understand her own potential and her place in the world.

Back in April, I got a Collector’s Edition of Riot Forge and Digital Sun’s game, The Mageseeker, and a beautifully hardcover-bound copy of Lux was one of the items included. Compiling the five issues of the original Lux series, this graphic novel also offers a treasure trove of extras like sketches, author’s letters, and additional reading materials. This comic is pretty much essential to fans of League, or those who consume the League lore, although it’s actually a pleasurable read even for those unfamiliar with the game’s universe. The comic also surprises fans by featuring League champions Garen and Sylas, exploring their individually complex relationships with Lux.

The comic does tie in with the game The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story, a story told from the point of view of Sylas, which I still highly recommend to any League fans hungry for a good, solid story.

Sylas, a captivating character with a layered backstory, offers a relatable viewpoint despite his violent trajectory. His character opposes Lux’s, who initially desires to suppress her powers. However, John O’Bryan masterfully illustrates that such denial isn’t the correct path. Lux’s well-written character development sees her helping Sylas escape due to her compassionate nature, thus, paving the path towards a leader fostering coexistence between mages and humans.

Billy Tan’s artistic prowess shines through in the detailed depictions of armor, magic, and environments. Despite being dialogue-heavy, the narrative manages to maintain a smooth flow, interspersing politics and bonding moments between Lux and Sylas with intense action sequences.

The world-building in this graphic novel, expertly documented by Ryan Rubin, a producer for Riot Games, is truly praiseworthy. Detailed maps, computer-animated environments, and notes on interior designs provide a more immersive experience. It’s evident that Marvel and its creators tapped into a wealth of resources to construct the intricate storyline and world within this novel.

This League of Legends installment offers a compelling fantasy tale of a young woman coming to terms with her true identity. Regardless of age, readers will likely relate to Lux’s journey, while still relating to characters such as Sylas or even Garren. Marvel has once again proven that they have a knack for creating narratives that resonate with a diverse audience, and what other story adapts to comics as perfectly as the League of Legends expansive lore?

Whether you’re a fan of the game or simply enjoy a well-crafted fantasy tale, this graphic novel is a must-read.