XCT: Most Wanted is a stand-alone anthology comic book with 6 different stories that all take
place in the Xtreme Champion Tournment(XCT) Universe. The XCT Universe is set in the year
2069 when ancient legendary warriors, gods and monsters have been cloned and brought back
to life in order to be pitted against each other in a brutal gladiatorial like sporting competition for
the human populace. This collection showcases that all of the warriors react differently to this
situation. Some embrace it while others outrightly revolt against it. And then there are those
who have yet to make up their minds.
This universe was created by Shaun Keenan but he did not write nor do any of the art for Most
Wanted. Instead each story is written by one of five different writers and each narrative has a
different artist. This is definitely adds an additional fun element to the book. Since each part
features different writing and art this gives each tale a completely unique flavor. But the stories
within this book all still feel a part of the same world which gives a consistency that holds the
entire project together. The art is black and white(except for one sequence that used the color
red a in stylized way). The absence of color really showcases the unique talent of each artist
that fits each episode quite well.
The accounts within the pages of Most Wanted range from a battle royal between Genghis Khan
and Alexander the Great, to a showdown between a Samurai and a demon, to a Bonny and
Clyde like rampage of two warrior lovers. This graphic novel is chock full of action and violence.
It is geared for people who love colorful creations, action, fighting, and mythical beings of
legend. On all those fronts this comic delivers in spades. But be warned the pages contained
within are meant for mature audiences.
My only real complaint is that I wanted more from each featured character. With each part
running about ten pages and featuring a different cast I felt I was just starting to get to know
everyone when the segment ended. There was no real arc for anyone to follow. To the credit of
the creative team of Most Wanted I definitely wanted to go deeper into each of the personalities
depicted. So even though the accounts of each fighter felt a little superficial they definitely
peaked my interest to explore this universe more. Almost like those comics you get on Free
Comic Book Day where it gives you a small story that makes you want to go purchase more
issues to further explore the journeys of the people you just read about. If this was the intent of
Most Wanted than a job well done. From the looks of the XCT website there
are 5 issues currently available in the XCT series in addition to the Most Wanted anthology. So
I am sure there is much more that Shaun and company want us to explore with the colorful cast
they showcased in Most Wanted.
FINAL SCORE:
And more importantly, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicide, addiction, self-harm or depression - please free feel to reach out. Use any our resources, call the suicide lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or text 741-741.
Credits: XCT: Most Wanted is property of XCT,. We do not own nor claim any rights.
