The Unchosen #1

Viktor Krum's Durmstrang and Harry Potter's Hogwarts utilize different curricula. The Unchosen #1 introduces us to two more schools with opposing viewpoints. One, like Freddie Mercury, says, “We want it all, and we want it now.” The other, like Axl Rose, urges us to “Take it slow, and things will be just fine.” Read Full Review

The Unchosen #1 delivers a solid start to a new fantasy universe, thanks to David Marquez's unique idea and gorgeous artwork. Read Full Review

The first quarter of the story is already over and it definitely feels like its moving in an appealing direction that could develop into something more than the typical supernatural school drama. Its still a little bit early to say for certain, though. There is creeping suspicion that Aida might be the mystical chosen one caught-up in situations beyond her control, which would be a bit of a disappointment. Thats a trope thats been worked to death in this sort of fantasy over the past several decades. Hopefully Marquez steers clear of it in future issues. Read Full Review

The Unchosen #1 poses many questions about its world and its charactersperhaps too many questions. There's nothing wrong with posing questions for the reader, but providing a few answers as well is helpful. A writer should give the reader a few bread crumbs to sate their hunger, yet still keep them hungry for more. If a reader is left with nothing but a hunger, they may look to find food elsewhere. It is a curious beginning to a new world and story. Read Full Review

Writer/artist David Marquez creator-owned debut is an action packed portal fantasy/magical school comic with JRPG elements. Read Full Review

Ultimately, The Unchosen #1 is a visually stunning debut that offers a wealth of intriguing concepts. While it may buckle slightly under the weight of its own ambition, its central mystery and breathtaking artwork make it a compelling, if flawed, start to a promising miniseries. Read Full Review

More than anything else, this is a high quality visual spectacle. Readers who get lost in a comics art, especially when it is leaning into a manga style, will find a lot to like. Unfortunately the narrative cant hold a candle to it. Perhaps there is potential in the future, but it is not evident here. The Unchosen #1 appears to want readers who like a type of story as opposed to trying to win over readers with a unique story. Read Full Review

Unchosen #1 comes off as the beginning of something that has a deep story with a lot going on in the background. The problem is that none of this is shared with the reader, which leaves the whole issue and the story inside it just floating, without any emotional or familiar ties to keep the reader attached. There's some decent action here, but the art isn't up to the task of showing off some of the magic/powers and keeping things discernible from panel to panel at the same time. Read Full Review

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derbycomics

Jul 19, 2025

In addition to being one of my most anticipated new books of 2025, The UnChosen marks David Marquez’s first creator-owned series as writer and artist. From the get-go, his unique vision and skillset shine through in this mesmerizing first issue, which blends elements of fantasy, sci-fi, and magic into a high-stakes adventure. At the heart of the story is Aida, a character whose story immediately draws readers in. Her story may feel familiar to fans of the genre, but the strong supporting cast Marquez introduces adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it easy to become fully immersed in the world of The UnChosen. With strong world-building and allusions to ambiguous motives, Marquez sets the stage for an epic adventure that p romises to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story’s pacing is perfect for a debut, adding lore and introducing plot points as the issue unfolds. Unexpectedly, Marquez’s artwork is a major standout. Character designs are gorgeous and backgrounds/environments are exceptionally detailed. Vibrant colors by Marissa Louise add bring dynamism and richness that emphasizes the fantasy elements. Lettering by D.C. Hopkins complements the artwork well, keeping readers following along without making panels feel cramped. Marquez’s creator-owned debut is a smashing success. The first issue sets the stage for a thrilling series that promises to deliver complex characters, supernatural mysteries, and a captivating plot. The UnChosen has all the ingredients to become the next great indie fantasy comic book! more

Jawnyblaze

Jul 16, 2025

I really enjoyed this. The writing was good and art was fantastic. The setting is far from original, but it's right up my alley. Can't wait for the next issue.

ComicsGild

Jul 10, 2025

The first issue of UnChosen is solid, lets start with that. After reading it you kind of have to decide if this is a story that actually appeals to you or not. The concept isn't new, the art looks good, the action is exciting but not to much,... But is good, good enough? Imo it would hurt to buy issue #2 and see if the story levels up to a no brainer subscription. Expectations are set.

Chris Y

Jul 10, 2025

David Marquez's art is changing, and not for the better. I remember when he had a beautifully detailed, realistic style. Now his linework looks sketchy and the characters look like they jumped out of a Manga. I'm sure it will find its fans among younger readers. For me, this was a huge disappointment.