Ben 10 #1 — Joe Casey and Robert Carey reframe the Omnitrix origin as a high-stakes modern myth
Ben 10 returns to the printed page with a bold new direction. Writer Joe Casey and artist Robert Carey team up to deliver a fresh take on the Omnitrix origin, crafted by the team that created the franchise. A mysterious meteor, a 10-year-old hero, and the power to become the universe's most dangerous aliens—all reimagined with depth and heart for readers old and new.
The setup is the familiar cornerstone, but the execution is where this issue carves its own path. A meteor tears through the atmosphere, leading 10-year-old Ben Tennyson to a device that changes everything. The Omnitrix isn't just a watch in this telling; it's a high-tech gauntlet humming with the DNA of countless alien species, waiting for a hand capable of wielding it. Ben has to learn the rules of engagement fast, balancing the thrill of transformation with the responsibility of the power. Man of Action—the visionary group behind the original phenomenon—are on board, ensuring the heart of the character remains intact while Casey and Carey push the narrative into territory that feels fresh and definitive.
What makes this debut essential is the commitment to quality across the board. Robert Carey isn't just drawing the story; he's shaping the visual language of this new era. The cover he provides sets a tone that's vibrant yet focused, promising a story that respects the legacy while standing firmly on its own. And for those who appreciate the craft behind the scenes, the creative pedigree is undeniable. Casey brings a track record of intricate plotting, and Carey's linework gives the aliens a weight and texture that makes the action pop without feeling cluttered. This is a series that wants to be your first stop for Ben 10 stories, period.
Here's the play for the shelf. The mystery variant blind bag is limited, meaning you're tapping into a finite pool of random covers. It's a fun way to add a surprise element to the stack, and since the allocation is random, you might land a rare find without hunting for specific variants. It's a companion pick that rewards the collector's sense of adventure, right alongside the issue itself. If you enjoy the thrill of the pull, it's a smart add that rounds out the debut experience.