The Blade #1 preview: A new High Republic comic drops next week

As the second phase of The High Republic begins, new comics are dropping left and right. Along with the new issues of Star Wars: The High Republic written by Cavan Scott, new comic mini-series are also on the way. One such mini-series is a four-issue story called The Blade, written by Charles Soule with art by Marco Castiello.

StarWars.com released an exclusive preview of The Blade #1 this morning, complete with four full pages of art and story. After the release date of this mini-series was pushed back, fans have been clamoring to get their hands on what promises to be an exciting look into a highly praised character.

The Blade will follow a young Porter Engle, a Jedi who was first introduced in Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule. In that novel, Engle is an old man who everyone reveres for his past adventures as “The Blade of Bardotta.” In this comic, we will finally find out what makes Porter Engle such a powerful force-wielder.

We will also be introduced to Engle’s sister, Barash. She has been mentioned in almost all descriptions of this comic, but her role remains a mystery. This preview doesn’t reveal much about Barash, either; she lurks in the background of a conflict, only interjecting once to confirm a participant is telling the truth. Perhaps the creators don’t want to reveal too much yet…

Regardless, the preview offers plenty to be excited about. Soule’s writing places us right in the middle of a high-stakes conflict while quickly and effectively characterizing Engle. Castiello’s art adds to the rough outer-rim feel of the setting: all muted, cool earth tones and sharp angles. Not to mention the gorgeous splash page of Engle deflecting blaster bolts with his lightsaber. Having worked together on projects such as Star Wars (2020), it is clear that Soule and Castiello are masters of Star Wars comic storytelling.

The Blade #1 releases on Wednesday, December 28. Look for it at your local comic shop or pre-order it now on ComiXology.